We are nearing the end of Acts. Paul and his companions are on their way to Rome and have been shipwrecked on the island of Malta. By this time in the story, we know who Paul is, what his character is. He is going to spread the Gospel, no matter the consequences, no matter the situation, no matter the setbacks. Today’s problem? Ship wrecking and then getting bit by a viper which the local people believe will kill him. Paul’s response? Shake it off, go to the local population and build the kingdom of Heaven by healing the sick. At this point in the story, I don’t think anyone would fault Paul if he just sat on the beach and took a break by the fire. But that just isn’t his character. The Holy Spirit has called him for a purpose, and so Paul shakes off the snake and gets to the building.

Zach

Today’s passage is another example of people and systems attempting to stop the outflowing of the Holy Spirit into the world.

Zach Sarver

Paul goes on to tell them that the time of ignorance has passed and that all people everywhere are being called to repent. When the Holy Spirit came to mankind, we became able to know and be known by the living God. Not an idol, but the Creator God.

Zach Sarver

In today’s passage, the apostle’s are discussing an issue that comes up several times in the New Testament: what are the “requirements” to be saved?

Zach Sarver