Living a life of Immortality

 Read Acts 23.

It was George Whitefield, the great preacher from England of the 1770's and founder of the University of Pennsylvania, who said, "We are immortal until our work on earth is done."

Behind that quote are several crucial and personal understandings.
1. Such a person understands God's purpose for their lives.
2. Such a person endeavors to live each day according to God's will for them.
3. Such a person will be taken by God when their individual mission is fulfilled.

That realization for the committed follower of Christ provides an incomparable confidence.  It bolsters our faith in that no matter what may happen, this life is temporary at best.  Every day, then, counts.  Though, on a human level, we certainly feel the loss of someone who dies or when things do not go according to our plans, we likewise have the certainty that God knows what He is doing.  It is His plans that matter, not ours.  That is what it means to call Him Lord.

Here in this chapter, the Roman tribune did a noble thing to get to the bottom of the facts.  However, the people who were in charge of the trial included the very ones who had already determined to kill Paul.  Two times in two chapters this same Roman tribune had to physically rescue Paul from being beaten to death.  The official sanction of this oath taken by forty men to go without food until they murder the Apostle Paul reveals the total lack of any godliness among Israel's religious leaders.

There are no more dangerous individuals like those who oppose the veracity of the Scriptures and the believers in Jesus.  The world will force acceptance of any other belief system and any behavior, even atheism.  But one who commits their lives to Christ and His word are subject to persecution and worse. 

But God intervened again for Paul.  The plot became known.  The Satanically energized enemy had forty men.  God used the Roman government to provide four hundred and seventy trained fighting soldiers to protect Paul.  God even provided a horse for him.  They left at 9 PM on a quick 35-mile journey.  This is the third recorded time in Acts where Paul had to escape a city at night.

Persecuted?  Yes.  Beaten and suffering?  Yes.  But he remained immortal until he would fulfill his assigned mission.  Jesus had already confirmed His will for Paul.  "Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome." (23:11).  These words were meant to comfort him in midst of every challenge.

To the Romans, Paul wrote: "...in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.  For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:37-39)

 

Rumors and Racism

Read Acts 22.

This uproar in Jerusalem had to do with a false rumor.  Someone assumed that Gentiles were among the group with Paul as he entered the inner Temple area.

Two points immediately call for our attention.  First, how dangerous rumors, gossip, and slander are.  With a single statement, an uninformed crowd was ready to commit murder.  Initially at least, those who reacted were fellow worshipers at the Temple!  How many good people and their reputations have been hurt or destroyed by an innuendo or outright lie.  "If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless."  (James 1:26). 

To further highlight the lack of true godliness extant among the religious leaders of that day is the nature of the accusation.  It was nothing less than hate-filled racism.  So filled with hubris and self-righteousness, they ignored the truth of God's word, the truth of their own laws, and the real truth of the situation. 

1. Paul was not guilty of their accusation.  In fact, he went to great lengths to conform to expectations (21:22-26).   No matter about the facts, their minds were made up.

2. The Law allowed for those of other nations (Gentiles), to worship at the Temple.  Indeed, one entire area was called "the court of the Gentiles."  What flared the rumor was they supposed that Gentiles with Paul went further into the Temple than allowed.  There remained, however, such distrust that the Jews became more concerned with protecting their false purity than being excited about others turning to God.  At the root, however, was that the Temple authorities counted Paul as a traitor and wanted to assassinate him.

3. From the time of Abraham and through the writings of the prophets, the LORD had foretold of Gentiles being included in the family of faith.  "...and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed" (Genesis 12:3b).  The Jews, by their true worship of God, were to be a light for the Gentiles to come to faith.  In rebuking the priests, Malachi wrote, "For from the rising of the sun to its setting my name will be great among the nations, and in every place incense will be offered to my name, and a pure offering.  For my name will be great among the nations, says the LORD of hosts." (Malachi 1:11).  Restoring the spiritual life of the Jews and including the Gentiles in the faith is why the Messiah came.  "...to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach the end of the earth" (Isaiah 49:6b).  Much of the mention of Gentiles in the prophetic writings has to do with the time of the restored kingdom to Israel during the Millennial reign of Christ.  But throughout there is an inclusion of all people to repent and come to faith in the LORD.

That's not the way I would have done It

 Read Acts 21.

Can a person acting in the will of God be misunderstood?
Can a person dismiss good counsel by godly people and still be in the will of God?
Can a person living in the center of God's will suffer?

The Apostle Paul declared in Acts 20:22 that he was "constrained by the Spirit" to go to Jerusalem.  He wanted to be there in time for the annual Pentecost celebration.  He hand carried a collection for the poor and needed to deliver it to the church at Jerusalem (24:17).

However, along the way, he was warned of the danger in going to Jerusalem.  Paul had once been a trusted leader of the Sanhedrin to pursue, arrest, and stop the followers of Jesus.  When Paul became a believer, the Temple leadership sanctioned his assassination.  Some disciples in Tyre, "in the Spirit", told him not to go.  And, then, at Caesarea, Agabus dramatically warned him with "Thus says the Holy Spirit".  Some have misinterpreted this to be stubbornness on Paul's part in not listening to wisdom.  Rather, these statements are concerns of friends who did not want to see Paul suffer or worse, be killed.  Their statements are accurate from the Holy Spirit of what would take place but they do not contradict the will of God for Paul to go.

We should listen to those who have our best interests at heart.  We should take into consideration godly counsel.  We must be aware of our own weaknesses, ego, pride, selfish goals, and stubbornness.  Such things are sinful and will never achieve the will of God for our lives.  Seeking God's face, obeying His word and His will are imperatives.  And, what may be the plan of God for one, may not be what God wants from another.  Paul later wrote, "So then each one of us will give an account of himself to God." (Romans 14:12)

Indeed, Paul stated that He was doing what the Holy Spirit led him to do regardless of the consequences.  "For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus" (v.13).  At Jerusalem, in an attempt not to be misunderstood, he was falsely accused, beaten, and arrested just before the mob would have killed him.  He was never a free man after this incident.  But, even then he could honestly and publicly say, "...I have lived before God in all good conscience up to this day" (23:1).

Every day and every decision provides a self-check to be sure we are right where God wants us to be, doing what He wants us to do.

 

6 marks of godly Leadership

 Read Acts 20.

Paul was a man on mission.  His focus majored on fulfilling God's purpose for his life.  The personal cost was of no consideration to him.  "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God." (v.24)

One of hallmarks of Paul's ministry was not only this dogged determination as to what he did but how he served.  In preparing the Ephesian leaders for his departure, he recounted for them some important leadership keys from his own example.  No less than six of these appear in verses 17-24.

1. Character.
Here the great Apostle Paul did not "lord it over" others with his authority.  Though he certainly could have been, he was not bossy.  He served with "all humility", even providing for himself financially as need be (18:3). 

