I like to teach the Faith. It’s an
important part of my calling. I enjoy discussions about Christ and Christianity
and the sharing of questions, ideas, and thoughts at my regular Sunday School
class. It keeps me on my toes and refreshes my faith each time I enter and exit
the classroom. Preaching is meant for the big moment of the week in worship; teaching
is an entirely different method of sharing the faith.
The class that I teach is an
inter-generational one. People bring their cultural backgrounds, life experiences,
and personal questions into the melting pot which, in turn, adds to the whole
collective discussion about a Bible passage, faith point, or church issue. Each
Sunday that we meet, we add to the theological tapestry that we’re weaving.
Faith, hope, and love are shared; encouragement, friendship, and inspiration
are experienced.
Teaching about the Lord in philosophical
or practical ways always has the potential of strengthening our beliefs and
Christian convictions. In today’s passage (Acts 13:6-12), the Roman proconsul
Sergius Paulus is deeply impressed not just by what Barnabas and Saul say, but
what they actually do. Their faith is amazing and fearless in the face of evil
and deception. The proconsul becomes a believer because he sees for himself the
authenticity and authority of the Christian faith.
Today, we will all be given
opportunities to share our faith and be authentic witnesses for Christ. Let’s
hope that we are both ready and real about being Christians.
Questions for personal reflection
Where do I go to
be constantly taught about the Christian faith? What lessons of faith do I
express to others with my words and deeds?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to positively
express our faith in You to others this day. Let our witness of Your power and
presence in our lives be authentic and sincere. In Your Holy Name, we earnestly
pray. Amen.
John
Stuart is currently the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, TN. If
you would like to comment on today’s passage or ask a question about it, please
send him an email to traqair@aol.com.
Today’s
image is one of John’s latest Pentecost drawings. It’s called “Heaven Sent” and
features the Holy Spirit as a dove descending to Earth. If you would like to
view a larger version of the image, please click on the following link: http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8536/8683999979_5ab8742e51_b.jpg
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