Today’s reading: Acts 17:10-19:41
My selection: Acts 17:29-31
29 Being then God’s offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man. 30 The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, 31 because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”
My reflections: In these closing words of Paul’s famous sermon on Mars Hill, he argues that idolatry ought to be obviously rejected merely on the basis that God cannot be adequately represented by a mineral or gem crafted by a man’s imagination and skill. Man, as God’s creation or offspring, reflects God’s greatness and what man devises dimly reflects man’s ingenuity, but it cannot reflect, even dimly, God’s grandeur.
Now a time for repentance has been granted. Judgment is coming. Jesus, who rose from the dead, is the judge. His judgment will be righteous.
My challenge: Are you ready for the judgment to come? The gospel has been proclaimed for 2000 years and millions have turned to Christ for forgiveness of sin. The only day we have is today. Believe in the One who rose from death and will one day judge all the earth. Repent of your idolatry, subtle as it may be. Turn from the trust in material things. Worship the true God who revealed Himself in Christ. In Him is salvation.
Tomorrow’s reading: Acts 20:1-21:36
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