2. Compassion.
He desired that others would come to know Christ and to be saved from an eternity of punishment.  This was not just sound doctrine for him.  He genuinely cared for people to the point of weeping over their spiritual needs.

3. Conflict.
Everywhere he went there was opposition, rejection, and worse.  Sharing the Gospel is spiritual war.  The devil will do whatever he can to discourage, stop, and get rid of the messenger.  Time and again, there were crowds demonically fueled with hatred and murder for no reason other than Paul had helped people and preached a message of forgiveness.  Through it all, he remained unwavering in his personal faith and world mission.

4. Content.
Paul never changed his message no matter what.  He only looked for ways to deliver it.  He taught in synagogues, spoke in public forums such as Mars Hill, and in private homes.  Regardless of the context, he always spoke of "repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ."

5. Community.
In every place, Paul left behind a committed group of baptized believers; a local church.  These folks came from all walks of life.  The Gospel breaks down each culture's barriers to bring together as one the rich and poor, the Jew and the Greek, the male and the female, the young and the old.

He was bound by the Holy Spirit to keep on serving Jesus.  He could do nothing else.  God called him in Acts 9.  His marching orders in 9:15 were clear-"...to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel."  Knowing that there is great reward for those who faithfully serve the Lord, Paul wrote, "...as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death."

That is godly leadership!

 

Selfish motives that oppose Christ

 Read Acts 19.

Jesus said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me."

Followers of Jesus who faithfully share that message of "the Way" with others will experience the joy of seeing lives changed for eternity.  It is also true that not everyone will appreciate the narrow scope of what Jesus said.  Each one who rejects committing themselves to Christ does so with their own self-protective motives to their peril.

After some eighteen months in Corinth, Paul journeyed to Ephesus.  There, for the next two years, he taught the word of God and presented Jesus as the Messiah.  This chapter sites three incidents of rejection and reveals the core motives of each.

1. Some resist change. (vv.1-10)
Acts records several transitional events as the Gospel entered new territories.  These twelve men were Old Testament believers and had even experienced the baptism of John.  John's message of repentance from sin was in preparation for the revealing of the Messiah and the coming of the Holy Spirit (John 1:33).  But without the advantage of modern communications, they knew nothing else.  Paul taught them what they did not know and they responded positively.

For the next three months, Paul endeavored to convince the rest of the synagogue that Jesus was the Christ.  However, the unbelievers not only rejected the message but began saying evil things about it.  At the root was their own stubbornness.  They dug in their heels like an immovable mule.  In doing so, they sealed their fate of never being forgiven and suffering for eternity.

However, "all the residents of Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks" (v.10).

2. Some try to copy. (vv.11-20)
Christianity, with its message of forgiveness, life principles, and spiritual disciplines, become attractive to some who have no intentions of committing their lives to Jesus.  They go through the motions, living in pretense.  Many are merely drawn to a group of believers because of the music, the architecture, the traditions, etc.

The sons of this so-called Jewish high priest were enamored with the power of the Holy Spirit as  displayed in this unique season of Paul's ministry.  Seeing how the people responded, they wanted in on it.  In truth, they were phonies to begin with and now sought to increase their business by trying to copy Paul.  These seven men entered into a spiritual war unarmed.  They barely escaped with their lives.  The power was not in holding a meeting.  It was not in repeating certain words.  Without Jesus, people are on the losing side of the war.  With Jesus, believers have been issued "the whole armor of God" (Ephesians 610-18) and can stand firm in the battle that constantly rages.

"So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily." (v.20)

3. Some fear the cost. (vv.21-41)
When some in Ephesus turned to Jesus, they left the false worship of idols.  This struck fear in the heart of Demetrius.  He envisioned that he would lose future business.  He rallied the local business community against this "Way".  In turn, the city fell into a turmoil and near riot against Christians.

This tactic of Satan has not changed in over 2000 years.  Churches are almost never given any credit for the innumerable good they provide to their city in free services and ministries to people of all ages.  No government agency can match the effectiveness or the efficiency of a healthy local church that is on mission.  Yet, any Biblical truth of morality or decency is met with spiritual opposition.  That is to be expected.  The rejectors are Satanically motivated, loud, and speak ill of what they do not know.  And, verse 32 also remains true.  "Now  some cried out one thing, some another, for the assembly was in confusion, and most of them did not know why they had come together."

"...in almost all of Asia this Paul has persuaded and turned away a great many people, saying that gods made with hands are not gods." (v.26b)

No one worships Artemis any longer.  The myth died.  Jesus is alive!  Against all human and demonic opposition, the good news of the Way prevails and continues to spread throughout the world today.

 

Putting persecution into Perspective

 Read Acts 18.

The current world-wide persecution of believers in Jesus is little reported in the news and, in fact, is not new.

Such reactions to the proclamation of the gospel are recorded in many of the chapters in the book of Acts.  Peter and John were arrested and even beaten.  Their crimes were healing a lame man and preaching that Jesus is the only way to be saved from sin.  Deacon Stephen was the first recorded martyr of the church.  His crime was preaching Jesus.  Many believers fled Judea due to persecution, fearing for their lives.  Saul pursued them in order to arrest them and bring them back to Jerusalem.  Then, he became the object of assassination attempts by religious leaders. 

The Apostle James was beheaded.  Paul and Barnabas were met with opposition wherever they went.  Paul was stoned by the Jews in Lystra and left for dead.  Paul and Silas were arrested in Philippi and beaten.  In Thessalonica, a mob ran them out of town.  Jason and other believers were detained and let go only after they paid money.

Claudius, the Roman Emperor from 41-54 A.D., "commanded all Jews to leave Rome".  Aquila and Priscilla, a godly and spiritually mature Jewish couple, found their way to Corinth. Then, joining Paul in ministry with others, they again experienced persecution.  By verse 12, it became a "united attack" as the group of believers were brought before Gallio, the proconsul.  Their crime was that they believed Jesus to be the Messiah.  Despite the fact that the case was dismissed as malicious prosecution, the revilers publicly beat Sosthenes.  The government stood by and did nothing.

Christian pilgrims left various parts of Europe and sailed to the new world due to religious persecution.  The organizing of several states in the colonies were for the express purpose of protecting Christian beliefs.  (For examples, see the history of the founding of Virginia and Rhode Island.)  Today, the United States, once the world leader of freedom and individual rights, is on the verge of attempting to force Biblical Christians to not only accept sinful behaviors but to publicly participate and approve them.

Are we disappointed?  Often.  Yet, wherever the good news of Jesus is presented lives are eternally changed.  There is no reason for the ones who have committed themselves to Christ to be discouraged.  Our hope and peace was never in this world.  The Scriptures have well-prepared us, including the final chapters of earth's story.  "I have said these things to you, that in me (Jesus) you may have peace.  In the world you will have tribulation.  But take heart; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

Religion without Christ

 Read Acts 17.

