Women of High-Standing

We come to Acts 13:44-52 where we meet a different group of women mentioned in this study. Before we get to talking about the women, we need to take some time to discuss the context in which these women are mentioned.  We find that Paul is preaching in the synagogue in Antioch of Pisidia (13:14-16) and he is preaching the message of forgiveness through Christ. This message is significant because salvation is not through the external keeping of laws, but rather through faith in Jesus Christ.  God's word was spreading to the Gentiles because the Jews rejected it.  These Gentiles rejoiced and many believed!  As we study in the next few days we are going to see that the Jews are filled with jealousy over the fact that the Gospel is offered to the Gentiles. Unfortunately the Jews reacted similarly to Jonah (4:1-3) as they were displeased with God's plan.  How about you?  If you've accepted the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, are you spreading the Good News?  Do you find yourself thinking that the Gospel doesn't deserve to be given to certain people (unfriendly neighbors, criminals, etc...)?  What a challenge today to consider how we might share the Gospel with those who need it!