Acts 15:1-21

     Removing Obstacles and Communicating Truth

            In one of Paul’s earlier sermons (Acts 13:15-41), he made the point that, “…through this Man [Jesus] is preached to you the forgiveness of sins; and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.” All people may come to seek the Lord.  The early Christians were running into some things that were muddying the waters for seekers, and this is what is being addressed in chapter 15 of Acts.

Am I sometimes getting in the way of someone else’s seeking God?  Are my expectations, prejudices, selfishness and hypocrisy becoming obstacles? 

            Think of those you know who have not yet come to faith in Jesus Christ.  What do you perceive as their obstacles?

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“Evangelism” is not a one-size-fits-all.  Just as seen in the early church experiences and messages that were preached: different parts of history and life are used to illustrate and explain the good news of Jesus to different people.  Paul did not always begin preaching in the same way, with the same illustrations from the same starting point in history.  Paul adapted to the need.

            This requires thought, prayer—maybe even fasting—for the purpose of receiving God’s wisdom, leading, and anointing in communicating Truth. 

In some cases, people have hard questions and we need to be willing to grapple with those questions in a thoughtful, intelligent manner.  Other people would more easily grasp truth with few words, but with opportunity to be alongside you in community service.  Still others may be most in need of affirmation that they are loved and lovable, in spite of their choices which go against what they know to be right.

Only God can judge the motives of men’s hearts—that part is not our job.  But if we practice listening to God, and following the lead of the Holy Spirit, we will be empowered to communicate the gospel in a way that touches the issues of the heart.