Acts 22 Paul's Defense Speech

 

Acts 22 – Paul’s Defense Speech

Paul could have been considered a “perfect” Jew. He had the right pedigree, the right training, the right desires, the right enthusiasm. But being “perfect” in one’s own eyes doesn’t make somebody saved before God.

When God got hold of Paul, He understood two very important facts. First, He realized that God could use every part of a person’s background and upbringing for His glory. Nothing is wasted with God. As God fashioned his future servant, the events of Paul’s life would be brought together into a perfect “package” that could accomplish God’s great purposes. Paul’s training under Gamaliel gave him command of the Old Testament scriptures. When Christ revealed Himself, Paul, unlike many of his fellow Pharisees saw how Christ had fulfilled every prophecy regarding the Messiah. Paul’s logical mind saw the truth, and there was no turning back. In addition, Paul’s Roman citizenship allowed him free travel across the empire and spared him at least one beating at the hands of the Roman soldiers.

Second, Paul realized that his perfect pedigree was ultimately worthless for salvation. He wrote to the Philippian church; “If anyone thinks he may confidence in the flesh, I more so; circumcised the eighth day of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee, concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ.” Phil. 3:4-7.

Paul’s Jewish “perfection” counted for nothing. No one’s pedigree, training, background, wealth, abilities, gifts, appearance, or anything else can be perfect enough to earn salvation. We must not be enslaved to the “perfectionism” of this world that is ultimately worthless. Only when we cast ourselves before God and allow Him to use our backgrounds, training, and gifts for His glory will we find complete fulfillment. Only when we repent of our sins and accept Him as our Savior does He do His perfect work in us.

 

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J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Acts 21 Paul's third Journey Continues

 

Acts 21 – Paul’s Third Journey Continues

 

Paul is leaving Miletus and passes a few places before he stops in Tyre. There he stays 7 days with his disciples. All the disciples are afraid of what awaits him in Jerusalem and begs him not to go. From there they go to Caesarea where he stays with Phillip an evangelist. The four daughters of Phillip prophesy to Paul of the danger that waits for him. Then comes a man named Agabus who removes Paul’s belt and binds himself with it, saying this is what the Jews in Jerusalem will do with Paul. Paul’s reply to this is “I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” Paul knows what waits for him. He is going back to the people who taught him how to hate Christians, how to persecute them. He is going back to the people that knows about the change in him that took place on the road to Emmaus in Jerusalem. He knows that the disciples are truly concerned for him and would rather keep him safe by telling him not to go. He knows he will not be welcome there but also feels that it is God’s will that he go. The disciples saw that they could not persuade him, so agreed that God’s will be done.

Once he enters Jerusalem the church gladly welcomes him but is aware of the danger he is in. They want a meeting among themselves, so James and all the elders gather with Paul, and he tells him what has happened throughout his journey’s. They are happy to receive the news and glorified God. So, by purification, they made ready to meet with the counsel in seven days. But when he enters the temple the Jews who had heard that he spoke against Moses and circumcision attacked him and began to beat him. Paul had not spoken for or against it but told the people it was no longer necessary for salvation. The Jews did not give him a chance to explain but grabbed him and beat him. When the commander and the soldiers appeared, they saved Paul from being beaten to death. He was beaten beyond recognition and the chief captain did not know who he was saving.  

Sometimes our plans and good intentions seem to bring only trouble. But God is still in control!

 

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Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Acts 20 Uproars

Acts 20 Uproars

There was an uproar in Ephesus over the goddess Diana. The mercenaries created an uproar against Paul because he spoke against their idol. This uproar lasted for two hours until the city clerk put an end to it. After this uproar Paul called his disciples together, gave them hugs and left for Macedonia. From there he traveled to Philippi, to Troas and to Miletus. There were other places listed that he stopped and ministered to the people and finally ends up in Greece. Paul preached in Troas from morning to night. During this time a young man named Eutychus goes to sleep while sitting on the windowsill when he falls out of the window three stories and dies. Paul proceeds downstairs, lays on the dead body and raises him from the dead. The boy gets up, eats and Paul continues to speak until daybreak. Paul then returns to Ephesus where he meets with the disciples and tells them of his journey to Jerusalem.

The uproars usually cease, so be patient; but be sure to get ready for the next battle.

