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

October 22: Job 11-12; Acts 15-16

Scripture: Acts (NIV) 16:13 On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there.
14 One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.

Observation: The city of Philippi did not have a church building where Paul and Silas could go to meet other believers. Meeting out in the open gave opportunity for other people in the area to observe what was happening. The church was visible to the public.

Application: While church buildings are a blessing and allow for many different avenues of ministry, we sometimes forget that the church’s best ministry usually happens outside the building. It is a family praying over their meal in a restaurant. It is praying in the yard with a neighbor who has recently experienced a death in their family. It is what is overheard as two believers stop to chat in the market place. It is how the believer handles the difficult boss at work.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us remember that being a part of your church is a 24 hour, 7 days a week walk with you. Bless us when we gather with other believers in a building or out in the city. Use us as we walk among those who do not know you. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!