Until Pentecost

"But I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me." I Corinthians 16:8-9 (NIV)

This Sunday millions of Christians will gather to celebrate the wind and fire of Pentecost. In preparing myself for this observance I was reminded of Paul's little note to his Corinthian friends. He said that he was going to celebrate the festival but until that time he would stay put in Ephesus. He gave a two part reason.

A great door for effective work has opened to me -
Like Paul a door of opportunity is open for all missional Christians. We are called to go, our own way, to new people. God is already at work in His world and invites us to join him in it. Until and after Pentecost let's walk through the open doors.

Many oppose me -
Apparently open doors let in opposition and difficulties as well as opportunity. The "American Gospel" promises limitless opportunity without opposition. Paul lived with a different perspective and so must all missional Christians. Until and after Pentecost let's face opposition for the glory of God and the good of the world.

Pray for our mission team as we travel to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. We will be working with the Brodie Road Baptist Church and Graceland Baptist Church.