I chose to include this story because I thought it might be an interesting and fun story to preach on the Sunday we have Rally Day. On the one hand, it seems sort of fun -- the preacher preaches too long, someone falls asleep, and then they fall over and out the window. On the other hand, the young man dies. Of course, Paul hugs him, has a bite to eat, and then goes back to preaching until dawn, and the young man is apparently ok after all. Bizarre story. Is it funny? or a serious look at resurrection? What do we do with Paul's insistence at preaching until late into the night, and then starting right back up again after checking on the young man?
I am struck by the fact that Paul really believes this stuff he is teaching and preaching about resurrection. He puts that belief in play as he brings the young man back to life.
Also, I notice that Paul goes on and on and cannot be stopped. He is compelled to speak and share his message.
Willimon (Acts from the series Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching, 154) notes how tragedy can strike in a moment's notice. And in the face of that, we speak the God news of God's sovereignty.
Willimon also notes that this story connects Paul with the great prophets Elijah and Elisha, who also brought people back to life (154-155)
What do you think of this story?
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