Paul was going to Jerusalem. Along the way, he met with dear friends, ministered the Word, and even enjoyed a quiet voyage and a refreshing walk. God’s servants need to get away from people and have time alone to think, meditate, and pray. Paul knew he was facing danger in Jerusalem, and he wanted to be prepared spiritually.

In his farewell message to the elders, Paul reviewed his past ministry, shared his present concerns, and revealed future dangers. If you want to catch the heart of Paul, consider his statements: “Serving the Lord…I kept back nothing.. that I may finish my race with joy…it is more blessed to give than to receive.”

One day life will end, and we will have to give our farewell speech. Can we look back without regret and look ahead without fear? Will we finish our race with joy even while others are weeping?

 

 

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Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

Acts 19, Confirm, Confess, Confront

 

Acts 19 – Confirm, Confess, Confront.

Paul retraced his first and second missionary journeys, then returned to Ephesus. He spends two years here where he speaks daily in the school of Tyrannus. Paul asked the believers if they received the Holy spirit. When John baptized people it was for repentance of sin. They did not know of the Holy spirit back then. After Jesus was baptized, he went around baptizing in His name and every who followed His example received the gift of the Holy Spirit. Since the believers were taught by Apollos who for a time only knew of John the Baptist, they did not receive the Holy Spirit.

When you believe in Jesus Christ and are baptized, you receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 10:43-48, Romans 8:9). Many people think they are converted but do not have the Spirit’s witness within (I John 5:9-13). Paul could not build a church on men with an inadequate spiritual experience, nor can we today. We must be honest with God.

To teach the Jews and Gentiles about Jesus, Paul performed many miracles. There were exorcists who tried to duplicate Paul’s miracles. As a result, their efforts backfired on them, and the evil spirits overpowered them. So much so that they burned their magic books and turned to worshiping Jesus Christ, our Lord.

The devil is a great imitator, but in this case, his attempt was a humiliating failure. The Lord used it for good, because the believers became convicted about their secret sins and confessed them. Then the Spirit could work in mighty power, and the Word increased.

Paul did not openly attack their idolatry by picketing the temple of Diana or petitioning the city government. He simply shared the Word, and lives were changed. Of course, the real issue was money, not religion. Paul was wise not to go into the theater, although we admire him for his courage. But the riot only called attention to the gospel and gave the believers more opportunity to witness.

Circumstances that look like obstacles are really opportunities when you let God work.

 

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J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

Acts 18 Paul Concludes His Second Journey

 

Acts 18 – Paul Concludes His Second Journey

 

The second missionary journey concludes with Paul in Corinth. Corinth was the sin-city of the Roman Empire, a city of corruption. Aquilla and Priscilla were united both in marriage and ministry. They met Paul when he was in Corinth and had moved from Rome after the Emperor Claudius had issued a decree expelling all Jews from the city. They moved to Corinth and taken up their tent making business. When Paul, a fellow tent maker arrived in the city, they worked together and learned much from Paul. He begins his ministry in the synagogue. Silas and Timothy join him in Corinth. Many believe, including Crispus who was the chief ruler of the synagogue. The Lord encourages Paul to speak boldly. For over a year he ministers the Word in Corinth. While there, an insurrection is made against Paul, and he is brought before Galio. Galio is not careless but refuses to handle a case that has to do with religious liberty. Paul then sails for Antioch but goes by Ephesus. He takes Aquilla and Priscilla with him as far as Ephesus. Paul shaves his head because of a vow he made Under grace, this was an exercise in Christian liberty. He had a right to do this, not an obligation.

Apollos from Alexandria, an eloquent preacher and one who knew the Old Testament, came to Ephesus. He was fervent in the spirit and taught zealously the things of the Old Testament up through the ministry of John the Baptist. He knew nothing beyond the baptism of John. Aquilla and Priscilla had the privilege of bringing him up to date and to conversion. He went to Achaia and began to preach Jesus as the Messiah and Savior.

Couples who are united in Christ can have a great impact together for His kingdom. God can work mightily through a couple who are devoted to Christ and willing to use their time, efforts, and resources to build God’s Kingdom.

 

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Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Acts 17 Paul's Second Missionary Journey

 

Acts 17 Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

 

This journey takes Paul to Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens. Paul is first in Thessalonica for 3 Sabbaths. Only the Gentile God-seekers accepted the gospel and were saved. The opposition created a mob affect and attacked the house where Paul was staying. Even today we hear of mobs attacking Christians and even killing them. Today is not much different than those days. It only feels different because it is closer to home. Because the opposition there forces Paul to leave, he then travels to Berea where he has a better reception, and many believe. The Jews took time to examine the evidence and study the scriptures. There are fair minded people in every nation and God knows who they are.

