Unstoppable! 'Jealousy and Hostility' — Acts 17:5

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

But some of the Jews were jealous [of Paul's message and success], so they gathered some troublemakers from the marketplace to form a mob and start a riot. They attacked the home of Jason, searching for Paul and Silas so they could drag them out to the crowd.

— Acts 17:5 NLT

Key Thought

The Jewish leader's jealousy of Jesus' message and success at winning the hearts of the people led them to murder the Lord on the cross. They didn't realize what was happening at the time, but they were accomplishing God's work that would allow Jesus to win the hearts of people for centuries. Paul and Silas faced similar jealousy in Thessalonica. A new believer, Jason, was caught in the middle of the mess. Despite the hostility, jealousy, and resentment, Jesus' disciples continued to grow, and his new body of believers fortified themselves in faith despite being persecuted. The faithfulness of these early disciples is our reminder that hard times do not have to destroy our faith; instead, hard times and persecution can strengthen our faith as fire can strengthen iron and carbon to make steel. Our commitment must focus on being faithful while trusting in the Lord's deliverance.

Today's Prayer

Father, may our hard times only strengthen our faith as we resolve to live for you no matter what circumstances we face. We believe that you are our unstoppable God, the God of deliverance for your people and all who seek you. We thank you for your grace. We praise you for your liberation of your people through the centuries. We wait with faith and resolve to see you act in our time as you did in previous times. We praise you as the LORD, who was and is and is to come. In Jesus' name, we live to honor and praise you. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 3:10-17
  • 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, 2:1-2, 13-20

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Illustration

Illustration of Acts 17:5 NLT — But some of the Jews were jealous [of Paul's message and success], so they gathered some troublemakers from the marketplace to form a mob and start a riot. They attacked the home of Jason, searching for Paul and Silas so they could drag them out to the crowd.

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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