4.6. VISIONS AND ENCOURAGEMENT

Acts 18:9-11 "Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;10 "for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city."11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them." (NKJV)

This vision encouraged him not to be afraid of those who opposed his ministry - emboldened him to speak - ensured the Lord's presence - enlightened him, the Lord had many in the city - established him in a prolonged ministry at Corinth. Because Paul had been encouraged through a vision, to stay longer in Corinth, many notable conversions took place. Among those who became Christians in Corinth were:

	Phoebe, who became a deaconess (Romans 16:1 ).
	Tertius, the one to whom Paul dictated his letter to the Romans (Romans 16:22 ).
	Erastus, the treasurer of the city, and Quartus (Romans 16:23 )

All of whom were trustworthy brethren.

Acts 23:11 "The Lord stood by him and said, Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome." (NKJV)

An assurance that the plots would fail, and his desire to witness in Rome was in the Lord's will. It would happen - and did. In time of stress and special need, the Lord can come through with encouragement and confirmation of His will. The Comforter is faithful to us today, encouraging us again and again through visions.

By telling them there would be no loss of life among them (Acts 27:22 ). Only the ship would be lost. By testifying that the message was brought by an angel of God (Acts 27:25 ), the God to whom Paul belonged and whom he served.

He gave the full details of what the angel had said ...

Acts 27:24 "saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.'" (NKJV)

He testified to his own faith in the message he had received ...

Acts 27:25 "Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me." (NKJV)

A man in tune with heaven can often be the means of protection of others around him. All happened as predicted.

	In almost all the cases, the recipients were in prayer when the visions came.
	Each vision was purposeful, causing some advancement of the kingdom of God.