“For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes” — Acts 24:5
At another time, the crowd accused Paul and Silas for being the people that were “turning the world upside down” (17:6). Now, there are additional accusations against Paul, that are actually very complimentary for any child of God:
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- He was accused of being a “pestilent (infectious, epidemic, contagious) fellow” (Acts 24:5). How great it would be to be known as contagious for God. The life and witness of a Christian should be with such fervor that it becomes contagious to all those around.
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- He was accused of being a “mover of sedition” (Acts 24:5). Sedition is an attitude of inciting people to rebel. Paul was accused of being a mover of rebels. He intentionally went against the world’s religious system in order to follow God, and he taught others to do the same. Every child of God should unashamedly move others to follow God’s path. And the spiritual leaders should be a mover, helping others to follow God.
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- He was accused of being a “ringleader” (Acts 24:5). A ringleader is one who initiates or leads. Paul lead in the “sect of the Nazarenes,” which is what the disciples, or followers of Jesus Christ, were considered. And spiritual leaders should initiate and lead others to serve the Savior.
Overall, it can be said that Paul was purposeful and productive. No one should be a silent agent for the Lord. You have a purpose wherever God puts you, both now and later, whatever stage of life you find yourself. Paul wasn’t silent or timid, he was known for causing a stir about the right things. Everyone knew Paul was a child of God, and everyone should know that you are as well, by your words, your actions, and your lifestyle. Strive to be a fork in the road, that when the lost meet you they must decide to accept or reject Christ; and when Christians meet you, they want to get on fire for God, or stay away from you.