Galatians 2:4
“But on the contrary, seeing that I had been entrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised, just as Peter had been to the circumcised.”
The Lord had a particular job for Paul, to bring the gospel to the greeks. This was unheard of until Jesus’ time. Christ hints at the message going to the them (John 12:20-26). When Peter had referred to the greeks as unclean and to be avoided in a vision, the Lord responded with “Don’t call impure what I have made pure” (Acts 10:15). This was a different time. This was the beginning of the church. The gospel was to go to everyone.
Paul was the apostle to the gentiles. Whenever he would enter a village, he would speak in the synagogue, but then go into the marketplace. His pattern was “to the jew first, then to the gentiles” (Acts 13:46).
The Lord has a purpose for us all. He wants to use us to further His kingdom. What a privilege. The God of the universe uses us to spread His love, mercy and good news. Of course, He could do this without us, but He chooses to use people. Romans 10:14 says, “how will they hear unless someone tells them”.
I love the old 70’s song which has as it’s chorus, “they will know we are christians by our love, by our love. Yes, they will know we are christians by our love.” That’s the manner that gets people’s attention. That’s the salt that savors. As we grow in Christ, He fills us with the fruit of the Spirit. It’s “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control”, (Galatians 5). That’s the nature of Christ flowing from us to the world.
We all have a sphere of influence. It’s unique to us that goes to our part of the world. The Spirit is like the fog rolling in. It goes to all parts of the land. He touches the hearts of all, but also uses people to share His love and speak His message.
The Lord also uses the skills He’s given us. They are tied to our profession and areas of hobby and volunteerism. As we grow in Christ and work, He gives us honor. Psalm 23 says, “He prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies”. Proverbs 18:16 says, “A man’s gift makes room for him And brings him before great men.”
Thank You Lord, for using us. Help us to yield to You. Thank You also that You give us honor.