Heartbroken

Acts 17:1-3

Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:

It is very important to note that the text sees the apostles traveling on. But how many know that 2 Corinthians 8:10-24 is not over yet. Meanwhile, Titus was burdened to stay behind to care for the churches. He not only stayed but also went with a certain brother of famed reputation whose boast is in the gospel. This same brother traveled by the elders' approval. Nor did he come alone. Indeed, he came with the grace of God, administered by the glory of God, and declared to the minds of all who believed. Look with me at how these two became three. See, Paul speaks of another brother proven diligent in all things. For he, being trusted by the Father, was worthy of their confidence. So, it seems these apostles needed all the support they could get. According to the text they pass through Amphipolis and Apollonia, some bedeviled regions. Notice how Paul's response is not callous, nor yet crude. He affords his fellow-laborers the same respect as these demon principalities. In sum, the traveling apostles consist of Paul, Silas, Titus, and their Lord. My, Paul's ears must have been tingling indeed. If you asked about Titus, Paul would have you know that is his travelling partner. Now he does not mean to be irreverent here; neither should you. It might be a splitting situation or that of the unwanted houseguest. But this is none of your concern. Should any others wish to know, these are merely messengers to Christ's body for his grace and for his glory.

And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,

Now I am not sure about you. But I find it best anytime someone reasons with me without the Scripture. See, man may have a lot of advice. Only God's Word will stand for all eternity. For it is his book, his truth, and his Word. Whether you have never heard or are a full-grown baby believer just learning to crawl is another matter entirely. Regardless, the gospel requires those that listen to do something about it. It is good that you hear Paul preach to the Jews and the errant Corinthian church. Let us see if they will be found doing what they were told. Now Christ is not merely your personal fitness trainer, growth instructor, and drill sergeant. I know some would have you think thus. Believe me, he is quite the gentleman. As such he will go away if you would like. Nor will he knock on your heart's door forever. This is why Hebrews 3:15 says while it is called today you must answer him. For so he is a reasonable God. He will not ask any great thing from you. He only takes your heart, your time, and your life. Indeed, Paul points out that such is a daily habit much like his preaching.

It is no different than simply walking with Jesus. In the text Paul makes much of the doing and the willing to produce some Christian performance. Simply put, the gospel is relational. Truly, it applies to you. You might be like the disciples who let Jesus preach out of their boat in Luke 5:3. All you must do is say yes. For he is consensual and does nothing to unwilling victims. You might be like me and have no boat with only yourself to give. That is okay. If God can use a small boy's dinner as in Matthew 14:17, he surely can use your life. So will many be blessed, edified, and the whole house fed. You might think to yourself, 'if I give him that, then I will have nothing.' But see when you are walking with Jesus, he will work out even that. Trust and see. Nothing is ever broken, missing, or wasted in God's house. Notice how Paul ministers even in his brokenness. He might be missing home now; just wait till you see the end. Paul will soon return to all he left for Christ, even those dear to him like Lydia.

Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ

Here we are following Jesus' example again. I hate to burden you with such long overviews as this one. But see, the apostle's abundance is not being emphasized; rather, such overflow has been administered to them by the gospel. So then none can blame Paul for simply being a faithful steward of it. For this cause he "provides for honest things." Literally he shows himself trustworthy before God and man. Here comes those pesky words regarding the sight of God again. See, on Friday man thought the story was over. They thought they had won. Then man sealed up Jesus' tomb and declared it done. But when you know the Lord, you will soon see him rise right up out of his grave. Hold on little church; Sunday is coming. This is how you can be fussed, mussed, and in a predicament but still know the hand of God. For when you "gather much" you will have "nothing over." Is it not great to know that your many troubles will soon end. Even though they become many blessings, yet still you will have just enough for you. Again, gathering little relates to the "no lack." God will pay you back for all you have been through. Just as those years the locusts had eaten were restored, so will he do for you. Such a blessing provokes a response. Here Paul calls on the churches to show the love of Christ and the apostles' boast of them. They ought to do so not only for themselves but for all those finding themselves distressed and in need of some comfort. Remember how God comforts you his people as in Isaiah 40:1. Now the church here will be able to show you his love in a hard time. Someone, have some faith and give God some crazy praise.