Athens may have been the debate capital of the world at that time.  The city was full of religious beliefs.  Of course, they were man-made and presented as deified philosophies.  Idols were crafted to represent each of them.  They worshipped gods, but they did not know God.  When Paul began teaching about Jesus, it sounded so strange and different that they gave him an audience.  The content of Paul's message provides the core elements of true Christianity; the essence of the Bible's teaching from Genesis to Revelation.  What did the Apostle say to these religious philosophers of his day?

1. The true God is the Creator of all things. (v.24a)
Creation is not merely an issue concerning the opening chapters of Genesis.  Creator is who God is.  He did this, according to the Scriptures, out of nothing by His word of command.  Indeed, in his letter to the Colossians, Paul identifies Jesus as the Creator (Colossians 1:16).  Any other view then is a belief in a man-made, unproven, philosophical theory and is incompatible with Christ.

2. The true God is spirit. (vv.24b, 29)
Jesus said, "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth." (John 4:24)  Paul mentioned this fact in contrast to the multiplicity of temples and idols that had been erected for all the false gods and objects of their prayers.  The God of the Bible does not live in buildings and objects.  Worshiping and praying to anyone or anything else is not Christianity.

3. The true God is self-sufficient. (v.25a)
He does not need humans to provide anything for Him.  Until we deal with our sin problem, there is no amount of good works that we can do to earn His favor.  Isaiah 64:6, "...all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.  We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away."  So, all the sacrifices and offerings made to appease a false god is not Christianity.

4. The true God is the giver of life. (v.25b)
As Creator, either God is the First Cause of life and breath of all things or He is not.  It is clear that the statements in the Bible stand in contradiction to man-made theories regarding a big bang or primeval ooze or pre-adamic humanoids.  Explosions and eons of time do not create.  Attributing life and breath to any other original source is not Christianity.

5. The true God is sovereign. (v.26)
He is in control and Lord of all.  He set the species to reproduce after their kind.  There may be, and are, variations but still within their kind.  He established the places for life and living.  This began with the creation of “one man”.  The Greeks were not in charge of their own destiny.   Man-made philosophies of evolution and humanism are in opposition to Christianity.

6. The true God is judge of all things. (v.31a)
There is an appointed time when every human who has ever lived will stand in judgment before this Almighty God.  Those who have given their lives to Jesus will have been previously rewarded for their service to Christ and will not face this judgment.  Jesus said, "The Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son." (John 5:22).  Revelation 20:11-15 describes the horror of those who trusted in false beliefs being cast into a place of eternal punishment.  Omitting this ultimate consequence of sin is not Christianity.

Where is the proof?  “…he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.” (v.31)
What is the point of the message?  "That they should seek God..." (v.27) and "...now he commands all people everywhere to repent" (v.30).

 

Recognizing Divine Encounters

 Read Acts 16.

Unless one is in solitude, we meet and interact with other people multiple times a day.  Every person has value to God.  Every person is on this earth for a God-ordained reason.  Every person will spend eternity somewhere.  Every person is in need of the Savior.  Every person is carrying a burden.  Every person is in need of encouragement to fulfill their God-given purpose.

This chapter begins the account of the second missionary journey.  Barnabas took his relative John Mark to revisit Cyprus.  Paul teamed with Silas to revisit the churches of Galatia and to move into new territory.  First, he went right back to the very place where he had been stoned and left for dead.  Those new believers needed to hear the Council's decisions (Acts 15) and they could use more of his teaching and encouragement.  But along the way, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Luke recorded a few of those Divine encounters that forever changed lives.  These four examples provide some reminders for us all.

1. What we see in people. (vv.1-5)
Obviously, Timothy was a fine young believer and eager to serve.  Paul saw ministry and leadership potential in him and desired to take Timothy on the rest of the trip.  This mentoring relationship allowed Paul to pour his life into a future pastor.  Paul treated him as a son (2 Timothy 2:1) and, later, Paul wrote two pastoral letters to Timothy.  There is no mention of his Greek father.  Only his Jewish mother is mentioned in verse 1.  But, both his mother and grandmother are named in 2 Timothy 1:5 as godly women who passed on their faith to him.

2. Where we find people. (vv.6-15)
Paul traveled west through Asia Minor, being led by the Spirit, until he could go no further.  The vision of a man calling for help from Macedonia resulted in the Gospel being taken into Europe.  At Philippi, unexpectedly, the man in the vision turned out to be a godly woman named Lydia.  Paul immediately recognized this as a Divine encounter.  She, along with the other praying women, became the nucleus of the church there.  Later, Paul would write to the Philippians to further encourage their faith and Christian behaviors.

3. What hurting people need. (vv.16-25)
She was demon-possessed, and her owners used her as a so-called fortune-teller.  For days, as Paul and Silas endeavored to present the good news of Jesus, the demon kept up a loud harassment.  This was raw spiritual war.  Paul did not respond to her at first, but he reached a point where he had had enough.  When he exorcised the demon, the harassing stopped.  There is no mention of anyone being glad at the deliverance of this young girl.  Her owners, having lost their income from her, caused Paul and Silas to be arrested and imprisoned.  He did the right thing in this Divine encounter and suffered for it.

4. How we unexpectedly treat people. (vv.26-40)
This unnamed jailer was simply doing his job.  Paul and Silas did not bemoan the ill treatment but prayed and sang.  This was an unusual response from inmates.  Previously in Acts, an angel miraculously led Peter out of jail and the jailers paid for it with their lives.  Here, the cell doors were all opened and no one left.  Realizing that his life had been spared, God got this man's full attention.  His question remains classic: "What must I do to be saved?"  The simple answer remains the same as well: "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved."  He and his entire family came to faith in Christ.  Ironically, when Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians it was from another prison cell.

A person on mission is always praying and looking for opportunities that fulfill the purpose of the mission.  Divine encounters are everywhere, all the time.

 

Is it Law or Grace?

 Read Acts 15.

Indeed, Acts is a record of transitions.  This council meeting in chapter 15 underscores, perhaps, the greatest of those changes.
 
Approximately a decade had passed since Peter took the Gospel to the Gentile home of Cornelius in chapter 10.  Paul and Barnabas expanded the ministry of Jesus as far as Galatia in chapters 13 and 14.  The question being debated here is completely understandable.  If the Old Testament Law is all one has, and it is the word of God, then how does it fit with this new faith in Jesus?  The protesters wanted these Gentile believers to not just have respect for the roots of their faith but to obey the Old Testament Law also.  The issue included much more than circumcision, as Peter indicates in verse 10 and as Paul wrote to the Galatians in order to clarify the debate in Galatians 5:3.

The question at hand has to do with the true definition of legalism; keeping the Old Testament law in conjunction with salvation.  The term has often been misused to apply to any expectation of Christian living one does not particularly like.  Notice the key phrases Peter uses to articulate salvation and to clarify the truth.

1. "...having cleansed their hearts by faith." (v.9)
That is the assurance or confidence in the message that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and paid the debt we owed in full.  The proof is in His resurrection from the dead.  And, that simple, personal, child-like belief alone results in the cleansing of all our sin.

