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Word from Scotland
by Sandy Shaw
In Acts 21 we read of Paul arriving in Jerusalem at the end of what has been called his Third Missionary Journey.
We have read of two groups who tried to dissuade Paul from going to Jerusalem - but Paul would not be put off - because he had a word from God, through the prophet Agabus. God had spoken prophetically. Jesus had revealed through a man something of what was going to happen to His servant Paul - called, chosen and anointed - but having to face being bound and imprisoned in the city of Jerusalem.
Do not be overly surprised when persecution confronts you. In these present days persecution is being experienced all around the world in increasing intensity. There is a cross. Be prepared to carry that cross no matter how heavy and sore and painful it might become. Let me warn you now, because persecution is spreading, and God would not have you be taken unawares.
To mention persecution is not pleasant. Neither is experiencing severe persecution. But it is real, and it is wise to be prepared. You may already be facing persecution, and if so, then you will know what I am talking about.
These disciples of Jesus Christ in Tyre and Caesarea knew that there were those waiting for Paul to return to Jerusalem, and that there he would suffer and be arrested. Paul was NOT going to run away from that part of the Will of God. He was not going to seek to avoid suffering. He was not that kind of man. He was prepared to say - "I am ready not only to be bound but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of Jesus."
Brave, powerful, inspiring words. Let them encourage and inspire you, and prepare you for whatever might lie ahead as you continue to serve and follow Jesus Christ. He will see you through it all. Make no mistake about that. Our task is to remain faithful and loyal, as many have done down across the years.
Alexander 'Sandy' Shaw is pastor of Nairn Christian Fellowship in Nairn, Scotland. Nairn is 17 miles east of Inverness - on the Moray Firth Coast - not far from the Loch Ness Monster!
Gifted as a Biblical teacher, Sandy is firmly committed to making sure that his teachings are firmly grounded in the Word.
Sandy has a weekly radio talk which can be heard via the Internet on Saturday at 11:40am, New Orleans time, at wsho.com.
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