How can we respond when others reject the Gospel message like in Acts 28:24? A Mixed Response Then and Now “Some were convinced by what he said, but others refused to believe.” (Acts 28:24) Why Rejection Shouldn’t Surprise Us • Jesus foretold it: “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first.” (John 15:18) • The parable of the sower lays out four kinds of soil (Mark 4:14-20); only one bears lasting fruit. • Paul experienced it everywhere he went (Acts 13:45-46; 17:32-34). Mixed responses are normal when truth confronts the human heart. Respond with Persevering Clarity • Keep explaining the Gospel plainly. Paul “expounded… testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus” (Acts 28:23). • 2 Timothy 4:2 urges, “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” • Trust the inherent power of the message itself (Romans 1:16). Depend on the Spirit’s Work, Not Human Persuasion • John 16:8—“When He comes, He will convict the world regarding sin and righteousness and judgment.” • 1 Corinthians 2:4-5—faith must “rest not on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power.” • Our task: sow the seed; the Spirit alone opens eyes (Acts 16:14). Stay Gentle and Compassionate • 2 Timothy 2:24-25—“The Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone… in the hope that God may grant them repentance.” • Speak truth with tenderness, remembering our own former blindness (Titus 3:3-5). • Keep relational doors open; tomorrow’s scoffer may be next year’s disciple. Know When to Move On • Paul “shook the dust off their feet” in Pisidian Antioch and headed to Iconium (Acts 13:50-51). • Jesus gave the same instruction to the Twelve (Luke 9:5). • Moving forward is not failure; it demonstrates confidence that God will keep working elsewhere. Pray Perseveringly for the Seed • Paul sowed, Apollos watered, but “God gave the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). • Continue interceding for those who resisted. God’s Word “will not return to Me void” (Isaiah 55:11). Anchor Your Heart in God’s Promises • Galatians 6:9—“Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up.” • Matthew 28:20—Christ is with us “always, to the very end of the age.” • The final harvest is certain (Revelation 7:9-10). Rejection now is temporary; glory later is eternal. In Summary When the Gospel meets resistance, remember: rejection is expected, clarity is essential, the Spirit is indispensable, kindness is powerful, discernment is freeing, prayer is fruitful, and God’s promises are sure. Keep planting—He will handle the growth. |
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