They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. (Acts 14:21, 22)
They preach the gospel, some are interested in what they have to say, signs and wonders follow and yet even with that everywhere they go there is trouble.
Some plot to stone them to death. Others get to actually stone Paul. For all this opposition there was something that kept them going. On their return to Antioch they were able to report the good news of open doors of faith to Gentiles. They were able to do this because they understood two important truths.
The first is that the mission involves hardships. I can openly confess that the thought of having to endure hardships is greatly disconcerting. Discomfort and inconvenience are enough to get me irritable, the notion of going through harder things than that would make me want to quit. Yet the second important truth uncovers the real driving force.
The second truth is that driving force – entering the Kingdom of God. Enduring the cross is done because one day we will exchange the cross for a crown. The goal must be treasured and valued higher than anything else. It is that which kept the Messiah going in His time on earth. It is that which allowed the apostles to fearlessly proclaim the good news in the light of oppression from the religious rulers. It is that which puts things into perspective for Paul and the mission team.
It is this critical truth that motivates us to be on mission with God in whatever area He calls us. Every victory is a reminder of the goodness of God. Every setback is a reminder of the grace of God needed to endure. Every step is one closer and closer to entering the Kingdom.
The King of the Kingdom inspires us on towards the prize that awaits us.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 