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Topic: power

Paul's next figure of speech he gives us is that we are the temple of the living God, and when he chose that title, he really meant it. It wasn't a figure of speech only. It wasn't just an illustration. It was the whole point of Jesus coming to earth in the first place – God with us. In us. It's the only way we can be what God has designed us to be.
God has chosen to put the greatest treasure of all, not inside of gun safes, but inside clay jars, or earthenware vessels; not inside of strength, but inside brokenness and weakness. It's intentional. There's purpose behind our weakness. It's so the treasure is seen all the more clearly.
Paul now moves into Ephesus, a place of magic and cultish worship, and goes to work like he usually does, proclaiming to the Jews that the New Covenant is now in effect. Also as usual, when darkness is confronted with the Light, it causes a stir.

20/20 Vision

January 21, 2024
Stephen is recognized publicly in the church as a man full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. He is put in a position of leadership, but becomes known more for the great wonders and signs he was doing among the people. He ends up on trial in front of the Sanhedrin, and this time they can't handle the truth, and he becomes the first Christian martyr.