How does Acts 13:15 encourage us to share God's Word in gatherings? Setting the Scene in Acts 13 “After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the synagogue leaders sent word to them, saying, ‘Brothers, if you have a word of exhortation for the people, please speak.’ ” (Acts 13:15) The Invitation to Speak • Synagogue worship always included the public reading of Scripture. • Visiting teachers were expected to expound on what had been read. • Paul and Barnabas took this open door to proclaim Christ (Acts 13:16-41). • The leaders’ request—“please speak”—shows that gatherings of God’s people should actively welcome fresh, Spirit-led exhortation rooted in Scripture. Lessons for Our Gatherings Today • Expect Scripture at the center: readings from “the Law and the Prophets” set the agenda, not personal opinions. • Value multiple voices: the synagogue leaders did not monopolize the platform; they invited others gifted to teach (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:26). • Look for exhortation, not entertainment: a “word” is meant to build up, challenge, and encourage (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Keep the atmosphere open and participatory: a simple “please speak” can unlock powerful ministry of the Word. • Assume readiness: Paul had no advance notice, but he was prepared “in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). Practical Ways to Respond • Read Scripture aloud every time believers gather; let God’s Word set the tone. • Invite others—elders, lay leaders, youth—to share a brief exhortation tied to the passage read. • Train believers to handle the Word accurately (2 Timothy 2:15) so spontaneous sharing remains faithful and edifying. • Reserve space in the order of service where the congregation expects short, Scripture-based encouragements. • Cultivate an attitude that any believer, when prompted by the Spirit, may have a needed word (1 Peter 4:11). Other Scriptures That Reinforce the Pattern • Colossians 3:16 – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… teaching and admonishing one another.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” • Hebrews 3:13 – “Encourage one another daily, while it is still called ‘Today.’ ” • Acts 2:42 – Early church gatherings were devoted to “the apostles’ teaching.” Acts 13:15 models a gathering where Scripture is read, opportunity is given, and God’s people boldly speak up. Embracing that model today turns every meeting into a platform for the living Word to transform lives. |
    |