"There are four men with us who have made a vow. Take these men, join in their purification rites and pay their expenses, so that they can have their heads shaved. Then everyone will know there is no truth in these reports about you, but that you yourself are living in obedience to the law."
(Acts 21: 23b-24, NIV)
Heard the phrase, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do?" That's what Paul is having to do here in Jerusalem. Paul has come to preach, but is being told that many believe he has given up his Jewish traditions. Paul is a Jew, but after his Damascus Road experience, he is preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ. He is now a Jewish Christian, not having to live by the law of Moses. But, Paul does not want to offend any of the Jewish people, so he is willing to sacrifice some things and do what they ask. He wants to leave an open door for sharing the gospel.
When travelling to foreign countries on various mission projects, I have found that it is necessary to follow their traditions if it does not cause you to commit sinful behavior. Just because we may not be accustomed to doing a particular thing does not mean we cannot respect that sect of people and go along with their traditions, especially while on their territory. Once you leave yourself open to them, hopefully they, in turn, will be open to what you have to share with them. That is what Paul was wanting to accomplish.
Even in America, churches will focus on their doctrine and traditions, thus alienating a large group of people who may not believe in the same manner. Often churches will split over disagreements about minor issues. That's when we need to look at WHO unites us instead of those things that divide us. Let's come together for the common good---for the sake of the gospel.
No comments:
Post a Comment