What can we learn from Paul's confession about worshiping "the God of our fathers"? Text Under Consideration “ But I do confess to you that I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that is in accordance with the Law and that is written in the Prophets.” — Acts 24:14 Who Paul Means by “the God of our fathers” • “The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob” (Exodus 3:6) • The covenant-keeping God of Israel (Deuteronomy 7:9) • The same God who raised Jesus (Acts 3:13; 5:30) Paul affirms that his faith in Christ is not a break from Israel’s heritage but its fulfillment. Continuity Between Old and New • “I believe everything … in the Law and … the Prophets” declares unity of Scripture (Luke 24:27; Romans 15:4). • Jesus Himself said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets” (Matthew 5:17). • The Way is therefore rooted in ancient revelation, not a novel invention (Acts 26:22–23). Personal Loyalty and Corporate Identity • “Our fathers” links Paul to his ancestors and to the faith community (Romans 9:4-5). • Christianity honors and completes God’s promises to Israel (Galatians 3:29). • Worship is not merely individual; it connects believers across generations (Hebrews 11:39-40). Scripture’s Reliability Affirmed • Paul stakes his defense on written revelation: Law + Prophets = trustworthy (2 Timothy 3:16). • His confession assumes the literal truth of Scripture’s history and prophecy (Acts 26:6-8). • Because the text is true, its promises and warnings remain binding today (1 Corinthians 10:11). Implications for Our Worship Today • Worship the same God who spoke to the patriarchs and revealed Himself in Jesus (John 14:9). • Ground every doctrine and practice in the whole counsel of God’s Word (Acts 20:27). • Embrace both heritage and hope: historic faith expressed in contemporary obedience (Hebrews 13:8). • Stand unashamed when labeled “sectarian”; fidelity to truth may invite misunderstanding (2 Timothy 1:12). • Maintain reverence and gratitude, “offering to God acceptable worship with reverence and awe” (Hebrews 12:28). Key Takeaways • The Christian faith is the direct heir of Israel’s revelation. • Scripture’s accuracy undergirds every aspect of worship. • True worship unites past, present, and future saints around one covenant-keeping God. |
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