Scripture Union Daily Guide 25 July 2020
Topic: Positive Response in Crisis
Opening Prayer: Plant my steps in the sure promises of your word today, dear Lord.
Scripture: Acts 6:1–15
Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
Unfortunately, the tribal tensions in the society spilled over into the church leading to loss of harmony between believers. We can notice similar things in our churches today. Jealousy, tribal sentiments, discontentment and murmuring divide our communities. When roles are not performed by the right people, conflicts result.
The apostles recognised their limitations (see v.2) and acted wisely by setting up a second tier of leaders to handle administration. That freed them to face their primary calling. Whom to choose? Unfortunately, we often appoint people with professional training or skills to, for example, handle money, without worrying about their spiritual maturity. Note the three key qualities nominees are required to have (v.3).
Stephen was one of the seven chosen. His ‘secular’ responsibilities did not stop him from demonstrating his gifts of grace and power as a man of the Word (v.8). Some donors are generally happy for us to provide food for the hungry so long as we do not also proclaim Christ to them. Stephen chose not only to live out but also proclaim what he believes. This brought about his opposition (vv.9–15). Notice the different ways the word of God impacted the people (vv.7 and 9–14). Different responses continue to result from the proclamation of the gospel.
⁂ Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Practice/Word Application
• For reflection: What are the pros and cons of combining social action with evangelism?
Prayer Points
• Help our leaders, dear Lord, to set their priorities right and be ready to share the burden lest they wear themselves out.
• Thank God for your place of work/business/study.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with 2 Corinthians 2:14
Read the Bible in one Year
Psalms 40–42; Acts 18
Scripture Union Daily Guide 25 July 2020 – Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.