2. "...saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus..." (v.11)
There is nothing one can do to earn grace.  Grace is a gift.  If there was anything we must do for our salvation, then it is no longer a gift and, therefore, no longer grace.

The Apostle Paul later wrote to the Ephesians believers, "For by grace you have been saved through faith.  And this is not your own doing; it is a gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

But freedom from the demands of the Law is not a license to sin and live in an undisciplined manner.  The New Testament is filled with do's and don'ts for the believer in Christ.  James included three that seemed to be priorities that arose from the debates.  Again, it is not legalism to hold each other accountable for holy and obedient living.  Much of the first half of the book of Romans addresses this very issue.

"Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions.  Do not present your members to sin as instruments of unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments of righteousness.  For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace." (Romans 6:12-14)

 

5 essentials for sustaining Ministry

 Read Acts 14.

Jesus said, in Acts 1:8 "...and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."  This verse provides a broad outline of the book of Acts.  In chapters 1-7, the ministry took place in the city of Jerusalem.  In chapters 8-12, largely due to persecution, the ministry expanded to the provinces of Judea and Samaria.  From chapter 13 on, the primary geographical focus is on spreading the Gospel to new territories.  The account in chapters 13-14 is commonly referred to as the first missionary journey.

In verse 4, they are called "apostles."  This is in the dictionary sense of the word: "a delegate" or one who is sent.  They had been sent by the church at Antioch and in verses 26-28, they reported back to that congregation.  Paul and Barnabas taught Jews in the synagogues and sought opportunities to preach to Gentiles.  But when "a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed" (v.1), Satan intensified the spiritual war.  The opposition was so great they were forced to move on.

At Lystra, Paul healed a lame man.  The response from those who believed in the myth of celestial deities, wrongly interpreted the true power of God.  Seizing the opportunity, Paul urged them to "turn from these vain things to a living God."  In verses 15-17, he presented God as the Creator of all things, the One who blessed them with common grace, who had been trying to get their attention ("witness" see Romans 1), who is the source of their food, and provides the ability to enjoy this life with fulfillment and joy.  With that they stoned Paul and left him for dead.  Miraculously, Paul revived and continued the ministry.  He even went right back to the city that stoned him (v.21).

This flies right into the face of those who propagate the health and wealth gospel.  "Receive Jesus, think good thoughts, and everything will go well."  The Scriptures dispel that false teaching quickly.  "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."  It is not something we go looking for and certainly is not to be the result of any offensive behavior on our part.  A commitment to Jesus first causes one to live differently than others.  This difference is not always welcomed by unbelievers.  Second, the message of Jesus presents an either-or decision.  Unbelievers may condemn such a message as narrow-minded and an affront to their made-up beliefs.

How could Paul and Barnabas leave new followers of Christ in this territory?  What would they say and do?  In verses 22-23, they did five things that would sustain the ministry.
1. They strengthened their souls.  Surely, these events shook the faith of these new believers.  Nothing will reestablish, confirm and strengthen our faith like the Scriptures.  Our confidence is not in our circumstances but the unchanging Word of God.  It is our only offensive weapon in this spiritual war (Ephesians 6:17).
2. They encouraged their faith.  Speaking words of comfort, they urged them to be faithful no matter what happens.
3. They reminded them of persecution.  Trouble, anguish, and opposition because of our faith is to be expected.  It comes with being a part of a different kingdom than the one of this world.  We live in enemy territory.
4. They appointed leaders.  This was an official recognition of some spiritual men who could continue reaching the lost and ministering to these new followers of Christ.
5. They prayed and fasted.  Keeping our eyes on Jesus is the key to endurance (Hebrews 11:2)

 

4 results from presenting the Gospel

 Read Acts 13.

The church at Antioch became the launching point for taking the Gospel to the rest of the Roman Empire.  Its leadership reveals a multi-ethnic and diverse congregation.  This was far different from the homogeneous make-up of the church in Jerusalem.

Barnabas was a Levite from Cyprus.
Simeon's Latin nickname, Niger, means black or dark.
Lucius was from an area in present day Libya.
Manaen was politically connected and a "lifelong friend of Herod" Antipas.
Saul, of the tribe of Benjamin, had been a Pharisee and persecutor of believers in Christ.

Only God could have put this group together.  Their unity was based on their mutual faith and commitment to Jesus.

Sending out the team of Barnabas and Saul was not just an opportunity they planned.  It was a calling, or summons, of the Holy Spirit after much prayer and fasting.

Their first mission took them through Barnabas' home territory of Cyprus.  Almost immediately they were met with demonic opposition.  It was at this incident that Saul became known as Paul for the first time and appears to assume the leadership.  As a side note, John (also known by his Latin name, Mark, the writer of the second Gospel and a cousin of Barnabas) went home.  From Cyprus, the missionaries journeyed to and preached in Pamphylia.  Then, they went further north to Pisidia in the larger area known as Galatia.

When Paul preached, it resulted in three types of responses:
1. Some Jews wanted to hear more, and some believed.

2. The Gentiles rejoiced "glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed."
3. Some rallied influential leaders of the people to persecute Paul and Barnabas.  They were driven out of town.
4. "The disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit."

Faithfully serving God in the face of opposition is turned to joy when we get to see lives changed for eternity.

 

2 lessons learned the hard Way

 Read Acts 12.

In 47 B.C., Julius Caesar appointed Herod the Great to rule as king over Judea.  Herod was part Jewish and was considered a friend to the Jews.  He was the first of four generations of Herod's mentioned in the New Testament. 
-Herod the Great murdered the Bethlehem boys under the age of two in Matthew 2.
-Herod Antipas executed John, the Baptist in Mark 6 and saw Jesus before him in Luke 23.
-Herod Agrippa I executed James, the brother of John, and sixteen of his trusted guards in Acts 12.
-Herod Agrippa II heard the testimony of the Apostle Paul in Acts 25-26.

The national rejection of Jesus as the Messiah did not stop with the crucifixion.  The next goal was to put an end to any belief in Jesus.  Herod was only too eager to seize upon the opportunity to increase his popularity and influence.  We are not told why James had been singled out.  But, seeing the response of the Jews to this execution, he set his sights on Peter.  This time sixteen guards were assigned to secure Peter in prison in around the clock shifts.    

Two lessons should be learned here by those who believe and those who do not.
1. Belief in Jesus is an eternal, spiritual commitment.  No argument, governmental edict, prison, or execution has any power or authority against the Holy Spirit.  The Gospel is unstoppable.  Read the last four chapters of the Bible.  Jesus has already recorded the victory over all His enemies.  He is the King of kings and the Lord of lords.

2. Prayer works.  We do not always know what the will of God is, but our faithfulness to ask and trust Him no matter the outcome is a command from Jesus.  He will be honored by every life, one way or the other.  Yes, Peter was delivered.  No, James was not delivered.  Herod refused to give God His rightful glory.  He rejected Jesus, suffered at the end of his time on earth, and is now in eternal suffering for his unwillingness to repent of his sin.

