Acts 18:1-18 describes Paul’s transition from Athens to Corinth. He has moved on to the home of Aquila and Priscilla, who were also tentmakers by trade just like Paul was. He stayed with them and worked, but on the Sabbath he was in the synagogue teaching the Word. In fact, scripture tells us that “Paul was occupied with the Word, testifying to the Jews”. Are you getting any kind of pattern about Paul as we read through Acts? He is passionate about teaching God’s Word and sharing the testimony of Jesus. He was occupied – his time taken up by this ministry. Not because it was easy because like other towns he has been in – they were not all receptive. In fact, just like most of his previous stops – the religious leaders are trying to shut him down.
But God speaks to him and tells him to “go on speaking and do not be silent…..for I am with you”. This is a truth that we all need to realize applies to us as well. God is with us. He never goes anywhere. He never leaves nor forsakes us. His Word promises that. He is always right by our side. So we need to have confidence in sharing. We need to realize we are not on our own as we reach out to share God’s truth. He is there. He is with us. The leaders did attempt to drag Paul before the tribunal with a united attack. I love what happens next as they are before Gallio the proconsul. “But when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said…..I refuse to be judge of these things”. Paul didn’t have to say a word. God had the entire situation under control. And this describes our God. He has every situation under His control. Not just occasionally – all the time – whether it feels like it to us or not. God is in control. Paul just needed to be obedient and leave the rest to God. We are in the same position. Are you walking in obedience and leaving the details to God?