Up until now Timothy and Silas have been with him. Now he is travelling to Athens and leaves them behind. Paul observes the idolatry of Athens. He disputes with the Jews in the Synagogue and the philosophers in the marketplace daily. Finally, he is given a public hearing on Mars’ Hill which was the Areopagus. Paul’s speech was adjusted to his audience, as was his sermon in Pisidia. Paul points out the altar to the unknown God. He presents the true God as Creator and Redeemer; he asks the men to turn to God. The people in Athens “spent their time in nothing else but either to tell or to hear some new thing.” Paul’s sermon was a masterpiece of tact and teaching, and a few people were converted. Paul offered them “newness of life” through the resurrection (Rom. 6:4), and most of the listeners rejected it.

 

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Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible and J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Acts 16 - Paul's Patience

 

Acts 16 – Paul’s Patience

 

Paul wrote, “But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience” (2 Cor. 6:4).

Paul had patience in waiting for a helper. Timothy replaced John Mark and became a true son in the faith to Paul. God has the right person ready at the right time, so be patient.

He had patience in seeking God’s will. He was an apostle, yet he did not always know the direction God wanted him to take. He took steps, God closed doors, so he waited, and then God showed him the way. 

He had patience in ministering the Word. They waited “some days” before seeking a place to witness and God had hearts all prepared.

He bore annoyance. Paul put up with the demoniac promotion as long as he could and then cast out the demon. Paul knew that his action would create problems for him, and it did.

He endured suffering. Paul did not use his Roman citizenship to protect himself from pain, but later he used it to protect the new church. When you hurt, ask God to give you songs in the night (Ps. 42:8).

He had patience in winning a lost soul. Paul had his eyes on the keeper of the prison and in kindness won him to Christ.  How much are we willing to suffer to win someone to the Lord, especially someone who has hurt us?

 

 

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Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Acts 15 Conflict Over Circumstances

 

Acts 15 – Conflict Over Circumstances.                                              

 

The law of Moses stated unless you are circumcised, you cannot be saved.  This became an issue between the people and the apostles. Peter was able to set the people straight by informing them that God had extended grace to the Gentiles and in that it was sufficient and there was no longer a need to be circumcised. Our circumcision comes from the heart. When we cut ourselves off from the world and put our trust in God, that is all the circumcision we need.

Paul and Barnabas made a great team, but it was temporary. Paul was called to a worldwide mission. Barnabas was called to recognize and encourage those who needed it. Because they could not agree on Mark, they separated.

People sometimes believe their communication and action are separate parts of life. They wrongly assume that we can communicate one way and live another. But if what we say and what we do contradict each other, one is a lie. Paul and Barnabas acted consistently with that they honestly believed to be true. They parted as brothers on different missions. They didn’t make staying together more important than obeying God. The Lord in turn blessed each of them. Believers have separated or stayed together too often for the wrong reasons. When we decide to win an argument rather than obey God, we have already taken a wrong turn.

Four laws of communication:

1.    Tell the truth.

2.    Unless it is agreed upon to discuss it later, always deal with your anger before going to bed.

3.    Be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving. It is listening to another’s viewpoint, it is consideration of another’s feelings, It is letting love cover a multitude of sins.

4.    Mark probably didn’t enjoy the fact that Paul and Barnabas separated over him, but he had to appreciate that someone believed he was worth another chance. Conflicts can lead to good endings.

 

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Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

Acts 14 Christ First

 

Acts 14 – Christ First

 

Paul was a man on the move but not a man easily moved because of difficulties. “But none of these things move me” was his testimony of faith, and he lived it.

When he and Barnabas were expelled from Antioch in Pisidia, they shook off the dust of their feet and went to Iconium (Luke 10:11) Both Jews and Greeks gathered there to hear the Word of God. There were many believers, but there were unbelievers there too. They wanted to stir up trouble because they didn’t want to share the gospel with the Gentiles. They believed it was for Jews only. When the people there tried to stone them, they went to Lystra where they were treated like gods (that was a greater danger than persecution.) The crowds are fickle; they changed their minds and stoned Paul, but he got up and went to Derbe.

