Welcoming EVERYONE - Phillip and the Ethiopian Eunuch

 One of the earliest Christians was a eunuch in service to the queen of Ethiopia. As a eunuch, this servant was discouraged from many religious practices, but was interested in spiritual things. Phillip shared the gospel and immediately welcomed his new brother-in-faith to the church. This was signified with an impromptu baptism. Are you like Phillip, welcoming everyone into the family of God? Acts 8

Lessons in inequity

The first issue the early Church had to address was inequity in care for widows and orphans (Acts 6). The Greek population of the Church was receiving less care than the Jewish population. Rather than reduce care or attempt to explain away the inequities, the Church sought wisdom from God. God provided the disciples with a method that not only met their need, but actually spread the gospel throughout the world.

A dinner announcement

 

While dining with Jesus, Zacchaeus declared that he would give half of his wealth to the poor, and that he would repay anyone he had cheated in business with interest (Luke 19). Zacchaeus's self-sacrifice did not save him, but it did show just how serious he was about following Jesus. How serious are you when it comes to your faith?

Can you see me yet?

Jesus' story of the rich man and the beggar, Lazarus, is disturbing for a number of reasons (Lk 16). In the story, the rich man never sees the beggar, Lazarus, as a real person. Even in Hell the rich man tries to have Lazarus perform the tasks of a messenger, rather than respond to the justice that was now playing out. Do you see others, or do you see the versions of others that fit your own purposes?

Who saw the resurrection first?

The first to learn of our Lord's resurrection were not the disciples or the religious leaders. It was the faithful women who were willing to tend the 3 day dead body of Jesus (Luke 24:1-12). While the greatest miracle ever performed was unfolding, Jesus included those of the lowest social order and gave them a significant place in the eternal story. How are you including others in the greatest story?

The problem with the cheering section

 

While entering Jerusalem, a crowd of excited followers cheered Jesus. The religious leaders were terrified that the occupying Roman army would overhear the crowd calling Jesus "king" and then kill everyone in the assembly (Lk 19). Jesus asserted that the crowd had to proclaim this, even though their proclamation would certainly result in Jesus' death. What stops you from praising Jesus with your words and life?

Who would you exclude?

Jesus was famous for accepting the least desirable people into his teaching sessions. This often irritated the religious scholars and those who sought to live pious lives (Luke 15). Jesus made it clear that God loves everyone, especially those who are disenfranchised. In Luke 15, Jesus managed to teach both groups at one time, showing that he cares for all.  Who you would exclude from attending church or Bible study?