The Value of Vows

"Before he sailed, he has his hair cut off at Genchrae because of a vow he had taken." Acts 18:18b

Paul was a real man. He was reflective and humble, bold, brave, and willing to do whatever. After a long mission stint in Corinth and before he went to the next place (which, by the way, was Syria), he gets a serious hair cut. It is widely believed he took a Nazarite vow. Jews made personal vows, which are a little like our recommitments and rededications. I am sure with the success of the outreach in Corinth, a number of believers made deep decisions to follow Christ. Some consecrated these acts with personal vows. The Nazarite vow says you cut your hair as a sacrifice to God. In the Old Testament, the hair was burned. Paul supported and joined the serious new believers in their commitment. I hope we return to a more serious "total commitment" time. Back in the Jesus Movement time in the 60s, many believers made vows and practiced spiritual discipline. I will list 13 spiritual disciplines in hopes that some of you might make short term vows to express your dedication to Christ.

1. solitude

2. silence

3. fasting

4. frugality

5. chastity

6. secrecy

7. sacrifice

8. study

9. worship

10. prayer

11. fellowship

12. confession

13. submission

Maybe you should consider a vow. I encourage you.
Pastor Fred

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