"But the word of God increased and multiplied." (v.24)

 

Transitioning to a new Identity

 Read Acts 11.

The transition continued as Gentiles came to faith in Jesus and Jewish believers moved from Law and traditions to grace.  During this time, the questions and misunderstandings would have been predictable.  Indeed, the tension builds up to chapter 15.

When Peter explained what had happened, the questioners "glorified God" that the Gentiles were repenting of their sin and believing in Jesus as they did.  The Holy Spirit made it plain that there is "no distinction" (v.12) and, even stronger, Peter added, "who am I to stand in God's way?"  Those who treat people differently because of their race stand in God's way.

The geographical spread of the Gospel is carefully tracked in the book of Acts.  The persecution of believers in Jerusalem had caused them to flee into other parts of the Roman Empire.  Peter had been in the coastal city of Joppa.  He journeyed north to Cornelius' home.  This area was known as Phoenicia.  But they were also aware that believers had left the country and gone to the island of Cyprus and to Antioch, Syria.

Next, the church in Jerusalem sent Barnabas to encourage those in Antioch.  Realizing that teaching help was needed and some time had passed, Barnabas personally enlisted Saul from Tarsus in the Roman province of Cilicia.  This dynamic partnership solidified the church at Antioch over time.  It was here that believers were first called Christians.  That was not a denomination but a label that they were committed followers of Jesus Christ.  It separated them from Judaism.  The term is only used here, in Acts 26:28, and in 1 Peter 4:16: "Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name."

Carrying the name of Christ as one's label in life is a sobering responsibility. It requires us to daily seek to glorify His name in the way we live.

 

How God dealt with bigotry and Racism

 Read Acts 10.

From the time God chose to work through Abraham and his descendants, Gentiles were included in the promise.  "...and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed" (Genesis 12:3c).  The promise in Acts 1:8, foretold that the good news of Jesus would spread "to the ends of the earth." 

The initial spreading of the message came as a result of persecution of believers in Jerusalem and Judea.  Philip officially took the message to Samaria.  In Acts 9:17, the Lord Himself announced that Saul of Tarsus would be especially appointed to minister to the Gentiles.  With each step in the expansion of the Gospel, the Apostles were involved.  Peter and John were sent to Samaria to confirm the ministry there.  Here in chapter 10, Peter was sent by the Lord to officially begin Gentile inclusion in the church.

Cornelius, a Roman centurion, did not know everything about Jesus, but he acted on the knowledge he had in worshiping the Lord.  His godly behavior was well-known and characterized by two elements: prayer and financial generosity.  This confirms what the Apostle Paul taught in Romans 1.  When someone does seek to know the true and living God, He will insure that they receive the knowledge that they need.

If the ministry in chapter 8 was considered a racial and cultural breakthrough, this chapter broke the sound barrier!  Peter's statement in verse 28 was, "You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation."  This was a taboo.  It just was not done.  God had to dramatically and graphically prepare Peter to cross this line, to erase the bigotry, and change his view of other human beings.  As a result, Peter invited the three Gentile visitors to stay with him overnight and then he entered Cornelius' home.  He even stayed with them "for some days" (v.48).

Note in verse 26, bowing down to an Apostle was forbidden by Peter.  "I too am a man."

 

Cornelius assembled all his family and friends.  Peter’s message underscored the Great Commission.  "Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him."  He preached forgiveness of sin by faith in the crucified and resurrected Jesus.  The Holy Spirit demonstrably confirmed that Gentiles could enjoy the same faith and experience as others.  Then, in accordance with the Great Commission, the believers were baptized.

 

A time to Intervene

 Read Acts 9.

The zeal of Saul had intensified.  He knew that some believers in "the Way" were fleeing outside of Judea.  He received arrest authority from the high priest to pursue and apprehend Christians in Damascus, Syria.  Imprisonment or death would be the outcome of a swift Temple trial. 

1. But Jesus intervened. (vv.3-9)
Surely, Saul reasoned his anger was righteous.  He thought he was doing God a favor.  Do not miss the question Jesus asked?  He did not ask why Saul persecuted Christians but why Saul was persecuting "Me" (Jesus)?  When the followers of Christ are under attack for their faith, Jesus takes it personally.

The Lord revealed Himself with a blinding light and a voice from heaven.  This event and subsequent days softened Saul's heart, began to retrain his mind, took away the spiritual blindness, and opened his ears to the truth.  Who would trust him?  Perhaps, he was pretending so he could infiltrate the believers. 

2. But Ananias obediently went to him. (vv.10-26)
He embraced Saul and baptized him.  Being out of the country provided Saul an opportunity to safely preach Jesus in the synagogues of Damascus for a while.  When the Temple authorities got word of Saul's changed life, they sent a team to assassinate him.  Boldly, Saul returned to Jerusalem and openly proclaimed his new faith.  The disciples there were afraid of him.

3. But Barnabas befriended him.  (vv.27-30)
He even stood up for Saul before the Apostles.  Because Paul was from Tarsus, he could communicate freely to the Greek-speaking Jews with credibility.  The pressure against him, however, continued to mount.  The brothers sent him to back to Tarsus for safety.

With the number one persecutor of Christians now a believer in Jesus, there was a period of peace for believers throughout Israel. 

4. But peace did not mean the church relaxed. (v.31) 
They grew spiritually.  They lived obediently to the Lord.  The Holy Spirit comforted them.  Their numbers multiplied.

A timely intervention by the Lord and a friend is a good thing.  We all need it occasionally and we all know someone who needs us to come alongside them at a strategic time in their life.

 

 

What happens when Christians are persecuted?

 Read Acts 8.

The environment went from being hostile toward believers in Jesus to murder and imprisonment.  The Sanhedrin appointed a young enthusiast by the name of Saul of Tarsus to lead the persecution (7:58, 9:1-2).  The bad news is that Christ followers began leaving Judea, fleeing for their lives.  The good news is that they spread the message of Jesus everywhere they went.  In Acts 1:8, Jesus foretold that the message would be proclaimed in "Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."  Now, Philip, one of the seven selected to serve the church in chapter 6, officially took the Gospel of Jesus to Samaria.

1. Signs confirmed the message.
This was not exactly virgin territory.  Previously, Jesus opened this door of belief at the Samaritan city of Sychar (John 4).  But the message of the death, burial and resurrection would have been new to them.  Like Stephen, Philip had no Bible, just Old Testament knowledge, a personal salvation, and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.  In this transitional period of time in the book of Acts, God used the miracles of healing and exorcism to confirm the validity of the message preached.  The result was that "there was much joy in that city."  The believers were baptized as a public demonstration of their personal faith in Jesus (v.12).

