Insightful Musings on the Scriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67

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March 20, 2010
    Greetings to you fine folk.
    I've done my jog.  Daisy is absolutely frustrated at seeing me prepare and take off without her.  But during this time where she is in a cast, it's probably best that she not do too much exercising.
    Lots on the list.  What's on your list?
    Be blessed and productive today.
        Love, Dad/Ray

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20 March 2010
Passage:  Acts 21:37-22:21
Focus:  “The God of our fathers has chosen you.”  Acts 22:14.

            These words are part of Paul’s testimony before the hostile crowd after he was rescued by the Roman soldiers from the riot at the temple in Jerusalem and arrested.  I think you would agree that it would have been pretty dumb for Paul to try to launch into a theological presentation of his faith and doctrine in this particular situation.  Instead, he wisely chose the approach of personal testimony.  It is easy for someone to argue with a statement of doctrine.  It’s much more difficult to argue with a personal testimony of one who is simply stating what he has seen, heard, and experienced.  Paul’s testimony here did not really resolve the issue that riled the mob, but at least they listened for 18 verses.  That’s a lot longer than they would have listened otherwise.
            In Paul’s testimony, he quotes the words of Ananias who came to him at Damascus to pray for him and advise him following his dramatic revelation from the Lord.  Ananias said, “The God of our fathers has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and to hear words from his mouth.  You will be his witness to all men of what you have seen and heard” (Acts 22:14-15).
            You are not likely to have the same kind of dramatic conversion experience as Paul, but make no mistake about it—these inspired words from Ananias apply to you about as well as they do to Paul.  Be reminded that it is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that has also chosen you.  He loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life.  Be reminded that this great God wants you to know His basic will and plan for your life.  Be assured that He desires you to focus on Jesus, the Righteous One.  He is your only hope of glory.  Be reminded that He wants you to serve as a witness of His grace.  It all adds up to the fact that you are important to Him.