Unstoppable! 'Accepted, but Sent Away' — Acts 9:28-30

Saturday, May 20, 2023

So Saul stayed with the apostles and went all around Jerusalem with them, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord. He debated with some Greek-speaking Jews, but they tried to murder him. When the believers heard about this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus, his hometown.

— Acts 9:28-30 NLT

Key Thought

With the help of Barnabas, Saul was finally accepted by the believers and church leaders in Jerusalem. So, Saul did what he knew to do and what he did well. He proclaimed Jesus to his fellow Jews, especially those who spoke Greek. When his proclamation became more of a debate, Saul's fellow Jews disliked his teaching so much that they wanted to murder him. Fortunately, the believers risked their lives for a man they once feared, and they helped him escape to his hometown. This a great testament not only to Saul's faith, but also to the generous spirit of his fellow believers!

Today's Prayer

O Father, give me a generous spirit toward people who are trying to live for you and Jesus and who are facing opposition and criticism. Use me to be your source of support and protection for them so that they can spread their wings of faith and soar in your grace. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Ephesians 4:25-5:2
  • Hebrews 3:12-14

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Illustration

Illustration of Acts 9:28-30 NLT — So Saul stayed with the apostles and went all around Jerusalem with them, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord. He debated with some Greek-speaking Jews, but they tried to murder him. When the believers heard about this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus, his hometown.

About This Devotional

Unstoppable! is a one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage, a reflection and a prayer. The reflection opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges one to live for Jesus.

Unstoppable! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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