Bible Verses to Explore: Acts 24:5-8
Acts 24:5 says, “‘We have found this man to be a troublemaker, stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the Nazarene sect and even tried to desecrate the
temple; so we seized him.’“
This verse was written about the Apostle Paul. Paul was labeled a “troublemaker” because he told people about Jesus. He spoke in public about Jesus. He told the truth. He was honest and straightforward. His message – the gospel – made people think; and it made some people angry. Paul, like the Apostle Peter, lived by the teaching of 1 Peter 3:15 & 16 which says, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who
speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” Paul and Peter both bravely spoke the truth about Jesus with love.
Those who were angered by their message were people who didn’t agree with it. They didn’t want to admit that that Jesus truly was God. Because they didn’t like what Paul was telling them, they labeled him a troublemaker. Peter they crucified.
When it comes to telling people about Jesus, are you honest and straightforward, speaking the truth with love? Has what you’ve said about Jesus gotten to someone so much that they have called you names or gotten angry with you just for telling the truth? Are you willing to stand up for what you believe and tell the truth about Jesus even if people refuse to listen? Are you willing to risk being called a troublemaker for Jesus?
Will you please pray with me? Heavenly Father, please give us the courage to stand up and speak boldly, in love, for You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thanks for exploring God’s words with me. Please download the free Inductive Study Guide and study on!
God bless!
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