Its dangers in last days
Difficulties in Living Out the Great Commission: Insights from the Book of Acts
The Great Commission, as articulated by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20, calls Christians to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. However, living out this commission is fraught with challenges, both in ancient times and today. The Book of Acts in the Bible offers invaluable insights into these difficulties and how early Christians navigated them. This blog delves into these challenges, supported by verses from Acts, and provides scripturally based advice for modern believers.
Opposition and Persecution
One of the primary challenges faced by the early church was opposition and persecution.
Biblical Example: Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin (Acts 4:1-22)
Peter and John faced direct opposition from the Sanhedrin for preaching about Jesus. Acts 4:18-20 records, “So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered them, ‘Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.’”
Today, Christians might face opposition in various forms, such as social ostracism, workplace discrimination, or even legal challenges. Like Peter and John, believers are called to stand firm in their faith and continue witnessing, despite societal pressures.
Cultural and Linguistic Barriers
The apostles were commissioned to preach to all nations, which meant overcoming cultural and linguistic differences.
Biblical Example: The Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13)
On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit enabled the disciples to speak in different languages, as recorded in Acts 2:4: “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” This miraculous event highlights the importance of overcoming language barriers in evangelism.
Modern Parallel
In our globalized world, cultural sensitivity and linguistic understanding are vital for effective evangelism. Christians are called to learn and appreciate different cultures and languages to communicate the Gospel effectively.
Internal Disputes and Division
Internal conflicts within the church can hinder the mission of spreading the Gospel.
Biblical Example: The Dispute Over John Mark (Acts 15:36-41)
Paul and Barnabas had a sharp disagreement over John Mark, leading to their separation. Acts 15:39-40 states, “And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed.”
Modern Parallel
Churches today can also face internal disputes, whether over theological issues, leadership styles, or personal conflicts. It is essential for Christians to seek reconciliation and unity, remembering that their primary mission is to spread the Gospel.
Personal Struggles and Weaknesses
Personal challenges, including physical limitations, can impede the fulfillment of the Great Commission.
Biblical Example: Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
While not in Acts, this example is relevant. Paul speaks of a “thorn in the flesh” that was a source of weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9 records, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Modern Parallel
Modern believers might face physical ailments, mental health issues, or personal shortcomings. In these struggles, they are reminded to rely on God’s strength and grace.
Balancing Secular Responsibilities with Spiritual Mission
The early Christians had to balance their spiritual mission with daily life and responsibilities.
Biblical Example: Paul’s Tentmaking (Acts 18:1-4)
Paul worked as a tentmaker, as recorded in Acts 18:3: “And because he was of the same trade he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by trade.” This illustrates the balance of secular work and ministry.
Modern Parallel
Today’s Christians also face the challenge of balancing their careers, family responsibilities, and spiritual mission. Integrating faith into everyday life and work is crucial.
Advice Based on Scriptures
In facing these challenges, the following scriptural advice is pertinent:
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Stand Firm in Faith: Like Peter and John, we must stand firm in our faith amidst opposition, trusting in God’s sovereignty (Ephesians 6:13).
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Embrace Cultural Diversity: We should embrace and understand different cultures and languages, following the example of Pentecost (1 Corinthians 9:22).
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Seek Unity and Reconciliation: In conflicts, prioritize unity and the mission of the Gospel, following the example of Paul and Barnabas (Colossians 3:13).