Acts 16-19
Now I am having eye trouble. I think it from too much reading! Fortunately it is my "distance" eye (I had mono vision lasik surgery a couple of years ago), so I can still see enough to type.
In chapters 16-19 Paul is on the move through Greece (Macedonia) and Turkey. Those are not countries that are easy to get around. Much of the terrain is mountainous, so a lot of the travel is done by boat. For those who want to walk where Jesus walked, but might be concerned for their safety in Israel, I highly recommend "The Journeys of Paul" through Greece and Turkey. There is something about experiencing geography and being able to understand the stories.
The European mission dawns at Philippi. The city eventually becomes a Roman colony whose political status will be important in the future of the church in the Roman Empire. The disciples go down to river and find women willing to listen to them. What were the women doing there and where were the men? Lydia, one of the women, is a dealer in purple fabric. So, maybe the women are dying fabric for Lydia. Lydia and the women, gentiles speaking with Jews - these are indications that barriers are coming down.
There is a parallel in this story between Paul and Jesus. In Luke 4:31-37 Jesus begins his ministry with an exorcism. So Paul begins his European mission in this chapter with the removing of the annoying spirit of a slave girl that is following them around. This leads to imprisonment, a jail break, and the conversion of the jailer and his household. Score!
Acts 17 talks about three Sabbaths in Thessolinica synagogue, a stop which eventually doesn't turn out well due to an angry mob. Paul and Silas are once again able to convince some - including Gentiles and women, but tick of some Jews and ruffians. So under the cover of darkness they head to Beroea - where the are received more kindly - until the ruffians from Thessolonica show up. Then it is down to the coast and on to Athens.
Athens is a prime location. Lots of people! Paul is BOLD. Stepping up on the Areopagus and challenging the Council of Athens took "blessed assurance". The "unknown God" is suddenly made known - a single God who has created all.
Then to Corinth. And on to Ephesus. Whew!
Both absolutely fascinating cities in the history of the world. So much to know - such little time to reflect and discuss.
Still playing catch up. Sandra is my hero. She is keeping me honest. Way to go Sandra!
I liked how the officials stepped in and dismissed the people complaining about what Paul was saying. Once in 18:14 when they said Paul was not committing a crime, and when the city clerk said the same thing at the riot in Ephesus 19:35. It showed that he was doing things the right way when logic and reason prevails in the face of violent opposition.
ReplyDeleteI received info today about a trip to Turkey by private yacht to be lead by Jim Fleming. $5500. Jim is an outstanding lecturer and a regular contributor to Biblical Archeology Review.
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