What actions can we take to support leaders facing opposition for their beliefs? Setting the Scene: Acts 17:8 in Context Paul and Silas had boldly preached Christ in Thessalonica. Jason sheltered them, but an angry mob dragged Jason before the officials. “And when they heard these things, the crowd and city officials were greatly disturbed” (Acts 17:8). Opposition was loud, public, and intimidating—yet God’s servants were not left alone. Lessons From Jason and the Thessalonian Believers • Hospitality: Jason opened his home (v. 7). A meal, a guest room, or even a ride can steady a weary leader. • Public identification: Jason’s neighbors now knew he stood with Paul. Quiet loyalty is good; visible loyalty is better when the heat is on. • Legal help: He posted bond (v. 9). Today that can look like covering legal fees, writing character references, or showing up in court. • Steadfast faith: Though the officials were “greatly disturbed,” the believers didn’t cave. Their calm confidence affirmed the message and the messengers. Practical Ways We Can Support Leaders Today • Pray earnestly and specifically – “First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be offered for all people—for kings and all in authority” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). – Set alarms, form small prayer circles, fast when hearings or meetings loom. • Provide tangible care – Meals, childcare, transportation, and safe lodging echo Jason’s hospitality. – Share financial resources: “The one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor” (Galatians 6:6). • Stand with them publicly – Attend court dates, council meetings, or campus forums. – Post truthful reports on social media to counter misinformation, modeled after Paul’s defenders in Philippi (Acts 16:37-39). • Offer legal and professional expertise – Attorneys, HR specialists, and media consultants can spare leaders needless wounds. – Proverbs 24:11 calls us to “rescue those being led away to death”; sometimes rescue looks like sound counsel before a hostile board. • Speak words of encouragement – “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a good word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25). – Send Scriptures, voice messages, or handwritten notes that remind them their labor “in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Keep advancing the mission – While some escorted Paul to Berea (Acts 17:10), others stayed to strengthen the new church. Multiplying the work prevents opposition from bottlenecking the gospel. Anchoring Our Efforts in Scripture • Intercessory power: “You also join in helping us by your prayers, so that many will give thanks on our behalf” (2 Corinthians 1:11). • Refreshment ministry: “May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains” (2 Timothy 1:16). • Shared courage: After the church prayed, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly” (Acts 4:31). Living It Out Together Opposition is real, but so is the fellowship of believers. By praying, providing, standing publicly, lending expertise, encouraging, and continuing the mission, we echo Jason’s brave support and demonstrate that no faithful leader ever fights alone. |
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