Paul and Barnabas face both support and fierce opposition while preaching the gospel, showcasing faith and resilience. The discussion highlights the importance of pursuing spiritual goals with the discipline of an athlete. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on moral integrity and the fickleness of human admiration experienced by the apostles. Fr. Mike emphasizes finding strength in community during tribulations and striving toward the eternal rewards of a life devoted to God.
Fr. Mike Schmitz discusses the fickle nature of humanity and the importance of not seeking the praise of men during spiritual journeys.
He emphasizes the necessity of perseverance in the Christian faith, encouraging believers to find strength in community amidst tribulations.
Deep dives
The Journey and Tribulations of Paul and Barnabas
Paul and Barnabas journey through various cities, including Iconium and Lystra, preaching the Gospel amidst significant challenges. In Lystra, Paul heals a man who has been crippled since birth, leading the crowd to mistakenly identify them as Greek gods, Zeus and Hermes. However, their early acclaim turns to hostility when some Jews persuade the crowd to stone Paul, demonstrating the fickle nature of public opinion and the dangers faced by early Christians. Throughout these events, Paul emphasizes the inevitability of suffering in the Christian journey, stating that entering the kingdom of God requires enduring tribulation.
The Commonality of Temptation
During the readings, Paul underscores the universality of temptation and suffering, asserting that no temptation is unique to an individual and that such experiences are part of the human condition. He reassures believers that God is faithful and provides an escape from such temptations, emphasizing His support in times of trial. This perspective fosters a sense of shared struggle and resilience among the faithful, encouraging fortitude in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder that suffering is a common aspect of life, and believers can draw strength from their faith and communal bonds.
The Rights and Responsibilities of Apostleship
In addressing the rights of an apostle, Paul illustrates his choice to forgo financial support while spreading the Gospel, highlighting his commitment to this mission. He argues that while he could demand compensation for his work as an apostle, he prioritized the spiritual well-being of the community over his material rights. This illustrates the dual nature of apostleship, where rights come with the greater obligation to serve and sacrifice for others' welfare. Furthermore, Paul emphasizes the need for self-discipline and dedication in the pursuit of faith, urging believers to strive for spiritual excellence comparable to athletes training for competition.
As we continue to follow the missions of Paul and Barnabas, Fr. Mike highlights the fickle nature of humanity and the futility of striving for the praise of men. He also encourages us to remain courageous in the tribulations we face, finding strength in other believers, and running toward the eternal and imperishable goal of salvation. Today’s readings are Acts 14, 1 Corinthians 9-10, and Proverbs 28:7-9.
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Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.