“So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.” Acts 6:7.
The members of the community of followers of Jesus were spreading the word about God’s love for all people through His Messiah and Son. Because of this, the religious authorities were upset and sought to silence them. These followers of Jesus were steadfast and totally committed to this new hope in God, and they withstood the persecution that came their way. As a result of this wholeheartedness, many people in the region of Jerusalem, including priests, become sincere followers of Jesus, the Messiah.
Isn’t it interesting that a “large number of priests” became followers of Jesus? There must have been something about the genuine nature of these early followers that attracted them, and conversely, there must have been something within that lacked genuineness about their priestly activity that left a sense of emptiness and longing for more. I know about myself that I am drawn to someone that I perceive is genuine. I also know that I am repelled by someone who I perceive lives a charade. The early believers were forged by trials and came through with a authentic devotion to their Master, Jesus, and it was noticed.
Questions: Have you faced the trials in your life, and how has your faith in Jesus Christ helped you to genuinely face them? Do you put on a religious front that masks the reality of life’s marks on you, or is your faith an outgrowth of the trials that you have faced and you have been strengthened by them?
Prayer: Lord, help me to face the trials of life and to be forged by them, so that I might be a more genuine follower of Yours. Give me strength to follow You in the midst of the trials that I face. I know that I believe; please help my unbelief and lack of faith. Amen.
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