“From morning until evening he explained the matter to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the law and from the prophets. Some were convinced by what he had said, while others refused to believe. So they disagreed with each other; and as they were leaving, Paul made one further statement: ‘The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your ancestors through the prophet Isaiah, “Go to this people and say, You will indeed listen, but never understand, and you will indeed look, but never perceive. For this people’s heart has grown dull, and their ears are hard of hearing, and they have shut their eyes; so that they might not look with their eyes, and listen with their ears, and understand with their heart and turn – and I would heal them.” Let it be known to you then that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.’ He lived there two whole years at his own expense and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance. And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, arguing vigorously among themselves. Acts 28:23b-29
The truth of Jesus Christ and God’s promised salvation are forever true regardless of how the creation responds. We can, proclaim the kingdom of God and teach about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness for nothing and no one can stop the proclamation of the Word of God. But, closed ears, dull hearts and shut eyes do prevent understanding and acceptance. Knowing the true maintenance status of my/your/our spiritual ears, hearts and eyes is critical. For if our spirit isn’t right, we will never be able to sense God’s grace and offer of salvation; unable to recognize the offer we will not respond to it. Especially it we only listen occasionally. Paul testified from morning until evening and still some refused to believe. Will it be any different for those who listen for only an hour a week? If only we would listen and hear, then TURN to God, He would heal. Deaf ears, broken hearts and blind eyes would be healed, restored and redeemed. God’s Prevenient Grace ensures the Word can be proclaimed boldly without hindrance. The questions for each of us are, 1) have you received this promised salvation, 2) if yes, do you boldly proclaim the love of God to others?, if no, 3) what prevents you from receiving – deaf ears, broken heart, blind eyes?, and regardless how you answered 1) above, 4) how often, for how long, and how intently do you make yourself available to the Word of God? Maybe there is reason we refuse God and argue with each other….. The Good News is that the truth of Jesus Christ and God’s promised salvation are forever true regardless of how the creation responds.