Turning the World Upside-Down

Everyone likes a good story. Some stories excite us as we wonder what is going to happen to the characters as the plot unfolds. Other stories move us as we relate to the challenges faced. Yet other stories make us laugh, as the humor tickles our minds. This morning, I would like to remind you of a true story from Acts 17, and I hope that it makes you think.

The place is Thessalonica. The villain, at least in their eyes, was Paul. However, in our eyes, Paul was the hero, but that remains to be seen as the plot develops. Now, the heroes of many adventure stories have a side-kick, and Paul’s side-kick was Silas. They have journeyed and served together, and they were at it again.

You might be asking, why was Paul their villain and our hero? Well, you have to remember that Paul was bringing a controversial message, and Paul wasn’t one to hold back when he shared his message. On this occasion, he went into the Jewish synagogues and reasoned with them from Scripture. In and of itself, that would have been expected. The twist was that Paul used the Scriptures to show them that Jesus was the Christ, the promised Messiah. He must have presented a powerful message, because Jews, Greeks, and some of their leading women decided to follow Christ.

It is almost needless to say, but the Jewish people weren’t exactly happy. In fact, they stirred up a mob, set the city in an uproar, and attacked the house of Jason, who had been hosting Paul and Silas. Eventually Jason and some others were brought before the authorities, posted bond, and were released, but that’s not the point. The point is the accusation brought against them: “...These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also … saying that there is another king, Jesus (Acts 17:6-7).” Now, that’s a bold accusation, but also huge commendation for a Christian. Now, the challenge: What would it take for Dayton Center Church to turn our world “upside down?” God hasn’t changed. He can do it again, and maybe he will use us if we are willing...

In His grip,
Pastor Decker