Sharing the Scriptures

In our Monday evening Bible Study group we are at present studying the Book of Acts. In it we see such wonderful examples of the power of God at work through the Holy Spirit. In chapter 1 it sets the scene for the first time that women could be included in a prayer meeting. Not just any-one but the first prayer meeting of the new movement which was notable for its inclusiveness, particularly of women (Acts 1:14). Jewish religious gatherings separated men and women and assigned them different roles. By contrast the apostles were joined by women who had followed Christ, including His mother. Together they formed a unified group of dedicated followers. God therefore intended them all to be witnesses.

At this present time in history 2000 years on, why do some Christians have a problem with women in the Ministry?

When we move on to chapter 2, we can on the day of Pentecost identify people from all nations coming together to experience the power of God. They responded to the Lord’s command - “Not to depart from Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father”. Acts 1:4. As they were all together in one place the Holy Spirit descended on them and filled them with the power of God and all spoke in different native tongues glorifying God most High. Acts 2:2-6.

We are privileged to be living in a cosmopolitan society where we too can identify with the greatness of hearing God’s praises and glorifying His name amongst all the different languages spoken by the many nationalities living here in Bahrain.

Prior to Pentecost Christianity in Jerusalem excluded rather than included. Following Pentecost, the new believers enjoyed an unusual sense of community, sharing and fellowship. But as Samaritans and Gentiles responded to the Gospel, the Jewish believers struggled to accept them. Eventually Antioch, modern day Turkey, eclipsed Jerusalem as the capital of New Testament Christianity. What happened at Pentecost began to reverse what happened at ancient Babel, where God confused the languages of the peoples and dispersed the nations abroad in order to stop their evil from multiplying. At Pentecost He brought Jews from many nations together in Jerusalem. Once again there was confusion, but this time it came from the fact that people heard ordinary men and women speaking in other tongues, being filled with the Holy Spirit Then an international multi-lingual church was born.

Dear God, let us hold on to that privilege that we,
people of every nation, can come together in worship
and praise of you. Being one-in-Christ
may we remain in unity with one another,
praying and magnifying your Holy Name.
Glory to God the Father, God the Son
and God the Holy Spirit - Three-in-one. Amen.

Rod and Avril welcome anyone who would like to join this group on Mondays, 7.30pm, at their residence in Sanad.