Acts 13:44-52 - Homilies By R.a. Redford

Jewish opposition overruled to the world's good.

I. THE TEST OF SINCERITY applied to the professedly zealous. The city stirred by those who "followed not with them." The true zeal is that which is actuated by the true charity, which "rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in truth."

II. The best success is that which is obtained by simply FOLLOWING DIVINE DIRECTION . " It was necessary" to encounter the prejudice of the Jews, but the work of the world's evangelization was promoted by the causes which seemed to thwart it.

II. THOSE THAT EXALT THEMSELVES ARE ABASED . To thrust opportunity away is to judge ourselves unworthy of eternal life. The facts will be condemnation, without human accusation.

IV. THE UNIVERSALITY OF THE GOSPEL is its original charter of right to possession of all nations. The light was created before the sun, and the grace of God preceded the call of the Jews. The patriarchal religion testifies to the breadth of the message.

V. PERSECUTION is the last resort of defeated opponents of truth. When arguments fail, try abuse. The old priestly spirit at work, "urging on devout women."

VI. MOVEMENT is the law of life, If Antioch shuts its gates, Iconium opens a new sphere. The messengers must think first of the work—last of themselves. Ohne Hast, ohne Rast.— R.