That was not all. Paul and Barnabas had the courage to retrace their steps so they could help and encourage the new Christians! And when they returned home, they told the church what the Lord had done, not what they had suffered.

Paul and Barnabas put Christ first, others second, and themselves last. They had a job to do, and they were determined by God’s grace to do it. How much does it take to move you out of God’s will?

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

 

 

Acts 13 Paul, Barnabas and John Mark

 

Acts 13– Paul, Barnabas and John Mark

 

Paul and Barnabas were set apart to go to Cyprus and John Mark accompanied them. As they continue to go on their journey Paul and Barnabas goes on to Perga in Pamphylia and Mark returns to Jerusalem. Paul sees this as a weakness in Mark, but God takes special delight in turning those who fail into faithful disciples. Apparently, He is not concerned about helping those who help themselves as He is about helping those who realize how helpless they are! One glowing example of God’s work can be seen in the life of Mark.  Barnabas has probably invited Mark, his cousin, to join them. Barnabas had an eye for people who needed encouragement. He had helped Paul prove to the other apostles that he was a follower of Jesus, not a persecutor under cover. Barnabas may have also known about Mark’s shameful cowardice on the night when Jesus was arrested, if indeed Mark was the young man who had fled in such a hurry that he left his clothes behind. (Mark 14:51,52).

When Mark left Paul and Barnabas to go back to Jerusalem, Paul concluded that Mark was unreliable. Later, when Barnabas insisted on giving Mark a second chance, Paul refused. The two split up then and Barnabas took Mark back with him to Cyprus.

Events proved that Barnabas’ approach with Mark worked. He became a dependable disciple. He eventually wrote the gospel that bears his name, probably recording Peter’s account. Even Paul later recognized mark’s maturity. Three times in letters, Paul mentioned his appreciation for Mark’s ministry in his life. God doesn’t give up on weak people. Christians ought not to give up on one another. As Paul discovered, those who are weak today may become those on whom we lean on tomorrow.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Acts 12 The Will of the Lord.

 

Acts 12 – The Will of The Lord

 

The will of the Lord is always wise and good, but it is not always predictable. God spared Peter but allowed Jesus to be killed. He did not deliver Peter from prison until the last minute. He allowed Herod to slay James, but He did not permit the king to act like a god.

Some Christians are like Job’s friends: they think they always know exactly what God is doing, Will do, and wants done, but they may be wrong. Whenever you are tempted to “play God” in somebody’s life, ponder Isaiah 55:8-9. When we pray for others, we always pray for the best possible outcome, but we also pray for God’s will be done.

It is always right to pray, even if your faith is so weak you are surprised when the answer comes! Keep knocking – God opens doors.

Prayer makes a difference, so we know we can pray often and with confidence. When we pray, we must believe and then be open to the answer. Some of our prayers we will see answered. Other prayers we will have to wait for the answer and still others, God will shut the door on and bring us something even better.

Through our relationship with God, He uses us to glorify Him and bring others to Christ. Whether it is to pray over someone, to approach someone or to just smile at someone you would not normally smile at, allow God to use you and be an instrument for Him.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

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Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.  J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Acts 11 what's Happening.

 

Acts 11 – What’s Happening?

 

Some people make things happen. Peter was available to the Lord, and God used him to officially bring gentile believers into the church. The wall between Jews and Gentiles had been broken down (Eph. 2:11ff)! The news was astounding to the Jewish believers, for they thought the Gentiles must first become Jewish proselytes before they could become Christians. Thank God that Peter was the kind of person who makes things happen!

Some people hear that things happen. This includes most of us, but how do you respond when you hear that God has done something new? Do you sincerely try to get the facts, or do you depend on hearsay? We are to “test all things; hold fast what is good” (1 Thess. 5:22).

Some people oppose things happening. The legalistic members of the Jerusalem assembly attacked Peter for eating with the Gentiles, so he explained how God had led. He proved from scripture that what happened was the will of God, and his explanation silenced his critics for the time. However, the legalistic element in the church would rise again and seek to limit the freedom of the gospel.

Some people help other people make things happen. Barnabas enlisted Saul and put him to work in the Antioch church, which led to their going together to the Gentiles with the message of salvation. Barnabas lived up to his name of “son of encouragement”.