2. The Spirit confirmed the ministry.
Other passages in the New Testament are clear that the Holy Spirit indwells the believer in Jesus at the moment of salvation (Romans 8:9).  However, here there is an abnormality.  Peter and John were sent by the Apostles to confirm the Samaritan ministry.  For God's own purposes, the indwelling of the Spirit was delayed in this instance until the Apostles arrived.  This happened in Acts 2 in Judea.  It occurred here as the church was being established for the first time in Samaria.  Another abnormality like this is recorded in Acts 10 as Peter officially took the Gospel to the Gentiles (10:44-45).  Step by step the word of God was being spread.

3. Baptism confirmed personal belief.
Next, Philip had a divine encounter with the treasury official of Ethiopia.  As a man of wealth, he possessed his own copy of at least Isaiah.  As a foreigner and a eunuch, he would have been denied access to full worship at the Temple.  But, despite this and his pagan culture, he had traveled to Jerusalem in order worship God.  As Philip explained Isaiah's message and told of Jesus, either he mentioned baptism or the eunuch knew of it.  His question and Philip's answer is clear.  Christian baptism is only for those personally believe in Jesus as Savior.  There is no power in the water.  Without personal faith, there is no meaning.  Being lowered into the water pictures a death to the old self.  Being brought up out of the water pictures being raised to a new life in Christ.    It is what the Holy Spirit has already done on the inside of the believer. (Romans 6:4)

A case against Compromise

 Read Acts 7.

This is one of those chapters that causes us to pause and realize we are treading on some holy ground.  Stephen, a recently appointed Deacon in the Jerusalem church, was arrested for preaching that Jesus was the Christ.  Like Jesus, he was brought before the council and falsely accused by lying witnesses.  When given his opportunity to respond, Stephen delivered one of the strongest messages in the Bible.

Amazingly, with the few resources available to him, Stephen succinctly and accurately walked through the rudimentary teachings of Genesis (verses 2-16) and Exodus (verses 17-44).  Then, briefly mentioned Moses' successor, Joshua and two of Israel's kings, David and Solomon.  Along the way, he quoted Amos 5:25- 27 and Isaiah 66:1-2 from memory.  This he did in front of the nation's learned leaders and scholars of the Sanhedrin.

In the New Testament accounts, the council was always offended when a person outside their ranks instructed them in the Scriptures.  But what really set them off was Stephen's closing paragraph in verses 51-53.  He bluntly and rightly accused them of the following:
-Stiff-necked.  In other words they were obstinate, stubborn and unyielding.
-Uncircumcised in heart and ears.  They performed an outward religiosity but had hardened their hearts toward God and could no longer hear the truth of God's word.
-Resisting the Holy Spirit.  Jesus said in John 16:8-14 the Holy Spirit would convict of sin, convince of truth, and point people to glorify Jesus.  But because they rejected the truth, they rejected the Holy Spirit's attempts to prick their conscience.
-Persecuting preachers of truth.   Stephen tied them directly to those who rejected the Old Testament prophets.
-Murdering Jesus.  It was this High Priest and this council that took Jesus to Pilate and stirred up the crowd to chant for Barabbas.
-Did not keep the law.  The pride of these religious leaders, especially the Pharisees, was their idealism in perfectly obeying the Law of Moses and their traditions.

Instead of being broken hearted and repenting before God of their multiple sins, they became angry and filled with such resentment that they immediately committed their second recorded murder.

Taking such a bold stand for the faith cost Stephen his life.  However, there was One in heaven who personally observed the entire incident and was pleased with His servant.  Jesus allowed Stephen to get an advance glimpse of the throne.  Indeed, he saw Jesus, not sitting but standing to welcome home this faithful man with those words of "well done."   

In a secular culture that increasingly demands Christ followers to be accepting of sin,
In a religious culture where the Bible is forsaken for cultural acceptance,
In a positive thinking culture that encourages a prosperity gospel with good thoughts and words of peace toward everyone,
Stephen provides a benchmark of one who obeys God rather than men.

 

Church leadership 101

 Read Acts 6.

With the explosive growth of the church in Jerusalem came the first recorded dissension.  Though most would have been bilingual in speaking Aramaic and Greek, there existed some tension between those Jews native to Israel, Jews who moved there from outside the country, and Gentiles who embraced faith in Jesus.

The environment of generosity, mentioned in chapter two, particularly benefited the widows and others who struggled within the congregation.  Criticism arose that the Greek speaking widows "were being neglected."  To put an end to the criticism, the Apostles appointed seven men to be charge.  All seven had Greek names.

This is the first mention of delegation of responsibilities in the church.  And, it is the simplest of leadership plans.
1. There were those who devoted themselves "to prayer and the ministry of the word" (v.4).
2. There were those who served to meet specific needs.

However, ministering in the name of Jesus, representing the body of believers, and fulfilling a fiduciary assignment required much more than a willingness to serve.  Each was selected based upon their personal reputation, personal character, and an obvious godliness.  The result was two-fold: a)the original criticism is never mentioned again in Scripture; b)"And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith."

These men, often referred to as the first Deacons in the church, could also minister the word of God.  Stephen is immediately mentioned as speaking for Christ and defending the faith.  In chapter 7, he became the first recorded martyr for Christ.  Philip led the Ethiopian to Jesus and baptized him in chapter 8.  In Acts 21, when the Apostle Paul made his way back to Jerusalem, he stopped in Caesarea to see Philip.  There Philip is called "the evangelist, who was one of the seven."

So, while the assignment to serve may have seemed merely practical, it is obvious that each one was involved in obeying the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20).  The Deacons knew the Scriptures and led others to Jesus.

 

What confidence in God's word will Bring

 Read Acts 5.

The church in Jerusalem was growing by the thousands.  In chapter 2 there were 3,000 baptized believers who had banded together for mutual spiritual growth, accountability, and service.  "And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved." (2:47)  In 4:4, the number of believers had grown to 5,000.  Here in 5:14, the congregation was expanding exponentially.  "And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women..."

The twelve Apostles continued to lead, to minister to the human needs of the sick and afflicted, and to preach publicly.  This became an overwhelming challenge to the religious leaders.  Jealousy motivated the Sanhedrin to react.  Without charge of a crime, the Apostles were arrested and imprisoned.  But the word of God would not be silenced. 

Verse 19 records the first of three times in Acts where God opened prison doors.  The angel told them to preach on the Temple steps.  Their mission was to "speak to the people all the words of this Life."  Jesus said, "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly" (John 10:10b)  And, later Jesus added, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life." (John 14:6)  They proclaimed Jesus, crucified for our sins and raised as proof of being the Messiah, God in the flesh.

Though the council threatened them to stop, by the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, these men stood firm.  "We must obey God rather than men" (v.29).  The only hope the Sanhedrin had was that, perhaps, this Jesus movement would die out on its own.  It did not.  It continues to grow day by day, "more than ever."

