[NIV] 9 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision:
"Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. - P38
13 "This man," they charged, "is persuading the peopleto worship God in ways contrary to the law." - P38
The Lord appears to Paul in a vision and encourages him to keep speaking.
So, Paul stays in Corinth for some time. - P39
Some Jews bring Paul before Gallioto be judged. Gallio points out that their complaints are about matters ofJewish law, so they should settle the issue among themselves. The Jews thenturn their anger on the synagogue leader and beat him. Gallio does nothing. - P39
Given all the opposition Paul has received in Corinth, it would not havebeen surprising if he had quickly moved on to another city. - P40
However,
Jesus comes to him in a vision and gives him great encouragement: Heis with Paul and will protect him from harm. - P40
This leads Paul to stay inCorinth for a year and a half. Though we remember Paul as someonewho accomplished extraordinary things for Christ, he did not achieveany of it by his own strength. - P40
He depended completely on Jesus foreverything he did. - P40
Let us take Jesus‘ words to Paul as an encourage-ment for ourselves today. We do not need to be afraid. - P40
We can keep onsharing the good news. We should not be silent, for Christ is with us. - P40
The Jews of Corinth take Paul before Gallio, the procónsul of Achaia,
accusing him of violating the law. - P40
Before Paul even has a chance todefend himself, Gallio quickly dismisses the charges as baseless. Just asJesus promised, He is with Paul and works through the people of thecity-powerful people-to protect him. - P40
It could have easily gone theother way. Gallio could have bowed to public pressure and punishedPaul just to appease the crowd. But he doesn‘t. - P40
He sees through thefalse accusations and makes a just decision. Ultimately, this is God‘s hand at work because His plans for Paul are far from finished. - P40
He isthe one orchestrating the events of Paul‘s life so that his gospel ministrycan continue. - P40
Lord Jesus, thank you for always being with me. Thank you for protecting mefrom those who wish to harm me. - P41
Please guide the events of my life so thatI can continue to grow in You and help Your people walk with You. In Yourholy name, amen. - P41
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