Thursday 28 July 2022
- Bible Book:
- Acts
One night the Lord said to Paul in a vision, 'Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent…' (v. 9)
Background
Corinth was a busy Roman city in Greece, on the opposite coast to Athens, on the narrow strip of land connecting Greece to the rest of the continent of Europe. Having two ports, it was an active trading post for a wide range of people and nationalities, not least those on their way to and from Rome.
The Jewish community was expelled from Rome by edict of the Emperor Claudius in approximately AD 49. Gallio, who is mentioned in today's passage, was proconsul of Achaia for just one year; and this has helped with dating Paul’s travels. His 18 months in Corinth would have been between 49 and 51 AD. It made sense for Paul to stay where he was that long rather than move on towards Rome; the people God was calling him to speak to about Jesus were here in Corinth until Emperor Nero succeeded Claudius a couple of years later and revoked the edict. Gallio was not interested in religious squabbles; his concern was with Roman law.
There are a few things to note. We are told that Paul is a tentmaker. The Greek word for ‘tentmaker’ would incorporate all kinds of leatherwork besides making tents.
For the Nazirite vow of dedication to God which involves having your hair cut see Numbers 6:1-21.
Notice that Paul always starts by speaking in the synagogue. This is in line with his teaching that the gospel is for Jews first, and then for the gentiles (people who had other religious or philosophical beliefs). See Romans 1:16.
To Ponder:
- How do Church leaders speak or act out of fear, to protect themselves and their friends? In which contexts would they speak fearlessly for God?
- Where do theological differences lead to accusations and complaints which bemuse the secular world today? Would you consider this to be with good reason?
- It is sometimes suggested that clergy should ply a trade, as Paul did. What problems might this solve; and what problems might develop from it?
Prayer
Crucified Lord, show me what matters most in the life you have so generously given, and grant me the courage to speak fearlessly for others’ needs, that they may also live with joy.