February 15, 2017: SOAP #2631:  Leviticus 25; Psalm 25-26; Acts 22

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 22:25 As they stretched him out to flog him, Paul said to the centurion standing there, “Is it legal for you to flog a Roman citizen who hasn’t even been found guilty?”  26 When the centurion heard this, he went to the commander and reported it. “What are you going to do?” he asked. “This man is a Roman citizen.” 27 The commander went to Paul and asked, “Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?” “Yes, I am,” he answered…. 29 Those who were about to question him withdrew immediately. The commander himself was alarmed when he realized that he had put Paul, a Roman citizen, in chains.

Observation:   The Roman law protected its citizens.  Although the Romans soldiers could have flogged someone else, they could not flog Paul before being found guilty because he had been born a Roman citizen.    There is confusion in the United States of America because some want to use our laws to protect non-citizens while not protecting citizens.   Even aliens who have committed criminal acts are being protected.  Citizens should be both governed and protected by their nation’s laws.

Application:   Every human on earth comes under the laws of the Creator.  Some people want to claim the protection and blessings of Christ’s kingdom but do not want to be governed by Kingdom laws.  Citizenship in Christ’s Kingdom can only be obtained by being born again.

Prayer:  Jesus, I am sorry for my sins.  With the forgiveness you purchased on the cross of Calvary, please forgive me.  Be my Lord and govern my life with your holiness and love.  Let me walk in your blessings.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!