Unsung Heroes

Unsung Heroes; nv 8/12/07 am

Acts 10:7, When the angel who spoke to him had gone, Cornelius called two of his servants and a devout soldier who was one of his attendants.

Note: if these three un-named people of the bible had not accomplished this seemingly small task things would have turned out quite differently. Peter, a highly respected leader of the Jewish Christians, needed to be on board if Gentile acceptance would be experienced among these Jewish Christians. Notice the result…

Acts 11:17-18, So if God gave them the same gift as he gave us, who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could oppose God?” When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, “So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life.”

Acts 9:23-25, After many days had gone by, the Jews conspired to kill him, but Saul learned of their plan. Day and night they kept close watch on the city gates in order to kill him. But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.

Note: if these un-named disciples (followers of Saul/Paul) had not accomplished this seemingly small task things could have turned out quite differently.

In little more than 10 years Paul established the Church in four provinces of the Empire, Galatia, Macedonia, Achaia and Asia. Before A. D. 47 there were no churches in these provinces; in A.D. 57 Paul could speak as if his work there was done. Paul wrote 13 letters of the New Testament. But, Paul didn’t do this alone. Yes, he had God’s help, but much of that help came through these unsung heroes who supported, protected, prayed for, feed, and traveled with Paul.

For example: Romans 16

Romans 16:1-2, I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been a great help to many people, including me.

Romans 16:3, Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus.

Romans 16:7, Greet Andronicus and Junias, my relatives who have been in prison with me.

Romans 16:13, Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me, too.

Romans 16:22-23, I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord. Gaius, whose hospitality I and the whole church here enjoy, sends you his greetings.

We have the luxury of hindsight, and the wisdom of this hindsight says no matter how big, small, significant, insignificant, we consider a task complete with our sights set on the glory of God.

Stakes are high

Never underestimate the power of the small – God has always specialized in that (Mustard Seed)

Don’t take self for granted

Don’t take the service of others for granted

Phil 1 partners…for the glory of God.