Is My Spirit Provoked?

Luke tells us Paul's "spirit was provoked within him" (Acts 17:16b)

The apostle Paul conducted three missionary journeys, all of which are recorded in the Book of Acts. During his second journey, following visits to Thessalonica and Berea, we find Paul in the city of Athens waiting for Silas and Timothy to join him.

Athen's glory would have been in its past, when it was known as a philosophical center. Acts chapter 17 indicates it is still a place where people love to discuss the latest thoughts and teachings. While waiting, we find Paul walking through this city and verse six says Paul's "spirit was provoked within him" (ESV). The NIV says he was "greatly distressed" and the NLT version says Paul was "deeply troubled".

What would cause Paul to be so upset?

The verse continues with "...he saw the city was full of idols".

It would have been common at that time to see statues of men and gods lining the streets.

As he walks, Paul can't help but notice the display of idols all around him. And, I love how he allowed it to impact him. His spirit was provoked.

This is critical because provocation often leads to action and that is exactly what we find happening in this chapter.

Paul allows his concern to cause him to begin witnessing by reasoning with the Jews in the synagogue and even conversing with local philosophers he meets. He clearly preaches Jesus and the resurrection.

Making the Most of a Unique Opportunity

Eventually, Paul finds himself at the Areopagus - a place of importance with the council of Athens in attendance.

Numerous Biblical scholars have commented on Paul's preaching here, and though I'm no scholar, I'd like to share what the Holy Spirit is speaking to me in this passage.

Because his spirit has been provoked into action, Paul is ready to connect with those in attendance when this incredible opportunity arises.

He draws their attention by noting they have an altar set-up for the "unknown god". Paul proceeds to explain Who this is. He clearly shares the gospel of Jesus. Declaring Jesus as THE way will fly in the face of these lovers of many gods.

In the end, some make fun of him and others say they want to hear more but my favorite part is found in verse 34 where Luke tells us "But some men joined him and believed".

Yes!

God once again used the "foolishness of preaching" (1 Corinthian 1:21) to move mens hearts to salvation.

Personal Experience

I experienced a similar sense in my spirit when I was in Bangkok where the streets are lined with shops selling idols - small, large, even gate-sized! As our taxi drove us through the city, and later while walking along the streets, my heart was provoked within me because I knew the people of this city were completely bound by the hold idol-worship had on them.

Unfortunately, I don't speak Thai, nor was I given an opportunity to preach. But the provocation in my heart caused me to want to do something! There was one thing I could do - I could pray!

I wish I had been able to actually speak to those around me but here is one of the things I love about praying for the lost. I have come to realize there are throngs of people in this world who do not know a single Christian and no one is praying for them.

And, I believe God answers prayer - especially prayer for the lost.

When we look up and see someone bound by Satan, we have an opportunity to stand in the gap for that person's salvation through prayer. We can pray and God can send someone else who is able to communicate where we fall short.

Jesus, Our Example

Jesus was often moved to action because His heart was first moved by compassion.

His heart was distressed by the things he saw and it caused Him to respond.

In Mark 1:40-41 (NIV), we find a leper begging Jesus to heal him. Jesus response? "Jesus was indignant. He reached out his hand and touched the man. 'I am willing,' he said. 'Be clean!'."

Jesus was indignant - distressed - filled with compassion.

May the things that move Jesus' heart to be indignant on behalf of mankind begin to move my heart, also.

Allowing My Heart to Be Provoked

I'm ashamed to say that all too often, in my busyness, I walk right past people and am not moved in the least.

Why?

Because all too often I don't really see them.

Jesus saw people every day.

Really saw them.

Saw their condition.

Saw their pain.

Saw their sin.

And allowed His heart to be moved to action.

Paul saw the Athenians that day.

And was provoked to action.

I want to be more like Jesus!

Maybe you are feeling the same way today.

Recently, the Lord is speaking to me to look up and really see the people around me.

In driving to and from work, I am noticing how many homeless people are on the streets - and I am taking more time to really look at them and allow their condition to distress me.

I see so many lost and confused young people walking through the local mall. Many are caught up in overtly obvious sinful behaviors and it is making a mark on my heart.

You may be experiencing something similar.

I don't know exactly where all this is going but here are a few things I'm committed to learning that I hope might be helpful to you, also.

I can let my eyes be opened to those around me.

I can allow my heart to be provoked on their behalf.

I can pray.

I can witness.

Like Paul, I can walk through the doors of opportunity when they arise.

Some may laugh.

Others may want to hear more.

And, some may join me and follow Jesus.

Holy Spirit, here I am.

I make myself available to You today.

Please open my eyes.

May I be moved with compassion that provokes me to action.

Make me a witness for You.

Many blessings,

Kathy Ann