Paul and Barnabas had quite a ministry back in the first century. Paul counted himself among the apostles and had a global “ends of the earth” reach to his ministry. He healed people, started churches and his very presence was so volatile it could ignite riots. He was kind of a big deal, even then. And Barnabas was instrumental in training Paul. But an interesting passage casts light on their understanding of their role in the kingdom.
Acts 14 records the pair entering Lystra and Derbe and encountering a local myth. The story associated with this area was that Zeus and Hermes disguised themselves and came through the town approaching each of the citizens for hospitality. They were turned down by all but an elderly couple – Baucis and Philemon. Hermes and Zeus then destroyed the town, sparing only the hospitable couple.
With this legend as a backdrop, we can put into perspective the town’s reaction as Paul and Barnabas enter the city and heal a man. The crowd erupts – calling the duo Zeus and Hermes. Those townspeople weren’t going to make the same mistake their forefathers did!
Paul and Barnabas immediately point to God – declaring they are only men like them. How easy would it have been to accept their accolades? After all – they were doing a pretty good job – and God was using them mightily. Wasn’t God at least lucky to have them on His team? These faithful Jews would never claim to be a god but they could at least share a little credit, right? What would that hurt? Fortunately they resisted the temptation. And they resisted passionately. Maybe they rejected man’s worship so strongly because they knew how easy it would be to let it stand.
It’s nice to be recognized for our hard work, even in ministry. And it’s good to bless and encourage our fellow workers for their efforts, too. But danger lurks when honor and glory is received that should be directed to God. It takes only a quick look of some of our fallen leaders in the church who began to believe their headlines of success. We need to take the example of Paul and Barnabas, who literally tore their clothes at the thought of stealing God’s glory. What belongs to God shouldn’t be taken for ourselves nor given to someone else.
God gives us the privilege of engaging in His work in the world, but is there somewhere I allow a little credit come to me? Or is there someone I elevate because of what they’ve done? Lord, let my life and my worship point only to You.
To God be the glory forever and ever! Amen. Galatians 1:5
