Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

October 18: Job 3-4; Acts 8-9

Scripture: Acts (NIV) 8:14 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them.
Acts (NIV) 8:25 When they had testified and proclaimed the word of the Lord, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel in many Samaritan villages.

Observation: The Jews had a history of looking at the Samaritans as second-class people. They would travel out of their way to make sure they did not set foot in Samaria. But God did not see them this way! In John 4 we read that Jesus was compelled to go through Samaria where he met the woman at the well and stayed two days. In the verses above I believe we see a change in the thinking of the believers towards the Samaritans. The Jewish apostles in Jerusalem sent Peter and John to check out what God was doing in Samaria. Then on their return to Jerusalem, they stopped in many of the villages of Samaria to tell them about Jesus!

Application: God is interested in removing prejudice from my life. I must learn to see every one as He sees them. The death of Jesus on the cross can pay for their sins as it has paid for mine.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you loved the world so much that you sent Jesus. The early church was willing to send Peter and John. Today may that same love send me to someone who needs you. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!