Nougat 10

As we close the reflection on Lydia of Thyatira and Philippi, we must look at her earnestness. Please consider Today’s Holy Nougat

‭Acts 16:15 NIV‬

[15] When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.

Lydia’s Earnestness

No doubt about it, Lydia was a successful businesswoman. She had a serious gift of persuasion. Led by God’s Spirit, she was baptised by Paul’s team, and her household with her. As a businesswoman, it might have been several persons. We don’t know her marital status, there might have been other family members – remember Rahab. It would be understandable that Lydia invited Paul over.

Socially inappropriate, if she were unmarried, but understandable. But Paul’s entire entourage? They might have wondered if it was feasible … but she persuaded them. It suggests that the process of agreement may have taken some time. You see siblings, the Greek word used there – ‘parabiazomai’ – suggests that they were compelled contrary to their natural inclinations. She entreated them, and somehow they found themselves agreeing.

It might have been the clause about finding her worthy, our the appeal of comfortable lodging. Whatever it was, they found themselves in agreement with her. This was so impactfula visit, that after some days, they were preaching (against the law) and had a run in with the authorities. They were beaten and landed in jail. When released, they returned to their base … Lydia’s house (see v.40).

Siblings, may we be as persuasive as Lydia in our lived faith. May we be as earnest in our calling, opening dois for other believers, or inviting others to know Christ. May others who experience our earnest hospitality find us faithful.

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May all we seek be found in Christ