There’s Something About Lydia, Part II: A Transformed Heart Influences Others For Christ.

Lydia, the businesswoman who sold purple cloth, was at the river when she heard Paul and his companions preach the saving message of the Gospel. God opened her heart to respond, and then she was baptized.

“On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. ¹⁴ One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. ¹⁵ When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.” Acts 16:13-15

Scripture tells us that not only was Lydia baptized, so were the members of her household.

Were they baptized because of Lydia’s influence? Did they notice a difference in Lydia? Was her excitement about Jesus contagious? Did they ask her questions about the reason for her delight? We read in the passage that Lydia also persuaded Paul and his companions to stay in her home, demonstrating her positive influence on others. We might call Lydia an “influencer.”

Today, “influencers” on social media can use their appeal and expertise to influence “followers” toward a product or service. For example, I follow an influencer on Instagram as she promotes fashion and products for “over-50” women. I must admit I love a pair of jeans she modeled, and I then purchased them! Her enthusiasm for the products she markets is contagious and has led her to have many “followers,” thus being very successful with her sway.

So, back to Lydia. Her heart was transformed by hearing the Gospel, and Lydia’s life began to manifest her heart change. But was Lydia able to use her appeal and expertise from her purple cloth business to influence those around her to follow Jesus? Of course, believing in Jesus and being baptized is much more significant and life-changing than buying a pair of jeans or selling purple cloth, but we can seek to be an influencer for Jesus in whatever ways or avenues God gives us. Social media influencers may develop many followers, but as believers in Jesus Christ, our goal and desire should be for others to follow Him.

A transformed heart influences others for Christ.

What opportunities has God given you to influence others? Where has God placed you, and who has He brought near you? You can be an influencer for Jesus at home, at work, as a business leader, in a school group, a civic or sports organization, and your neighborhood. Is your passion for Jesus contagious? The world and its trouble can be crushing, and many are looking for hope that, as believers, we know only Jesus can give. So, look for ways to influence others toward Jesus. Be an ambassador of hope. Be contagious!

© 2022 Robin R King