ESOCS Devotional 19 October
TEXT: ACTS 24:17-27 KJV
MEMORY VERSE: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” Matthew 10:16 KJV
In our text today, we see that Festus was in a serious dilemma, as he could not find any occasion to raise meaningful charges for, or against Paul, in order to grant his appeal to Caesar. Paul at his wit’s best was able to prove that he neither contravened any Roman law nor did anything contrary to Jewish custom. Paul’s deep knowledge of scripture and vast experience of legal and socio-political issues helped him to introduce some theological complications into the case that threw Festus off balance, hence his dilemma.
It has been stated that priesthood is one of the three most learned professions, the other two being law and teaching. This was buttressed in no small measure by the way Paul defended himself before the council – employing his rich knowledge of scriptures, the law, as well as other socio-political knowledge. Jesus, on His part, admonished His disciples to be clever in all spheres of life in order to stand the test of time, as well as be able to guide others, as occasions demand.
Read yesterday’s ESOCS Devotional here
Priesthood requires vast knowledge in different subject areas and disciplines such as politics, law, science, technology, and socio-economic affairs. Moreover, our adversary is well versed with the knowledge of the scriptures (Matt. 4:5-6). Let us be guided.
CHALLENGES
- Are you aware that Christian Priesthood is not for the mediocre or idle pass-timers? It is rather for those who are well informed in the arts, social, and even natural sciences. Stop deceiving yourself – go get informed. Get wiser, be clever; above all, search the scriptures deeply at all times, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8).
PRAYER POINT
- Lord save us from the menace of the roaring lion or the cunning serpent. Make us wiser by the day, through your written word. Amen.
FURTHER READING: 2 Kings 17:16-41; 18:1-9; Galatians 6:12-18; Ephesians 1:1-12
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ESOCS Devotional 19 October
