HH, Sir Godfrey Gregg D.Div
“And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat, 13 Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law. 14 And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you: 15 But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters. 16 And he drave them from the judgment seat.” Acts 18:12-16
I may well learn many lessons for my own life from Gallio.
Like him, let me feel that there are more important concerns than the settlement of frivolous and petty religious disputes. My years are given me, not for the trivialities of religious ceremonies and forms and opinions — but . . .
- for the discharge of duty,
- for the discipline of character,
- for the manifestation of love,
- for the service of Christ.
Like Gallio, let me refuse to meddle needlessly in other men’s affairs. I have . . .
- my own work to remember,
- my own soul to educate,
- my own race to run.
I must . . .
- not intrude into places that are not designed for me,
- nor judge questions I do not understand,
- nor overstep the province which is distinctly mine.
Like Gallio, let me leave trifling wrongs to arrange themselves. There is true wisdom in such a course. If I fan the spark — then it will grow into a great flame. If I let it alone — then it will flicker out and disappear.
And, like Gallio, let me resolve rather be just and impartial than curry favour and win a little passing popularity. I ought always to place righteousness above policy, and the law of God above what may seem advantageous and expedient for myself.
Thus Gallio may teach me much that is profitable and wise.
