Shake Off the Dust

Job 13-14; Acts 17-18 

“…They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabus and expelled them from their region. So they shook the dust from their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit…when the Jews opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, ‘Your blood be on your own heads! I am clear of my responsibility. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.’”

Acts 13:50; 18:6

Paul expected opposition and even persecution for the Gospel. He recognized that his battle wasn’t against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers. One day those powers would be judged by the Lord; until then, God’s power and grace would be enough. However, when persecution became physical, Paul withdrew from an area where he had been speaking, and shook out his clothes in protest. This shaking off of the dust symbolized the future shaking of these persecutors at the judgment of the Lord. In our lifetime, not all wrongs on earth will be righted. Those who live on mission with Jesus recognize that ultimate justice on earth is not possible. We endure patiently in expectation that even those who oppose the Gospel will experience God’s kindness and repent. That was Paul’s personal story, and it’s ours as well.

“Lord Jesus, strengthen me to endure opposition to the Gospel, for your glory.”