Stress Test Devotional May 4
May 04, 2024
ACTS 10:44-48 | While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said, “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days.
ACTS 11: 19-21| Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and they spoke the word to no one except Jews. But among them were some men of Cyprus and Cyrene who, on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord.
One thought that energizes me with the idea of invitation is the impact. Someone can change dramatically through one moment of invitation. They can discover a place to worship so every Sunday for rest of their lives is different. They can find a place to grow their soul, enlarge their perspective. The way they think and pray can change. They will find new friendships, consider new ways to serve God and to support his kingdom work. If they are beginning their Christian journey, they’ll be starting a trip that will never end.
But that is not all by any means! They will also impact the community they join, the place they come to call home. Their gifts and ideas and presence will alter and enrich and bless the lives of others and the community of the church.
When Peter joined, the church got a new leader. When John joined and Matthew and Mark it got gospel writers. When people come to faith beyond Jerusalem the gospel spread to Gentiles and a world wide movement began.
What excites you about issuing invitations?
