Those who had been scattered by the persecution triggered by Stephen’s death traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, but they were still only speaking and dealing with their fellow Jews. Then some of the men from Cyprus and Cyrene who had come to Antioch started talking to Greeks, giving them the Message of the Master Jesus. God was pleased with what they were doing and put his stamp of approval on it—quite a number of the Greeks believed and turned to the Master. Acts 11:19-21 MSG
You know, I never realized that when the believers scattered after Stephen’s death to all those different places that they were still only speaking with their “fellow Jews.” I just assumed that they were speaking to all people about Jesus.
It made me start thinking who I’m speaking to about Jesus. Am I only “speaking and dealing” with those who look or act like me? Has God put a “stamp of approval” on me reaching out to others that I’m ignoring? I think most of the people who listen to The Messy Mary podcast are already Christians. To be honest, I never even thought about that. And maybe that is the same thing the scattered disciples did, not think about it.
I am thankful for Jesus’ example in the Bible that His salvation is available to everyone. Not just a select few. Whoever believes in Him will be saved. They get His stamp of approval to be His children.
I don’t know about you, but I’m thankful that Jesus had the disciples take His message to the Gentiles. Because without Him doing that, I wouldn’t be sitting here typing this 40/40 challenge blog.
Until next time with Jesus’ help let’s be less messy and choose what’s better.