Paul wanted to take him along on the journey, so he circumcised him because of the Jews who lived in that area, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.
Acts 16:3, 7 NIV
http://bible.com/111/act.16.3-7.NIV
This chapter is quite interesting!
First the issue of Paul circumcisiing Timothy is both pragmatic and ironic. Pragmatic because Paul recognizes that the fact of Timothy being a Greek would be a stumbling block to Jews he is trying to speak to. It is ironic because he is bringing the message that Gentiles don't need to be circumcised to be saved. Second the issue of the Holy Spirit directing Paul first by forbidding him to go to Asia. We aren't told in what form the forbidding comes - whether with outward, physical opposition, such as them being stopped at a border and not allowed to pass by guards - or if the prohibition was only spiritual - that Paul simply felt it in his spirit. Either way, it is also interesting to then see his dream and conclude that God was calling him to go to Macedonia. This is an interesting example of how in an inexact and not completely certain way that Paul still pressed on in following God.
Father give me wisdom in following you arms help me to hear your voice and press on in following you!
No comments:
Post a Comment