Gloriographs by Rick Reynolds

²¹ After they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, ²² strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” ²³ When they had appointed elders for them in every church, having prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed. Acts 14:21-23

We’d say Paul is one brave dude, to return to where he was stoned and where they seem contested on all sides. But he didn’t see it that way. He hadn’t fully established the churches there—chosen elders to lead, for example—and was concerned that the churches had not taken root and begun to grow. I can imagine the conversion he had with Barnabas when he shared his desire to retrace their steps. “Paul you must be crazy! Only by God’s grace are you alive. They’ll certainly finish the job in Lystra!” In this likely animated exchange, Paul tried out his new line, “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” We—I would rather not hear this brutal reality, but it’s a common thread in Jesus’ teaching and in Paul and Peter’s words.

• “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
• “So that no one would be disturbed by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we have been destined for this.” 1 Thessalonians 3:3
• For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps.” 1 Peter 2:21

Having been abroad on two short-term missions trips to communist Cuba, we were somewhat sheltered from the sinister operations of the state. We were naive, but the locals would say “don’t photograph him,” or “we’re not going in there,” or “they’re observing us,” or “that area is not open.” Somehow you’d think that Paul would have talked to the man in the blue uniform, and would have marched in there. After all, he was on a missionary trip!

But let’s bring this all home. I live in relative freedom, for now, and nothing’s stopping me from freely talking to a whole host of people. The worst that will happen perhaps is a verbal joust, but the whole city will not descend upon me. The missionary mindset is one of Teflon and tenacity.

It’s about time to take some baby steps and venture into the synagogues of life and share a word.