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August 29, 2022
Today’s reading: Acts 14:11-13
Worshiped as gods
We read in Acts 14:11-13:
11 Now when the people saw what Paul had done, they raised their voices, saying in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” 12 And Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. 13 Then the priest of Zeus, whose temple was in front of their city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, intending to sacrifice with the multitudes.
A lot of rulers, both in the past and present, love to be called or referred to as gods. Pharaohs, kings, and emperors regard themselves as gods and should be treated as gods.
When Paul and Barnabas were considered gods, they didn’t think twice and told them the truth:
“Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men with the same nature as you, and preach to you that you should turn from these useless things to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them, 16 who in bygone generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways. Acts 14:15-16
It’s quite surprising how some preachers today call themselves gods directly or indirectly. What’s more surprising is that a lot of people are also deceived and follow their teachings.
Yet, we see here how even Paul and Barnabas, God’s servants, denounced the fact that they are called gods.
Paul and Barnabas could have just easily said, “The people are deceived. We can’t do anything about it. Let them continue in their deception.” Or, they have justified in their minds that this was a perfect way for them to stay safe in a dangerous city, and perhaps, this can be used to create more following.
No, Paul and Barnabas made it a point that they were not gods. Instead of getting all the praise and approval of men, they pointed people to God who deserved our worship.
This should teach us a lesson: because of the good works we do, people may praise us. However, we must and should always direct them to God and give Him all the glory.
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