How can we respond to rejection when sharing our faith like Paul? Paul’s Moment of Rejection (Acts 22:22) • “The crowd listened to Paul until he said this. Then they raised their voices and shouted, ‘Rid the earth of him! He is not fit to live!’” • One moment Paul is calmly sharing his testimony; the next he’s drowning in shouts of death. Rejection could not be sharper—yet he does not melt down or back down. Rejection Is Part of the Package • Jesus warned us: – “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first.” (John 15:18) – “No servant is greater than his master… If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well.” (John 15:20) • Paul echoes the same truth: “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12) • Knowing ahead of time that some will push back removes surprise and keeps our hearts steady. Speak the Truth Anyway • Paul stayed on message. He shared his Damascus-road conversion, proclaimed the risen Christ, and refused to dilute the gospel for an easier hearing. • The Lord still asks us to keep the message clear: – “We cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20) – Pray for “boldness to proclaim the mystery of the gospel.” (Ephesians 6:19) • Rejection is never permission to edit truth; it is a call to deeper clarity. Stay Respectful and Self-Controlled • Paul’s tone: “Brothers and fathers, listen now to my defense…” (Acts 22:1). Even with chains rattling, he used family language. • Before the Sanhedrin he still spoke respectfully, pulling back from harsh words (Acts 23:1-5). • Scripture directs the same posture: – “Always be prepared to give a defense… But respond with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15-16) • Courtesy does not guarantee acceptance, yet it keeps our conscience clean and our witness bright. Lean on God-Given Rights and Open Doors • When a centurion stretched him out for flogging, Paul calmly asked, “Is it lawful for you to flog a Roman citizen…?” (Acts 22:25). • Using his legal status prolonged his life and multiplied gospel opportunities all the way to Caesar’s court. • We too may appeal to lawful freedoms—free speech, workplace policies, school rights—to keep a channel open for the gospel. Draw Strength from the Lord’s Presence • “That night the Lord stood near Paul and said, ‘Take courage! As you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so also you must testify in Rome.’” (Acts 23:11) • The same Christ stands beside us: “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20). • Rejection feels lonely; the Lord’s nearness makes us resilient. Keep a Gospel Heart • Paul loved the very people who shouted for his death. He later wrote, “I have great sorrow… for my brothers… I could wish that I myself were cursed… for their sake.” (Romans 9:2-3). • Before King Agrippa he said, “I pray that… all who are listening to me today may become as I am, except for these chains.” (Acts 26:29). • Our goal is not to win arguments but souls. Love keeps the door open for tomorrow’s conversation. Practical Take-Aways for Us • Expect some level of rejection; let it confirm you’re on the right track. • Keep your testimony simple and Christ-centered. • Answer hostility with gentleness, never retaliation. • Use legal and cultural opportunities wisely; they are gifts from God for gospel advance. • Rest in Christ’s constant presence; rehearse His promises aloud. • Pray for those who reject you; today’s adversary may be tomorrow’s brother or sister. Promises to Hold When You’re Pushed Away • “Blessed are you when people insult you… Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.” (Matthew 5:11-12) • “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6) • “Now I want you to know… what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.” (Philippians 1:12) |
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