Discern The Times

The captain of the Temple guard and the leading priests . . . were perplexed, wondering where it would all end. Then someone arrived with startling news. Acts 5:24-25

One of my all-time favorite song lyrics is “You better start swimmin’, or you’ll sink like a stone” from Bob Dylan’s classic folk tune “The Times They Are A-Changin’.”

The song speaks of keeping an eye out for changing trends and social currents. Dylan is warning that change is in the wind, and those who ignore this do so at their peril.

The first-century leadership establishment had enjoyed their position for a long time, but the wind was beginning to blow from a new direction and they were confused.

People they had put in prison were suddenly appearing on the streets. These followers of Jesus were turning the world upside down. Traditions were being shattered, and conventions were blown to bits.

Does this sound familiar?

Are you perplexed? I’ll bet you know someone who seems to understand what’s happening.

Maybe it’s time for some swimming lessons.