Many believers publicly confessed their sins and disclosed their secrets. Large numbers of those who had been practicing magic took all of their books and scrolls of spells and incantations and publicly burned them. When the value of all the books and scrolls was calculated, it all came to several million dollars. The power of God caused the word to spread, and the people were greatly impacted.

Acts 19:18-20 (TPT)

 

God is at work across the world, not only within the four walls of the church.

With Christ's love richly dwelling in our hearts, we can move in new ways to impact lives and transform our surrounding communities. When the gospel reached the Ephesians, we witness practical proofs of real repentance. They publicly confessed their sins and destroyed their magical scrolls and occultic books. They did it not because they were compelled or forced to, but because they had personally experienced Christ. The gospel spread wider because of their radical discipleship after they were delivered from false gods and idolatry.

If we want to impact the community with the gospel, we must first consider our own attitude and actions. Have we done anything, either through our acts or inactions, that has hurt our public Christian witness? People do not expect us to be perfect, but they do expect us to be truthful, genuine, and loving in our words and actions. None of us can do it without God's help.

Sometimes we let our concerns and uncertainties keep us from sharing our faith We must recognise that people are enslaved to sin unless we lead them to a new life in Christ. Let us follow the example of the early church. When they felt fear and sorrow, they prayed for boldness and a greater demonstration of God's kingdom power (Acts 4:23-21). God appreciates prayers that seek to expand His Kingdom and bring glory to His name.

There are plenty of opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others around you. You don't need any special skills or talents, just a willing heart to be God's channel of blessing.