Acts 17:6. “And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city crying, ‘These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also.’”
AN UPSIDE-DOWN WORLD. It started small with a band of men met together who had seen their risen Lord. And with voices brave, and a vision clear – they went out by the Spirit inspired. It moved apace as the grace of God and the impelling need of all men; Pressed deep in their souls the fact of an urgent work that must be done by them.
From those men it spread as the Spirit of God moved others to join in the ranks. As God blessed His Word and souls were saved, and families and cities gave thanks; For God had begun a work in the hearts of men and women all around; With the result that wherever the Gospel was preached; the world there turned upside down.
Across the mid-east and on to Africa’s shore and into parts of Europe they went. With truth in their hands and a song in their heart, they traveled to where they were sent. The Spirit of God guided their lives and their words; their mission was not theirs alone. In some places many, and in other places none, accepted Christ and His work that atones.
As years and as centuries have unfolded their course, much has arisen to turn them aside. But to those who have tasted and received what they heard, the Spirit in them does abide. To each generation the challenge is given, “Go into the world and the Gospel preach;” Many who hear it will think it is an upside-down world, when the barriers of the enemy are breached.
The mouth of the blasphemer is cleaned up by God’s grace; he speaks with respect the first time. The drunkard has tasted of the good things of God; he no longer turns back to his wine. The home of the hard man has become a safe place, and his heart is softened by love. His children now look at a father on earth who has been changed by the Father above.
In villages where folks live from the fish, the word “saved” was to them a new sound. It is not just in church where we’re supposed to be good, but new life is seen all around. On the plains of the nation where people live off the land, the fruit of the Gospel is seen. There is more than just money that occupies them, they live life for a Savior that’s risen.
The cities are filled with activity and rush; as people go and come to their work. But among all of these, are some who take time for the Savior of sinners to speak. It’s an upside-down world for those who give heed, and face up to the need of their soul. Those who receive the word of grace, tell others they know and the Gospel a step further will go.
I am privileged to be part of such a great work that God in the world is doing. To be able to tell others and hear of souls that are saved, is part of what keeps us going. To hear names of those we have prayed for and know, that God those people have saved; Makes this upside-down world I live in that’s different, the best possible world to have.
“I am grateful Father, that Thou hast given me the privilege to be put in trust with the Gospel. Give me the inner strength to be faithful to such a trust. Amen.”