"Paul in Jerusalem"

-Although Paul was told not to go to Jerusalem, he decided to go anyways to see James. Considering the problems that could have occurred due to their differences, I thought it was brave of Paul to do what he did. Although Paul represented the Gentiles and James represented the Jewish Christians they were able to praise God together. They welcomed each other with open arms and showed each other respect and kindness for the good works they were doing for the Lord.

I believe this passage challenged me to think about my openess to Christians outside of our church or my realm of friends. If I were James, would I have welcomed Paul with open arms considering our differences? How can we learn to put our differences behind and consider the more important issues that bring us all together?

Posted by Esther Kim

Paul the Witness

Paul sure took advantage of every opportunity to share the gospel. Even though he had been held on false charges for several years, when he stands before the king, his primary aim is not for his own release through gaining the king’s favor, or to “ingratiate himself with the authorities", but for the king’s conversion.

Paul had a plan as a missionary and years in prison was not part of it. Yet he didn’t lose sight of his purpose as a missionary, and still preached the gospel wherever he happened to be. When our lives are thrown off course – maybe for years – will we be able to trust God’s plan and that he would give us “words and wisdom” in any situation?