Today's Bible reading is the 19th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+19&version=NASB
In Acts chapter 19 we find the Apostle Paul returning to Ephesus as he said that he would if it were the Lord's will for him to do so. And a mighty work it was that God would use him for in this city. After speaking out boldly in the synagogue for three months we find Paul taking his preaching and teaching ministry to a new location after some, having became hardened and disobedient, were "speaking evil of the Way before the people". The text tells us that he began "reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus". This would prove to be an important work in this area of the world and a work that took much time to accomplish. His daily teaching at the school of Tyrannus would go on for two years and reach many with the gospel message of Christ. In this two year period of time we read that "all who lived in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks." What a ministry for Christ! There is no doubt this was the "will of God" that Paul had previously spoken of. The impact of this two year missionary endeavor was so great that we find that the change that was wrought in the lives of the people had also threatened to disrupt the economy of those who lived in this area of the world. As he preached Christ and Him crucified, Paul had taught that gods made with hands were no gods at all. Silversmiths and those of similar trades had become fearful that their prosperity from making shrines to "the great goddess Artemis" was in jeopardy. This reminded me of how a God produced change of heart and mind can result in different decisions we might make about the occupation a believer may wish to engage in and the products he or she may wish to purchase that are consistent with a new God conscience that salvation brings.
Friday, May 30, 2014
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 18th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway:http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+18&version=NASB
In chapter 17 we saw that the Apostle Paul had preached the gospel in Athens, having been given the opportunity to speak in the "midst of the Areopagus". Although he had been deemed by some to be an "idle babbler" and by others a "proclaimer of strange deities", the gospel message (the power of God for salvation) caused some to believe. But some responded by saying, "we shall hear you again concerning this". But we read that Paul "went out of their midst" and are never given an indication that those who had expressed a desire to hear him again were given that opportunity. Despite man's desire to have things his way and according to his timing, he In today's chapter we are reminded again of this truth. In today's passage we read that Paul, with divine reassurance from God, remained in Corinth for a year and a half, "teaching the word of God among them". But when asked to stay in Ephesus after He had spoken in the synagogue there, we read that "he did not consent". He told them that he would return again but indicated it would be up to God's will. I suppose we should note that it can work both ways. The unbeliever is not necessarily guaranteed endless opportunities to hear the gospel message and neither is the believer assured endless opportunities to share the gospel of our Savior with those who we know and love. May we live for Him today.
In chapter 17 we saw that the Apostle Paul had preached the gospel in Athens, having been given the opportunity to speak in the "midst of the Areopagus". Although he had been deemed by some to be an "idle babbler" and by others a "proclaimer of strange deities", the gospel message (the power of God for salvation) caused some to believe. But some responded by saying, "we shall hear you again concerning this". But we read that Paul "went out of their midst" and are never given an indication that those who had expressed a desire to hear him again were given that opportunity. Despite man's desire to have things his way and according to his timing, he In today's chapter we are reminded again of this truth. In today's passage we read that Paul, with divine reassurance from God, remained in Corinth for a year and a half, "teaching the word of God among them". But when asked to stay in Ephesus after He had spoken in the synagogue there, we read that "he did not consent". He told them that he would return again but indicated it would be up to God's will. I suppose we should note that it can work both ways. The unbeliever is not necessarily guaranteed endless opportunities to hear the gospel message and neither is the believer assured endless opportunities to share the gospel of our Savior with those who we know and love. May we live for Him today.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 17th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+17&version=NASB
In the previous chapter the Apostle Paul had been given a vision of a man from Macedonian standing and saying to him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." Paul and those traveling with him had heeded the call and God using them for His work in Macedonia. They had preached the gospel in Philippi and in today's chapter we find them coming to Thessalonica and proclaiming in the synagogues that Jesus was the Christ. God opened the heart of some to believe and persecution from the Jews soon followed. Paul and Silas were then sent away at night to the city of Berea. In Berea, they again go into the synagogue of the Jews, as Paul's "custom" had come to be. But in Berea we are told of a difference that was seen in the people there that is worth noting. Those in Berea were described as being more "noble-minded" than those in Thessalonica. What made the difference we are told is that the Bereans "received the word with great eagerness" and that they were "examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so." What a great lesson to learn from the Bereans. Oh, for God's people to eagerly receive the word of God. Not just to hear it, speak it, or sing about it, but to receive it and to do so with eagerness. And oh, the need for spiritual discernment that is founded in and upon the word of God. The daily, Spirit lead examination of "the Scriptures" by God's people would do much good for each of us, our families, our churches, the Church and the communities in which we live. Lord, help us to be Berean like.
In the previous chapter the Apostle Paul had been given a vision of a man from Macedonian standing and saying to him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." Paul and those traveling with him had heeded the call and God using them for His work in Macedonia. They had preached the gospel in Philippi and in today's chapter we find them coming to Thessalonica and proclaiming in the synagogues that Jesus was the Christ. God opened the heart of some to believe and persecution from the Jews soon followed. Paul and Silas were then sent away at night to the city of Berea. In Berea, they again go into the synagogue of the Jews, as Paul's "custom" had come to be. But in Berea we are told of a difference that was seen in the people there that is worth noting. Those in Berea were described as being more "noble-minded" than those in Thessalonica. What made the difference we are told is that the Bereans "received the word with great eagerness" and that they were "examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so." What a great lesson to learn from the Bereans. Oh, for God's people to eagerly receive the word of God. Not just to hear it, speak it, or sing about it, but to receive it and to do so with eagerness. And oh, the need for spiritual discernment that is founded in and upon the word of God. The daily, Spirit lead examination of "the Scriptures" by God's people would do much good for each of us, our families, our churches, the Church and the communities in which we live. Lord, help us to be Berean like.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 16th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2016&version=NASB
At the end of Acts chapter 15 we read Paul's words to Barnabas as he said, “Let us return and visit the brethren in every city in which we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” Having preached the gospel and having seen God add members to His church in the various places they had ministered, Paul and Barnabas would now return to the various cities to see how the people were. This return trip would include visits to the cites of Derbe and Lystra. It was at Lystra that Paul had healed the man who had been lame from his mother's womb and where Paul had eventually been stoned and dragged out of the city and left for dead after Jews from Antioch and Iconium had followed him there. This time Paul would meet the man he would later call his "true child in the faith" and a man of whom Paul would say he had "no one else of kindred spirit" in his letter to the Philippians. This man was Timothy. He would eventually be the recipient of two letters written by the Apostle Paul that speak of the close Christian bond they had in ministry. It is quite likely that Timothy had become a believer as God had worked through Paul and Barnabas when they first preached the gospel in the surrounding cities. In today's text we see that Timothy "was well spoken of by the brethren who were in Lystra and Iconium" and that Paul wanted to take him with them on their missionary journey. In the context of the passage it is evident that God had prepared Timothy's heart for ministry and he went. As they continued on we see that their intention of visiting the brethren in the cities they had previously ministered in was fruitful labor. The churches in these cities were being "strengthened in the faith" and their numbers were also increasing daily. Although the chapter has much content and I am unable to comment on its entirety in these "short thoughts", I will end by commenting on one last account in the passage. At the completion of their intended ministry of seeing how the brethren were in the cities they had previously preached the gospel, Paul would have a vision of man standing and appealing to them to come to Macedonia and help them. Traveling by land and by sea they would eventually arrive in Philippi and be given the opportunity to share the gospel with a group of women who had gathered together to pray on the Sabbath day. It is here that we read how God "opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul". This is a great reminder of how we are instruments in the Master's hands but He opens the heart. As Paul would later write to the Corinthian church, some of us plant and some of us water but it is God that gives the increase and therefore the One who receives the glory.
