God's Grand Purpose

Scripture – Acts 5:33-39: ³³When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. ³⁴But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. ³⁵Then he addressed them: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. ³⁶Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. ³⁷After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. ³⁸Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. ³⁹But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”

Reflection: – We don’t know much about Gamaliel – only that he was “honored by all the people,” and that he was a wise man. He offers very simple advice here.

Over the years I’ve seen all kinds of fads come and go – in the culture and in the church. The continuing existence and ministry of the church today – in its many different manifestations – is clear testimony to the power and intention of God. If this was just “of human origin,” the church would have died out centuries ago.

By the grace of God, we are part of His divine purpose for the salvation of all creation. As I stay faithful to Christ, I have an active role in that grand purpose. It was forty-four years ago today that I consciously accepted Christ into my life as Savior and began trusting Him as Lord. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made. In all the ups and downs of my journey, He has remained faithful. So will I.

When did you become a follower of Christ? How has that decision affected your life? How have you experienced His faithfulness?