Insightful Musings on the Scriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67

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March 13, 2010
    Good morning, dear family and friends.
    I say "good morning," but there isn't much left of it.  It's presently 11:40am.  Whew!  Lots happening.  Lots to do.
    Have a great day...doing the right thing.
        Love, Ray

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13 March 2010
Passage:  Acts 18:1-23
Focus:  “…and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.”  Acts 18:3

            Paul was an outstanding student of the Word, a powerful preacher; and an effective Bible teacher.  He was also a TENTMAKER.  And I have reason to believe he was a very good one.  I don’t believe he was lazy or sloppy in his work.  I would not be surprised to know that he was creative in his craft – coming up with new ways to use tools and materials – perhaps inventing some new innovative designs.  I also believe he would have been very fair in the prices he charged for his services.  He would not be out to rip people off.  I have no doubt that Paul would have tithed and given offerings based on the income he received from his trade.  And when he told a customer that they could come and collect their tent on Friday afternoon, for sure it would be ready.  So if you lived in a community where Paul lived and worked, and you had need of a tent, you would be well advised to do business with Paul.
            But Paul had things in perspective.  He was a Christian and communicator of the Gospel who happened to be a TENTMAKER…not a TENTMAKER who happened to be a Christian.  There is a major difference in perspective and attitude here.  He used his trade skill to generate income to meet his practical needs while he engaged in his priority calling as a representative and promoter of the Gospel.  Furthermore, I believe that if you approached Paul concerning your need for a tent, he would not only offer you a good deal, but also some interesting and friendly conversation and eventually bend the talk toward the things of God.  He would always look for opportunities to communicate Christ.  And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.