At the end of Acts chapter 15 we read Paul's words to Barnabas as he said, “Let us return and visit the brethren in every city in which we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” Having preached the gospel and having seen God add members to His church in the various places they had ministered, Paul and Barnabas would now return to the various cities to see how the people were. This return trip would include visits to the cites of Derbe and Lystra. It was at Lystra that Paul had healed the man who had been lame from his mother's womb and where Paul had eventually been stoned and dragged out of the city and left for dead after Jews from Antioch and Iconium had followed him there. This time Paul would meet the man he would later call his "true child in the faith" and a man of whom Paul would say he had "no one else of kindred spirit" in his letter to the Philippians. This man was Timothy. He would eventually be the recipient of two letters written by the Apostle Paul that speak of the close Christian bond they had in ministry. It is quite likely that Timothy had become a believer as God had worked through Paul and Barnabas when they first preached the gospel in the surrounding cities. In today's text we see that Timothy "was well spoken of by the brethren who were in Lystra and Iconium" and that Paul wanted to take him with them on their missionary journey. In the context of the passage it is evident that God had prepared Timothy's heart for ministry and he went. As they continued on we see that their intention of visiting the brethren in the cities they had previously ministered in was fruitful labor. The churches in these cities were being "strengthened in the faith" and their numbers were also increasing daily. Although the chapter has much content and I am unable to comment on its entirety in these "short thoughts", I will end by commenting on one last account in the passage. At the completion of their intended ministry of seeing how the brethren were in the cities they had previously preached the gospel, Paul would have a vision of man standing and appealing to them to come to Macedonia and help them. Traveling by land and by sea they would eventually arrive in Philippi and be given the opportunity to share the gospel with a group of women who had gathered together to pray on the Sabbath day. It is here that we read how God "opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul". This is a great reminder of how we are instruments in the Master's hands but He opens the heart. As Paul would later write to the Corinthian church, some of us plant and some of us water but it is God that gives the increase and therefore the One who receives the glory.
Monday, May 26, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 15 chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+15&version=NASB
Today's passage begins with men having come down from Judea and proclaiming to believers, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved". This was "no small" misunderstanding of, or departure from, the gospel message being preached by Paul or Peter. The statement implied quite simply that faith in the risen Savior was not sufficient for one's salvation. Christ's death was inadequate according to such a teaching, His shed blood not enough to cleanse from all unrighteousness and make one wholly able to enter His presence. Such teaching meant that being uncircumcised would keep you from salvation, keep you from eternity in God's blessed presence. We see that Paul and Barnabas held fast to the truth of the gospel and that they had much dissension and debate with those teaching "circumcision". This was a matter of great importance and Paul and Barnabas would be sent to Jerusalem to discuss it with the other apostles and elders. The answer they would receive would be that no such burden would be placed upon Gentile believers. Doing so would be as if to "trouble" them. The gospel message of Christ crucified would be upheld. "Saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus", the heart is cleansed by faith and by faith alone. There is no efficacy found in circumcision, law observance, water baptism or any other religious act men might endeavor to attribute salvation merit too. Christ is enough. He is sufficient. He saves to the uttermost.
Today's passage begins with men having come down from Judea and proclaiming to believers, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved". This was "no small" misunderstanding of, or departure from, the gospel message being preached by Paul or Peter. The statement implied quite simply that faith in the risen Savior was not sufficient for one's salvation. Christ's death was inadequate according to such a teaching, His shed blood not enough to cleanse from all unrighteousness and make one wholly able to enter His presence. Such teaching meant that being uncircumcised would keep you from salvation, keep you from eternity in God's blessed presence. We see that Paul and Barnabas held fast to the truth of the gospel and that they had much dissension and debate with those teaching "circumcision". This was a matter of great importance and Paul and Barnabas would be sent to Jerusalem to discuss it with the other apostles and elders. The answer they would receive would be that no such burden would be placed upon Gentile believers. Doing so would be as if to "trouble" them. The gospel message of Christ crucified would be upheld. "Saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus", the heart is cleansed by faith and by faith alone. There is no efficacy found in circumcision, law observance, water baptism or any other religious act men might endeavor to attribute salvation merit too. Christ is enough. He is sufficient. He saves to the uttermost.
Friday, May 23, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 14th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2014&version=NASB
As Paul and Barnabas came into the city of Iconium they continued to faithfully preach the gospel, that which Paul would later write of, saying it was "the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek". The apostle had lived what he wrote of. As the gospel was spoken in Iconium we see that "a large number of people believed, both of Jews and of Greeks". Where the Lord would do a great work through the power of His gospel message, disbelieving Jews would often rise up in opposition to the work. I appreciate what we read in the passage today as we find Paul and Barnabas in that very situation. Choosing not to leave when the people were incited to be embittered against them, they continued on "speaking boldly with reliance upon the Lord". Oh, how we need to speak the gospel or do whatever ministry God has called us to "with reliance upon the Lord". We ought not rely upon ourselves or rely upon the wisdom and strength of men. Our reliance must always rest on the Lord. Paul and Barnabas would eventually flee Iconium after learning of an attempt to stone them and continue on preaching the gospel message and seeing God add to His church. After Paul heals a man in Lystra, a man who the scripture says had been lame from his mother's womb, opposition Jews who had followed him from Antioch and Iconium would stir up the people against him. Paul was then stoned and drug out of the city and left for dead. Though he had been stoned, he was not dead and the following day he would leave with Barnabas for the city of Derbe where they would again preach the gospel and make "many disciples". One last thought from today's passage would be the pattern that Paul and Barnabas had set forth before they returned to Antioch and reported on their missionary journey. After going from city to city preaching the gospel boldly, relying upon the Lord and witnessing the power of the gospel, they had it in their hearts, and Spirit lead I'm sure, to return to the cities they had ministered in, despite the troubles they may have encountered in each, in order to strengthen the souls of believers and encourage them to continue in the faith. May we be like minded in our approach to ministry.
As Paul and Barnabas came into the city of Iconium they continued to faithfully preach the gospel, that which Paul would later write of, saying it was "the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek". The apostle had lived what he wrote of. As the gospel was spoken in Iconium we see that "a large number of people believed, both of Jews and of Greeks". Where the Lord would do a great work through the power of His gospel message, disbelieving Jews would often rise up in opposition to the work. I appreciate what we read in the passage today as we find Paul and Barnabas in that very situation. Choosing not to leave when the people were incited to be embittered against them, they continued on "speaking boldly with reliance upon the Lord". Oh, how we need to speak the gospel or do whatever ministry God has called us to "with reliance upon the Lord". We ought not rely upon ourselves or rely upon the wisdom and strength of men. Our reliance must always rest on the Lord. Paul and Barnabas would eventually flee Iconium after learning of an attempt to stone them and continue on preaching the gospel message and seeing God add to His church. After Paul heals a man in Lystra, a man who the scripture says had been lame from his mother's womb, opposition Jews who had followed him from Antioch and Iconium would stir up the people against him. Paul was then stoned and drug out of the city and left for dead. Though he had been stoned, he was not dead and the following day he would leave with Barnabas for the city of Derbe where they would again preach the gospel and make "many disciples". One last thought from today's passage would be the pattern that Paul and Barnabas had set forth before they returned to Antioch and reported on their missionary journey. After going from city to city preaching the gospel boldly, relying upon the Lord and witnessing the power of the gospel, they had it in their hearts, and Spirit lead I'm sure, to return to the cities they had ministered in, despite the troubles they may have encountered in each, in order to strengthen the souls of believers and encourage them to continue in the faith. May we be like minded in our approach to ministry.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 13th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2013&version=NASB
The Lord had a particular work for these two particular men and He had personally called them to it. God imparts gifts to each member of the body of Christ for His work. He works in each of our lives that we might be equipped to walk in the good works that He has prepared for us to walk in. Luke goes on to confirm that these two men were being "sent out by the Holy Spirit" and it is evident that their purpose was to "proclaim the word of God". It should be encouraging to be assured by the word of God that your endeavor is consistent with the will and purpose of God. If I had to summarize that which I believe to be God's will and that which the Holy Spirit has set each of us apart for in as few as words possible, I would say it is for the sharing of the gospel of Christ and for preserving the purity of His gospel message. As Peter had previously spoken, "filled with the Holy Spirit", in today's passage we read that Paul had done the same. Praise God that He is still setting apart believers for the work that He calls them to and sending them out and giving them words to speak as they are "filled with the Holy Spirit". As God continues to work in and through the lives of men as we have read today, as many as have been "appointed to eternal life" believe each day. Praise the Lord that we are simply tools for use in the Master's hand as He accomplishes His work and builds His church. Amen
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 12th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+12&version=NASB
In Acts Chapter 8 we learned that following Stephen's death, "great persecution began against the church in Jerusalem". Because of the persecution, "they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles." Although God divinely allowed persecution against His church and used its scattering to spread the gospel message, He also gave divine protection of His apostles. In today's passage we see that this divine protection would not be indefinite. The 12th chapter begins with the Apostle James being "put to death with a sword" at the direction of King Herod. Although Stephen had been the Church's first martyr, James would be the first apostle killed. He was the brother of the Apostle John. I can only imagine the grief his death must have caused for the many, especially John, Peter and his brother Andrew. The four of them had been companions before their divine calling to follow Jesus. Each set of brothers had fished the waters of Galilee and Luke's gospel suggests to us that they were "partners" in their fishing endeavors. There is no doubt that these men had spent many hours with one another before Jesus came into their life and they had come to be more than friends, fellow fisherman and partners; they had also become brothers in Christ and fellow apostles.
