VACANT SEATS

Acts 13:46 Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, “It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles.

Heading into many football games, there is often a clear favourite to win. Whether on the basis of history, current form, statistics, home advantage, or motivation among others. However, it does not mean that a forfeit is not possible. Should the expected winner choose not to play, the win is awarded to the opposing team.

Paul’s words to the Jews was a sad conclusion to what could have been a glorious story. It was a rendition of the scenario above, albeit in the version of spiritual inheritances.

In plain terms, Paul tells them “You were the intended beneficiaries because that was the initial plan. However, since you have refused and intentionally positioned yourself and turned your hearts away from capturing the realities of the Gospel, we have now turned to others. They will become those who walk in what you should have walked in.

God does not waste time – He may hover around certain men, but his programme cannot be placed on perpetual hold because of their responses. You are not the one and only, because God has many men and it is a privilege to be in His service.

If you forfeit your place, your seat will not remain vacant for long, another will be drafted in.

#sly