How can we respond when others "agitate and stir up" opposition against us? What Happened in Acts 17:13 “But when the Jews from Thessalonica learned that Paul was also proclaiming the word of God in Berea, they went there too, agitating and stirring up the crowds.” • Paul’s faithful preaching in Thessalonica had already met resistance (Acts 17:5–9). • That resistance followed him to Berea. Instead of discussing doctrine, the agitators chose to disrupt and divide. • The believers quickly escorted Paul to the coast, while Silas and Timothy remained to strengthen the new church (Acts 17:14–15). Timeless Realities About Opposition • Fidelity to God’s Word often provokes hostility (2 Timothy 3:12). • Opposition tends to be persistent; it may chase us from one setting to another (John 15:19–20). • God never loses control of the situation (Psalm 2:1–4). How Paul’s Response Guides Us • Steadfast Message – Paul did not tone down or alter the gospel to appease critics (Galatians 1:10). • Strategic Movement – Leaving Berea was not cowardice; it was wise stewardship of his calling (Matthew 10:23). • Teamwork and Delegation – Silas and Timothy stayed behind, ensuring the young believers were not abandoned (Ephesians 4:11–12). • Trust in God’s Timing – Paul embraced new opportunities in Athens while trusting God with Berea’s future (Acts 17:16). Practical Ways to Respond When Others Agitate Against Us • Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing – Center every response on the truth of the gospel; avoid being sidetracked by personal slights. • Walk in Humble Courage – Boldly speak truth (Acts 4:29) while refusing retaliation (Romans 12:17–18). • Employ Sanctified Flexibility – If one door closes, look for the next God-given opening (1 Corinthians 16:9). • Lean on the Body of Christ – Seek prayer, counsel, and practical aid from fellow believers (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Guard Your Heart – Refuse bitterness; remember that spiritual conflict lies behind human opposition (Ephesians 6:12). • Keep an Eternal Perspective – “Blessed are you when people insult you… great is your reward in heaven” (Matthew 5:11–12). Scriptures That Fortify Us in the Face of Opposition • 1 Peter 3:14–16 — Respond with gentleness and respect. • Philippians 1:27–30 — Suffer for Christ as a gracious gift. • Galatians 6:9 — Do not grow weary in doing good. • Psalm 34:19 — “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.” Living It Out This Week • Speak honestly and lovingly, even when misrepresented. • Identify one trusted believer to pray with about any current hostility. • Review the above Scriptures daily, affirming God’s sovereignty and your commitment to persevere. |
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