This past Sunday, we had the privilege of David Nguyen to speak God’s word from Acts 18:1-17. Here we see God’s hand of provision throughout the narrative, orchestrating events and people to advance His gospel. As Paul travels to Corinth, God graciously provides for Paul materially, evangelistically, and judicially. God provided for Paul through ordinary work and a business partnership, so that he could remain in Corinth to proclaim the gospel without burdening an infant church community. We see that God intends for our work to be a means through which we might further advance the gospel. God also provided for Paul through the generosity of other believers so that he could exclusively devote himself to preaching the gospel. Even as the Jews shut their doors to Paul’s message, God provided evangelistically for Paul through new opportunities for fruitful evangelism. God reassured Paul with His own presence and that many among the city belong to Him. The mission of God’s salvation does not ultimately depend on man but on His faithfulness. Throughout Scripture, God has proven Himself to work His sovereign purposes through the judicial powers of kings and rulers. Let us then seize every opportunity, to take whatever we get, to continue trusting God’s gracious providence in advancing the Gospel for His glory.