Antioch was the third largest city below Rome and Alexandria. It had a population of 5 to 800 thousand people. The morality of this city was not good but there were many Gentiles who had converted to Christianity during Paul and Barnabas stay. It was during the coming famine that the churches in Jerusalem and Antioch pulled together and helped each other through the hard times. This is a great example of taking what knowledge we have in Christ and sharing it with those who have not heard it and then helping each other through the bad times.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah.

 

 

 

Acts 10 Peter and Cornelius

 

Acts 10 – Peter and Cornelius

 

Cornelius was a Centurion, a commander of 100 men in the Roman Army. Centurions were men of considerable character as they are always mentioned in a good light in the Bible.

Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, was being prepared for his life’s work; Peter was about to break down the barriers between Jews and Gentiles.

But God had to prepare both Peter and Cornelius. God spoke to Cornelius while he was praying and to Peter while he was relaxing. Be alert to the voice of God; you never know when He may have a word for you.

“Not so, Lord! For I have never…” is the response that leads to defeat. God was about to do a new thing, and Peter wanted to hold on to the old. He calls Him Lord but refuses to obey Him! Yet God tenderly instructed Peter, and the Apostle surrendered to His will.

This journey that Peter took was said to be about a thirty-mile journey by foot from Joppa to Caesarea. Upon arrival and hearing what Cornelius has to say, Peter’s vision becomes clearer in understanding to him.

In the early church, it was hard for Jewish believers to comprehend that Gentiles might also become Christians. It was a critical time in the growth of the early church, and God made it clear that the Good News would be for everyone. Today, we must not allow any prejudice concerning such things as race, language, economic status, education, or geography to keep us from sharing the message of salvation with the world. God’s Word as well as His love is for everyone.

When Peter said, “Whosoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins”, they believed and were saved. What a great way to stop a sermon!

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J, Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Acts 9 Saul's Conversion

 

Acts 9 – Saul’s Conversion

Saul, (who later was called Paul) probably thought he had it made. As a young and zealous Pharisee, he knew God’s word thoroughly. He had studied under a well-known Jewish rabbi, Gamaliel, and had apparently learned his lessons well. So well, in fact, that when the sect of the Nazarene (people who believed that Jesus was the Messiah) began to grow and flourish, Saul did all he could to stop it. Along with many of his fellow Pharisees, Saul thought that Jesus of Nazareth was a deceived man, certainly not the promised Messiah. Therefore, Jews who became Christians were considered traitors and deserved to be rounded up, locked up, and even killed.

That all changed one day on the road to Damascus. Saul was on his way to find and arrest more Christians who had fled from Jerusalem. On the road that day, Saul met Christ and was never the same again. Paul’s early training took on a whole new aspect. The scriptures he had so diligently studied opened up with a brand-new understanding. He saw Christ throughout God’s Word, and he saw Him as the fulfillment of the prophecies.

It would be correct to say that Paul changed. Yet he merely made the logical move from being a Jew to accepting the Messiah of Israel and becoming a Christian, his belief system found its completion in Christ. As Paul restudied the scriptures, God opened his mind to see Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of all of God’s promises.

As people come to Christ, many find Him to be the logical answer to their deepest questions. Others are surprised by who He is and what He has done for them. God has no set pattern or time frame for changing people’s lives with His presence. Some will be convinced immediately, others will take more time; some will be slow to change. But we can know for sure that when Christ enters people’s lives, they will never be the same!

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

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Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.      J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Acts 8 The Death of Stephen

 

Acts 8 – The Death of Stephen

 

The death of Stephen seemed to be a defeat for the church, but it resulted in some great victories for the Lord. Wherever the believers went, they shared the gospel, and many trusted the Savior. Stephen’s witness made a tremendous impression on Saul and was instrumental in his conversion. Never give up when the enemy seems to be winning. It may be your finest hour of victory.

Like Stephen, Philip was a deacon who was also an evangelist; and God led him to witness in Samaria to people hostile to the Jews (John 4:9). The coming of Peter and John and the giving of the Holy Spirit linked the Samaritan believers to the saints in Jerusalem and the ancient division was healed. The way to turn enemies into friends is to make them brothers and sisters in Christ.

In times of great blessing, wherever God sows true seed, the devil sows a counterfeit (Matt. 13:24-30, 36-43). Like Peter, we must be alert and exercise discernment.