Beaten and released, the Apostles rejoiced "that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name" (v.41).  That is certainly not a natural response to be being falsely arrested, threatened, and beaten.  But faith in Jesus provides the believer with an eternal perspective on temporal circumstances. 

2 Timothy 3:12 reminds us, "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."  That is, not "may" but "will".  We do not go looking for such rejection, but in the process of living a changed life not everyone will appreciate our stand for the Scriptures.  Our message, our standards for living, and our ultimate judge are not the result of popular vote or denominational decision but the unchanging word of God.  

 

Elements of a confident Faith

Read Acts 4.

Peter and John continued to publicly proclaim the resurrected Jesus.  With a large crowd gathered at the Temple, it did not take long for the religious leaders to react.  When they heard the message from Peter and John and saw the response of the people, they felt threatened.  Crucifixion did not stop Jesus.  He is alive.  They had to stop the Apostles.  Peter and John were arrested and spent the night in jail without being charged of any wrong.

The next day, the Sanhedrin met to confront and intimidate the men.  Their questions and concerns were multiple and not all were voiced.
 
1. Authority (v.7)
The Sanhedrin saw themselves as the only ones to authorize the teaching about God and the Scriptures.  The problem was that the Pharisees held their traditions in equal or higher authority than the Old Testament.  The Sadducees did not go beyond the Pentateuch in their reverence for Scripture and they did not believe in the resurrection of anyone, let alone Jesus.  And since Peter and John had not been educated as they were (v.13), there was no respect for these disciples.

Peter's answer to "what power or by what name did you do this?" was direct and clear.  He spoke by the name (authority) of Jesus "whom you crucified."

2. Evidence (v.14)
What prompted this scene began in chapter 3 with the healing of a 40-year-old lame man.  The man had been unable to walk since birth.  This well-known beggar outside the Temple was "walking and leaping and praising God" (3:8).  The miracle validated the message.  God's power displayed was a "sign" to them (v.15).  "They had nothing to say in opposition."

Faced with such undeniable evidence of this man and the empty tomb, their hard hearts rejected what God was trying to say to them.  This falls into the category of "Don't bother me with the facts.  My mind is made up."  Since no crime had been committed, only good, all they could do was dismiss Peter and John (v.15).

3. Boldness (vv.23-37)
How were these followers of Christ able to stand up for their faith in this way?  First, they were filled with the Spirit (v.8).  They yielded themselves to God's authority and control.  As a result, they spoke with boldness, or "frankness, bluntness," with confidence.  A person who has doubts about the truthfulness of God's word and lacks the empowerment of the Holy Spirit will speak hesitantly of their faith and allow for other opinions.  Afterwards, they prayed to be able to continue to speak with boldness.

Note that they were not being obnoxious in their boldness.  Their great confidence was in the uniqueness of the message.  "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved" (v.12).  

 

The miracle and the Message

 Read Acts 3.

God used the miracles to validate the message.  Peter and John healed this man whom everyone knew had been lame since birth.  The news spread and a crowd gathered.  This provided a spontaneous preaching opportunity.

In some fifteen verses, we have a full gospel presentation to the people of Israel.  Here Peter synthesized the key Old Testament prophecies and declared that Jesus is the Messiah.  The key elements are all here.

1. The Gospel. (v.15)
The Apostle Paul defined the Gospel as: "that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures" (1 Corinthians 15:1-3).

2. Personal Repentance. (v.19 and 26)
Turning from one's sin and turning to Jesus by faith in Him alone results in forgiveness by God; "blotted out," literally "to obliterate" or wipe away one's sin debt.

3. National Restoration. (vv. 20-21)
All the prophecies concerning a future king and the restoration of the kingdom on earth will be fulfilled when Jesus returns.  That kingdom will last for one thousand years (Revelation 20:1-6).

4. The Promised Prophet. (v.22-23)
Peter claimed that Jesus was/is that person of whom Moses prophesied in Deuteronomy 18.

5. The Abrahamic Covenant. (v.25)
God has not forgotten nor reneged on His everlasting promises to Israel.  In Genesis 12, 15 and 17.  God made an unconditional, one-party covenant.  It included:
-Land.  The boundaries are given in Genesis 15:18-20.
-Descendants.  The family of Abraham would become innumerable.
-Blessing.  God promised to bless those who bless Abraham's descendants and curse those who curse them.  In addition, "in you all the families of the earth will be blessed."  Humanly, Jesus is a descendant of Abraham and by faith in Him we get to enjoy the blessing.

6. To the Jews First. (v.26)
The Gospel was always intended to be offered to the entire world (John 10:16).  But the good news of Jesus began here with the Jews.  The Apostle Paul wrote to the Roman believers, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek." (Romans 1:16)

 

How to become and grow as a Christian

 Read Acts 2.

What better way to quickly spread the Gospel throughout the Roman world than this!  The Holy Spirit came upon these disciples as Jesus promised.  With Jews gathered in Jerusalem for the annual celebration of Pentecost, they heard "the mighty works of God" being proclaimed in their own languages.  This unusual event not only gained their attention and drew a crowd, but it provided a platform for Peter to preach the good news about Jesus.

As a nation, Israel had rejected Jesus.  The religious leaders of the day claimed Jesus was empowered by Satan.  Though the crucifixion took place "according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God" (v.23), the message presented human responsibility in no uncertain terms.  "This Jesus whom you crucified" (v.36).  Jesus taught in John 16 that the Holy Spirit would convict of sin.  "Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart" (v.37).

It is one thing to feel the pang of sin.  It is quite another to desire to resolve the problem.  When these listeners heard the message and were pricked in their conscience, they responded: "Brothers, what shall we do?"

The good news of Jesus is that forgiveness and life-change is available to all.  The remainder of this chapter provides an outline of what is required by all who desire to have eternal life and then to grow as a child of God.  
1. Repent.
The word means to turn.  It requires one to admit they have gone in the wrong direction and need to turn from sinning against God.  Then, realizing that Jesus died for our sins, one must turn to the Lord for forgiveness.  That repentance saves one from eternal judgment and births them into the family God.

2. Be baptized.
This is the New Testament means of outwardly and publicly declaring one's faith in Jesus.  There is no power in the water.  Being let down into the water and raised back up, symbolizes what took place already on the inside.  It is a picture of the death of the old self and that God has made that one a new creation in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17).

3. The gift of the Holy Spirit.
At the moment of salvation in Jesus, "you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit".  He takes up permanent residence in the life of the believer.  He is the seal and guarantee of our eternal life (Ephesians 1:13-14).  He affirms that we belong to Christ.  "Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him" (Romans 8:9b).

4. Added to the fellowship.
When a person was saved and baptized, they became an official part of the congregation of believers in Jerusalem.  The New Testament knows nothing about "lone ranger" Christians.  True believers gladly engage themselves in a committed body of believers for the purpose of mutual growth and service.  This, then, is God’s design of how one grows up spiritually and be all that God has designed that person to be.

 

6 characteristics of Christ's Return

 Read Acts 1.

