The word "deuteronomy" means literally "second law." So this book is a second giving of the law or covenant of God. Moses recounts the events of the past, assures the people of the inheritance promised to them, and then reminds the people of God how they are to live. Really, the purpose is, "to present the renewal of the Sinai covenant for God's people before they entered the Promised Land" (TLSB p. 274). This will be helpful for us to remember as we study the book.
Comments from me today, however, will focus on the reading from Acts. On with our study:
Read Deuteronomy 1
Read Acts 27
I love these last few chapters in Acts (well, and all of them!) I think that modern movie makers could make an excellent film about the missionary adventures of Paul - that is, if they would keep it accurate historically and theologically. It is certainly thrilling material!
I sometimes think it would sure be a lot easier to witness if something miraculous like this happened. There is danger, but an angel appears and assures Paul that all will survive. And, in fact, that is what happens. Surely, it must be easier to witness in such a way!
But then I have to stop and think...Hmm...that meant that Paul had to suffer through this terrifying storm. Paul had to experience the hunger and exhaustion along with the crew. Surely, it was not fun. Hmm...maybe I'd prefer witnessing in the ordinary ways.
But since we do have storms and (metaphorical) shipwrecks in this earthly journey. And this account reminds us that when we suffer along with the ungodly around us, we should be certain to proclaim to them God's promises, and then point out when the promises are fulfilled. No, we may not have anything specific like "everyone will survive when we wreck on the island," but we have just as relevant, just as applicable, just as true promises as well.
So, today when we experience the pains and problems of life, well, maybe that's an opportunity to proclaim God's Word in a meaningful way to another. Think about that today. And pray this simple prayer I found in The Lutheran Study Bible. Pray it slowly, for it is profound. Then, watch for those opportunities.
Pray:
"Lord, put all the problems in my life to good use. I praise You that nothing compares to the grace and mercy You show me, now and forever. Amen." (TLSB, p. 1896).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Everytime I read through this section I become more and more astonished that Paul a prisoner was giving orders and suggestions through this whole ordeal. He even suggests that they winter before the trouble ensued! Wow! God was surely working here.
ReplyDeleteThink about all the times that we as sinful humans are afraid to speak up. We are afraid of what others might think or any possible consequences. Again, I look at the consequences that could have faced Paul and I'm astonished. Why was he so willing to speak up, and yet I'm so hestitant?
Well, we must conclude that Paul had some special revelation. We don't always have that kind of revelation. But what we do know with certainty and confidence (that is, what is in the Bible), that we should speak boldly and without hesitance or embarrassment.
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