Philip left a great harvest to talk to one man, but that is the mark of a true servant of the Lord. He traveled through Samaria as a one-man gospel army. It was in Samaria that God paced the Ethiopian and Philip for a divine appointment. The Ethiopian believed and was baptized and went back to his home with a message of salvation! We must go where God sends us, do what God tells us, and leave the results with Him.

Sometimes we find God in the strangest places. Sometimes divine appointments come when we least expect one. As people search for God, you may be the one whom God sends to explain a passage, offer a word of truth or encouragement, or simply be a friend.

We must be open for those appointments. God may want to use us to make Himself known to someone!

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.                      

 

Acts 7 Stephen's Message

Acts 7 – Stephen’s Message

 

The main thrust of Stephen’s message is that Israel always resisted the truth and rejected the deliverers God sent to them. They opposed Moses and repeatedly wanted to return to Egypt. They opposed Joseph, and he later became their redeemer! They rejected the many prophets God sent to warn them and call them back to His way. Finally, they rejected their own Messiah and crucified Him.

Israel’s history reveals the patience of God and the hardness of man’s heart. But it also reveals a ray of hope: Israel rejected their deliverers the first time but accepted them the second time. That was true of Moses and Joseph, and it will be true of Jesus when He returns (Zech. 12:10).

Stephen’s death was the third murder in Israel’s history and a turning point in God’s dealings with the nation. They had rejected the Father when they allowed John the Baptist to be slain; they had rejected the Son when they asked for Jesus to be crucified; and now they had rejected the Holy Spirit. There could be no more forgiveness (Matt. 12:31-32). The line has been crossed, and the gospel moved out of Judea and Samaria.

Even though the Israelites knew that Stephen’s message was true, they did not want to hear it and the more Stephen spoke, the angrier they got until they rushed in and stoned him to death. God allowed Stephen to see the glory of God and Jesus at the right hand of God before Stephen died. As Jesus Christ died on the cross with dignity and forgave His murderers, so did Stephen. He asked God not to charge them with this sin.

Today is no different than it was in Stephen’s time. There are still people grieving the Holy Spirit and there are still people turning their backs on God and worshiping idols. Let us stand firm in our faith as Stephen did and let our lights shine among men.

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Acts 6 - Yield Yourself to God!

 

Acts 6 – Yield Yourself to God!

 

When you yield yourself to do God’s will, you never know what challenges you will face.

No ministry is unimportant for a Christlike servant, for Jesus said, “I am among you as the One who serve” (Luke 22:27). In serving tables, the men released the apostles for their ministry of prayer and the Word; and the result was an increase in conversions. People filled with the Spirit see no small jobs or big places. They see only their Master and the opportunity to glorify Him.

From serving tables to doing miracles! Stephen reached out to the lost and sought to win them to Christ. He was an eloquent defender of Jesus. If you are faithful with a few things, the Lord may give you many things (Matt. 25:21).

The unbelievers treated Stephen the way the Sanhedrin treated Jesus; they arrested him on trumped-up charges and hired false witnesses to testify. Stephen experienced “the fellowship of His sufferings” (Phil. 3:10), and so will you if your witness hits home (Matt. 5:11-12). They said Stephen was opposing Moses, but he had a shining face just like Moses (Exod. 34). Those who are filled with the Spirit of God usually reflect something of that reality in their faces.

The church’s job is not only to create converts but to make disciples who teach each other and share their faith. God honors His Word, and it produces His result (Isa.55:11; Heb. 4:12).

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Acts 5 Pretending

Acts 5 – Pretending

 

Barnabas’s gift exposed the sin of Ananias and Sapphira, just as Mary’s gift exposed Judas’s sin (John 12). The couple lied to the Spirit, to the church, and to Peter, and it cost them their lives. Their sin was not in taking money from God but in pretending to be something they were not. While satan cannot fill or control believers, he can do much damage in hearts that are open to temptation. When he failed to destroy the early church, he tried to infiltrate and hinder it by prompting people to live in insincere and hypocritical ways. He still uses such tactics today.

 

Dealing with sin in the church often results in new power for the church. Can you imagine a church so spiritual that people were afraid to join them? Even Peter’s shadow had power!

 

Because the Sadducees could not tolerate evidence of resurrection power, they arrested the apostles again and told them to be quiet. “We ought to obey God rather than men” is the only position to hold when you have the Word of God on your side. Be sure it is conviction and not just opinion.

