Saturday, September 29, 2012
Romans 10:16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, "Lord who has believed our report?"
THE MIXED RESULTS OF MISSION WORK
In the book of Acts it is recorded several times that the reaction to the Gospel was mixed at best. Some would believe. Others rejected the message. But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, Lord who has believed our report? (Romans 10:16).
Yet how does your Lord view the situation: "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!" (Romans 10:15).
Picture a messenger in ancient days who would run a long distance and bring news of victory. What beautiful feet to journey this way and bring that message. You bring a message of a great victory, one for the ages. The victory over death. Even if no one ever appreciates what you have to say, you have God's appreciation. Don't be discouraged by what mere people say or do. The imperative to bring the news of Savior is not dependent upon a receptive audience.
Jesus is for everybody. We don't have to draw lines or think up categories. God doesn't. We don't have to worry if the message will have the immediate success that we perceive either. It is a great honor to be included in the distribution of that message of sins forgiven, the news that has the power to change lives up to and through death. Don't be concerned whether or not people appreciate you. With such "beautiful feet" bringing a message of victory, let's roll!
