A Subversive Message

Acts 17:1-9

“Paul and Silas have caused trouble all over the world,” they shouted, “and now they are here disturbing our city, too.” (Acts 17:6)

PAUL AND SILAS WERE TRAVELING through the Hellenistic world to persuade both Jews and Gentiles of the truth of Jesus. This divisive message often split synagogues, which in turn sparked waves of outrage and protest. The real agitators were the protestors, not the messengers, but as agitators often do, they blamed others for their violence. Paul and Silas were accused of causing trouble wherever they went—literally of trying to stir up revolts. As a result, their opponents painted the life-changing message of Jesus as a subversive one.

In many ways, it is. It subverts a false kingdom. As much as possible, Paul tried to become all things to all people in order to remove barriers to the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:19-23), but God’s message cannot be accommodated to everyone’s tastes. It still upsets the world’s systems and reorders their values. It calls for a decision that may strain relationships and divide groups. It insists on a different way of thinking and relating to others. It seeks to win hearts, not appease them.

If at all possible, do nothing to create controversy. Your life’s message does enough of that on its own. There are some places in this world where the gospel will not make many waves; perhaps those around you have believed in it or heard it enough for it not to make a stir. But you will likely find yourself in some places where your beliefs are challenging to those around you. You may be seen as a troublemaker simply for standing up for your convictions. Jesus said to be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves in those places (Matthew 10:16); Peter urged maintaining a clear conscience (1 Peter 3:13-17). Be gracious to those around you, but be prepared to endure. The controversy surrounding Jesus and his followers is normal. In some measure or other, you are destined to turn your world upside down.

{Jesus, you are no stranger to turmoil. I would prefer to avoid it, but may I never compromise my beliefs to do so. Fill my mouth with words of grace and peace but also with timely words of truth—whatever the cost. Amen.