Not being satisfied with the death of James and having seen that his death had pleased the Jews, Herod then has Peter arrested. From the context it is quite clear that the King's intentions were the same; to have Peter put to death by the sword. While Herod takes steps to assure that Peter is held securely in prison, the church is interceding for him by fervently praying to God. Although we are not given the details of their prayers on Peter's behalf, one can only imagine, that given what had happened to James, they most likely were asking God to spare his life and to keep him safe. Perhaps to watch over him while in prison and to keep him from Herod's intentions. As the account goes, God intended not only to keep Peter from Herod's intentions but miraculously intervene and see to his complete release from his imprisonment. We read that Peter was bound in prison by two chains. There was a soldier to his left and one to his right and guards in front of the prison doors. Although I am no expert in the matter, it appears as if these "soldiers" had been assigned special duty as they were not the ordinary prison guards. Anyway, using language of our day, it would take a "special ops" team to secure Peter's rescue. But there would be no "special forces group", "ranger battalion" or "seal team". God would use one of His angels to enter the prison, unbind Peter and lead him safely out of the prison.
Upon his release from prison we find Peter appear to go directly to the house of Mary, where members of the church were gathered together and praying for him. Note that it appears that they have literally been praying through the night. This Mary, the prayer meeting hostess, is said to have been the mother of John, also called Mark, the young man who would later go with Paul and Barnabas on one of their missionary journeys. Anyway, Peter seems to know where some would have been gathered together to pray. Perhaps he had also been at this same house of prayer previously, praying for his dear friend James. I only suggest that as a possibility. But from the first time Peter and John had been arrested and instructed to stop teaching in the name of Jesus, it had been the custom of the church to gather together and seek God's divine intervention. They left us with a great example. Of course, as the story goes, those who were at the house praying found it difficult at first to believe that Peter was at the house and were "amazed" when they beheld him. It seems to simply be an example of God doing exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think. As I suggested before, I suppose they were praying for Peter's safety. Praying that God would keep him from being put to death as James had been. But I don't suppose that any of them were asking God to send one of His angels into the prison to secure is actual safe release from his prison bonds altogether.
I know I have written much more than I am accustom to doing in my attempt to write briefly in hope of prompting others to much contemplation of our glorious God and Savior. But each time I read this account I am reminded of the "why" question that believers often pose. Why it is that God allows certain things to happen in the lives of His children. Perhaps the closest friend that Jesus has in His earthly life was the beloved Apostle John. It was John's brother that God had sovereignly allowed to be put to death with the sword by King Herrod. And what appears to be days later, God sovereignly intervenes and rescues Peter from what most assuredly was intended to be the same plight. We are never told if John asked God the "why" question. "Why rescue Peter and not my brother?" I'm not saying that John never asked the question but we are simply not told about it if he did. It is a good reminder to me that we simply don't know the answer to the "why question". But we do know that God is sovereign. There are things that He divinely causes to happen and there are things that He divinely allows to happen. We know that He is good and that He does all things well. We know that He is the giver of much grace, mercy and peace. We know that we can trust and rest in Him. It doesn't prevent bad things from happening in the lives of His people but it makes all the difference when they do.
In Acts Chapter 8 we learned that following Stephen's death, "great persecution began against the church in Jerusalem". Because of the persecution, "they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles." Although God divinely allowed persecution against His church and used its scattering to spread the gospel message, He also gave divine protection of His apostles. In today's passage we see that this divine protection would not be indefinite. The 12th chapter begins with the Apostle James being "put to death with a sword" at the direction of King Herod. Although Stephen had been the Church's first martyr, James would be the first apostle killed. He was the brother of the Apostle John. I can only imagine the grief his death must have caused for the many, especially John, Peter and his brother Andrew. The four of them had been companions before their divine calling to follow Jesus. Each set of brothers had fished the waters of Galilee and Luke's gospel suggests to us that they were "partners" in their fishing endeavors. There is no doubt that these men had spent many hours with one another before Jesus came into their life and they had come to be more than friends, fellow fisherman and partners; they had also become brothers in Christ and fellow apostles.
Not being satisfied with the death of James and having seen that his death had pleased the Jews, Herod then has Peter arrested. From the context it is quite clear that the King's intentions were the same; to have Peter put to death by the sword. While Herod takes steps to assure that Peter is held securely in prison, the church is interceding for him by fervently praying to God. Although we are not given the details of their prayers on Peter's behalf, one can only imagine, that given what had happened to James, they most likely were asking God to spare his life and to keep him safe. Perhaps to watch over him while in prison and to keep him from Herod's intentions. As the account goes, God intended not only to keep Peter from Herod's intentions but miraculously intervene and see to his complete release from his imprisonment. We read that Peter was bound in prison by two chains. There was a soldier to his left and one to his right and guards in front of the prison doors. Although I am no expert in the matter, it appears as if these "soldiers" had been assigned special duty as they were not the ordinary prison guards. Anyway, using language of our day, it would take a "special ops" team to secure Peter's rescue. But there would be no "special forces group", "ranger battalion" or "seal team". God would use one of His angels to enter the prison, unbind Peter and lead him safely out of the prison.
Upon his release from prison we find Peter appear to go directly to the house of Mary, where members of the church were gathered together and praying for him. Note that it appears that they have literally been praying through the night. This Mary, the prayer meeting hostess, is said to have been the mother of John, also called Mark, the young man who would later go with Paul and Barnabas on one of their missionary journeys. Anyway, Peter seems to know where some would have been gathered together to pray. Perhaps he had also been at this same house of prayer previously, praying for his dear friend James. I only suggest that as a possibility. But from the first time Peter and John had been arrested and instructed to stop teaching in the name of Jesus, it had been the custom of the church to gather together and seek God's divine intervention. They left us with a great example. Of course, as the story goes, those who were at the house praying found it difficult at first to believe that Peter was at the house and were "amazed" when they beheld him. It seems to simply be an example of God doing exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think. As I suggested before, I suppose they were praying for Peter's safety. Praying that God would keep him from being put to death as James had been. But I don't suppose that any of them were asking God to send one of His angels into the prison to secure is actual safe release from his prison bonds altogether.
