I am not what I was.

8-6-2014         Acts 23:6-10

S.       6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.7 And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.8 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.9 And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.10 And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.

O.      Paul’s accusers become divided because of his declaration. He is rescued once again by the captain of the guard.

A.      We must speak a message that will be understood by the people. We must show people that we too have backgrounds similar to theirs. Then we can share the wonderful changes that have come into our life.

P.       Father; help me to be an open book to those I minister to. Help me to share the hope I have in a manner that will give all the glory to you. Amen.