But Paul shouted in a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” The jailer called for lights, and rushing in, he fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them outside and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They answered, “Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” They spoke the Word Of The Lord to him and to all who were in his house. At the same hour of the night he took them and washed their wounds; then he and his entire family were Baptized without delay. Acts 16:28-33
In your Hymnal is the ‘Spirit Song’ given to John Wimber in 1979 by the Holy Spirit. Spirit gives Paul and Silas a song to sing out in prison, singing even during their agony after the beatings and during the suffering they experience having their legs spread painfully with feet locked into stocks. They sing to Christ and the other prisoners experience hearts touched by our Lord.
It is during their singing that the Lord’s earthquake shakes their bindings loose, opens prison doors, and all are freed from prison. The Spirit alerts Paul that the jailer is about to take his own life because when his prisoners escape he faces certain death from his superiors. Spirit swiftly moves the jailer to yearn for Christ’s help. Paul commands, “Do yourself no harm.” Then the jailer implores, “What must I do to be saved?”
“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ,” is their quick response, powerfully offered. The Holy Spirit inwardly gives the jailer an inward review of his sins and failings (Rev. John Wesley). With patience Paul and Silas give him the Good News of Christ’s Resurrection. The jailer, like us, intently listens and acknowledges Christ is alive within him, filling us with His Peace and Joyful salvation.
The jailer receives New Birth (John 3) and all of his household are Baptized. Christ’s compassion leads them to minister to Paul and Silas’ wounds and hurts. Together we say, “Praise to our Lord” for this Scriptural example of His Power. We gratefully receive Christ’s Promise here that He will turn our mourning into joy as we are attentive to the Holy Spirit’s desire that every knee will bow and every tongue confess Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior.
Praise Christ our Savior! He IS the Way, our Truth, and our Life.
Wow!, what a perfect lesson. The Holy Spirit guides us through threatening encounters and our Peaceful example transforms others as they witness Love and Kindness overcome hate and anger. Thank you Reverend Walker
I appreciate your comments Mr. Strohm, and see that Spirit inspires you to mention Peaceful example. Amen. Jesus Promises us that He will never leave us and our Peace from Him may spark the Spirit’s Peace in others, and then we speak up for Christ- His salvation, our Hope in Him, and discipleship in Him. Thank you again!