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To: ST.LOUIE1; Aquamarine; Billie; dutchess; Mama_Bear; dansangel; deadhead; Diver Dave; GailA; ...


July 13, 2005

Good Question

Read:
Acts 16:16-34

"Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" So they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved." —Acts 16:30-31

Bible In One Year: Isaiah 19-21

cover "Finding the right questions is as crucial as finding the right answers," says devotional writer Henri Nouwen. Yet how easy it is to run ahead of God's Spirit as we talk to unbelievers about Christ, giving pre-packaged answers before we listen to their questions.

This tendency was highlighted several years ago when someone scrawled the words "Christ is the answer!" on the side of a building. A cynical passerby added these words: "What is the question?"

Paul and Silas, thrown into prison for the gospel's sake, provoked a deep spiritual question in the heart of their jailer. This question was raised not because they had preached a three-point sermon at him but because they prayed and sang hymns to God. When an earthquake opened the prison doors and broke their chains, the jailer was about to kill himself, fearing that he would be put to death if his prisoners escaped. But Paul and Silas stopped him by choosing to stay in prison for his sake. At this he cried out, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" (Acts 16:30).

Today, as then, the Spirit will create the right questions in people's hearts and make them ready for the right answer—Jesus Christ. —Joanie Yoder

Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love,
Tell of His power to forgive;
Others will trust Him if only you prove
True, every moment you live. —Wilson
© Renewal 1952, The Rodeheaver Co.

Christians worth their salt make others thirsty for the water of life.

FOR FURTHER STUDY
How Can I Share My Faith Without An Argument?
Knowing God Through Acts

141 posted on 07/13/2005 5:37:24 AM PDT by The Mayor ( Pray as if everything depends on God; work as if everything depends on you.)
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To: The Mayor

Good morning, your Honor!


143 posted on 07/13/2005 5:45:32 AM PDT by Gabz ((Chincoteague, VA) Surgeon General Warning: Sewing machines are known to cause broken ankles)
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