For the forty days between the feasts of Passover and Pentecost, Jesus proved His resurrection from the dead.  Through touch, speech, walking and eating in various places with over 520 different people, the evidence of His bodily resurrection is undeniable.

In His last teaching with the eleven disciples, Jesus reviewed with them again the subject of His coming kingdom on earth.  The way we know that the subject was earthly, not the heavenly one, was due to the question in verse 6 and the use of the word "so".  It had been centuries since a descendant of David had occupied the throne and Israel had enjoyed control over its own nation.  Matthew 1 establishes that Jesus has such a royal right.  But the timing was not right.  There was much to do and much that needed to take place first.

Jesus gave them two charges.  First, to return to Jerusalem and wait for the promise of the predicted baptism of the Holy Spirit.  The Spirit would empower them to accomplish the second charge; that is, to spread the good news of Jesus throughout the world.  As Jesus promised in John 16:7, the Spirit will not come to indwell believers until His departure.

But what about His return?  "This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven." (1:11)

1. He will return visibly.
This will be no secret second coming.  Luke 21:27-"And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory."  Revelation 1:7 repeats this claim-"Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him..."

2. He will return bodily.
This will not be a spiritual return.  "This same Jesus" who ate and was touched will come again.

3. He will return powerfully.
Revelation 19:11-16 describes the scene of Christ's return when with a spoken word from His mouth, all His enemies will be destroyed.

4. He will return geographically.
The ascension took place from the Mount of Olives, about a half a mile from Jerusalem (v.12).  He will return to that same spot.  Zechariah 14:4 is clear, "On that day his feet shall stand on the Mount of Olives that lies before Jerusalem on the east, and the Mount of Olives shall be split in two from east to west..."

5. He will return royally.
At that time, all the unfulfilled prophecies concerning His earthly kingdom will take place.  "...and the government shall be upon his shoulder...on the throne of David and over his kingdom..." (Isaiah 9:6-7)  "And the Lord God will give him the throne of his father David..." (Luke 1:32)  "...and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth." (Revelation 5:10)  "...but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years." (Revelation 20:6)

6. He will return suddenly.
"Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect." (Matthew 24:44)

 

When you feel like a Failure

 Read John 21.

The Apostle Paul warned, "Therefore let anyone who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall."  (1 Corinthians 10:12)  It is shear hubris on our part any time we think we are not vulnerable to sin.  Peter, like all of us, exemplifies this truth.

When Jesus foretold of His departure at the end of John 13, Peter's response was, "I will lay down my life for you.  Jesus answered, '....the rooster will not crow till you have denied me three times.'"  Surely, those words stung Peter's character.  Yet, that same night while he warmed himself by a fire, Peter cursed and denied that he even knew Jesus.  He had succumbed to temptation of lying out of fear and self-protection.  The moral failure was sin and he knew it.

Jesus showed Himself alive after the resurrection over the next 50 days, from Passover to Pentecost.  Peter had seen the Lord twice before during that time.  Now, he and some of the other disciples went fishing.  What took place on the shore in this chapter restored Peter in both his relationship with Jesus and with his mission in life.

Several insights are here concerning restoration after a spiritual failure.
1. Jesus took the initiative.
God always does.  A key ministry of the Holy Spirit is to convict of sin (John 16:8).  He will pursue us.  By making His presence known, Jesus provided an open opportunity for Peter to respond and come to Him.  A soft heart is sensitive to the Spirit's prompting.  It is that quiet voice in the conscience.  God can yell loudly at a heart hardened by sin and they do not hear him.

2. Peter came running.
Running to God and wanting His presence is the first step toward repentance.  This in itself did not resolve the problem, but it was a good start.  Running from God is impossible and only makes matters worse.

3. The root issue is a committed love.
Jesus never mentioned the three denials.  However, by asking three times, the comparison must have been unmistakable to Peter.  Jesus went for Peter's heart.  Love may produce emotions and passions, but true love is a commitment.  It shows itself in actions of fidelity.  Peter had been unfaithful and violated his love for the Lord.

4. Peter was still grieving.
He was not just sorry about what had happened.  These are not mere remorseful feelings because he was caught.  This is a repentance, an admission of wrong, and a recommitment of his relationship with Christ.  "For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret..." (2 Corinthians 7:10)

5. Jesus put him back on mission.
There was work to do, people to reach, the Good News to proclaim.  Here, the Good Shepherd recommissioned Peter to fulfill his calling and his duty.  Indeed, like most of the other disciples, Peter would eventually lay down his life for Christ.

"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man.  God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape that you may be able to endure it." (1 Corinthians 10:13)

 

Confusion after the Crucifixion

 Read John 20.

It is always fascinating to read again the actual eyewitness accounts of the resurrection of Jesus.  Though He had predicted this at least several times in their hearing, none of His followers were expecting it.  It was not until later that "they remembered his words" (Luke 24:8) and they realized this was God's plan all along.  Further, the Holy Spirit moved John to include "for as yet they did not understand the Scripture, that he must rise from the dead" (v.9).

It is in hindsight that the Old Testament prophetic passages come alive concerning the Messiah.
"...because he poured out his soul to death and was numbered among the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors." (Isaiah 53:12b)
"For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption." (Psalm 16:10)
And, many others.

Notice the initial responses to the good news by those closest to Jesus.
1. Mary.  
She was confused and certain that someone had stolen the body.  Crying, with her head down, she spoke with angels and with Jesus unaware.  It was not until Jesus called her name that she looked up to see who it was.  "Teacher!"  She quickly ran to tell the disciples, "I have seen the Lord."

2. John and Peter.
Upon hearing the first report from Mary, ran to the tomb to see for themselves.  Finding nothing but grave clothes, they were not sure what happened.  They returned home.

3. The Disciples.
They were fearful.  If the authorities could kill Jesus, what would happen to them?   They gathered together behind a locked door.  Suddenly, Jesus appeared in the room.  He spoke peace to their troubled hearts.  Then, He empowered and commissioned them to represent Him.  The message was and is that the full and final payment for sin has been made and that all who come to believe in Jesus as their Savior may be forgiven.  As Jesus explained repeatedly, this is the offer of eternal life through faith in Him alone (John 6:26-29).

4. Thomas. 
This is the original doubting Thomas.  He refused to believe in a resurrected Jesus.  Even though the other ten disciples confirmed that they had seen and interacted with the risen Christ, he said unless he could see and touch Jesus for himself "I will never believe."  Jesus waited eight days more to confront Thomas about that statement.  When Jesus appeared, Thomas' only responses were to worship and to declare that Jesus was "my Lord and my God!"

The resurrection of Jesus is an historical fact.  Responses today fall in similar categories as above.  Some were confused.  Some did not know.  Some were fearful.  Some disbelieved.  None understood the pertinent Scriptures at the time.  It was the personal encounter with the risen Lord that brought spiritual clarity and prompted the worship of Jesus as God.