Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
October 22, 2023: SOAP #5071: Job 11-12; Acts 15-16

SCRIPTURE:  Acts (NIV) 15:7 After much discussion, Peter got up and addressed them: “Brothers, you know that some time ago God made a choice among you that the Gentiles might hear from my lips the message of the gospel and believe. 8 God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. 9 He made no distinction between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith.

OBSERVATION:  The early church was going through a tough transition.  Gentiles were being saved and becoming a part of the church.  They were wrestling with the question as to whether or not the Gentiles would have to become Jewish believers and keep the Law of Moses.  Here Peter reminded them that God had already decided the issue.  God had given them the Gentile believers the Holy Spirit just as he had given to the Jewish believers on the day of Pentecost.  God had not required them to become Jewish.

APPLICATION:  There have been times when I struggled with what was acceptable or unacceptable.  In searching the scriptures and prayer, I have usually discovered that God had already decided the issue.  I have found that the more I get to know Him, the better I am able to discern what is acceptable and what is unacceptable.  The more I learn to listen to the Holy Spirit, the better I am able to hear the warning buzzers that sound in my heart and mind.  I am like a child and the Holy Spirit is my divine parent. 

PRAYER:  Lord, I want to become so close to you, so familiar with your character, and so in touch with your Spirit that being able to understand what is acceptable and unacceptable to you will be clear in my thinking.   Amen

Pastor Leon
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Today in the mail came a check to cover the cost of a new phone for Pastor Andrew!!!  It is enough to get a top-rated phone in Sierra Leone!   I will deposit it Monday morning and send it.  He should be able to participate in the conference via smart phone!    There was is much rejoicing in my heart and in the Borbor home!   …and in heaven!   Thanks to everyone for praying.  Keep praying for Pastor Andrew’s complete recovery.