Doctrinal purity

Scripture:  Acts 17:11 “Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.”

Observations:  In Leviticus the readings today explained about leprosy and houses with mildew, mold and fungus.  It also went through the ceremonies to proclaim the same as clean.  Wow I’m glad we don’t have to do that anymore.  It was VERY costly!  In Acts Paul was again driven out of town, by the Jews who were really doing what he started out doing – trying to stop the Way, of which Paul had become a part of.  He did have the chance to win some over though.

Application:  I wish more people would do what the more noble Thessalonians did.  When I preach on Sunday, I have no problem having my congregation challenge me, and if they can prove me wrong, I welcome it.  I remember one Sunday School class I taught early in my pastorate where I was challenged and dug in my heals.  After that person quit coming to Sunday School I realized they were right.  I will never do that again.  In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, but in all things charity.

Prayer:  Lord God, God above all created things, majesty, redeemer, savior, Holy One, I come before you humbled.  I wish I could go back and erase my mistakes, but I can’t.  Therefore, I pray Lord that if I have taught anything that is not really in keeping with Your Word, that you would erase the damage and set that teaching correct.  Lord, don’t ever let me be so stuck on being right that I turn anyone away from you.  May your Words be discerned and taught properly in all circumstances.  Lord, I know there are many out there twisting your teaching for political purposes.  Lord, correct wrong theology and wrong doctrine for the good of your kingdom.  Amen
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Tomorrow's Reading:  Leviticus 15-17; Acts 18