All
Around The World
Seven weeks had passed since the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and believers from all around (Jews and Gentiles alike), came gathering for Pentecost day. Suddenly there came a roaring sound as the "Holy Spirit" came upon everyone present at the house where they were meeting. Everyone present could understand and speak together (in different languages), and as the disciples gave their message, everyone could understand them in their own dialect where they were born. This was not an unknown tongue, but a miracle of the "Holy Spirit" for all who were present to understand what God wanted them to hear. (The ultimate language translator). The religious leaders thought the people were drunk early in the morning. Even the disciples were a little confused at first, but then Peter stood up and said; these people are not drunk, but this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel. (Acts 2:17-21).
What was spoken? And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. (Joel 2:28). A pouring out of His Spirit (The Holy Spirit), among all those who believe in Him, and they shall prophesy. (Galatians 3:28), we are all one in Christ.
Where will they prophecy? Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. (Acts 8:4). Those who were scattered preached everywhere they went. What did Jesus instruct the disciples to do when they received the Holy Spirit? "Be a witness unto Him to the uttermost part of the earth." (Acts 1:8). Today with our ability and technology, as believers, we are to preach the Good News about Jesus "all around the world."
During the Olivet prophecy Jesus told the disciples that before the end of this world age, the gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world. (Matthew 24:14). His last instruction to the disciples was that they would have power given to them by the Holy Spirit (this applies to us today also), and to go out and baptize people in the name of the Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit. Teaching them to observe all things that He has commanded to the ends of the world. (Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15-18).
Who are we to preach to? The book of Romans tells us that there is no difference between people. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. (Romans 10:12). God does not play favorites. He created all the races and He loves them all. He gives generously to all who call upon His name. (Spiritual blessings). For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Romans 10:13). "Call on the name of the Lord; for it is Christ that does the saving."
Who will deliver God's message? And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some pastors and teachers. (Ephesians 4:11). The sent forth ones, some are teachers, some are seed planters, some for winning people to Christ, and some for caring for God's people. This includes you! For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:12). The calling to the ministry to build up the church and body of Christ. If God has called you to serve in some way, "you serve him." Don't listen to any priest, pastor, or rabbi, that may tell you that only they can preach the Good News. Just because someone can quote scripture, doesn't mean that they are a good teacher. Some priests and pastors are as dry as dust when they teach. God needs teachers that can convey His message so that all people can understand. One who has passion and excitement when they teach. One who can relate to others with good examples and life experience. Titles alone won't cut it!
Who will listen? Many will hear the word, but they will not listen. Lets go to the book of Timothy to complete our study. Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. (2 Timothy 4:2). Preach God's Word, not a bunch of junk and traditions of men. Encourage people with good teachings. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. (2 Timothy 4:3). The time is here now when people won't listen to sound doctrine. They follow teachers that teach "traditions on men" and feed them whatever they want to hear to make them feel comfortable. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. (2 Timothy 4:4). They will reject the truth and chase after myths and traditions. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. (2 Timothy 4:5). Keep focused on the Word and keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid to suffer for the Lord and fully carry out your ministry. (It's not all a joy ride). One thing we can be sure of is that God's Word will be taught, "All Around The World."
Keep The Faith,Barton