Read the Bible in a Year This evening read Acts 24 Our Relationship with Politicians Sometimes Christians can be so antagonistic toward the government, and politicians in particular, that it is amazing those Christians cannot figure out why some politicians are antagonistic in return. When you speak of the government, listen to yourself and see whether you treat it as a God-ordained function. When Paul appeared before a politician, he was respectful, as all the early Christians appeared to have been. Therefore, it is not surprising that the Roman government eventually became friendly to Christianity. After Paul made his defense before Felix, Luke wrote, 22 But when Felix heard these things, having more accurate knowledge of the Way, he adjourned the proceedings and said, "When Lysias the commander comes down, I will make a decision on your case" (Act. 24:22). The record goes on to show that Felix did not do enough to help Paul, but this Roman official did not turn him over to the Jews to stone him either. This was based on Felix's knowledge of the Way. Knowing of the Way, he was not totally opposed to it. We will likewise find a friend before our various governments when we act friendly toward them. Don Ruhl Church of Christ 220 NE Savage Street Grants Pass, Oregon 97526-1310 541-476-3100 http://www.plymouth-church.com/dons_corner2.html http://associate.com/groups/emaildevotionals/