In what ways can we trust God when facing opposition in our faith? Setting the Scene in Corinth Acts 18 finds Paul ministering in a city hostile to the gospel. Trouble brews when a group of Jews drag him before Gallio, the Roman proconsul. We zero in on verse 14: “But just as Paul was about to speak, Gallio said to the Jews, ‘If this were a matter of wrongdoing or serious crime, O Jews, there would be reason for me to listen to you.’” (Acts 18:14) God’s Protection Displayed • Paul never even has to defend himself—God moves Gallio to shut the case before it starts. • This fulfills the promise the Lord had given Paul earlier: “For I am with you, and no one will lay a hand on you or harm you, because I have many people in this city.” (Acts 18:10) • Opposition is real, yet God’s sovereign hand is more real. He can turn the hearts of civil authorities (Proverbs 21:1) and silence accusers (Isaiah 54:17). Ways We Can Trust God When Opposition Rises • Trust His presence. – “The LORD is for me; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Psalm 118:6) – Opposition may feel loud, but the companionship of the Lord is louder. • Trust His control over circumstances. – Gallio thought he was acting on Roman legal instincts; God was orchestrating deliverance. – “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31) • Trust His promise to sustain and rescue. – Paul later testifies, “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and will bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom.” (2 Timothy 4:18) – No outcome—prison, acquittal, or martyrdom—escapes His plan. Practical Responses While Trusting • Keep speaking truth boldly—Paul had planned a defense, but he was ready either way. • Remain respectful toward authorities; God might use them unexpectedly. • Lean on Christian community—“I have many people in this city.” Fellowship is part of God’s safety net. • Anchor yourself in Scripture; recall specific promises when accusations fly. • Continue doing good: “Those who suffer according to God’s will should entrust their souls to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” (1 Peter 4:19) Encouraging Promises to Carry Forward • Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you; I will surely help you.” • John 16:33: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world.” • Ephesians 6:10–11: “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God…” Living It Out Opposition is inevitable; abandonment is impossible. The same God who stood behind Paul’s silent victory before Gallio stands behind every believer today. Rely on His nearness, His sovereignty, and His sure promises, and keep walking forward in obedient confidence. |
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