Today we see Paul traveling to Ephesus with Priscilla and Aquila. They were tent makers. He left them there to encourage and strengthen the Ephesians, and went to different churches throughout the region strengthening the disciples. This was not to establish new work, but to strengthen the churches. God used Paul and others for this. He raised up Apollos and equipped Him for this and gave him the ability to represent Him publicly. His knowledge of the scriptures was one way in which God was able to use him tremendously to strengthen, teach and encourage. 18:28For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ. (NIV)
We see some believers in Ephesus not knowing there is a Holy Spirit. They were only familiar with John's baptism of repentance. We see them being baptized again in the name of Jesus and they received the Holy Spirit. They showed signs of the power of God in their lives in tongues and prophecy. Then we see God doing extraordinary miracles through Paul. Paul had an assignment but I believe the difference was Paul's understanding of the power of God in His life. We all have access to the same Lord with the same strength, wisdom and power. I believe the more we access the father, the more access He has to us. We cannot leave unchanged when we spend time in the word and with the author of the word. The more we do, the more the power of God will be evident in our life. 2ND Thessalonians tells us we will develop love for the truth. If we expect to make a difference in the assignment we have, we must display evidence of the power of God in our life that will cause others to desire His truth in a way that is life changing. This will stop an unbelieving world in their tracks. They have no power over the power of God in your life.
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