20 May Open Heaven
MEMORISE: “And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.” – (John 11:42)
READ: Acts 4:24-32 (KJV)
God uses miracles in so many ways. Today, we will see how faith and miracles could be tools for soul-winning.
A miracle is an effective weapon that destroys doubts and draws men to God. While it is not the only means of winning souls, it plays a vital role in boosting the faith of man in God. Even Jesus admitted this in John 11:42.
In Acts 4:4, after five thousand souls were won due to the healing of the lame man, the angry religious leaders arrested the Apostles and questioned them on whose authority they performed miracles. Peter mentioned Jesus – whom the Jewish leaders killed on the cross, as their source. Though the leaders were annoyed, they could not deny the reality of the miracles.
“Saying, what shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.” – Acts 4:16
Read yesterday’s Open Heaven here
So as to limit the spread of the gospel, these leaders warned the Apostles not to preach in the name of Jesus again. However, they did something significant on getting to their brethren – they lifted up their voices to God in one accord and prayed.
They prayed for the ability to perform even more miracles that would permanently shut the mouth of their persecutors and at the same time convince people of the truth they were preaching (Acts 4:29-30). That was profound!
From the example of the Apostles, we can conclude that any Church that denies the reality and necessity of the working of miracles should be questioned. The early Church built their mandate to preach on the signs, wonders and miracle-working gift of the Holy Spirit. God is still seeking vessels He can perform signs and wonders through today (John 14:12). Are you available?
20 May Open Heaven – ACTION POINT: Let us thirst for and acquire all the gifts of the Spirit, so that through us, God can perform signs and wonders that will advance His Kingdom.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Samuel 22-23, Psalm 57
