When You Are Arrested – Mark 13:10,11

‘And it is necessary that the gospel be preached to all nations. So when they arrest you and hand you over, don’t worry beforehand what you will say, but say whatever is given to you at that time, for it isn’t you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.’ ~Mark 13:10, 11

Sometimes I think pastors spend too much time preparing for sermons. I’m at fault of this at times; I want the gospel to be heard easily. I want those who have come to worship on Sundays to experience the preached gospel.

And yet, if I think about how much time is spent researching, organising thoughts and PowerPoint slides, I wonder if that time could be better used showing the gospel by connecting with people. In that connection, we know that Holy Spirit will give us the best words to speak in that circumstance.

When Jesus speaks to the disciples, he uses the phrase ‘so when they arrest you.’ Literally, the word ‘arrest’ means ‘stop.’ When you are arrested, or stopped, by people on the road to anywhere, be prepared in advance to pause, but know that you have been prepared for just such a circumstance as this – to proclaim the gospel in word and deed (especially in deed).

God’s peace to you as you say whatever is given you at that time. Rejoice! It is the Holy Spirit speaking through you!

Pastor Reid Matthias