I was recently reading the book of Acts and came across this verse that left me pondering all week. The story is of Paul and Silas who were preaching in a synagogue as was their routine when traveling to new cities. They observed the Sabbath, as not to create unnecessary conflict, and solely preached the Christ. Yet, this simply profound message was enough to what its opponents stated as, "turning the world upside down." And this terminology that was used refers to the world as affecting all living inhabitants. This was not an isolated incident but rather a game changer leadership style with a global reach. What was it that so infuriated the Jews to accuse these men of turning the world upside down? By turning the world upside down, these men meant altering its state. Was it healing the blind? Restoring the sick? The message of peace, hope, and joy? No, it was the large following that created jealousy (Acts 17:5). Paul and Silas were "converting" both Jews and Gentiles to a new way of living. A way which reconciled notable cultural differences, a way which claimed Christ over the law, and a way which made the impossible, possible. For those who resist change, it was a tri-fold threat. The "behold, all things are new" message was not appealing to all. As with all circumstances, there will be those who are for us and those who are against us. Yet, the game changer leader will so alter the state of a circumstance, ultimately for the good, that it will be an honor to hear the words, "you are turning the world upside down".
Game Changing Leadership
I was recently reading the book of Acts and came across this verse that left me pondering all week. The story is of Paul and Silas who were preaching in a synagogue as was their routine when traveling to new cities. They observed the Sabbath, as not to create unnecessary conflict, and solely preached the Christ. Yet, this simply profound message was enough to what its opponents stated as, "turning the world upside down." And this terminology that was used refers to the world as affecting all living inhabitants. This was not an isolated incident but rather a game changer leadership style with a global reach. What was it that so infuriated the Jews to accuse these men of turning the world upside down? By turning the world upside down, these men meant altering its state. Was it healing the blind? Restoring the sick? The message of peace, hope, and joy? No, it was the large following that created jealousy (Acts 17:5). Paul and Silas were "converting" both Jews and Gentiles to a new way of living. A way which reconciled notable cultural differences, a way which claimed Christ over the law, and a way which made the impossible, possible. For those who resist change, it was a tri-fold threat. The "behold, all things are new" message was not appealing to all. As with all circumstances, there will be those who are for us and those who are against us. Yet, the game changer leader will so alter the state of a circumstance, ultimately for the good, that it will be an honor to hear the words, "you are turning the world upside down".
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