 

Gamaliel advised neutrality, which means avoiding the truth and letting satan move in (Matt. 12:30,43-45). With all the evidence they had seen, the council’s neutrality was dishonesty. It you followed Gamaliel’s advice in any area of life – science, cooking, finance, it would lead to paralysis and then death.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J Vernon McGee Thru the Bible

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Acts 4 - Peter's Sermon at Pentecost

 

Acts 4- Peter’s Sermon at Pentecost

In his sermon at Pentecost, Peter proved from the Scriptures that Jesus was alive; but now he proved it by the miraculous change in the beggar’s life. The man was healed through the power of the name of Jesus. The Sadducees did not believe in resurrection, so they wanted to put a stop to the ministry of the apostles. This was the beginning of the official persecution of Christians.

They were told to stop sharing the gospel and they recalled the words of Jesus Christ (Matt. 10:16-26) and depended on the Holy Spirit to help them, Furthermore, they were so filled with their message and with love for Christ that they could not stop telling people about Him!

They depended on prayer and directed their prayer to a sovereign God who made everything and can do anything. They based their petitions on Psalm 2, a marvelous Psalm to read when you are being attacked.

Sharing one’s faith or testimony should be guided by the Holy Spirit, not one’s education or experience.  Upon Peter and John’s report, the church then returned to what it does best; praying for the power of God to continue as they spread the gospel in Jerusalem and beyond.

In spite do the warning from the Sanhedrin, the apostles continued preaching the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, choosing to obey God rather than humans. Their boldness was the result of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible, J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Acts 3 Priorities

 

Acts 3 – Priorities

 

Peter and John were not so caught up with large crowds that they had no time for individuals. Nor were they so busy in ministry that they could not pray. They had learned their lessons well from the Lord Jesus (Mark 1:35). Peter had directed the attention away from himself and toward Jesus – always the pattern for faithful preachers.

 

The emphasis is on the name of Jesus, the name above every name (Phil. 2:9-11). Faith in the name of Jesus releases power so that lives are changed. To pray or minister in His name means to ask or act on His authority (Matt. 28:18-20) so that He alone gets the glory.

 

At Pentecost, the sound of rushing wind drew the crowd; but here the witness of a changed life brought the people together. Peter told the people that he knew that they and the Jewish leaders had killed Jesus in ignorance and that Jesus appealed to the Father not to hold their sin against them (Luke 23:34), their sins could be blotted out if they would only repent and be converted (I Tim. 1:13). Thus, Peter had the opportunity to preach, and two thousand people were converted. Reach out to the individual and God will give you opportunities for a bigger harvest (John 4:28ff).

 

Peter’s conclusion: God in His mercy and grace, loves the Jewish people and will again turn His full attention to their nation after the church age is completed (Rom. 11:25,26).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

Acts 2 The Spirit Came

 

Acts 2 – The Spirit Came

 

The Spirit came, not because the believers prayed but because the day of Pentecost had come, the day appointed for the “birthday of the church” (Lev. 23:15-21). He baptized the believers into one body (I Cor. 12:13) so that they had a living connection with their Head exalted in heaven. This is the birth of His spiritual body.

 

Spirit in both Greek and Hebrew speaks of wind, or breath. Just as man did not exist until the life-giving breath of Almighty God (Gen. 2:7), so the church did not come alive until God breathed forth the Holy Spirit.  The flames as of fire could well symbolize the purity and power with which these men would speak as they proclaimed what God had done.

 

The Spirit also filled the believers and empowered them for witness. He gave Peter insight into the Word and the ability to show men Christ in the Word. The Spirit used the witness of the church to convict the lost, just as Jesus said He would do. When Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit, God transformed his whole life.

 

But the same Holy Spirit assisted the believers in their church fellowship. The original group was outnumbered by the new believers, but there was still harmony in the church family. They worshiped daily and witnessed daily, and “The Lord added to the church daily.” The Spirit’s presence signified their baptism into the spiritual body, the church. Our experience with the Lord should also be daily.

 

Preaching Christ means to preach the person and the work of Christ – who He is and what He has done (I Cor. 1:23). Peter reminded the crowd of the miracles they had seen during the time of Jesus’ ministry on earth, which proved that He was who He claimed to be. He is Lord.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans for You. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee.

 

 

Acts 1 The Power of the Spirit

 

Acts 1– The Power of the Spirit

 

One hundred and twenty ordinary people hardly constitute an imposing army; but in a few days they would make an impact that is being felt even today. The same resources God gave them are still available to us.

