EX-SPURTS

READING: ACTS 27:9-12

Verse 11: “Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the elmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul.”

We live in a time when the world’s experts and their expert advice are highly valued. People seek expertise to do many things they formerly did themselves. It is true that many aspects of our lives have become so complicated and technical that actually only an expert knows what to do. We depend on experts using books, consultations, service calls and many times the internet. In today’s verse, Paul’s advice which had been prompted by the Holy Spirit, was ignored. That was because of contradictory conclusions reached by a couple of people who were the experts on the scene at that time. The result was that a serious problem occurred, which could have been avoided by the use of the insight given to Paul by the Lord. These days help from the experts of the world is sometimes good and on occasions even necessary. Further, it may be the means that God at times uses for our provision . However, when there is divine direction or instruction for our lives, the wisdom of the world is a foolish alternative. At those times, an expert becomes an ex-spurt, merely a former spurt. For the true deep wisdom that provides light and life, we need to hear from our Lord who is faithful to respond. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. What expert would you be inclined to trust the most?

2. In what way are you an expert?