Prejudice (pre-judging, irrational
attitude) is nothing new. It is even identified in the Biblical record.
Aaron and Miriam opposed Moses because of his interracial marriage
(Numbers 12:1). The Old Testament books
of Esther and Jonah are about events brought on in large part by prejudice.
Even in the New Testament the Apostles struggled with it, both in race
and religion (Galatians 2:11,12; Luke 9:49,50).
Prejudice can come in many areas...race, religion,
economic status, culture, gender and age. As Christians, what is our
response to be? While certainly aware of distinct differences among
people and each of us having our preferences we must remember John 3:16: "For
God so loved the WORLD..." We must be willing to go BEYOND our
"comfort zone" since all have sinned and all need the Savior!
This Sunday's sermon will offer a few helpful hints in dealing with
prejudice. We will also see Philip presenting Jesus as the Messiah
(Christ, Anointed One) as well as bringing miraculous relief to the hurting.
The proclamation of the Messiah is listed ahead of the miracles in the
text. This is a reminder that while we should be a blessing to people in
practical ways we must never lose sight of sharing the message of salvation
which will benefit them eternally!
The result of Phillip's mission is that
there is great joy in that city. We, too, can be partakers and promoters
of great Gospel joy as we go BEYOND as witnesses of the love of Jesus in word
and deed!
See you Sunday!
1. Did Jesus acknowledge the
prejudices of His earthly era? Study Mark 7:24-30; Luke 17:11-19
2. How did Jesus cross the
boundaries of prejudice? Study Luke 5:29-30; John 4:4-42
3. Read Jesus' great parable of the
"good Samaritan" in Luke 15:25-37. Do you see a remedy for
prejudice?
4. In the sermon text in Acts
Phillip ministered to both soul and body of the Samaritans. The Bible
commentator, William Barclay stated, "Christianity has never been a thing
of words only." Consider the following verses. James 2:14-17;
1 John 3:16-18
5. There was great joy when Phillip
went BEYOND to Samaria and the Gospel was at work in that city. Where
else is there rejoicing when the Gospel takes effect? Luke 15:7, 10
