![]() Paul did not want this type of upheaval to be perceived as ‘normal’ for those following Christ in the respective cities. ![]() It was the enemies of the gospel who stirred up the crowds, drawing the responses from the civil leaders. It was for the sake of the gospel that he was in these cities and we also note that in both cases it was not Paul who instigated the disturbances. It is interesting to note that in Thessalonica and Ephesus Paul had caused riots and civil upheaval. For, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases (Proverbs 21:1). For this to happen, we must be prayerfully interceding for kings (political leaders) and those in authority that the Lord might grant us favor in their eyes. Paul urges us to aim to live peaceful, quiet lives that shine as beacons of godliness and holiness to an unbelieving world around us. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. ![]() I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. ![]()
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