How does Acts 14:13 illustrate the misunderstanding of divine worship by the pagans? Setting the Moment in Lystra Acts 14:13: “The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates, hoping to offer a sacrifice along with the crowds.” What the Pagans Saw • A crippled man instantly healed by Paul (vv. 8–10) • Two traveling preachers suddenly credited with divine power (v. 11) • A culture steeped in myths of gods visiting earth in human form (cf. v. 12) Signs of Deep Misunderstanding • Mistaking servants for the Master – They called Barnabas “Zeus” and Paul “Hermes” (v. 12). – Isaiah 42:8: “I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not give My glory to another.” • Substituting ritual for revelation – Bulls and wreaths reflect external ceremony, not heart devotion (Micah 6:6–8). – “God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24). • Treating created things as divine – Romans 1:23 notes exchanging “the glory of the immortal God for images.” – Psalm 115:4–8 exposes idols as powerless, unlike the living God who healed the man. Contrast with True Worship • Centered on God alone—Exodus 20:3–5 forbids any rival. • Rooted in revelation, not superstition—Acts 14:15–17 shows Paul pointing to the Creator’s witness in creation and providence. • Focused on repentance and faith, not appeasement—Hebrews 11:6; Acts 14:15. Takeaways for Today • Miracles must lead to the worship of God, never His messengers. • Rituals without truth misdirect hearts away from the living God. • True worship begins with recognizing Jesus as Lord, not merely a powerful human messenger. |
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