Gods Sabbath

P AULS ’ S M ISTAKE

461

the work God has given them, but with solving the problems which arise as consequences of that work. No greater mistake could be made; no surer way of retarding the work. No matter how terrifying the prospects, Christians have noth ing to do with consequences. The only question which should concern us is, “What has God directed me to do?” It is not easy for human nature, because such a disciplined reaction comes on ly after much re-education, and it is retained only by guarding against the persistent danger of reversion. The leaders in Jerusalem had not learned these lessons. They did not trust implicitly in God, but felt that He needed them to protect the church from disaster. So they gave Paul specific in structions on how to do this. They certainly had a problem, but they appointed themselves as problem solvers instead of leaving this work where it belonged—in God’s capable hands. Thus they failed to respond to the pleadings of God’s Spirit and instead placed themselves where, as far as the records show, they never again had an opportunity to change their evil ways. When the Christian leaders in Jerusalem stifled the convic tions of the Spirit, there was no way that they would abandon their wrong principles and unify with Paul and his God. But all was not yet lost, for Paul could resolutely refuse to compromise with them. It was his solemn duty before God to inform those men courteously, kindly, respectfully, but firmly, that as God alone was his Plan Maker, he could not do what they demanded of him. The leaders had made their decision not to surrender their pride and self-will, so the full responsibility now rested on Paul to stand unflinchingly for the right. Should he fail to do this, the second option would be lost, he would be removed from his posi tion as the bulwark against unrighteousness, and the church and the world would be doomed to oppressive darkness. Tragically, that second option was indeed lost. Paul did not firmly inform the leaders that he could not accept them as his plan makers in God’s place. He did not tell them that he would ask the Lord what to do, and then, upon receiving the divine Paul’s Decision