Most of us remember the phrase “show and tell.”  An object was presented and a story accompanied a presentation.  As I’ve reflected on the message of Romans 11 it reminds of “show and tell.”  In the Old Testament era, God wanted to attract the attention of the world.  Israel was to be his “show and tell.”  On occasion they manifested his wisdom and beauty through their worship and obedience to His laws.  But for most of the time, they misrepresented God.  Eventually, God judges the nation and sends the people into exile.  The chosen people become the rejected people and spiritual life is found people who had no connection to Israel.  Now the tables are reversed. God’s “show and tell” is found in the church (which is predominantly made of Gentiles). God wants his people to demonstrate to the world the wisdom and beauty of a life filled with his Spirit.  Peter writes, “Live such good lives among the pagans that, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (I Pet. 2:12).  This is what Paul means when he talks about the Gentiles arousing jealousy among the Jews.  As Christians live their lives in the power of the Holy Spirit it will awaken a desire among some to long after the faith, hope and love they see in us – and be drawn to the Savior.  God often gives the “show” before the “tell.”

Pastor Mark




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