Debate For 90 Days

From today’s reading…

And when Paul laid his hands on them,

the Holy Spirit came upon them,

and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.”

You see this story repeated throughout the Bible, the laying on of hands to confer power, blessings, and authority from a shepherd to his flock.

Today, we see Paul blessing 12 disciples in Ephesus. 

And like a good shepherd, he remains with his flock until he is sure they are cared for and in a good position before he moves on.

He entered the synagogue, and for three months debated boldly

with persuasive arguments about the Kingdom of God.”

Imagine the confidence it takes to debate an entire assembly of people even one time, let alone for 90 days straight.

Paul was either crazy, a great liar, or inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Considering he wrote at least 13 (maybe 14) of the 27 books of the New Testament—and over half of the Letters of the New Testament—my money is on Paul being crazy…for the Lord and filled with the Holy Spirit.

And being crazy like that is the only way to…

Stay the course. Keep the faith. Endure.