X-tra Ordinary

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1God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, 12so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them. (Acts 19)

Paul traveled and preached. He discussed. He persuaded. He told the story of Jesus to the Gentiles, the Jews, and any who were interested in listening, participating. In his tireless efforts, and through the blessings of God, “the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power.”

Even the silversmiths and craftsmen who worked in the temples had something to say about Paul, and the impact he was making on the community, and their livelihood: “And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that man-made gods are no gods at all.”

Paul was having an impact on many people spiritually, economically, socially, mentally. People were being saved and sanctified, and the word of the LORD spread widely and grew in power. This meant they weren’t making idols, contributing to the temples of various gods, they were meeting with other believers, and they were placing their attention on the things of God, not the things of man made for various gods, or idols.

God worked extra-ordinary miracles through Paul. So much so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched Paul were taken to the sick and they were made well. This is miraculous power on the level of Jesus himself. Yet we know all Jesus did was in concert and continual communication with the Father.

God did not give these extra-ordinary gifts to just anyone. Paul was not only wholly devoted to God, spreading the message of Jesus Christ, but he was also full of the Holy Spirit, and power in order to do these things. Paul was holy as God is holy. From ancient times, God’s people were commanded: 'Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.’ This kind of power is granted to the pure, the holy, those whose lives are in continual communion (prayer) with the LORD. The old adage, purity + prayer = power, was definitely at work in Paul’s life. He was making a major impact.

LORD, may we, too, be people of purity, prayer and thus wield your power to make an impact on the world, doing the things you have ordained for us to do. May we know you and walk with you so closely that we make a major impact on the world around us. May we rock our world even as You have rocked ours. Amen.