September 1, 2011 - Acts 19:27a

“’There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited….’” Acts 19:27a.
Paul’s preaching in Ephesus was so transformative that many people were leaving their old lifestyles and turning to follow Jesus. Becoming a follower of Jesus meant that these people were in immediate conflict with the culture that they lived in. The people of Ephesus worshiped all kinds of gods, and especially the goddess, Artemis. Because the people followed various gods, there was quite a bit of money that was to be made from those paying tribute to their gods, and local venders took full advantage of this. This was the norm for their culture, so when many people become Jesus-followers, it effected the local economy considerably. And conflict with the culture ensued.
No matter what period of time we are in, our stance as Christ followers will be in conflict with the surrounding culture and with the businesses that make their living off of that culture. It may mean that we will no longer do some of the things that we did before. It may mean big changes in our lifestyle, as we no longer conform to the world around us, but, instead, be transformed by the Holy Spirit’s work inside us. And this can have economic ramifications. When we impact people’s money, we come close to their heart. That’s when we start receiving a strong, adverse reaction from the culture. That’s when we need to take a strong stand for what we know is right.
Questions to consider: How much different are you from the culture around you? How much different, if at all, should you be, and in what areas of your life? Where do you take a stand if the gods of your culture – money, greed, sex, and so forth – are running rampant?
Prayer: I praise You, Father, that You are the Living God and not an imposter like so many around me. I pray that You give me guidance in how to live my life in obedience to You, wholeheartedly following You at all times. Amen.