I know I have written much more than I am accustom to doing in my attempt to write briefly in hope of prompting others to much contemplation of our glorious God and Savior. But each time I read this account I am reminded of the "why" question that believers often pose. Why it is that God allows certain things to happen in the lives of His children. Perhaps the closest friend that Jesus has in His earthly life was the beloved Apostle John. It was John's brother that God had sovereignly allowed to be put to death with the sword by King Herrod. And what appears to be days later, God sovereignly intervenes and rescues Peter from what most assuredly was intended to be the same plight. We are never told if John asked God the "why" question. "Why rescue Peter and not my brother?" I'm not saying that John never asked the question but we are simply not told about it if he did. It is a good reminder to me that we simply don't know the answer to the "why question". But we do know that God is sovereign. There are things that He divinely causes to happen and there are things that He divinely allows to happen. We know that He is good and that He does all things well. We know that He is the giver of much grace, mercy and peace. We know that we can trust and rest in Him. It doesn't prevent bad things from happening in the lives of His people but it makes all the difference when they do.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 11th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+11&version=NASB
That the Gentiles had "received the word of God" and that Peter had actually eaten with "uncircumcised men" was not immediately welcomed news to those in Jerusalem. We read in our text today that when Peter had returned to Jerusalem from his trip to Caesarea and Cornelius' house, "those who were circumcised (Jewish believers) took issue with him." Peter then proceeds to give his testimony about the vision he had seen, the vision Cornelius had been given, the men who had came seeking him, and how the Spirit had indeed fallen on Cornelius and those gather with him, just as it had on them in the beginning. Emphasizing that this was the work of the Lord, Peter says to them, "who was I that I could stand in God's way?" Amen for that repeated truth throughout scripture. Our God is the omnipotent One. Those listening to Peter, perhaps also listening to the Spirit speaking to their hearts, accepted his testimony and did that which God's people should do when they see Him working in the lives of others, they "glorified God" that He had "granted to the Gentiles also the repentance that leads to life". As we read on in the chapter we see that some those who had been scattered because of the persecution inflicted upon them in Jerusalem had traveled "to Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch". They are described as those "preaching the Lord Jesus" and we see that God did a mighty work in Antioch through His gospel message. It is here that the family of believers were "first called Christians", a name that continues to this day. I am thankful that by God's grace, I am one of them.
That the Gentiles had "received the word of God" and that Peter had actually eaten with "uncircumcised men" was not immediately welcomed news to those in Jerusalem. We read in our text today that when Peter had returned to Jerusalem from his trip to Caesarea and Cornelius' house, "those who were circumcised (Jewish believers) took issue with him." Peter then proceeds to give his testimony about the vision he had seen, the vision Cornelius had been given, the men who had came seeking him, and how the Spirit had indeed fallen on Cornelius and those gather with him, just as it had on them in the beginning. Emphasizing that this was the work of the Lord, Peter says to them, "who was I that I could stand in God's way?" Amen for that repeated truth throughout scripture. Our God is the omnipotent One. Those listening to Peter, perhaps also listening to the Spirit speaking to their hearts, accepted his testimony and did that which God's people should do when they see Him working in the lives of others, they "glorified God" that He had "granted to the Gentiles also the repentance that leads to life". As we read on in the chapter we see that some those who had been scattered because of the persecution inflicted upon them in Jerusalem had traveled "to Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch". They are described as those "preaching the Lord Jesus" and we see that God did a mighty work in Antioch through His gospel message. It is here that the family of believers were "first called Christians", a name that continues to this day. I am thankful that by God's grace, I am one of them.
Monday, May 19, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 10th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+10&version=NASB
In chapter 9, we read where God had declared that the converted Saul would bear His name before the Gentiles. In today's chapter we find God teaching Peter that the powerful gospel message of Christ was for the Gentiles as well as the Jews. A lot of good teachers will utilize good visual aids in their teaching. The greatest Teacher of all would give Peter quite a visual aid to help him understand the lesson He was teaching him. The text tells us that Peter had gone up on the housetop to pray. While there he became hungry and while food preparations were underway he fell into a trance. This was clearly a God inspired trance. While in this trance Peter then sees the sky open up "and an object like a great sheet coming down, lowered by four corners to the ground, and there were in it all kinds of four footed animals and crawling creatures of the earth and birds of the air." He then head a voice from heaven telling him to get up, kill and eat. Peter responds as unto the Lord, telling the Lord that he cannot do so as he has "never eaten anything unholy or unclean". Although the "sheet" may have contained animals considered to be both clean and unclean, any clean animal would have been consider unclean as it had come into contact with those which were unclean. The voice he had first responded to then speaks to him again saying, "what God has cleansed, no longer consider unholy". While Peter had been having his vision, another man, Cornelius, a Roman centurion, was having a vision of his own. Simply put, his vision was for him to send men to Joppa, where Peter was, and to ask him to come to Cornelius's house and share a message with him. When the men arrived, Peter had experienced his lesson via God's "visual aid" and did not hesitate to go with them to the home of Cornelius. After meeting and conversing with Cornelius, Peter is recorded as having said, "I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him." As a "gentile", I certainly rejoice in the truth taught in today's chapter. By God's grace and mercy, I have been counted, along with Cornelius, and though previously "excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world", God "broke down the barrier of the dividing wall" and made Jew and Gentile one in Christ.
In chapter 9, we read where God had declared that the converted Saul would bear His name before the Gentiles. In today's chapter we find God teaching Peter that the powerful gospel message of Christ was for the Gentiles as well as the Jews. A lot of good teachers will utilize good visual aids in their teaching. The greatest Teacher of all would give Peter quite a visual aid to help him understand the lesson He was teaching him. The text tells us that Peter had gone up on the housetop to pray. While there he became hungry and while food preparations were underway he fell into a trance. This was clearly a God inspired trance. While in this trance Peter then sees the sky open up "and an object like a great sheet coming down, lowered by four corners to the ground, and there were in it all kinds of four footed animals and crawling creatures of the earth and birds of the air." He then head a voice from heaven telling him to get up, kill and eat. Peter responds as unto the Lord, telling the Lord that he cannot do so as he has "never eaten anything unholy or unclean". Although the "sheet" may have contained animals considered to be both clean and unclean, any clean animal would have been consider unclean as it had come into contact with those which were unclean. The voice he had first responded to then speaks to him again saying, "what God has cleansed, no longer consider unholy". While Peter had been having his vision, another man, Cornelius, a Roman centurion, was having a vision of his own. Simply put, his vision was for him to send men to Joppa, where Peter was, and to ask him to come to Cornelius's house and share a message with him. When the men arrived, Peter had experienced his lesson via God's "visual aid" and did not hesitate to go with them to the home of Cornelius. After meeting and conversing with Cornelius, Peter is recorded as having said, "I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him." As a "gentile", I certainly rejoice in the truth taught in today's chapter. By God's grace and mercy, I have been counted, along with Cornelius, and though previously "excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world", God "broke down the barrier of the dividing wall" and made Jew and Gentile one in Christ.
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 9th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+9&version=NASB
After much persecution of His church, God was about to grant her much peace as He intervenes in, and changes the heart and mind of Saul of Tarsus. Zealous as he was, Saul had sought and received written authority to travel outside of Jerusalem to Damascus, that if he was able to find "any belonging to the Way, both men and women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem." As Saul was purposing to destroy the church of God, God had purposed to change his life, open his heart to the gospel message and save his soul. As was the coming of the Spirit on Pentecost, the change in the disciples lives, the miracles they had performed and the power of the gospel message they shared, so was the change that took place in Saul. When God struck him down on the road to Damascus, a road of destruction, He put him on a different road, one that we might call the road of instruction. No longer would his zeal be for the destruction of Christ's church, it would now be for the proclamation of the gospel and instruction for the members of His church. After arriving in Damascus and meeting with Ananias as the Lord had orchestrated, Saul began proclaiming the divinely inspired truth of Jesus in the synagogues, saying that "He is the Son of God". So much had Saul been instrumental in the persecution of believers, the salvation that God had brought to him had resulted in the church enjoying peace. We read that the church was being "built up" by God and that they "went on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit" and continued to increase. Praise God for His divine intervention in Saul's life. Praise God for the peace that He provided His church after it had suffered much persecution. And praise God that the gospel message is still powerful to save as He wills. And praise God that He is still adding to the church daily, those who are being saved.
After much persecution of His church, God was about to grant her much peace as He intervenes in, and changes the heart and mind of Saul of Tarsus. Zealous as he was, Saul had sought and received written authority to travel outside of Jerusalem to Damascus, that if he was able to find "any belonging to the Way, both men and women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem." As Saul was purposing to destroy the church of God, God had purposed to change his life, open his heart to the gospel message and save his soul. As was the coming of the Spirit on Pentecost, the change in the disciples lives, the miracles they had performed and the power of the gospel message they shared, so was the change that took place in Saul. When God struck him down on the road to Damascus, a road of destruction, He put him on a different road, one that we might call the road of instruction. No longer would his zeal be for the destruction of Christ's church, it would now be for the proclamation of the gospel and instruction for the members of His church. After arriving in Damascus and meeting with Ananias as the Lord had orchestrated, Saul began proclaiming the divinely inspired truth of Jesus in the synagogues, saying that "He is the Son of God". So much had Saul been instrumental in the persecution of believers, the salvation that God had brought to him had resulted in the church enjoying peace. We read that the church was being "built up" by God and that they "went on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit" and continued to increase. Praise God for His divine intervention in Saul's life. Praise God for the peace that He provided His church after it had suffered much persecution. And praise God that the gospel message is still powerful to save as He wills. And praise God that He is still adding to the church daily, those who are being saved.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 8th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+8&version=NASB
In chapter seven we read that Saul had witnessed the stoning of the Church's first martyr, Stephen. In today's passage of scripture we find a more telling description of this man named Saul. The chapter begins by telling us that he was in "hearty agreement" with putting Stephen to death. These words indicate that he was pleased as well as consenting to the action taken against Stephen. Saul had been pleased to see him stoned to death. In contrast, we read that "some devout men buried Stephen, and made loud lamentation over him." Stephen's death had emboldened the opposition in their determination and efforts to stop those who were preaching and teaching in Jesus' name. The day Stephen was killed marked the day that a "great persecution began against the church in Jerusalem." Saul was clearly leading the persecution as he is said to have begun "ravaging the church, entering house after house, and dragging off men and women, he put them in prison." Saul caused much harm to the body of Christ. Besides being members of the body of Christ, these "men and women" were no doubt moms and dads whose homes included sons and daughters. I am confident that God had granted special grace to these brother and sister in Christ. For His church's sake, God would use the persecution to scatter its members throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, fulfilling the words that Jesus had spoken to His disciples as recorded in the first chapter. Where they went, the gospel message of Christ would go also. And where the gospel message was preached, lives would be changed as God opened the hearts and minds of people to the truth of His Son.
In chapter seven we read that Saul had witnessed the stoning of the Church's first martyr, Stephen. In today's passage of scripture we find a more telling description of this man named Saul. The chapter begins by telling us that he was in "hearty agreement" with putting Stephen to death. These words indicate that he was pleased as well as consenting to the action taken against Stephen. Saul had been pleased to see him stoned to death. In contrast, we read that "some devout men buried Stephen, and made loud lamentation over him." Stephen's death had emboldened the opposition in their determination and efforts to stop those who were preaching and teaching in Jesus' name. The day Stephen was killed marked the day that a "great persecution began against the church in Jerusalem." Saul was clearly leading the persecution as he is said to have begun "ravaging the church, entering house after house, and dragging off men and women, he put them in prison." Saul caused much harm to the body of Christ. Besides being members of the body of Christ, these "men and women" were no doubt moms and dads whose homes included sons and daughters. I am confident that God had granted special grace to these brother and sister in Christ. For His church's sake, God would use the persecution to scatter its members throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, fulfilling the words that Jesus had spoken to His disciples as recorded in the first chapter. Where they went, the gospel message of Christ would go also. And where the gospel message was preached, lives would be changed as God opened the hearts and minds of people to the truth of His Son.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 7th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+7&version=NASB
In Acts chapter one we had read the words Jesus spoke to His disciples when He said, "but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.” Of course these were not just words but a promise. In today's passage we see another example of the power that Jesus said the Spirit would provide for witnessing of Him. Following his selection as one of the seven men who would care for the widows in the church in Jerusalem, Stephen was said to have been "full of grace and power". Evidence that Stephen had received power when the Holy Spirit had come upon him was clearly seen as he stood before the Council and preached Christ crucified while giving a historical account of God's working in the lives of men from Abraham forward. His powerful message prompted a violent response from those he was speaking to. So powerfully convicting were his words that they actually covered their ears to keep from hearing him. He was then driven out of the city where he was stoned to death. Power will again one day be a very present truth for Stephen when he is raised in the resurrection power of the One he spoke of. Stephen had been privileged by God to take up the mantle of a servant as the Lord had taught and also to be a witness for Christ "in Jerusalem". Of course, since the day of his death, through the word of God and God's people, Stephen has also been a witness of Christ "in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth."
In Acts chapter one we had read the words Jesus spoke to His disciples when He said, "but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.” Of course these were not just words but a promise. In today's passage we see another example of the power that Jesus said the Spirit would provide for witnessing of Him. Following his selection as one of the seven men who would care for the widows in the church in Jerusalem, Stephen was said to have been "full of grace and power". Evidence that Stephen had received power when the Holy Spirit had come upon him was clearly seen as he stood before the Council and preached Christ crucified while giving a historical account of God's working in the lives of men from Abraham forward. His powerful message prompted a violent response from those he was speaking to. So powerfully convicting were his words that they actually covered their ears to keep from hearing him. He was then driven out of the city where he was stoned to death. Power will again one day be a very present truth for Stephen when he is raised in the resurrection power of the One he spoke of. Stephen had been privileged by God to take up the mantle of a servant as the Lord had taught and also to be a witness for Christ "in Jerusalem". Of course, since the day of his death, through the word of God and God's people, Stephen has also been a witness of Christ "in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth."
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 6th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%206&version=NASB
The apostles moved quickly to address the grumblings that arose within the church regarding a certain group of widows who "were being overlooked in the daily serving of food". As witnessed since Pentecost, the church in Jerusalem was growing quickly as God was working through His people through the gospel message of Christ. With the increase in numbers had come an increase in ministry needs within the body of Christ. This specific need had to do with the caring of widows, something that scripture teaches us that God is much concerned about. From the action that was taken by the apostles to address this matter, it appears as if there was a common and unified understanding of this truth. I think this is seen in both the quickness of their response and the action taken. There was first an acknowledgement by the apostles that they themselves could not fulfill this ministry as they could not be diverted to "neglect the word of God in order to serve tables". This was by no means a statement making light of the duty to "serve tables" but one that emphasized the importance of teaching and preaching the word of God. We should also see and learn that it was never God's intention for just a few to be involved in ministry. To often such thinking exists in churches in our day. We also see that "serving tables" was not considered some demeaning task or ministry by who was chosen to perform it. The congregation was directed to select from among themselves "seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task". Again, ministering to the needs of the members of the body of Christ was (and is) important to God and the men chosen to perform it were to be those that already had good reputations among the people and men who were full of the Spirit and of wisdom. I have it in my mind that as the apostles were giving the people these instructions, in God inspired harmony, certain men began coming to the minds of the people because of the lives they had already been living before the people. It appears not to have taken a select committee to study the matter or to interview those who may have expressed an interest. Seven men were chosen and brought to the apostles as those who the people felt met the qualities that had been set forth. Further demonstrating that the apostles took this matter quite seriously, they prayed about these men before they "laid their hands on them" to signify their approval and authorization to perform this needed task. The process was quite a reflection of harmony within the body of Christ to care for a problem that had threatened disharmony. The result? "The word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith." Amen!
The apostles moved quickly to address the grumblings that arose within the church regarding a certain group of widows who "were being overlooked in the daily serving of food". As witnessed since Pentecost, the church in Jerusalem was growing quickly as God was working through His people through the gospel message of Christ. With the increase in numbers had come an increase in ministry needs within the body of Christ. This specific need had to do with the caring of widows, something that scripture teaches us that God is much concerned about. From the action that was taken by the apostles to address this matter, it appears as if there was a common and unified understanding of this truth. I think this is seen in both the quickness of their response and the action taken. There was first an acknowledgement by the apostles that they themselves could not fulfill this ministry as they could not be diverted to "neglect the word of God in order to serve tables". This was by no means a statement making light of the duty to "serve tables" but one that emphasized the importance of teaching and preaching the word of God. We should also see and learn that it was never God's intention for just a few to be involved in ministry. To often such thinking exists in churches in our day. We also see that "serving tables" was not considered some demeaning task or ministry by who was chosen to perform it. The congregation was directed to select from among themselves "seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task". Again, ministering to the needs of the members of the body of Christ was (and is) important to God and the men chosen to perform it were to be those that already had good reputations among the people and men who were full of the Spirit and of wisdom. I have it in my mind that as the apostles were giving the people these instructions, in God inspired harmony, certain men began coming to the minds of the people because of the lives they had already been living before the people. It appears not to have taken a select committee to study the matter or to interview those who may have expressed an interest. Seven men were chosen and brought to the apostles as those who the people felt met the qualities that had been set forth. Further demonstrating that the apostles took this matter quite seriously, they prayed about these men before they "laid their hands on them" to signify their approval and authorization to perform this needed task. The process was quite a reflection of harmony within the body of Christ to care for a problem that had threatened disharmony. The result? "The word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith." Amen!
Monday, May 12, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 5th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+5&version=NASB
It seems that Gamaliel, the Pharisee, a teacher of the Law, had it only half right. With Peter and John having been been arrested again, along with the other apostles, God had miraculously allowed for their "angelic release" as they continued to preach the Lord Jesus. Not knowing what to do with these men who had blatantly disregarded their "strict orders" to stop teaching in Jesus' name, the "Council" and "the Senate of the sons of Israel" had orchestrated their arrest yet again and were talking among themselves about what they should do to with them. Gamaliel, exercising a greater degree of wisdom from the rest, had reminded them of other men who had risen up among the people, drawing away people unto them, and how upon each one's end, the people scattered and each following came to nothing. Gamaliel concluded his remarks by saying, "So in the present case, I say to you, stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action is of men, it will be overthrown; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God." The counsel was good and seasoned with knowledge of God but like I said, it seemed only half right. There was no "if" in this case. It wasn't that they "may even be found fighting against God". They were in fact, as they sat there gathered together, fighting against God. And they would lose this fight. And all who would act in the spirit of their opposition, from that day until this present day, would find themselves fighting against God also. And they would also lose. The truth that "all the more believers in the Lord, multitudes of men and women, were constantly added to their number", was the result of God building His church. Oh, the apostles were clearly the vessels He was working through, but in was Christ in them that brought about the accusation that they had filled Jerusalem with their teaching. This was a wonderful thing to have been "accused" of. Praise God that He is building His church!
It seems that Gamaliel, the Pharisee, a teacher of the Law, had it only half right. With Peter and John having been been arrested again, along with the other apostles, God had miraculously allowed for their "angelic release" as they continued to preach the Lord Jesus. Not knowing what to do with these men who had blatantly disregarded their "strict orders" to stop teaching in Jesus' name, the "Council" and "the Senate of the sons of Israel" had orchestrated their arrest yet again and were talking among themselves about what they should do to with them. Gamaliel, exercising a greater degree of wisdom from the rest, had reminded them of other men who had risen up among the people, drawing away people unto them, and how upon each one's end, the people scattered and each following came to nothing. Gamaliel concluded his remarks by saying, "So in the present case, I say to you, stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action is of men, it will be overthrown; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God." The counsel was good and seasoned with knowledge of God but like I said, it seemed only half right. There was no "if" in this case. It wasn't that they "may even be found fighting against God". They were in fact, as they sat there gathered together, fighting against God. And they would lose this fight. And all who would act in the spirit of their opposition, from that day until this present day, would find themselves fighting against God also. And they would also lose. The truth that "all the more believers in the Lord, multitudes of men and women, were constantly added to their number", was the result of God building His church. Oh, the apostles were clearly the vessels He was working through, but in was Christ in them that brought about the accusation that they had filled Jerusalem with their teaching. This was a wonderful thing to have been "accused" of. Praise God that He is building His church!
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 4th chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%204&version=NASB
As He said He would do, Jesus began building His church. Three thousand believed when Peter preached his first gospel message on the day of Pentecost. We saw that it was the Lord who was adding to their numbers "day by day", those who were being saved. Attempting to stop what God was doing, the religious leaders have Peter and John arrested. And although now being held in custody, they had already proclaimed the gospel message again and thousands more had believed. Peter and John are then questioned about the miracle that had been performed on the man who had been lame from his mother's womb. They were asked "by what power, or in what name, have you done this?" Peter responds by saying that it is in Jesus' name that the man stands before them well. He boldly tells them, that although they had crucified Him, God had raised Him from the dead. If the religious leaders could have denied the miracle performed on the man born lame, it appears that they would have done so. But they find themselves in a predicament. This forty year-old man was known by the people and many were glorifying God that he was now walking about in good health. To combat this undeniable miracle they would simply warn Peter and John "not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus". Peter had already told them plainly about the name of Jesus. He had told them there was salvation in no one else and that there was "no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved." But Peter and John were Spirit compelled to speak and teach in the name of Jesus. They told the religious leaders that they could not stop speaking about what they had heard and seen. May God grant us this compulsion to speak and teach in the name of Jesus, the only name that has been given among men for them to be saved.
As He said He would do, Jesus began building His church. Three thousand believed when Peter preached his first gospel message on the day of Pentecost. We saw that it was the Lord who was adding to their numbers "day by day", those who were being saved. Attempting to stop what God was doing, the religious leaders have Peter and John arrested. And although now being held in custody, they had already proclaimed the gospel message again and thousands more had believed. Peter and John are then questioned about the miracle that had been performed on the man who had been lame from his mother's womb. They were asked "by what power, or in what name, have you done this?" Peter responds by saying that it is in Jesus' name that the man stands before them well. He boldly tells them, that although they had crucified Him, God had raised Him from the dead. If the religious leaders could have denied the miracle performed on the man born lame, it appears that they would have done so. But they find themselves in a predicament. This forty year-old man was known by the people and many were glorifying God that he was now walking about in good health. To combat this undeniable miracle they would simply warn Peter and John "not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus". Peter had already told them plainly about the name of Jesus. He had told them there was salvation in no one else and that there was "no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved." But Peter and John were Spirit compelled to speak and teach in the name of Jesus. They told the religious leaders that they could not stop speaking about what they had heard and seen. May God grant us this compulsion to speak and teach in the name of Jesus, the only name that has been given among men for them to be saved.
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 3rd chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+3&version=NASB
The Spirit had come in a mighty way. The violent rushing wind. The tongues of fire. The apostles speaking in languages they did not know. And the obvious change that had been wrought in the life of Peter as he took his stand and preached Christ and Him crucified. Each one a testimony of the life, death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. In today's chapter we see God continuing to do His work in a mighty way. I suppose one might say that the first miracle recorded after the apostles were indwelt by the Spirit was their ability to speak in languages that they did not know. But the first miracle of healing they perform after Pentecost is the one that occurred at the gate of the temple called Beautiful as recorded for us in today's chapter. It was the place where a certain man was carried by others everyday and set down to beg alms. This was the man's daily life. He had been lame "from his mother's womb" we read. It appears that he had never stood or walked as a child or as a man. Peter and John were going to the temple to pray when Peter "fixed his gaze" on the man. The man turned his attention to them we read, and thinking perhaps that they were going to give him something Peter said those famous words. "I do not possess silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene - walk!" Peter seizes the man by his right hand and raises him up as God gives strength to the man's feet and ankles. And with a leap the man stands upright and begins to walk as he enters the temple with Peter and John, "walking and leaping and praising God". As we saw in yesterday's chapter, those witnessing the miracle were filled with amazement and wonder. It has been several centuries since that day when the man born lame was made well but I know this for certain. God continues to glorify the Lord Jesus as He causes men who have been born spiritually lame from their mother's wombs to walk for the first time in newness of life in Christ. He did so for me. Praise God.
The Spirit had come in a mighty way. The violent rushing wind. The tongues of fire. The apostles speaking in languages they did not know. And the obvious change that had been wrought in the life of Peter as he took his stand and preached Christ and Him crucified. Each one a testimony of the life, death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. In today's chapter we see God continuing to do His work in a mighty way. I suppose one might say that the first miracle recorded after the apostles were indwelt by the Spirit was their ability to speak in languages that they did not know. But the first miracle of healing they perform after Pentecost is the one that occurred at the gate of the temple called Beautiful as recorded for us in today's chapter. It was the place where a certain man was carried by others everyday and set down to beg alms. This was the man's daily life. He had been lame "from his mother's womb" we read. It appears that he had never stood or walked as a child or as a man. Peter and John were going to the temple to pray when Peter "fixed his gaze" on the man. The man turned his attention to them we read, and thinking perhaps that they were going to give him something Peter said those famous words. "I do not possess silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene - walk!" Peter seizes the man by his right hand and raises him up as God gives strength to the man's feet and ankles. And with a leap the man stands upright and begins to walk as he enters the temple with Peter and John, "walking and leaping and praising God". As we saw in yesterday's chapter, those witnessing the miracle were filled with amazement and wonder. It has been several centuries since that day when the man born lame was made well but I know this for certain. God continues to glorify the Lord Jesus as He causes men who have been born spiritually lame from their mother's wombs to walk for the first time in newness of life in Christ. He did so for me. Praise God.
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 2nd chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+2&version=NASB
In today's chapter of scripture, Luke was inspired to record the grand and glorious fulfillment of God's promise to send the Helper, the Holy Spirit. We find the disciples had remained in Jerusalem and we read that "they were all together in one place" when He came. They first would hear Him as He came from heaven, a noise described as "like a violent rushing wind". They would then see His presence among them as "tongues as of fire" rested upon each one. And they would then experience His indwelling them as they each began to speak in languages not their own as the Spirit gave them utterance to speak of the mighty deeds of God. Just as Jesus had said, the advantage was now theirs. The Helper had came as promised and with Him power. Power to be His witnesses. God did indeed send the Helper in grand fashion. We read that the people were bewildered, amazed, astonished and perplexed at what was taking place. And in Peter we see the practical results of what Jesus meant when He said they would receive power when the Spirit came and when He told them that it would be to their advantage that He go so that the Helper might come. Not long before this day, Peter had been resolved to return to his trade as a fisherman. And it wasn't too long before that when he had denied that he even knew Jesus. He had wanted to stand strong for Jesus but He (and the others) had fallen away just as Jesus had said they would. But on this day he would have an advantage. He would have power, he would have the Helper. And this day he would take his stand, raise his voice and be a witness for Jesus. The work that began that day continues until this one. Praise God for His faithfulness. Praise God for the Helper. He is our advantage.
In today's chapter of scripture, Luke was inspired to record the grand and glorious fulfillment of God's promise to send the Helper, the Holy Spirit. We find the disciples had remained in Jerusalem and we read that "they were all together in one place" when He came. They first would hear Him as He came from heaven, a noise described as "like a violent rushing wind". They would then see His presence among them as "tongues as of fire" rested upon each one. And they would then experience His indwelling them as they each began to speak in languages not their own as the Spirit gave them utterance to speak of the mighty deeds of God. Just as Jesus had said, the advantage was now theirs. The Helper had came as promised and with Him power. Power to be His witnesses. God did indeed send the Helper in grand fashion. We read that the people were bewildered, amazed, astonished and perplexed at what was taking place. And in Peter we see the practical results of what Jesus meant when He said they would receive power when the Spirit came and when He told them that it would be to their advantage that He go so that the Helper might come. Not long before this day, Peter had been resolved to return to his trade as a fisherman. And it wasn't too long before that when he had denied that he even knew Jesus. He had wanted to stand strong for Jesus but He (and the others) had fallen away just as Jesus had said they would. But on this day he would have an advantage. He would have power, he would have the Helper. And this day he would take his stand, raise his voice and be a witness for Jesus. The work that began that day continues until this one. Praise God for His faithfulness. Praise God for the Helper. He is our advantage.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 1st chapter of the Book of Acts. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+1&version=NASB
Prior to His ascension, the risen Lord Jesus instructed His disciples to not leave Jerusalem but to remain there until the promised coming and baptism of the Holy Spirit. The coming of the third person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit, the Helper, was as sure as the coming of the Son. His coming was a promise of God, the keeper of all promises. Regarding His coming, the disciples were asking if it would indicate the time that He would be restoring the kingdom to Israel. We can learn much from Jesus' answer. He told them that it was not theirs "to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority" but to know that when the promised Helper came, that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit had come upon them, and that so empowered, they would be His witnesses. Like those before us, we too can get caught up in trying to know the "times or epochs" which God has chosen not to disclose to us. There is enough that God has given us to know to last the longest of lifetimes seeking to know "the breadth and length and height and depth". May we learn to rest in things "the Father has fixed by His own authority." They are unchangeable and will come too pass according to His divine will. Let us remember the power that has visited upon us and the purpose for which He came. His witness we are. May we be them by Holy Spirit power.
Prior to His ascension, the risen Lord Jesus instructed His disciples to not leave Jerusalem but to remain there until the promised coming and baptism of the Holy Spirit. The coming of the third person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit, the Helper, was as sure as the coming of the Son. His coming was a promise of God, the keeper of all promises. Regarding His coming, the disciples were asking if it would indicate the time that He would be restoring the kingdom to Israel. We can learn much from Jesus' answer. He told them that it was not theirs "to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority" but to know that when the promised Helper came, that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit had come upon them, and that so empowered, they would be His witnesses. Like those before us, we too can get caught up in trying to know the "times or epochs" which God has chosen not to disclose to us. There is enough that God has given us to know to last the longest of lifetimes seeking to know "the breadth and length and height and depth". May we learn to rest in things "the Father has fixed by His own authority." They are unchangeable and will come too pass according to His divine will. Let us remember the power that has visited upon us and the purpose for which He came. His witness we are. May we be them by Holy Spirit power.
Monday, May 5, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 21st chapter of the Book of John. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2021&version=NASB
Much time had passed, ministry shared in and many memories made since that day when Jesus walked the shores of the Sea of Galilee and first called Peter, Andrew, James and John to follow Him and become "fishers of men". John, having already written of two post-resurrection appearances of the Savior, now writes of a third and final appearance in this last chapter of his gospel account. As in the beginning of John's call into ministry and apostleship, he again finds himself on the Sea of Galilee fishing with his brother James, Thomas, Nathanael, two other disciples of Jesus and Peter. The text suggest their fishing was Peter's idea and the others had chosen to go with him. Like an earlier time, they had fished all night but had caught nothing. In this third post-resurrection appearance along the Sea of Galilee, Jesus appears and interacts with these fishermen, telling them to cast their net on the right hand side of the boat and they would find a catch. Unlike the time when Jesus had given Peter instructions on where to cast his net following a previous night of fishing with no catching, and Peter responding that they had worked hard all night, this time they respond by simply casting the net as directed. As it had been the first time, the net soon contained a great number of fish. When they made it back to shore they found Jesus cooking some fish on a charcoal fire and graciously inviting them to "come and have breakfast." Following this time of fellowship and breakfast, Jesus would engage Peter in that famous conversation and questioning about Peter's love for Jesus and His call for Peter to tend His lambs. And once more along this well known shore of Galilee, Peter would hear Jesus say those familiar words He had spoken to him before, "follow me". Jesus had told Peter and John that He would make them fishers of men and yet we have two occasions where He helped them catch fish. But perhaps in this He was indeed teaching them how to be fishers of men. To be His fishers of men. They were to be "net casters" with the gospel message. They were to obediently cast it as directed by Jesus and trust that Jesus would fill the net as He willed. Oh, what a lesson the church should relearn in our day. If you go back to their first calling, we see some of these fisherman more suited for casting the net and some more suited for mending the net. Both are important. Through much patience and care, the menders work to keep the gospel of grace "tied together" if you will. Holes of self effort, self exaltation, grace plus works, etc. are to be mended as they become known so that the net retains the power of the gospel, Christ and Him crucified. And the casters are to take God's net, the unadulterated gospel or grace and cast it as led by the Holy Spirit. And Jesus, who twice caused a great catch of fish, is causing a great catch of men.
Much time had passed, ministry shared in and many memories made since that day when Jesus walked the shores of the Sea of Galilee and first called Peter, Andrew, James and John to follow Him and become "fishers of men". John, having already written of two post-resurrection appearances of the Savior, now writes of a third and final appearance in this last chapter of his gospel account. As in the beginning of John's call into ministry and apostleship, he again finds himself on the Sea of Galilee fishing with his brother James, Thomas, Nathanael, two other disciples of Jesus and Peter. The text suggest their fishing was Peter's idea and the others had chosen to go with him. Like an earlier time, they had fished all night but had caught nothing. In this third post-resurrection appearance along the Sea of Galilee, Jesus appears and interacts with these fishermen, telling them to cast their net on the right hand side of the boat and they would find a catch. Unlike the time when Jesus had given Peter instructions on where to cast his net following a previous night of fishing with no catching, and Peter responding that they had worked hard all night, this time they respond by simply casting the net as directed. As it had been the first time, the net soon contained a great number of fish. When they made it back to shore they found Jesus cooking some fish on a charcoal fire and graciously inviting them to "come and have breakfast." Following this time of fellowship and breakfast, Jesus would engage Peter in that famous conversation and questioning about Peter's love for Jesus and His call for Peter to tend His lambs. And once more along this well known shore of Galilee, Peter would hear Jesus say those familiar words He had spoken to him before, "follow me". Jesus had told Peter and John that He would make them fishers of men and yet we have two occasions where He helped them catch fish. But perhaps in this He was indeed teaching them how to be fishers of men. To be His fishers of men. They were to be "net casters" with the gospel message. They were to obediently cast it as directed by Jesus and trust that Jesus would fill the net as He willed. Oh, what a lesson the church should relearn in our day. If you go back to their first calling, we see some of these fisherman more suited for casting the net and some more suited for mending the net. Both are important. Through much patience and care, the menders work to keep the gospel of grace "tied together" if you will. Holes of self effort, self exaltation, grace plus works, etc. are to be mended as they become known so that the net retains the power of the gospel, Christ and Him crucified. And the casters are to take God's net, the unadulterated gospel or grace and cast it as led by the Holy Spirit. And Jesus, who twice caused a great catch of fish, is causing a great catch of men.
Friday, May 2, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 20th chapter of the Book of John. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20&version=NASB
In John chapter 20, following Christ's resurrection, we read of Mary Magdalene, Peter and John each gazing into His tomb, empty save for His linen burial wrappings and face cloth that had been left behind. We see Mary's interaction with the Risen Saviour. We read how Jesus miraculously first appeared to His disciples (less Thomas) while they were gathered together in a room with closed doors and showed them His hands and side. We read of Thomas' doubt and assertion that he must see and touch the Savior's wounds himself before he will believe. John then records a second appearance where Jesus offers Thomas to touch Him as requested. Apparently with no further need to do so, Thomas simply says, "My Lord and my God!" The chapter ends with John stating that Jesus had performed many other signs in the presence of the disciples that he had not written down. But I so much appreciate that what was written down was so that "you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name." Praise the Lord that all scripture is God- breathed. No other words have been written with such a high purpose. That we might know that truth first Divinely revealed to the Apostle Peter; that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God.
In John chapter 20, following Christ's resurrection, we read of Mary Magdalene, Peter and John each gazing into His tomb, empty save for His linen burial wrappings and face cloth that had been left behind. We see Mary's interaction with the Risen Saviour. We read how Jesus miraculously first appeared to His disciples (less Thomas) while they were gathered together in a room with closed doors and showed them His hands and side. We read of Thomas' doubt and assertion that he must see and touch the Savior's wounds himself before he will believe. John then records a second appearance where Jesus offers Thomas to touch Him as requested. Apparently with no further need to do so, Thomas simply says, "My Lord and my God!" The chapter ends with John stating that Jesus had performed many other signs in the presence of the disciples that he had not written down. But I so much appreciate that what was written down was so that "you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name." Praise the Lord that all scripture is God- breathed. No other words have been written with such a high purpose. That we might know that truth first Divinely revealed to the Apostle Peter; that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 19th chapter of the Book of John. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+19&version=NASB
I know that the physical things that Jesus suffered during His "examination" and crucifixion are not comparable to what it was like to "be sin on our behalf" and be forsaken by the Father while bearing the sin of the world. But make no mistake, His physical punishment and suffering was tremendous and perhaps its horror even greater because He was completely innocent. Today's passage begins by John writing that Pilate "took Jesus and scourged Him". Scourging was quite simply a whipping with a multi-thonged whip that had been fashioned with pieces of glass or pottery woven into the leather thongs that were intended to inflict great pain and injury. A crown made out of thorns was then placed on His head. In Mathew's account we read that after they placed the crown of thorns on His head they began to beat Head with a reed. There is no doubt that with each striking of the reed the crown of thorns would pierce deeper into the flesh of His head. Jesus was then mocked as being "King of the Jews" and given "slaps in the face" by His mockers and yet He was "as a lamb before it's shearer" silent. While being crucified, hanging from a cross by the nails that had been driven through His feet and hands, we see Him concerned for His mother's welfare. This is a remarkable scene that demonstrates our Saviors concern for our practical daily needs as well as our great spiritual need. Quite literally, while dying for His mother's sins, He entrusts her care to the "disciple whom He loved" who was standing nearby the cross with His mother. From that hour,the scripture says, the disciple took Jesus' mother into his own household. I'm thankful that He continues to care for our deepest spiritual needs while also having on His mind our practical daily needs and making provision for them. What a wonderful Savior is He.
I know that the physical things that Jesus suffered during His "examination" and crucifixion are not comparable to what it was like to "be sin on our behalf" and be forsaken by the Father while bearing the sin of the world. But make no mistake, His physical punishment and suffering was tremendous and perhaps its horror even greater because He was completely innocent. Today's passage begins by John writing that Pilate "took Jesus and scourged Him". Scourging was quite simply a whipping with a multi-thonged whip that had been fashioned with pieces of glass or pottery woven into the leather thongs that were intended to inflict great pain and injury. A crown made out of thorns was then placed on His head. In Mathew's account we read that after they placed the crown of thorns on His head they began to beat Head with a reed. There is no doubt that with each striking of the reed the crown of thorns would pierce deeper into the flesh of His head. Jesus was then mocked as being "King of the Jews" and given "slaps in the face" by His mockers and yet He was "as a lamb before it's shearer" silent. While being crucified, hanging from a cross by the nails that had been driven through His feet and hands, we see Him concerned for His mother's welfare. This is a remarkable scene that demonstrates our Saviors concern for our practical daily needs as well as our great spiritual need. Quite literally, while dying for His mother's sins, He entrusts her care to the "disciple whom He loved" who was standing nearby the cross with His mother. From that hour,the scripture says, the disciple took Jesus' mother into his own household. I'm thankful that He continues to care for our deepest spiritual needs while also having on His mind our practical daily needs and making provision for them. What a wonderful Savior is He.
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