8. Paul entered the synagogue and spoke
boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom
of God. 9. But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe
and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them. He took the
disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of
Tyrannus.
As much as I like my 16 year old van, there
might come a time when I need to drive something different. One reason I've had
the old GMC Safari for so many years has been its reliability. It has 'stood by
me' and so I've 'stood by it.'
It long ago ran out from under its paint,
and has accumulated quite a few dents and dings. It has a broken grill and
windshield and some missing trim. Its carpet is terribly stained...its cargo
area has been regularly used as a pickup truck, but it gets me where I want to
go - reliably, and I never have anyone wanting to ride with me except my
granddaughters. (If you promise not to tell anyone, it might be because they
have been known to ride in a lawn chair in the cargo area...Nana never lets them
have that kind of fun.)
My vehicular needs do not include aesthetics such
as style, or cruise control, or even air conditioning (most days). My view of
vehicles very much falls into the philosophy of "different strokes for different
folks."
Such is my view of church buildings 'on every corner...,' so to
speak. My old van isn't going to meet the needs of everyone, neither is my
theological perspective or style of worship.
However, as I learned back
in the '80's, sometimes you have to change vehicles/venues in order to
accommodate the needs, purpose, and direction God is taking you.
Verse 10
continues with: "This went on for two years, so
that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of
the Lord."
It is seriously doubtful if
"...and Greeks"
would have been included in that passage if Paul had continued speaking in the
synagogue. By leaving that vehicle and entering a new venue for his discussions
("daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus")
an entirely different opportunity was realized.
Make certain that your
vehicle is suitable for your mission.