GOD'S FAVOUR


"Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts… enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved" (Acts 2:46-47)

Read: Acts 2:46–47

Luke describes the early believers as looking beyond themselves to a world that didn’t believe in Jesus. Because of their outward focus, the early church won the favour of the people in Jerusalem by being like Jesus and proclaiming the gospel (the good news of the Kingdom). They became a doorway to the Gospel, adding to their numbers.

Early believers wanted to bring glory to God and, therefore, they got favour. So did Jesus. Luke records in his gospel that “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man” (Luke 2:52). As Jesus matured, his godliness was noticed favourably. This doesn’t necessarily mean he was popular, but that he was respected.

The world and society see godliness as “judgmental.” However, some see it as “caring, kind and honest.” Jesus teaches us that we must love God and our neighbours, as ourselves. Being like Jesus gets noticed and opens the door to the Gospel, but it does not make us always popular people.

ON THE COUCH WITH GOD TODAY

Consider how others see your behaviour at home, work, on social media and in public. Ask God to show you one area where you need to improve, and then ask for his help. I would welcome the opportunity to give you some support and encouragement as we look for ways to do this. 


Location: Londres, Reino Unido

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