 

Christ is the Head of the church (Eph. 1:22) and supplies life to His body, giving dynamic and direction to His people. What He began to do and teach, the church continues as He guides and empowers through His Spirit.

 

God’s power is available to God’s people who want to do His will and be His witnesses. You do not have to be an apostle to have the power of the Spirit in your life. (Eph. 5:18). Any attempted work of the church is doomed to failure without the Spirit. (John 16:7-11).

 

He is the Lord of history, working out His purposes in this world. The church may lose some battles, but we will win the war! Christ’s work in redemption rests primarily on His incarnation, His crucifixion, His resurrection, and His ascension. Just as He left, so would He reurn – in His glorified body. This is part of every Christians hope!

 

God shares His power with us as we pray and ask Him for His help. Throughout Acts, notice Luke’s emphasis on prayer. The first church was a praying church.

 

His Word is still our lamp and light (Ps. 119:105), and we must obey what it says. God guides His people when they are willing to follow.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J. Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

John 21 Jesus the Master, Host, and Lord

John 21 – Jesus the Master, Host, and Lord

 

After Peter denied Christ, he returned to his old life, and he took six other men with him. Their work was in vain because the Lord was not with them. How kind Jesus is to come to us when we have disobeyed Him and have failed in our work!

When Jesus takes charge, failure is turned into success; and the difference was only the width of the ship! You never know how close you are to victory, so admit your failure and obey what He tells you to do. He never fails.

It took six men to drag the net, but Peter did it alone when Jesus gave the orders. We should always remember that “God’s commandment is God’s enablement.” Did the fire of coals remind Peter of his denials? Did the miraculous catch of fish remind him of his call to serve (Luke 5:1-11)? How kind of Jesus to feed Peter before dealing with him about his sins!

The most important thing in ministry is loving Christ, for all ministry flows from that. Peter the fisherman was also to be a shepherd and care for the lambs and sheep.

By saying, “Follow Me”, Jesus reinstated Peter as an apostle. But Peter turned around and took his eyes off the Lord (Matt. 14:30), and Jesus had to rebuke him. The next time you are tempted to meddle in somebody else’s ministry, ponder Christ’s words: “What is that to you? You follow Me!”

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

John 20 Confusion

 

John 20 Confusion

 

Mary jumped to conclusions and soon had Peter and John on the run. They were busy, but they had nothing to say and were accomplishing little. They saw the evidence for the Resurrection, but it did not change their lives. They needed a meeting with the living Christ. Their urgency to see the living Christ was due to excitement. Jesus’ disciples today should retell the story with the same excitement.

 

Unbelief blinds our eyes to the Lord’s presence. When He speaks His word to us, faith and love are rekindled. Mary was changed from a mourner to a missionary when she met the living Lord.

 

Locked doors will not give you peace, nor will they keep out your loving Savior. He comes with the message of peace based on His sacrifice on the cross (Romans 5:11). When Jesus showed them His wounds, they knew this was their Lord.

 

The Lord tenderly deals with our doubts and unbelief. We today cannot see Him or feel His wounds but have the Word of God to assure us. Rather than belittling Thomas for his doubts, Jesus welcomed his reach and touch, which moved Thomas from unbelieving to believing.  When your faith falters, do not ask for signs. Open His Word and let Him reassure you.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

John 19 The Crown and the Cross

 

John 19 – The Crown and The Cross

 

Jesus and Pilate had been talking about a kingdom, so it was only right that the King have a crown. It was meant for mockery, but it preached a message, for Jesus was wearing the consequences of Adam’s sins (Gen. 3:17-19). But a crown is a sign of victory.  Even as the Roman guards held their mock coronation, they were unaware that the kingdom of God was truly at hand. He has overcome!

 

Jesus started out bearing His own cross, but then Simon was drafted to carry it for Him (Mark 15:21). We are not told why, although tradition says that Jesus fell and could not carry it. Considering all He had been through, that is not difficult to believe. Criminals carried the cross as a sign of guilt and Jesus was not guilty!

 

“It is finished!” was the cry of a conqueror, Jesus accomplished what all the old covenant sacrifices could not do (Heb. 10:1-18). The prophecies and types were fulfilled and the sacrifice for sins made once and for all forever. It was not a martyr that Joseph and Nicodemus put into the tomb, it was a victor. The price for all human sin was paid.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible