Greetings to Precious people Romans 16:1-16
Paul spends a little time here at the end of the book greeting those who were important to him for one reason or another in the ministry and work of the Lord. Some we know from our study of the book of Acts, while others we have never met in Scriptures and some are only mentioned here. In verse 13 he mentions Rufus. Is this the same Rufus that is mentioned in Mark 15:21 (Son of Simon, who carried Jesus cross)? We have no way of knowing, but it is possible. Then again Rufus may have been like Bob in our time (could be a blue million of them).
To those mentioned, the specific call of their name was important, but to us it is simply to realize that recognizing people does matter. People who have played a specific role in your life deserve to have their name called. Don't forget to express thankfulness all the time to those around you, and at times give recognition (public recognition) to those that have had an impact. It is good for us to remember we did not do it alone and for those who helped to receive the exhortation of being recognized for their efforts. Of course when it is all said and done God gets the glory and Paul recognized this in the final verse of the book.
Dealing with division Romans 16:17-18
Right on the heals of the thankfulness and greeting to all those he held precious he gives a warning about those who cause division. This is one of the things that God hates.
Proverbs 6:16-19
16 These six things the Lord hates,
Yes, seven are an abomination to Him:
17 A proud look,
A lying tongue,
Hands that shed innocent blood,
18 A heart that devises wicked plans,
Feet that are swift in running to evil,
19 A false witness who speaks lies,
And one who sows discord among brethren.
It is no patty cake warning either. Those who cause division are to be noted and avoided. Many a church and church leader (including me) have been stung and deeply hurt because they did not properly deal with people that caused division. The Greek word for note is skopeō and it is where we get our word scope from, like a scope on a rifle or a telescope. So, we are to get those that cause division in our sights.
Then we are to avoid them. The Greek word here is ekklinō and it means to turn from or shun. We are to avoid them, but the mistake that has been made is that people have ignored them. That is, we just try to pretend they are not there and mean while they keep on causing division. So what kind of procedure should we follow.
1. Make sure they are really a trouble maker and not just deceived. This basically involves communication.
Matthew 18:15-17,
15 “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. 16 But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ 17 And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.
Titus 3:10,
Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition.
2. Take Action. First there is communication, but if that does no good the church should take action. You don't just sit around and let e trouble maker keep causing damage.
1 Corinthians 5:6-7, 11-13
6 Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? 7 Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, ... 11 But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner—not even to eat with such a person. 12 For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside? 13 But those who are outside God judges. Therefore “put away from yourselves the evil person.” Some would argue that we should love this person and not avoid them, but the reality is that avoiding them is loving them. Follow the scriptures on this and it will work. We can not allow several lives to be destroyed because of one persons passion to cause division.
Don't turn to another gospel Galatians 1
Paul here warns the Galatians who were being deceived into adopting a form of works salvation, that they should not turn to another gospel. He even said that any other gospel than the one they had already been taught was not really a gospel at all (6-7). Simply put, salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and what he did on the cross and through his resurrection. Add or take away anything and you have perverted the gospel. Let's just let it shine in all its glory. Undeserved forgiveness is available in Jesus apart from works, but simply through faith.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
We are arguing over things that aren't even in the Bible. No wonder the world wants nothing to do with us.
Romans 14-15 are largely concerning the idea of not being a stumbling block to others, particularly those who are weak in the faith. Often God's people are so determined to be right, there is no room for anyone else to be wrong. Many supposedly mature Christians feel that it is their duty to point out anything wrong with any body.
Many times the problem is that what is "wrong" is anything that is different from the way I do it. In other words, it is based on preferences and not on the true standard. We do remember the true standard, right? It is the Bible. The only right I have to say you are wrong is if I can open the Bible and show it to you in the scriptures.
The Jews and Gentiles were going back and forth over food, holy days, and other things in the Jewish Law. These things were not commanded under the New Covenant, although they were not forbidden under the new covenant. So it was preference. If you thought you should not eat something, then don't eat it. If you think it is OK then go for it. But the balance is that we would not want to purposely be a stumbling block to others.
We often try to make something RIGHT or WRONG when it is actually just DIFFERENT. I could right volumes about this, but here is the verse that jumped of the pages at me. Romans 14:20, Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. Here is the question, "What is so important to us that we are willing to destroy the work of God over it?"
Skin color
Music style
Your favorite NASCAR driver
Carpet Color
Bible Versions
Which Way the toilet paper should hang
Not letting someone new do the job at church you have done for 100 years
It is OK to have your preference and do things according to your preferences, but it is not OK to condemn or ridicule the person that is not doing it like that. It is not even OK to say they are wrong unless you have scripture to support your position.
Many times the problem is that what is "wrong" is anything that is different from the way I do it. In other words, it is based on preferences and not on the true standard. We do remember the true standard, right? It is the Bible. The only right I have to say you are wrong is if I can open the Bible and show it to you in the scriptures.
The Jews and Gentiles were going back and forth over food, holy days, and other things in the Jewish Law. These things were not commanded under the New Covenant, although they were not forbidden under the new covenant. So it was preference. If you thought you should not eat something, then don't eat it. If you think it is OK then go for it. But the balance is that we would not want to purposely be a stumbling block to others.
We often try to make something RIGHT or WRONG when it is actually just DIFFERENT. I could right volumes about this, but here is the verse that jumped of the pages at me. Romans 14:20, Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. Here is the question, "What is so important to us that we are willing to destroy the work of God over it?"
Skin color
Music style
Your favorite NASCAR driver
Carpet Color
Bible Versions
Which Way the toilet paper should hang
Not letting someone new do the job at church you have done for 100 years
It is OK to have your preference and do things according to your preferences, but it is not OK to condemn or ridicule the person that is not doing it like that. It is not even OK to say they are wrong unless you have scripture to support your position.
Monday, July 29, 2013
Sacrificially, it is the right way to live.
The Jew's rejection of Jesus, good news for the Gentiles (Romans 11)
In Romans 11, Paul is explaining why the Jews rejection of Christ is so important. He clearly says that their rejection opened the door of salvation to the Gentiles and that the belief of the Gentiles will eventually cause the Jews to see what they are missing and bring about salvation for them. It is all based on belief (11:20, 23), just like everyone's salvation has always been.
Sacrificial Living (Romans 12-13)
The first 11 chapters of Romans were predominantly about salvation. Now Paul turns his attention in the rest of the book to sanctified living. He describes it in the famous verses of Romans 12:1-2, as sacrificial living that refuses to conform to the world, but allows God to do the work of transformation in us.
Then he goes on to describe the kind of things that we should do to display this transformation.
1. Use our gifts for the Lord (12:3-8)
2. Overcoming evil with good (12:9-21)
3. Having reverence for Governmental authorities (13:1-8)
4. Fulfilling the law through love for our fellow man (13:9-10)
5. Realizing time is short and immersing ourselves in the things of God (13:11-14)
In Romans 11, Paul is explaining why the Jews rejection of Christ is so important. He clearly says that their rejection opened the door of salvation to the Gentiles and that the belief of the Gentiles will eventually cause the Jews to see what they are missing and bring about salvation for them. It is all based on belief (11:20, 23), just like everyone's salvation has always been.
Sacrificial Living (Romans 12-13)
The first 11 chapters of Romans were predominantly about salvation. Now Paul turns his attention in the rest of the book to sanctified living. He describes it in the famous verses of Romans 12:1-2, as sacrificial living that refuses to conform to the world, but allows God to do the work of transformation in us.
Then he goes on to describe the kind of things that we should do to display this transformation.
1. Use our gifts for the Lord (12:3-8)
2. Overcoming evil with good (12:9-21)
3. Having reverence for Governmental authorities (13:1-8)
4. Fulfilling the law through love for our fellow man (13:9-10)
5. Realizing time is short and immersing ourselves in the things of God (13:11-14)
Saturday, July 27, 2013
The passing of a loved one.
On July 15th we lost our dear sweet Juanita. She first came into our life when I was planting the church in Columbus Indiana. I will never forget her coming in with 4 of her grandchildren, she was soon saved and God radically changed her life. She was also to take a deeper step into our lives, when her and my father married a few years after my mother passed away. She always showered us with love and we were blessed to have her in our family for several years.
I spent the better part of four days with dad at the hospital as she was slipping away. I have spent these kind of moments with many families and it is never easy. Although the hours were long and the emotions of various family members, coming from various spiritual levels was challenging, of course God was with us. There were a few things that were of particular comfort to me.
1. Physical Family-family members both close by and from out of state came and allowed their presents to be a meaningful comfort to us.
2. Spiritual Family-many who God has connected us to through our years of church work came and surrounded us and it was so meaningful.
3. Church Family-The people of Dad and Juanita's church were there for them in a big way.
4. Expressions of our faith.
1. The first morning that we realized she was not going to make it several of us gathered around her bed and sang for a long period of time. Though I like all kinds of Christian music, we now sing mostly newer songs in our worship services. I must admit as we surrounded her and sang, no books, just our memories, people spontaneously leading out and the rest following, those hymns and old country gospel songs really ministered comfort and healing to my soul.
2. A Sunday afternoon worship service. Dad arranged for us to gather in her room for worship on the 14th. People from his church and various other churches came, and family members (some who are lost), observed as we worshiped the Lord together. Though we were not of like faith and order, we did have the truth of salvation in common and that is what mattered in that moment. It was awesome.
3. A funeral that was a celebration. If you have never been to a Bourland funeral (I mean from the Don Bourland line, there have only been two so far), then you have missed an experience. It is like one of the most upbeat and exciting church services you could ever attend. It is quite the opposite of most funerals. There is congregational singing with shouting and expressions of joy, there is preaching that elevates the place that the passing loved one has achieved through their faith in Christ, and there is a clear warning that the only way to be prepared for the day of your funeral is to receive Jesus as you savior. I have given clear instruction to my children that my funeral is to be the biggest celebration yet.
We are going to miss her dearly, especially dad, but the knowledge of our reunion keeps us encouraged and pressing on in our service for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
I spent the better part of four days with dad at the hospital as she was slipping away. I have spent these kind of moments with many families and it is never easy. Although the hours were long and the emotions of various family members, coming from various spiritual levels was challenging, of course God was with us. There were a few things that were of particular comfort to me.
1. Physical Family-family members both close by and from out of state came and allowed their presents to be a meaningful comfort to us.
2. Spiritual Family-many who God has connected us to through our years of church work came and surrounded us and it was so meaningful.
3. Church Family-The people of Dad and Juanita's church were there for them in a big way.
4. Expressions of our faith.
1. The first morning that we realized she was not going to make it several of us gathered around her bed and sang for a long period of time. Though I like all kinds of Christian music, we now sing mostly newer songs in our worship services. I must admit as we surrounded her and sang, no books, just our memories, people spontaneously leading out and the rest following, those hymns and old country gospel songs really ministered comfort and healing to my soul.
2. A Sunday afternoon worship service. Dad arranged for us to gather in her room for worship on the 14th. People from his church and various other churches came, and family members (some who are lost), observed as we worshiped the Lord together. Though we were not of like faith and order, we did have the truth of salvation in common and that is what mattered in that moment. It was awesome.
3. A funeral that was a celebration. If you have never been to a Bourland funeral (I mean from the Don Bourland line, there have only been two so far), then you have missed an experience. It is like one of the most upbeat and exciting church services you could ever attend. It is quite the opposite of most funerals. There is congregational singing with shouting and expressions of joy, there is preaching that elevates the place that the passing loved one has achieved through their faith in Christ, and there is a clear warning that the only way to be prepared for the day of your funeral is to receive Jesus as you savior. I have given clear instruction to my children that my funeral is to be the biggest celebration yet.
We are going to miss her dearly, especially dad, but the knowledge of our reunion keeps us encouraged and pressing on in our service for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Friday, July 26, 2013
Just go to hell, I don't care.
That is pretty strong language in the title. I know none of us would ever say that with our lips or even in our heart, but the problem is that many times our actions say exactly that. It would be good for us all to examine ourselves and ask how much do I really care about the lost.
1. How much praying do we do for the lost?
2. How much time do we spend talking to the lost, instead of just talking about them?
3. How deep is the emotion of concern within is over their condition and their final destination?
Consider Paul's concern in Romans 9:1-3, 10:1. Are we anywhere even close to what he is describing. He said if he knew they could be saved he would trade places with them. Causes me to realize that I have a long way to go, but every step in the right direction is one more step away from where I am now. Sometimes we think that we are so far away from the ideal situation that there is no use in trying, but that is not true. This is not "mother may I" (if you have no idea what that is, you can ask me), but if you were 10 giant steps away from having the care for the lost you should, even one step per year would get you a little closer to ideal and little further away from apathy and in ten years you would be were you needed to be.
1. How much praying do we do for the lost?
2. How much time do we spend talking to the lost, instead of just talking about them?
3. How deep is the emotion of concern within is over their condition and their final destination?
Consider Paul's concern in Romans 9:1-3, 10:1. Are we anywhere even close to what he is describing. He said if he knew they could be saved he would trade places with them. Causes me to realize that I have a long way to go, but every step in the right direction is one more step away from where I am now. Sometimes we think that we are so far away from the ideal situation that there is no use in trying, but that is not true. This is not "mother may I" (if you have no idea what that is, you can ask me), but if you were 10 giant steps away from having the care for the lost you should, even one step per year would get you a little closer to ideal and little further away from apathy and in ten years you would be were you needed to be.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
When you don't know what to pray, trust Holy Spirit Intercession.
Romans 7-8 sets a great standard for the struggle between the flesh and the Spirit and tells us how God's law and its rigid penalty was swallowed up by his love.
What stood out to me is how intercession is made for us. Many may be familiar with the fact that Christ stands at the right hand of the Father and makes intercession for us. Mostly on behalf of our failures, which is mentioned in Romans 8:32-35. Who could lay any charges against us (the saved) or who could condemn us. Jesus, because of his perfection, is the only one who could. Yet, if we are saved, instead of condemnation he gives us intercession. I am not exactly sure how it works, but I hear the devil saying, "look at what Scott just did, said, or thought", and I hear Jesus saying, "It is covered by my blood".
But it is not only Jesus who intercedes for us. The Holy Spirit does as well. Have you ever been in a situation that the need was so heavy, but you really did not know what to pray. What was the right thing to ask for? These are the moments to claim the promise of Romans 8:26-28. The Holy Spirit makes intercession for us by praying to God on our behalf when we do not know what to pray. His interceding is according to the will of God, so we can be certain that he is praying the exact right thing. With confidence in his prayers on our behalf and God's love to work all things to our good, we can not lose.
What stood out to me is how intercession is made for us. Many may be familiar with the fact that Christ stands at the right hand of the Father and makes intercession for us. Mostly on behalf of our failures, which is mentioned in Romans 8:32-35. Who could lay any charges against us (the saved) or who could condemn us. Jesus, because of his perfection, is the only one who could. Yet, if we are saved, instead of condemnation he gives us intercession. I am not exactly sure how it works, but I hear the devil saying, "look at what Scott just did, said, or thought", and I hear Jesus saying, "It is covered by my blood".
But it is not only Jesus who intercedes for us. The Holy Spirit does as well. Have you ever been in a situation that the need was so heavy, but you really did not know what to pray. What was the right thing to ask for? These are the moments to claim the promise of Romans 8:26-28. The Holy Spirit makes intercession for us by praying to God on our behalf when we do not know what to pray. His interceding is according to the will of God, so we can be certain that he is praying the exact right thing. With confidence in his prayers on our behalf and God's love to work all things to our good, we can not lose.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
In this corner sin and in the other corner the believer. Who will win?
Man's greatest battle is that against sin. We were fighting it when we did not even know it, that is before we got saved (If you are not saved, you are still fighting that battle and don't even realize perhaps that he devil is beating you up. Go to thejourneybloomington.com and click on "Know Jesus" for more information about salvation.). But when we got saved we entered into victory. Jesus registered a death blow to sin and death on the cross and when we put our faith in him we become victors over those things.
Here is the hard part. Salvation brings us to instant perfection in our Spirit. That part inside of us that was dead due to sin is know made alive (Ephesians 2:4-5). But our mind and body were not instantly perfected. So there is still a battle going on between our Spirit and our Body and our Mind is the battle field. You know those cartoons where the guy has got the devil on one shoulder and a angel on the other shoulder? It is just like that, but in side of us it is the devil saying do wrong and the Spirit of God saying do right.
Which one will win? The answer is, the one you feed the most. Romans 6 gives us incredible advice about how to overcome sin.
1. First of all accept Christ as your savior. You have know chance of overcoming sin without Jesus. Ever heard someone say, "Well once I get my life cleaned up" or "Once I am sure I can live it, then I'll get saved". Problem is you can't live it or get your life cleaned up without being saved. If they wait until they can do it they will die and go to hell. The whole point is that we can't do it. We need Jesus.
2. Remember that your baptism pointed out that a change took place in you (1-5). First off, if you have not been baptized, what are you waiting for? Honor and obey Jesus by following him in baptism, displaying that your life has been changed.
3. What happened when you got saved and what was pictured when you got baptized is that the old man who was a slave to sin died and was buried and a new man, who is not a slave to sin resurrected to live in his place (6).
4. A huge part of overcoming sin after you are saved is having the right understanding and attitude.
A. The understanding is that I AM FREE. Sin no longer has a hold on me because Jesus broke the chains (7-10).
B. The attitude is that I AM NOT GOING TO VOLUNTARILY GO BACK INTO SLAVERY. He tells us to be in charge of this with statements like, "reckon yourselves", "do not let", and "do not present" (11-13).
5. Really it is a decision to trade masters. Before salvation you were a slave to sin, now you are a slave to righteousness. Be determined to serve the right master (14-23).
We have ultimately overcome through our salvation, but even in this life we can be victorious if we are determined to serve the right master.
Here is the hard part. Salvation brings us to instant perfection in our Spirit. That part inside of us that was dead due to sin is know made alive (Ephesians 2:4-5). But our mind and body were not instantly perfected. So there is still a battle going on between our Spirit and our Body and our Mind is the battle field. You know those cartoons where the guy has got the devil on one shoulder and a angel on the other shoulder? It is just like that, but in side of us it is the devil saying do wrong and the Spirit of God saying do right.
Which one will win? The answer is, the one you feed the most. Romans 6 gives us incredible advice about how to overcome sin.
1. First of all accept Christ as your savior. You have know chance of overcoming sin without Jesus. Ever heard someone say, "Well once I get my life cleaned up" or "Once I am sure I can live it, then I'll get saved". Problem is you can't live it or get your life cleaned up without being saved. If they wait until they can do it they will die and go to hell. The whole point is that we can't do it. We need Jesus.
2. Remember that your baptism pointed out that a change took place in you (1-5). First off, if you have not been baptized, what are you waiting for? Honor and obey Jesus by following him in baptism, displaying that your life has been changed.
3. What happened when you got saved and what was pictured when you got baptized is that the old man who was a slave to sin died and was buried and a new man, who is not a slave to sin resurrected to live in his place (6).
4. A huge part of overcoming sin after you are saved is having the right understanding and attitude.
A. The understanding is that I AM FREE. Sin no longer has a hold on me because Jesus broke the chains (7-10).
B. The attitude is that I AM NOT GOING TO VOLUNTARILY GO BACK INTO SLAVERY. He tells us to be in charge of this with statements like, "reckon yourselves", "do not let", and "do not present" (11-13).
5. Really it is a decision to trade masters. Before salvation you were a slave to sin, now you are a slave to righteousness. Be determined to serve the right master (14-23).
We have ultimately overcome through our salvation, but even in this life we can be victorious if we are determined to serve the right master.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
The Greatest Problem Man Faces
In Romans 3-4 Paul teaches us two incredible truths. First, that we are all caught in the trap of sin. Second, that salvation is by grace and not by works.
Concerning the matter of sin, Our Journey Today brings us to one of the most famous verses in the Bible, Romans 3:23. This verse is often used in gospel presentation to point out the sinfulness of man and rightfully so. When you present the gospel don't make the mistake of majoring on heaven and minoring on sin. Man needs to clearly feel the weight and conviction of his sin to be saved. Man's true and greatest need is the forgiveness of his sin, and to gain right standing with God. As an incredible bonus, when man finds right standing with God he also gains eternal life, which means he will be going to heaven after this life. But to present the gospel in a "Don't you want to go to heaven?" sort of way is to skip the real issue.
The use of Romans 3:23 is fantastic because it states the issue of sin so clearly, but we usually isolate it when we use it and something I noticed as I read the chapter is how rich the verses around it are. Here are some things we learn.
1. The law was not designed for people to obey for salvation, but to attempt to obey, showing them their sinfulness and need for salvation (20)
2. Salvation is open to everyone and only accessible through believing (faith, trust, confidence). (22)
3. Grace is what justifies us or makes us right with God. Justification is to be "just-as-if-I'd" never sinned. (24)
4. Jesus is our propitiation. (25) This means that Jesus is our atonement with God. What does it mean to atone? It means to right a wrong. Jesus righted our wrongs on the cross. Another word we use is reconciliation. Jesus did everything needed to reconcile us to God, if we will only believe.
5. Because salvation is completely by grace and not of works man has no room to boast. (27-28).
PRAISE GOD, for so great a salvation!
Concerning the matter of sin, Our Journey Today brings us to one of the most famous verses in the Bible, Romans 3:23. This verse is often used in gospel presentation to point out the sinfulness of man and rightfully so. When you present the gospel don't make the mistake of majoring on heaven and minoring on sin. Man needs to clearly feel the weight and conviction of his sin to be saved. Man's true and greatest need is the forgiveness of his sin, and to gain right standing with God. As an incredible bonus, when man finds right standing with God he also gains eternal life, which means he will be going to heaven after this life. But to present the gospel in a "Don't you want to go to heaven?" sort of way is to skip the real issue.
The use of Romans 3:23 is fantastic because it states the issue of sin so clearly, but we usually isolate it when we use it and something I noticed as I read the chapter is how rich the verses around it are. Here are some things we learn.
1. The law was not designed for people to obey for salvation, but to attempt to obey, showing them their sinfulness and need for salvation (20)
2. Salvation is open to everyone and only accessible through believing (faith, trust, confidence). (22)
3. Grace is what justifies us or makes us right with God. Justification is to be "just-as-if-I'd" never sinned. (24)
4. Jesus is our propitiation. (25) This means that Jesus is our atonement with God. What does it mean to atone? It means to right a wrong. Jesus righted our wrongs on the cross. Another word we use is reconciliation. Jesus did everything needed to reconcile us to God, if we will only believe.
5. Because salvation is completely by grace and not of works man has no room to boast. (27-28).
PRAISE GOD, for so great a salvation!
Monday, July 22, 2013
No Excuses
Romans has been proclaimed by many as a theologically deep book. I suppose that there is some truth to that statement, but that doesn't mean that it is only for theologians. God gave us his word because he want us to understand it, and live it. In reality the concepts found in Romans are pretty simple. Paul spend 11 chapters trying to make sure we truly understand salvation and then he spends the last 5 chapters talking to us about how to live after we are saved.
In today's passages Paul talks about...
1. The power of the Gospel
2. Idolatry
3. Homosexuality
4. And several other issues
but the basic issue is the fact that Judgment is coming upon all men and when it comes we will be without excuse. The only thing that will matter at that moment is if you have truly accepted Christ as your savior.
In today's passages Paul talks about...
1. The power of the Gospel
2. Idolatry
3. Homosexuality
4. And several other issues
but the basic issue is the fact that Judgment is coming upon all men and when it comes we will be without excuse. The only thing that will matter at that moment is if you have truly accepted Christ as your savior.
Friday, July 19, 2013
Talk about a cliff hanger
Paul's shipwreck and arrival at Rome (Acts 27-28)
It was God's will that on the way to Rome Paul end up in a shipwreck. These are the kind of things that come into our life and cause us to ask, "Why Lord". Paul could have said, "Haven't I suffered enough? Do you have to add shipwreck to it? But that is not the way he looked at it.
You see, "Why Lord" is not a bad question, but it depends on how you ask it. To say "Why Lord" and mean, how could you let this happen, displays a lack of trust in God. To say, "Why Lord" and mean, I want to understand your purpose here, displays complete trust in God. Paul found himself in several bad situations, but he always seemed to turn them into ministry opportunities. I firmly believe it was because he knew that even the negative things that happened in his life were under God's control and he had a reason for allowing it to happen, in this case the three months of ministry on the Island of Malta and maybe other reason we could not know.
Paul survives the ship wreck but then gets snake bit. Another negative, but God used it to give him the attention of the islanders. By the way if there is any question about it, God never told us to handle snakes. What happened to Paul here is a good physical example of what Jesus was talking about in Mark 16:18. There are probably spiritual applications to the idea of taking up serpents. I will try to remember to write about that when we Journey through Mark.
Funny thing is that after Paul gets to Rome. He gets a chance to sit in a comfortable house and have people come to him for ministry for two whole years. But the book ends on a cliff hanger, not telling us what happened to him. We do know that eventually he was killed at the hands of Nero, but we don't know if it happened at this imprisonment. There seems to be evidence that he was released and allowed to minister freely for a few more years before his death. Let's all ask him when we get to heaven.
It was God's will that on the way to Rome Paul end up in a shipwreck. These are the kind of things that come into our life and cause us to ask, "Why Lord". Paul could have said, "Haven't I suffered enough? Do you have to add shipwreck to it? But that is not the way he looked at it.
You see, "Why Lord" is not a bad question, but it depends on how you ask it. To say "Why Lord" and mean, how could you let this happen, displays a lack of trust in God. To say, "Why Lord" and mean, I want to understand your purpose here, displays complete trust in God. Paul found himself in several bad situations, but he always seemed to turn them into ministry opportunities. I firmly believe it was because he knew that even the negative things that happened in his life were under God's control and he had a reason for allowing it to happen, in this case the three months of ministry on the Island of Malta and maybe other reason we could not know.
Paul survives the ship wreck but then gets snake bit. Another negative, but God used it to give him the attention of the islanders. By the way if there is any question about it, God never told us to handle snakes. What happened to Paul here is a good physical example of what Jesus was talking about in Mark 16:18. There are probably spiritual applications to the idea of taking up serpents. I will try to remember to write about that when we Journey through Mark.
Funny thing is that after Paul gets to Rome. He gets a chance to sit in a comfortable house and have people come to him for ministry for two whole years. But the book ends on a cliff hanger, not telling us what happened to him. We do know that eventually he was killed at the hands of Nero, but we don't know if it happened at this imprisonment. There seems to be evidence that he was released and allowed to minister freely for a few more years before his death. Let's all ask him when we get to heaven.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
It's not horseshoes, its eternity!
Paul before Festus (Acts 25:1-12)
The false accusations continue
Paul appeals to Caesar
Paul before Agrippa (Acts 25:13-26:32)
Paul continues to use his testimony
He continues to say that he is called into question concerning the HOPE OF THE RESURRECTION.
Yesterday we buried my dad's wife and several years ago we buried my mother. These funerals were times of celebration, because we all knew where these ladies had gone and that we would see them again. That's the hope (steadfast assurance) of the resurrection.
Agrippa told Paul that he had almost persuaded him to be a Christian. Paul said that his desire was that he would become altogether persuaded. You see when it comes to accepting Jesus and the hope of the resurrection, close is not good enough. This is an all or nothing proposition.
The false accusations continue
Paul appeals to Caesar
Paul before Agrippa (Acts 25:13-26:32)
Paul continues to use his testimony
He continues to say that he is called into question concerning the HOPE OF THE RESURRECTION.
Yesterday we buried my dad's wife and several years ago we buried my mother. These funerals were times of celebration, because we all knew where these ladies had gone and that we would see them again. That's the hope (steadfast assurance) of the resurrection.
Agrippa told Paul that he had almost persuaded him to be a Christian. Paul said that his desire was that he would become altogether persuaded. You see when it comes to accepting Jesus and the hope of the resurrection, close is not good enough. This is an all or nothing proposition.
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Did Paul disobey God by going to Jerusalem (Don't let the fear of making a wrong decision paralyze you)
Paul's ongoing trial (Acts 23-24)
Paul continues to defend himself against the false accusations of the Jews, before Roman officials. There are many things that could be drawn out of these passages, but one thing that stands out to me is how Paul continues to say that the real issue is the hope of the resurrection. I think Paul claims this as the issue because it really was, but also if he let's it be the issue rather than some side issue he gets to witness every time he gives his defense. Genius!
But some would say that Paul should not be in this mess in the first place. God told him not to go to Jerusalem but he stubbornly decided to go anyway. Paul said that the Spirit testified in every city that when he got to Jerusalem he was going to face some very difficult circumstances, but he wasn't worried because he really believed he was supposed to go (Acts 20:22-24). In Tyre, Paul was told by those disciples through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem (Acts 21:4). Then he was warned heavily again about all he would face if he went at the house of Phillip, but he said even if he died there he was going (Acts 21:8-14).
Now if all we had were the passages were people warned him of the trouble and he said in spite of that he was going to go, then we would have nothing to question, but the Acts 21:4 passage where they told him through the Spirit that he should not go, gives us the opportunity to question what he did. Some say that the passage in Acts 21:4 clearly states he should not have gone so the case is closed. Others say that the Acts 21:4 passage is just like the other ones where the Spirit revealed what would happen to Paul and naturally the disciples told him he should not go.
I do not know if Paul obeyed or disobeyed, that will all be sorted out at the Judgment Seat. I do know that if it was disobedience it was out of a pure motive and it was blessed anyway. He got to witness to many people and was greatly used even in his imprisonment. Could he have been used even more if he had skipped Jerusalem and went straight to Rome? Perhaps, but we don't know.
In our current day situation, I warn all of us against thinking we know God's will for another persons life. Of course the things that are directly stated in scriptures we can speak boldly about and encourage people to follow, knowing these things are the will of God. However, many decisions we make are not spelled out specifically in the Bible, and there are no current day prophets to give us a direct revelation from the Lord on these issues. So we must trust the leadership of the Holy Spirit on these issues and we can not look into another persons life and say, "No, the Holy Spirit did not say that to you, he said this". Which by the way, most people make those kind of comments after the fact, when things did not turn out the way they thought they should.
I can tell you for sure that I have made decisions for the Lord that I really struggled with and just had to do the best I could. I have made decisions for the Lord that later I wandered if I had made a mistake. However, I can look back on these decisions that I am talking about and say for sure that none of them were direct rebellion against God, they were all efforts to follow him the best I knew how. If I missed it, if I was wrong in those situation, the good news is God blessed anyway and wonderful things happened for his kingdom. Don't let the fear of getting it wrong paralyze you. Do the best you can to hear God's will through the Holy Spirit. Move out in the confidence of that direction, knowing that even if you missed the perfection of God's will, he can still bless.
Paul continues to defend himself against the false accusations of the Jews, before Roman officials. There are many things that could be drawn out of these passages, but one thing that stands out to me is how Paul continues to say that the real issue is the hope of the resurrection. I think Paul claims this as the issue because it really was, but also if he let's it be the issue rather than some side issue he gets to witness every time he gives his defense. Genius!
But some would say that Paul should not be in this mess in the first place. God told him not to go to Jerusalem but he stubbornly decided to go anyway. Paul said that the Spirit testified in every city that when he got to Jerusalem he was going to face some very difficult circumstances, but he wasn't worried because he really believed he was supposed to go (Acts 20:22-24). In Tyre, Paul was told by those disciples through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem (Acts 21:4). Then he was warned heavily again about all he would face if he went at the house of Phillip, but he said even if he died there he was going (Acts 21:8-14).
Now if all we had were the passages were people warned him of the trouble and he said in spite of that he was going to go, then we would have nothing to question, but the Acts 21:4 passage where they told him through the Spirit that he should not go, gives us the opportunity to question what he did. Some say that the passage in Acts 21:4 clearly states he should not have gone so the case is closed. Others say that the Acts 21:4 passage is just like the other ones where the Spirit revealed what would happen to Paul and naturally the disciples told him he should not go.
I do not know if Paul obeyed or disobeyed, that will all be sorted out at the Judgment Seat. I do know that if it was disobedience it was out of a pure motive and it was blessed anyway. He got to witness to many people and was greatly used even in his imprisonment. Could he have been used even more if he had skipped Jerusalem and went straight to Rome? Perhaps, but we don't know.
In our current day situation, I warn all of us against thinking we know God's will for another persons life. Of course the things that are directly stated in scriptures we can speak boldly about and encourage people to follow, knowing these things are the will of God. However, many decisions we make are not spelled out specifically in the Bible, and there are no current day prophets to give us a direct revelation from the Lord on these issues. So we must trust the leadership of the Holy Spirit on these issues and we can not look into another persons life and say, "No, the Holy Spirit did not say that to you, he said this". Which by the way, most people make those kind of comments after the fact, when things did not turn out the way they thought they should.
I can tell you for sure that I have made decisions for the Lord that I really struggled with and just had to do the best I could. I have made decisions for the Lord that later I wandered if I had made a mistake. However, I can look back on these decisions that I am talking about and say for sure that none of them were direct rebellion against God, they were all efforts to follow him the best I knew how. If I missed it, if I was wrong in those situation, the good news is God blessed anyway and wonderful things happened for his kingdom. Don't let the fear of getting it wrong paralyze you. Do the best you can to hear God's will through the Holy Spirit. Move out in the confidence of that direction, knowing that even if you missed the perfection of God's will, he can still bless.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Does the Bible give us an example of people being re-baptized?
Today I will be combing Acts 19-20 with 21-22. Over the weekend we have been dealing with the passing of me father's wife, a dear sweet Christian woman. I will write something personal about this following her funeral, which is tomorrow. But being with her and my father in her final hours is the reason I was unable to write yesterday.
Disciples in Ephesus (Acts 19:1-7)
Paul found these disciples and wanted to know if they had received the Holy Spirit. They said they did not know about the Holy Spirit. Having already determined that they were saved, Paul next asked them about their baptism, and that was what the problem was. They had been baptized unto John's baptism.
Now first let me say that there was nothing wrong with John's baptism. It was true Christian baptism. But God had given John and John alone the authority to administer that baptism (John 1:6, 33). Then Jesus became the authority for baptism (John 4:1-2), and he having all authority gave the authority to baptize to his church (Matthew 28:18-20).
John the Baptist never went to Ephesus, so someone else must have baptized them in the Baptism of John. Who could have done this? Remember Apollos from chapter 18. He had been in Ephesus and was witnessing before the way of the Lord had been explained to him more accurately. Perhaps he was the one.
Regardless of who had baptized them improperly they needed to be properly baptized because they had been baptized by the wrong authority. Pay close attention: they had been saved before their baptism, they had been immersed, and they were being baptized for the sake of obedience and yet their baptism was not acceptable. Why? The answer is improper authority. So not just anyone can go around baptizing folks. They must have authority to do so. John had it, Jesus has it, and he extended it to his church. So there are times that a person must be re-baptized or actually properly baptized because even though they did everything right, the person who baptized them did not have the authority to do so.
Some would say, "but what about the scripture that says there is one baptism" (Ephesians 4:5). It is absolutely true that there is one baptism. One scriptural or true baptism, but the folks in Ephesus did not have it until Paul administered it in the name of Jesus. Paul had authority given to him by the church at Antioch that sent him out to do his mission work.
Paul spends an extended period of time in Ephesus and God gives him great influence (Acts 19:8-41)
Paul's farewell at Ephesus (Acts 20)
Should Paul have gone to Jerusalem (Acts 20:22-24, 21:8-14).
I am going to discuss this a bit more tomorrow so keep it in mind.
Using his testimony. (Acts 22:1-21)
Paul often used his testimony when witnessing and I think it is a great example for us to pick up on and use in our witnessing. Sometimes our witness can seem a bit academic (we are simply stating the facts), but our testimony makes it personal, makes it human.
Disciples in Ephesus (Acts 19:1-7)
Paul found these disciples and wanted to know if they had received the Holy Spirit. They said they did not know about the Holy Spirit. Having already determined that they were saved, Paul next asked them about their baptism, and that was what the problem was. They had been baptized unto John's baptism.
Now first let me say that there was nothing wrong with John's baptism. It was true Christian baptism. But God had given John and John alone the authority to administer that baptism (John 1:6, 33). Then Jesus became the authority for baptism (John 4:1-2), and he having all authority gave the authority to baptize to his church (Matthew 28:18-20).
John the Baptist never went to Ephesus, so someone else must have baptized them in the Baptism of John. Who could have done this? Remember Apollos from chapter 18. He had been in Ephesus and was witnessing before the way of the Lord had been explained to him more accurately. Perhaps he was the one.
Regardless of who had baptized them improperly they needed to be properly baptized because they had been baptized by the wrong authority. Pay close attention: they had been saved before their baptism, they had been immersed, and they were being baptized for the sake of obedience and yet their baptism was not acceptable. Why? The answer is improper authority. So not just anyone can go around baptizing folks. They must have authority to do so. John had it, Jesus has it, and he extended it to his church. So there are times that a person must be re-baptized or actually properly baptized because even though they did everything right, the person who baptized them did not have the authority to do so.
Some would say, "but what about the scripture that says there is one baptism" (Ephesians 4:5). It is absolutely true that there is one baptism. One scriptural or true baptism, but the folks in Ephesus did not have it until Paul administered it in the name of Jesus. Paul had authority given to him by the church at Antioch that sent him out to do his mission work.
Paul spends an extended period of time in Ephesus and God gives him great influence (Acts 19:8-41)
Paul's farewell at Ephesus (Acts 20)
Should Paul have gone to Jerusalem (Acts 20:22-24, 21:8-14).
I am going to discuss this a bit more tomorrow so keep it in mind.
Using his testimony. (Acts 22:1-21)
Paul often used his testimony when witnessing and I think it is a great example for us to pick up on and use in our witnessing. Sometimes our witness can seem a bit academic (we are simply stating the facts), but our testimony makes it personal, makes it human.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Turning the World Upside Down! Or is it Right Side Up?
These two chapters (Acts 17-18) record Paul's ministry in at least 9 places. In these 62 verses we cover a period of two years or more. Something to keep in mind when you are reading the scriptures is that sometimes we are on fast forward, moving past events very quickly, knowing this can deepen your understanding of certain passages.
Paul in Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-9)
Here Paul was said to be among those who had turned the world upside down. What a complement.
Paul in Berea (Acts 17:10-14)
The Bereans were said be more fair-minded because they searched the scriptures daily to see if what they were being taught was true. That is exactly what we are trying to accomplish with The Journey. We want every individual to look at the scriptures themselves to be sure that what is being taught is directly from God's Word and not man's opinion.
Paul in Athens (Acts 17:15-34)
Here Paul encounter a completely different group. They were wholly given to the worship of idols and false gods. I like were it says Paul's "spirit was provoked within him". Does our spirit get provoked when we see the terrible spiritual condition of those around us?
Notice that when working with the Jews he focused on teaching that Jesus was the Messiah. But among the gentiles he had to start with God being real, the creator of all things, and the sustainer of all things. It does very little good to try to prove to someone who Jesus is, if they don't believe in God.
So he took a god they worshipped, the UNKNOWN GOD (in case they had missed one), and he taught them that it was the God of the universe, the one true and living God, that they were unknowingly worshipping and that Jesus, his son, was the resurrected one that can bring life to all who will believe. When we present salvation, how much do we talk about the resurrection? It seemed to be very prominent in the teaching and preaching of these early Christians.
Paul in Corinth (Acts 18:1-18)
Notice that in some places Paul was actually getting to speak in the synagogue more times than usual, probably because the spread of Christianity was so strong that people's curiosity was at a high level. He spent a year and a half in Corinth (11), longer than anywhere else with the exception of Ephesus.
Paul in Ephesus (Acts 18:19-21)
In this short visit he only worked with the Jews in the synagogue, but he will return.
Paul in Caesarea, Antioch, Galatia, Phrygia (Acts 18:22-23)
Apollos (Acts 18:24-28)
Apollos is an interesting figure in the scriptures. It says that he was a great speaker and that he knew the scripture (Old Testament) very well, he was fervent in spirit, and taught accurately the way of the LORD. But he only knew the baptism of John. Now we don't know for sure, but it seems that he must have been converted under the ministry of John somehow, but he left the Jerusalem area before Jesus came on the scene. So seemingly he was preaching the LORD or the MESSIAH (the coming savior) just like John did and when people were converted he baptized them in the baptism of John.
By the way, did you know that people have always gotten saved the same way. Yes, it is true. People of all ages have been saved by putting their faith in the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The only difference is that before the cross people put their faith in the one who would die for them and since the cross we have put our faith in the on who did die for us.
Now, when Aquila and Priscilla heard Apollos, they took him aside and explained the way of God more accurately to him. Presumably letting him know that the Messiah had come and that he know could preach for people to put their faith in the one who came not the one who will come. Also that John pointed people to the authority of Jesus not his own authority and that he should not be baptizing people by John's baptism, but in the name of Jesus.
Notice, following their conversation he preaches that JESUS is the CHRIST (Messiah). Keep all this in mind. It will matter in Tomorrow's Journey.
Paul in Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-9)
Here Paul was said to be among those who had turned the world upside down. What a complement.
Paul in Berea (Acts 17:10-14)
The Bereans were said be more fair-minded because they searched the scriptures daily to see if what they were being taught was true. That is exactly what we are trying to accomplish with The Journey. We want every individual to look at the scriptures themselves to be sure that what is being taught is directly from God's Word and not man's opinion.
Paul in Athens (Acts 17:15-34)
Here Paul encounter a completely different group. They were wholly given to the worship of idols and false gods. I like were it says Paul's "spirit was provoked within him". Does our spirit get provoked when we see the terrible spiritual condition of those around us?
Notice that when working with the Jews he focused on teaching that Jesus was the Messiah. But among the gentiles he had to start with God being real, the creator of all things, and the sustainer of all things. It does very little good to try to prove to someone who Jesus is, if they don't believe in God.
So he took a god they worshipped, the UNKNOWN GOD (in case they had missed one), and he taught them that it was the God of the universe, the one true and living God, that they were unknowingly worshipping and that Jesus, his son, was the resurrected one that can bring life to all who will believe. When we present salvation, how much do we talk about the resurrection? It seemed to be very prominent in the teaching and preaching of these early Christians.
Paul in Corinth (Acts 18:1-18)
Notice that in some places Paul was actually getting to speak in the synagogue more times than usual, probably because the spread of Christianity was so strong that people's curiosity was at a high level. He spent a year and a half in Corinth (11), longer than anywhere else with the exception of Ephesus.
Paul in Ephesus (Acts 18:19-21)
In this short visit he only worked with the Jews in the synagogue, but he will return.
Paul in Caesarea, Antioch, Galatia, Phrygia (Acts 18:22-23)
Apollos (Acts 18:24-28)
Apollos is an interesting figure in the scriptures. It says that he was a great speaker and that he knew the scripture (Old Testament) very well, he was fervent in spirit, and taught accurately the way of the LORD. But he only knew the baptism of John. Now we don't know for sure, but it seems that he must have been converted under the ministry of John somehow, but he left the Jerusalem area before Jesus came on the scene. So seemingly he was preaching the LORD or the MESSIAH (the coming savior) just like John did and when people were converted he baptized them in the baptism of John.
By the way, did you know that people have always gotten saved the same way. Yes, it is true. People of all ages have been saved by putting their faith in the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The only difference is that before the cross people put their faith in the one who would die for them and since the cross we have put our faith in the on who did die for us.
Now, when Aquila and Priscilla heard Apollos, they took him aside and explained the way of God more accurately to him. Presumably letting him know that the Messiah had come and that he know could preach for people to put their faith in the one who came not the one who will come. Also that John pointed people to the authority of Jesus not his own authority and that he should not be baptizing people by John's baptism, but in the name of Jesus.
Notice, following their conversation he preaches that JESUS is the CHRIST (Messiah). Keep all this in mind. It will matter in Tomorrow's Journey.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Fight and Bicker or Divide and Conquer
Disagreement about Circumcision (Acts 15:1-35)
One of the challenges in the early church was that the Jews tried to blend their Old Testament beliefs with their new found faith in Jesus. In many ways they could do this and it would not violate the new faith, but the problem occurred when they tried to push these convictions off on the Gentiles.
They said that the gentiles needed to be circumcised, which was not true, but even worse they said they needed to keep the law. (Acts 15:1, 5). What we are seeing here is the early entrance of legalism and works salvation into Christianity. Paul fought this all the time and we are still fighting it today. Be strong with the Biblical truth that you can not work for your salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9, Titus 3:5).
The end conclusion of the apostles and early church leaders was to ask the gentiles to be careful about what they ate to try to avoid offending the Jews unnecessarily and to avoid sexual sin, but they did not have to be circumcised. Although it would not have been wrong for them to get circumcised (no scripture prohibits it), even Paul ask Timothy to do this to avoid offense and unneeded hindrance to their ministry (Acts 16:3), but a precedent needed to be set so that works salvation could not get a foot hold. In other words they could have said, "It doesn't violate scripture for them to be circumcised, so let's have them do it to avoid offence." But you have to ask what might this cause in the future.
Disagreement about John Mark (Acts 15:36-41)
Paul and Barnabas were headed back out to check on all the churches that had been started due to their first evangelistic campaign, but they could not agree about taking John Mark. Barnabas insisted he should go, while Paul said no because he left them the first time. They simply could not agree on this issue. So they parted ways.
It really turned out to be a great thing. We know that Paul and Silas did wonderful things for the Lord and evidently Barnabas and John Mark did too. Paul later said that John Mark was useful for the ministry (2 Timothy 4:11). Also John Mark is the author of the book of Mark. So God used them all.
But who was right? That is the point. It doesn't always have to be about who is right and who is wrong. It doesn't always have to be a fight to make sure you don't lose face, or position, or whatever. When you simply can't reach an agreement, the best thing is to part ways instead of doing damage to God's kingdom and allow him to use you and the other people.
Careful though, you could easily become the person who runs at the first sign of trouble and that is not right either. Do all you can to work through it in a Godly way, but if the disagreement is too sharp (Acts 15:39) part ways for God's glory.
Paul in Macedonia (Acts 16:1-22)
This section of scripture introduces us to the great Macedonian vision and Lydia.
Paul and the Philippian Jailer (Acts 16:23-40)
We can learn much from Paul and Silas' attitude during this difficult trial. God is certainly in control and he can be trusted. He sent Paul and Silas down there so the Jailer, his household, and who knows how many prisoners could be saved. This section gives us the simplest and yet most wonderful answer to the question "what do I have to do to be saved?". Acts 16:31, So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” This is this week's Journey Memory Verse. How powerful, believe and be saved!
One of the challenges in the early church was that the Jews tried to blend their Old Testament beliefs with their new found faith in Jesus. In many ways they could do this and it would not violate the new faith, but the problem occurred when they tried to push these convictions off on the Gentiles.
They said that the gentiles needed to be circumcised, which was not true, but even worse they said they needed to keep the law. (Acts 15:1, 5). What we are seeing here is the early entrance of legalism and works salvation into Christianity. Paul fought this all the time and we are still fighting it today. Be strong with the Biblical truth that you can not work for your salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9, Titus 3:5).
The end conclusion of the apostles and early church leaders was to ask the gentiles to be careful about what they ate to try to avoid offending the Jews unnecessarily and to avoid sexual sin, but they did not have to be circumcised. Although it would not have been wrong for them to get circumcised (no scripture prohibits it), even Paul ask Timothy to do this to avoid offense and unneeded hindrance to their ministry (Acts 16:3), but a precedent needed to be set so that works salvation could not get a foot hold. In other words they could have said, "It doesn't violate scripture for them to be circumcised, so let's have them do it to avoid offence." But you have to ask what might this cause in the future.
Disagreement about John Mark (Acts 15:36-41)
Paul and Barnabas were headed back out to check on all the churches that had been started due to their first evangelistic campaign, but they could not agree about taking John Mark. Barnabas insisted he should go, while Paul said no because he left them the first time. They simply could not agree on this issue. So they parted ways.
It really turned out to be a great thing. We know that Paul and Silas did wonderful things for the Lord and evidently Barnabas and John Mark did too. Paul later said that John Mark was useful for the ministry (2 Timothy 4:11). Also John Mark is the author of the book of Mark. So God used them all.
But who was right? That is the point. It doesn't always have to be about who is right and who is wrong. It doesn't always have to be a fight to make sure you don't lose face, or position, or whatever. When you simply can't reach an agreement, the best thing is to part ways instead of doing damage to God's kingdom and allow him to use you and the other people.
Careful though, you could easily become the person who runs at the first sign of trouble and that is not right either. Do all you can to work through it in a Godly way, but if the disagreement is too sharp (Acts 15:39) part ways for God's glory.
Paul in Macedonia (Acts 16:1-22)
This section of scripture introduces us to the great Macedonian vision and Lydia.
Paul and the Philippian Jailer (Acts 16:23-40)
We can learn much from Paul and Silas' attitude during this difficult trial. God is certainly in control and he can be trusted. He sent Paul and Silas down there so the Jailer, his household, and who knows how many prisoners could be saved. This section gives us the simplest and yet most wonderful answer to the question "what do I have to do to be saved?". Acts 16:31, So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” This is this week's Journey Memory Verse. How powerful, believe and be saved!
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Praise God for the Missionaries
Paul and Barnabas on their First Missionary Journey (Acts 13-14)
These two chapters are all about he first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas (John Mark was traveling with them as well, although he goes back to Jerusalem fairly early in the trip). Here are some of the highlights that I see.
1. Missionaries are called by the Holy Spirit.
2. Missionaries are sent out by local churches.
3. Missionaries are very dependent on the Holy Spirit.
4. Missionaries should seek the most effective opportunity to share their message. This is what Paul was doing in the synagogues. Some think that he was just so bold that he marched in their and told them all about Jesus to set them straight, kind of like Rambo-Paul. Although it was bold and it was about Jesus, the synagogue is a place that Paul knew he would be given the opportunity to speak, especially as a visiting Jew to their synagogue. So he took advantage of the perfect opportunity. If you decide to march into a church that doesn't know the truth about salvation and set them straight, you are not going to be given the chance to speak. Sometimes Paul only got one chance and usually not more than two, but it was a good spring board in the towns he went to.
5. Missionaries should expect opposition.
6. Missionaries should expect results when they preach the gospel.
What do you see?
These two chapters are all about he first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas (John Mark was traveling with them as well, although he goes back to Jerusalem fairly early in the trip). Here are some of the highlights that I see.
1. Missionaries are called by the Holy Spirit.
2. Missionaries are sent out by local churches.
3. Missionaries are very dependent on the Holy Spirit.
4. Missionaries should seek the most effective opportunity to share their message. This is what Paul was doing in the synagogues. Some think that he was just so bold that he marched in their and told them all about Jesus to set them straight, kind of like Rambo-Paul. Although it was bold and it was about Jesus, the synagogue is a place that Paul knew he would be given the opportunity to speak, especially as a visiting Jew to their synagogue. So he took advantage of the perfect opportunity. If you decide to march into a church that doesn't know the truth about salvation and set them straight, you are not going to be given the chance to speak. Sometimes Paul only got one chance and usually not more than two, but it was a good spring board in the towns he went to.
5. Missionaries should expect opposition.
6. Missionaries should expect results when they preach the gospel.
What do you see?
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
How dare you lead them to Jesus!
How dare you lead them to Jesus! (Acts 11:1-18)
When Peter got back to Jerusalem he was met with open arms and great rejoicing. NOT! The first thing that hit him was the Brethren wanting to know why he went to those filthy Gentiles. After Peter explained it to them they concluded that God must have also granted the Gentiles repentance to life. DUH! That is exactly what God told Abraham he was going to do in Genesis 12:1-3 and all through the Old Testament.
Now before we get to far along, let's note that it is not always wrong to questions someone's method's, motives, etc. In other words, just because people got saved does not mean that everything is right about it. But if something is to be called into question it must be based on God's word. We can't say, "Well, I just think...", "We have never done it that way", "You wouldn't catch me over there". All though what someone does may not fall into our personal preferences, if it is to be called into question it can only be done by saying, "God's word says...". If it is not a violation of God's word then just admit that it is not your preference or even conviction about what you would do, but if the other person is following God's leadership and not violating scripture then praise God for what he has led them to do.
Another things for us to evaluate about ourselves in this section is if we are prejudice against certain people and therefore we refuse to give them the gospel. If so, we need to repent.
The Church at Antioch (11:19-30)
We are going to see that the church at Antioch was a powerful church and here we read about its beginning. The people at Antioch were the first ones to be called Christians. Christian means to be like Jesus. That means it is possible to be a saved person and not be a Christian. Note that this is a label other people gave them. The did not call themselves Christians, but because others could see Jesus in their actions, hear Jesus in their words, and sense Jesus in their demeanor, they called them Christians.
Another Marytar, James the Apostle is killed (Acts 12:1-2)
Another Jail Break (Acts 12:3-4, 6-11, 18-19)
A Doubting prayer Meeting (Acts 12:5, 12-17)
They had so little confidence in their prayers that when God answered them they started coming up with reasons it could not be true. Before we get to hard on them, we have stopped having prayer meetings altogether. What does that say about our confidence in the power of our prayers?
Herod dies for failing to give God glory (Acts 12:20-23)
We better remember the right person to fear. Matthew 10:28, And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
The Return to Antioch, with John Mark (12:24-25)
Keep your eye on John Mark.
When Peter got back to Jerusalem he was met with open arms and great rejoicing. NOT! The first thing that hit him was the Brethren wanting to know why he went to those filthy Gentiles. After Peter explained it to them they concluded that God must have also granted the Gentiles repentance to life. DUH! That is exactly what God told Abraham he was going to do in Genesis 12:1-3 and all through the Old Testament.
Now before we get to far along, let's note that it is not always wrong to questions someone's method's, motives, etc. In other words, just because people got saved does not mean that everything is right about it. But if something is to be called into question it must be based on God's word. We can't say, "Well, I just think...", "We have never done it that way", "You wouldn't catch me over there". All though what someone does may not fall into our personal preferences, if it is to be called into question it can only be done by saying, "God's word says...". If it is not a violation of God's word then just admit that it is not your preference or even conviction about what you would do, but if the other person is following God's leadership and not violating scripture then praise God for what he has led them to do.
Another things for us to evaluate about ourselves in this section is if we are prejudice against certain people and therefore we refuse to give them the gospel. If so, we need to repent.
The Church at Antioch (11:19-30)
We are going to see that the church at Antioch was a powerful church and here we read about its beginning. The people at Antioch were the first ones to be called Christians. Christian means to be like Jesus. That means it is possible to be a saved person and not be a Christian. Note that this is a label other people gave them. The did not call themselves Christians, but because others could see Jesus in their actions, hear Jesus in their words, and sense Jesus in their demeanor, they called them Christians.
Another Marytar, James the Apostle is killed (Acts 12:1-2)
Another Jail Break (Acts 12:3-4, 6-11, 18-19)
A Doubting prayer Meeting (Acts 12:5, 12-17)
They had so little confidence in their prayers that when God answered them they started coming up with reasons it could not be true. Before we get to hard on them, we have stopped having prayer meetings altogether. What does that say about our confidence in the power of our prayers?
Herod dies for failing to give God glory (Acts 12:20-23)
We better remember the right person to fear. Matthew 10:28, And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
The Return to Antioch, with John Mark (12:24-25)
Keep your eye on John Mark.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Would God send someone to hell that has never heard the gospel?
Cornelius is given instruction by God (Acts 10:1-8)
This section of scripture gives us a very interesting insight into how God deals with someone to get them to himself. Often people say. "well what about those people in the deep jungles that have never heard and won't have a chance to hear? Will they go to hell?" The answer is yes, if they have not accepted Jesus as their savior they will. So how is that fair, we might ask. They never had the chance to hear the gospel. Surely God would not hold someone who has not heard to the same standard as those of us who freely received the gospel. But actually it is a mistake to say that they have never heard.
1. God puts in all of us an innate knowledge that there is something bigger than us. We naturally know that their is someone or something that created all things and controls all things. We might fight against this knowledge, but it is there.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end.
If you are using the King James you will notice it says, He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
That seems like a big difference, but it isn't if we study out the word translated eternity or world. The Hebrew word is `owlam. It appears in the scriptures 439 times. The following is a break down of how the word is translated in the King James.
ever 272, everlasting 63, old 22, perpetual 22, evermore 15, never 13, time 6, ancient 5, world 4, always 3, alway 2, long 2, more
If you study the other times it appears as world you will see it caries they idea of eternity. For example Isaiah 45:17 says, But Israel shall be saved in the Lord with an everlasting salvation: ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end. KJV In the NKJV it says, But Israel shall be saved by the Lord With an everlasting salvation; You shall not be ashamed or disgraced Forever and ever.
So to translate this word in Ecclesiastes 3:11 as eternity is a good translation. God has placed eternity in our hearts. There is a part of every man that know there is a God.
2. God has also put in our heart that we should obey that something that is bigger than us. We know naturally that there are rules that should be followed even if we have never heard the law or God's Word.
Romans 2:12-16, 12 For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law 13 (for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified; 14 for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, 15 who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) 16 in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.
3. Also God has clearly revealed himself to us through creation.
Romans 1:18-20 says, For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.
God revealing himself to man through creation has left ever man without an excuse. Here is how it works. God reveals himself in a general way to all men by putting a hunger for spiritual things in his heart, a knowledge of right and wrong, and a clear revelation of himself through creation (Why do you think that evolutionist have fought so hard to preach their doctrine). When man responds to this general revelation, then God will move toward him by giving him specific revelation from his word. God sends a person to give specific revelation from his word to the person that is willing to respond to the general revelation in their heart and creation. This is what he did for the Ethiopian Eunuch and it is what he is doing for Cornelius in our Journey for today. Notice this from Psalm 19.
General revelation (Psalms 19:1-6)
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. 2 Day unto day utters speech, And night unto night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language Where their voice is not heard. 4 Their line has gone out through all the earth, And their words to the end of the world. In them He has set a tabernacle for the sun, 5 Which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, And rejoices like a strong man to run its race. 6 Its rising is from one end of heaven, And its circuit to the other end; And there is nothing hidden from its heat.
Specific Revelation (Psalms 19:7-14)
7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; 8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; 9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold,
Yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. 11 Moreover by them Your servant is warned, And in keeping them there is great reward. 12 Who can understand his errors?
Cleanse me from secret faults. 13 Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, And I shall be innocent of great transgression. 14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.
So yes, all men are accountable. Even if a preacher has never stood in front of them and told them how to be saved. Even if a missionary never pushed through the bush and showed them Jesus from the Bible. They are accountable. If they would respond to the general revelation God has provided then he would provide specific revelation. If it was as simple as, if you don't hear the gospel you are not responsible, then the most loving thing we could do would be to immediately stop all mission and evangelistic activity. But of course we are commanded by God to be telling the world shamelessly.
It took a little convincing, but God sent Peter for Cornelius and he and many others were saved (Acts 10:9-48)
This section of scripture gives us a very interesting insight into how God deals with someone to get them to himself. Often people say. "well what about those people in the deep jungles that have never heard and won't have a chance to hear? Will they go to hell?" The answer is yes, if they have not accepted Jesus as their savior they will. So how is that fair, we might ask. They never had the chance to hear the gospel. Surely God would not hold someone who has not heard to the same standard as those of us who freely received the gospel. But actually it is a mistake to say that they have never heard.
1. God puts in all of us an innate knowledge that there is something bigger than us. We naturally know that their is someone or something that created all things and controls all things. We might fight against this knowledge, but it is there.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end.
If you are using the King James you will notice it says, He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
That seems like a big difference, but it isn't if we study out the word translated eternity or world. The Hebrew word is `owlam. It appears in the scriptures 439 times. The following is a break down of how the word is translated in the King James.
ever 272, everlasting 63, old 22, perpetual 22, evermore 15, never 13, time 6, ancient 5, world 4, always 3, alway 2, long 2, more
If you study the other times it appears as world you will see it caries they idea of eternity. For example Isaiah 45:17 says, But Israel shall be saved in the Lord with an everlasting salvation: ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end. KJV In the NKJV it says, But Israel shall be saved by the Lord With an everlasting salvation; You shall not be ashamed or disgraced Forever and ever.
So to translate this word in Ecclesiastes 3:11 as eternity is a good translation. God has placed eternity in our hearts. There is a part of every man that know there is a God.
2. God has also put in our heart that we should obey that something that is bigger than us. We know naturally that there are rules that should be followed even if we have never heard the law or God's Word.
Romans 2:12-16, 12 For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law 13 (for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified; 14 for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, 15 who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) 16 in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.
3. Also God has clearly revealed himself to us through creation.
Romans 1:18-20 says, For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.
God revealing himself to man through creation has left ever man without an excuse. Here is how it works. God reveals himself in a general way to all men by putting a hunger for spiritual things in his heart, a knowledge of right and wrong, and a clear revelation of himself through creation (Why do you think that evolutionist have fought so hard to preach their doctrine). When man responds to this general revelation, then God will move toward him by giving him specific revelation from his word. God sends a person to give specific revelation from his word to the person that is willing to respond to the general revelation in their heart and creation. This is what he did for the Ethiopian Eunuch and it is what he is doing for Cornelius in our Journey for today. Notice this from Psalm 19.
General revelation (Psalms 19:1-6)
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. 2 Day unto day utters speech, And night unto night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language Where their voice is not heard. 4 Their line has gone out through all the earth, And their words to the end of the world. In them He has set a tabernacle for the sun, 5 Which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, And rejoices like a strong man to run its race. 6 Its rising is from one end of heaven, And its circuit to the other end; And there is nothing hidden from its heat.
Specific Revelation (Psalms 19:7-14)
7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; 8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; 9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold,
Yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. 11 Moreover by them Your servant is warned, And in keeping them there is great reward. 12 Who can understand his errors?
Cleanse me from secret faults. 13 Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, And I shall be innocent of great transgression. 14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.
So yes, all men are accountable. Even if a preacher has never stood in front of them and told them how to be saved. Even if a missionary never pushed through the bush and showed them Jesus from the Bible. They are accountable. If they would respond to the general revelation God has provided then he would provide specific revelation. If it was as simple as, if you don't hear the gospel you are not responsible, then the most loving thing we could do would be to immediately stop all mission and evangelistic activity. But of course we are commanded by God to be telling the world shamelessly.
It took a little convincing, but God sent Peter for Cornelius and he and many others were saved (Acts 10:9-48)
Friday, July 5, 2013
He got saved? No Way!
Persecution; it's good (Acts 8:1-4)
It is not natural for us to think of persecution as a good thing, but the Lord has told us different. We are to rejoice when we are persecuted (Matthew 5:10-12), this is the attitude the apostles had (Acts 5:41), it means we are doing something right (2 Timothy 3:12). Here the persecution caused them to scatter thus obeying the Lord's command in Acts1:8. Some even wonder if they would have obeyed without the pressure of the persecution.
The revival in Samaria (Acts 8:5-25)
As a result of the persecution Phillip went to Samaria and a revival broke out that involved multitudes being saved, even Simon the sorcerer (witch doctor, shaman, local spiritist) was saved.
Have you noticed how dependent they were on the Holy Spirit? It has been mentioned in every chapter. I want a great revival to come to our country. Perhaps if God's people were more reliant on the Holy Spirit and more obedient to the Great Commission, we would see it come to pass.
The Conversion of the Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40)
After his work in Samaria Phillip was called away to a desert place to witness to a single man. God cares about the masses and the individual. He was the treasurer of Ethiopia. Lofty position, I would say. Through God's power Phillip leads him to the Lord. He ask an interesting question in verse 36. Is there any reason I can't get baptized? Phillip said that the only thing that would hold him back is if he was not saved (37). This is a classic passage to use when helping someone understand they need to be saved before they are baptized. Were you saved before you got baptized?
The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-31)
Saul's conversion is extremely dramatic. I found it interesting that Jesus said he was persecuting him (4-5). Saul was beating and imprisoning God's people, but Jesus said that he was the one being persecuted. Keep that in mind when persecution comes your way, it is really Jesus they are striking out against.
Ananias had his doubts about the situation with Saul, but the Lord said he was a chosen vessel (15). Keep in mind when you are dealing with what might seem like hopeless cases, you never know who might be God's chosen vessel.
The book of Acts makes it apparent that there are some things that people should do right away after being saved. One is to get baptized. Another is to share your faith (20).
Peter's Ministry (Acts 9:32-43)
There are three influential men that are converted in these two chapters.
1. Simon, a bewitching man, by his trickery and perhaps demonic power is gloriously saved,
2. The Eunuch, a man of position and politics, is brought to Jesus.
3. Perhaps the most powerful conversion of all in terms of how God used this man was Saul, a religious man. He got over his religion and found Jesus.
Perhaps all three of these would have seemed like hopeless cases, but there is no such thing. Our duty is to faithfully witness, God will sort out who can and cannot be saved.
By the way, just because there were no blinding lights or flashy miracles at you conversion does not make it less important than these. They are all precious and amazing and God would like to use you in an even more powerful way than he did Saul (Paul).
It is not natural for us to think of persecution as a good thing, but the Lord has told us different. We are to rejoice when we are persecuted (Matthew 5:10-12), this is the attitude the apostles had (Acts 5:41), it means we are doing something right (2 Timothy 3:12). Here the persecution caused them to scatter thus obeying the Lord's command in Acts1:8. Some even wonder if they would have obeyed without the pressure of the persecution.
The revival in Samaria (Acts 8:5-25)
As a result of the persecution Phillip went to Samaria and a revival broke out that involved multitudes being saved, even Simon the sorcerer (witch doctor, shaman, local spiritist) was saved.
Have you noticed how dependent they were on the Holy Spirit? It has been mentioned in every chapter. I want a great revival to come to our country. Perhaps if God's people were more reliant on the Holy Spirit and more obedient to the Great Commission, we would see it come to pass.
The Conversion of the Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40)
After his work in Samaria Phillip was called away to a desert place to witness to a single man. God cares about the masses and the individual. He was the treasurer of Ethiopia. Lofty position, I would say. Through God's power Phillip leads him to the Lord. He ask an interesting question in verse 36. Is there any reason I can't get baptized? Phillip said that the only thing that would hold him back is if he was not saved (37). This is a classic passage to use when helping someone understand they need to be saved before they are baptized. Were you saved before you got baptized?
The Conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-31)
Saul's conversion is extremely dramatic. I found it interesting that Jesus said he was persecuting him (4-5). Saul was beating and imprisoning God's people, but Jesus said that he was the one being persecuted. Keep that in mind when persecution comes your way, it is really Jesus they are striking out against.
Ananias had his doubts about the situation with Saul, but the Lord said he was a chosen vessel (15). Keep in mind when you are dealing with what might seem like hopeless cases, you never know who might be God's chosen vessel.
The book of Acts makes it apparent that there are some things that people should do right away after being saved. One is to get baptized. Another is to share your faith (20).
Peter's Ministry (Acts 9:32-43)
There are three influential men that are converted in these two chapters.
1. Simon, a bewitching man, by his trickery and perhaps demonic power is gloriously saved,
2. The Eunuch, a man of position and politics, is brought to Jesus.
3. Perhaps the most powerful conversion of all in terms of how God used this man was Saul, a religious man. He got over his religion and found Jesus.
Perhaps all three of these would have seemed like hopeless cases, but there is no such thing. Our duty is to faithfully witness, God will sort out who can and cannot be saved.
By the way, just because there were no blinding lights or flashy miracles at you conversion does not make it less important than these. They are all precious and amazing and God would like to use you in an even more powerful way than he did Saul (Paul).
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Attention all History Buffs
A detailed History Lesson (Acts 7)
In this chapter as Stephen stands before the Sanhedrin, he gives a detailed history of the nation of Israel. He starts at Abraham and goes all the way through the prophets. What purpose did Stephen's history lesson serve.
1. To prove to the listeners that he knew the Bible. Remember everything he is saying is accounted for in the Bible and he had been accused of perverting the scriptures (law). He is proving he knows them well.
2. To show his accusers their sin. They had brought him to trial (through false witnesses) for perverting the law, when in fact it was they who were perverting it. Obviously he was not trying to buddy up to them (51)
3. To introduce them to Jesus. He mentioned him as the one Moses spoke of (37), and said he was the one the prophets spoke about (52).
The more knowledgeable we are about the Bible the stronger of a witness we are going to be (This is what The Journey is all about). The listeners may not always want to hear what we have to say, but that does not change the fact that they need to be told about their sin (The greatest problem humanity faces) and that Jesus is the answer. Even though it may not seem your witness is effective (getting stoned to death at the end of presenting the gospel seems like an epic fail), you never know who might be in that unreceptive crowd who is really being effected. Keep your eye on the guy in verse 58.
In this chapter as Stephen stands before the Sanhedrin, he gives a detailed history of the nation of Israel. He starts at Abraham and goes all the way through the prophets. What purpose did Stephen's history lesson serve.
1. To prove to the listeners that he knew the Bible. Remember everything he is saying is accounted for in the Bible and he had been accused of perverting the scriptures (law). He is proving he knows them well.
2. To show his accusers their sin. They had brought him to trial (through false witnesses) for perverting the law, when in fact it was they who were perverting it. Obviously he was not trying to buddy up to them (51)
3. To introduce them to Jesus. He mentioned him as the one Moses spoke of (37), and said he was the one the prophets spoke about (52).
The more knowledgeable we are about the Bible the stronger of a witness we are going to be (This is what The Journey is all about). The listeners may not always want to hear what we have to say, but that does not change the fact that they need to be told about their sin (The greatest problem humanity faces) and that Jesus is the answer. Even though it may not seem your witness is effective (getting stoned to death at the end of presenting the gospel seems like an epic fail), you never know who might be in that unreceptive crowd who is really being effected. Keep your eye on the guy in verse 58.
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Rejoicing about what?
Increasing Power and Influence (Acts 5:1-16)
Ananias and Sapphira had decided that they would sell land and give it to the church fund like many others had done. I am not sure if they got a lot more for it than they thought they would or if they planned it from the beginning, but they decided to keep some of the money, but say they gave it all. They wanted the glory of being sacrificial and generous givers without it hitting their bank account so heavy. There was no sin in just keeping the land, or even selling it and only giving part of the money (4). The real problem was when they decided to lie about how much it sold for. It cost both of them their lives.
However this and other events continued to add to the power and influence of the church. Great fear or reverence came upon the church members because of this event (11). Nothing like a couple of the church members dying for doing the wrong thing to get everybody else's attention. The same thing is happening today although not in quit so dramatic fashion. More than anything most church members are withering away spiritually and their church right along with them. God help us not to contribute to this problem. Even those who were not willing to convert esteemed them highly (13). But many new converts were being made (14). Their influence was also starting to spread geographically in that people of other cities were coming to them (16).
More Jail Time (Acts 5:17-42)
The more the power of the church spread the more nervous the religious leaders got. The apostles are arrested again, but they are released by angels that told them to go right back to preaching. They obey and are brought back in the next day, but carefully and without force, because the work God is doing through them is becoming so powerful that the leaders are afraid the people might stone them if they mistreat the apostles.
When questioned about why they continue to preach Jesus, in fact they said that had filled Jerusalem with their doctrine or teaching (Oh to God that we could be accused of the same thing), Peter said that it was still a matter of deciding to obey God or man (29) and repeats the message of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus to provide repentance and forgiveness.
When I read Gamaliel's advice, I get the idea that he suspected this was a movement of God and not man (34-39). But the council did not fully follow his advice as when they brought the apostles back in they threatened them and beat them. Verse 41 is a WOW verse for me. If we ever had to take a beating for the Lord, would we rejoice that we were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name, or would we gripe, complain, and quit? They rejoiced and went right back to preaching and teaching.
First internal church problem (Acts 6:1-15)
The church had, of course, been facing many problems from the outside, but this was one of the first real problems from the inside. They did have the situation with Ananias and Sapphira, but the Lord took care of that pretty quick. This problem was that the church had a ministry to widows and some seemed to be getting left out.
Now problems will come, but when they do church people have a choice. We can be overcome by the problem or we can overcome the problem. It really is as simple as us choosing which it will be, because there is no way that God wants us to be overcome by the problem (none, nada, zilch). So when we are determined to love one another and God more than we love getting our way or being right, then we will seek God and he will give an answer, just like he did in this situation.
Some say that these men that were chosen were the first deacons, although they are not called that in this passage. However, they certainly did the work of a deacon. Clearly from the scriptures deacons are servants and not bosses (although they will be very influential if they serve well). Interesting in this passage that the people chose qualified men, but the pastors told them what to do. That gets a little mixed up sometimes in churches.
So solving the problem with a God given solution, allowed the ministry to the widows to continue to succeed, the apostles to give constant attention to pray and ministry of the Word, and resulted in the spread of Gods word, the multiplication of numbers of disciples, and even Jewish priest being converted in large numbers.
Praise God, when we do right great things happen.
Ananias and Sapphira had decided that they would sell land and give it to the church fund like many others had done. I am not sure if they got a lot more for it than they thought they would or if they planned it from the beginning, but they decided to keep some of the money, but say they gave it all. They wanted the glory of being sacrificial and generous givers without it hitting their bank account so heavy. There was no sin in just keeping the land, or even selling it and only giving part of the money (4). The real problem was when they decided to lie about how much it sold for. It cost both of them their lives.
However this and other events continued to add to the power and influence of the church. Great fear or reverence came upon the church members because of this event (11). Nothing like a couple of the church members dying for doing the wrong thing to get everybody else's attention. The same thing is happening today although not in quit so dramatic fashion. More than anything most church members are withering away spiritually and their church right along with them. God help us not to contribute to this problem. Even those who were not willing to convert esteemed them highly (13). But many new converts were being made (14). Their influence was also starting to spread geographically in that people of other cities were coming to them (16).
More Jail Time (Acts 5:17-42)
The more the power of the church spread the more nervous the religious leaders got. The apostles are arrested again, but they are released by angels that told them to go right back to preaching. They obey and are brought back in the next day, but carefully and without force, because the work God is doing through them is becoming so powerful that the leaders are afraid the people might stone them if they mistreat the apostles.
When questioned about why they continue to preach Jesus, in fact they said that had filled Jerusalem with their doctrine or teaching (Oh to God that we could be accused of the same thing), Peter said that it was still a matter of deciding to obey God or man (29) and repeats the message of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus to provide repentance and forgiveness.
When I read Gamaliel's advice, I get the idea that he suspected this was a movement of God and not man (34-39). But the council did not fully follow his advice as when they brought the apostles back in they threatened them and beat them. Verse 41 is a WOW verse for me. If we ever had to take a beating for the Lord, would we rejoice that we were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name, or would we gripe, complain, and quit? They rejoiced and went right back to preaching and teaching.
First internal church problem (Acts 6:1-15)
The church had, of course, been facing many problems from the outside, but this was one of the first real problems from the inside. They did have the situation with Ananias and Sapphira, but the Lord took care of that pretty quick. This problem was that the church had a ministry to widows and some seemed to be getting left out.
Now problems will come, but when they do church people have a choice. We can be overcome by the problem or we can overcome the problem. It really is as simple as us choosing which it will be, because there is no way that God wants us to be overcome by the problem (none, nada, zilch). So when we are determined to love one another and God more than we love getting our way or being right, then we will seek God and he will give an answer, just like he did in this situation.
Some say that these men that were chosen were the first deacons, although they are not called that in this passage. However, they certainly did the work of a deacon. Clearly from the scriptures deacons are servants and not bosses (although they will be very influential if they serve well). Interesting in this passage that the people chose qualified men, but the pastors told them what to do. That gets a little mixed up sometimes in churches.
So solving the problem with a God given solution, allowed the ministry to the widows to continue to succeed, the apostles to give constant attention to pray and ministry of the Word, and resulted in the spread of Gods word, the multiplication of numbers of disciples, and even Jewish priest being converted in large numbers.
Praise God, when we do right great things happen.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
What to pray for after being arrested for preaching Jesus
Walking, Leaping, and Praising God (Acts 3:1-26)
What an exciting miracle God did through Peter and John. As many great things as there are to say about the miracle, the thing that catches my eye is how Peter used it as a platform to preach the gospel. The book of acts records several sermons. This is the second one and both have been by Peter so far. In both he has preached the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus (the gospel) and the need for repentance. In both he has used the scriptures to make his points. Sounds like a good pattern of preaching to follow to me. Peters first sermon saw 3000 saved and added to the church. This second sermon saw 5000 men saved (Acts 4:4). A guy could get spoiled with results like that.
Arrested for being a witness (Acts 4:1-22)
I guess in our day and time it is hard to imagine being arrested for sharing your faith, although I think it is become more and more believable all the time. When I read what the apostles and early Christians suffered for there faith it makes me ashamed of the way I pull back so many times. They boldly shared even when arrested that Jesus was the resurrected savior and that there is no other name under heaven whereby men may be saved.
When the rulers saw their boldness they knew they had been with Jesus. I wander how widely known we would be for our boldness. We must be careful because there can be a fine line between boldness and arrogance. When threatened that they must stop speaking in the name of Jesus, they simply stated that they must obey God rather than man. Do we see our decision to share our faith or hold our tongue as the difference between obeying God or yielding to man?
What to pray for after being arrested for preaching Jesus (Acts 4:23-37)
You might think that they would have prayed for protection, the death of their enemies, wisdom about where to run and hide, but instead they prayed for boldness. God help us not to be arrogant, but to be bold. God show us the way that we can TELL THE WORLD SHAMELESSLY!
Brother Scott
What an exciting miracle God did through Peter and John. As many great things as there are to say about the miracle, the thing that catches my eye is how Peter used it as a platform to preach the gospel. The book of acts records several sermons. This is the second one and both have been by Peter so far. In both he has preached the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus (the gospel) and the need for repentance. In both he has used the scriptures to make his points. Sounds like a good pattern of preaching to follow to me. Peters first sermon saw 3000 saved and added to the church. This second sermon saw 5000 men saved (Acts 4:4). A guy could get spoiled with results like that.
Arrested for being a witness (Acts 4:1-22)
I guess in our day and time it is hard to imagine being arrested for sharing your faith, although I think it is become more and more believable all the time. When I read what the apostles and early Christians suffered for there faith it makes me ashamed of the way I pull back so many times. They boldly shared even when arrested that Jesus was the resurrected savior and that there is no other name under heaven whereby men may be saved.
When the rulers saw their boldness they knew they had been with Jesus. I wander how widely known we would be for our boldness. We must be careful because there can be a fine line between boldness and arrogance. When threatened that they must stop speaking in the name of Jesus, they simply stated that they must obey God rather than man. Do we see our decision to share our faith or hold our tongue as the difference between obeying God or yielding to man?
What to pray for after being arrested for preaching Jesus (Acts 4:23-37)
You might think that they would have prayed for protection, the death of their enemies, wisdom about where to run and hide, but instead they prayed for boldness. God help us not to be arrogant, but to be bold. God show us the way that we can TELL THE WORLD SHAMELESSLY!
Brother Scott
Monday, July 1, 2013
Get your head out of the clouds
Get your head out of the clouds (Acts
1:1-11)
The disciples had
the great privilege of seeing Jesus Ascend. Can you image being there for that
event? And as they stood in owe struck wonder, the angel said “what are you
looking at”, He is coming back the same way he just left. The implication is,
stop staring at the sky and get busy. Jesus had already told them that they
were to be witnesses through the power of the Holy Spirit.
If we are not
careful we can get our heads in the clouds as well. We can get caught up in all
the church does instead of what it is about. We can tangle ourselves in end
time predictions. We can let the cares of this life distract our attention, but
the bottom line is “be a witness”. We must get our heads out of the clouds and
serve Jesus till he comes.
Time for a business meeting (Acts
1:12-26)
If we all were
completely honest, we would probably have to admit that we do not enjoy the
business end of church. Many have horror stories about meetings gone wrong,
sometimes people say, “well, I just don’t get into the politics of church
(politics of church, that sounds ugly doesn’t it). Unfortunately there are
decisions that have to be made. I really believe that if supreme love for God
and mutual love for one another is the norm (and it should be), there is
nothing to be concerned about. God can show us his will and together we can
work through any decision.
What are tongues for (Acts 2:1-39)
Tongues are a
controversial subject. Yet here it is very clear that they were speaking other
languages that could be understood by people that were there that day. It was
not some unknown language. The Bible has more to say about tongues in 1
Corinthians 12-14. But in short God gave the gift of tongues and some other
miracle gifts as a tool until the word of God was completed. I am amazed at
what many are doing today and calling tongues.
I served as a
missionary in Kenya Africa for two years and in my time there I studied and
learned Swahili. I found it interesting that the missionaries there that say
they believe in the use of tongues in our time also went to language school. If
tongues are still in use today, why did they not step off the plane speaking
Swahili?
What does it mean to become a member
of the church? (Acts 2:40-47)
Verse 47 says that
the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. Does that mean
that everybody who is saved is automatically part of the church? No everybody
that is saved is part of the family of God. God was adding these people that
were getting saved to the church in Jerusalem. So what does one do to become
and be (really be) a member of the church.
1.
Gladly receive the word of salvation (41)
2.
Be baptized (41)
3.
Be added to the membership of the church (41)
4.
Continue steadfastly in the things of the church
(42)
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