Introduction
Introduction
The Acts of the Apostle is one of the five historical books in the New Testament. It forms the link between the Gospels and the epistles. The book of Acts is the history of the disciples who took the great commission of Christ seriously. This is the second volume of the two-part book of the gospel story written by Luke. His gospel records the biography of Jesus Christ. The book of Acts of Apostles is the account of the beginning and practices of the early church. The four Gospels tell us what Christ did while on earth through His physical body. But the Acts of Apostles tells us what Christ is doing through His spiritual body, the church. This book reveals the vitality of the gospel and God’s great plan of world evangelism. This book essentially records the birth and growing pain of the church. It reveals the importance of the gospel proclamation. The book of Acts has been called "The Acts of the Holy Spirit".
Authorship:
There is a general agreement that Luke wrote the book of Acts. The traditions and early church records ascribe the authorship to Dr. Luke, a close associate of Apostle Paul. Luke, the beloved physician is the only gentile writer in the New Testament (Col 4:14). He wrote the Acts of Apostle as a sequel to his Gospel. Theophilus was the recipient of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of Apostles (Luke 1:4; Act 1:1). Obviously Theophilus knew the identity of the author. The Acts of the Apostles is the most reliable history of the early church. In fact it is the thought through eye witness account of early church. Luke was a close companion and fellow worker of Apostle Paul. The use of personal pronoun used by Luke is significant (16:10-18). Scholars suggest that external and internal evidences show that Luke wrote the book of Acts between A.D. 61-63.
Purpose:
The Acts of Apostles cannot be separated from the Gospel of Luke. It was written that we may know the certainty of the orderly account of the gospel and the early church (Luke 1:1-4). Since the church was growing rapidly in the Roman empire, an authoritative account of the birth of the early church has become necessary. The early church saw the value of the book of Acts and circulated it widely. Scholars suggest that this book covers the first 30 years of church history. No historian ever had a better background to write this book than Luke. He was a close associate of Apostle Paul. Dr. Luke was a man familiar with culture, history and Greek language. The book of Acts is the chief source book of the birth of the church, world missions, cross cultural evangelism and the spread of Christianity. Witness is the key word in the book of Acts and is used 29 times. The Holy Spirit is referred to more than fifty times in this book. The key verse of the book is Acts 1:8. All believers are expected to be witnesses of Christ. While the apostles are mentioned collectively as witnesses, this book primarily records the ministry of Peter (1-12) and the ministry of Paul (13-28) in particular. Scholars suggest that this evangelistic mission lasted 2 years in Jerusalem (1-7), 13 years in Judea and Samaria (8-12) and 15 years in the foreign mission fields or among Gentiles (13-28). This book clarifies the historical references in the Pauline Epistles. It is the primary textbook of missionary principles and the defense of the Christian faith. It is always true that the light that shines the farthest will shine the brightest at home. The early church was a worshiping and witnessing community.
The Acts of the Apostle is one of the five historical books in the New Testament. It forms the link between the Gospels and the epistles. The book of Acts is the history of the disciples who took the great commission of Christ seriously. This is the second volume of the two-part book of the gospel story written by Luke. His gospel records the biography of Jesus Christ. The book of Acts of Apostles is the account of the beginning and practices of the early church. The four Gospels tell us what Christ did while on earth through His physical body. But the Acts of Apostles tells us what Christ is doing through His spiritual body, the church. This book reveals the vitality of the gospel and God’s great plan of world evangelism. This book essentially records the birth and growing pain of the church. It reveals the importance of the gospel proclamation. The book of Acts has been called "The Acts of the Holy Spirit".
Authorship:
There is a general agreement that Luke wrote the book of Acts. The traditions and early church records ascribe the authorship to Dr. Luke, a close associate of Apostle Paul. Luke, the beloved physician is the only gentile writer in the New Testament (Col 4:14). He wrote the Acts of Apostle as a sequel to his Gospel. Theophilus was the recipient of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of Apostles (Luke 1:4; Act 1:1). Obviously Theophilus knew the identity of the author. The Acts of the Apostles is the most reliable history of the early church. In fact it is the thought through eye witness account of early church. Luke was a close companion and fellow worker of Apostle Paul. The use of personal pronoun used by Luke is significant (16:10-18). Scholars suggest that external and internal evidences show that Luke wrote the book of Acts between A.D. 61-63.
Purpose:
The Acts of Apostles cannot be separated from the Gospel of Luke. It was written that we may know the certainty of the orderly account of the gospel and the early church (Luke 1:1-4). Since the church was growing rapidly in the Roman empire, an authoritative account of the birth of the early church has become necessary. The early church saw the value of the book of Acts and circulated it widely. Scholars suggest that this book covers the first 30 years of church history. No historian ever had a better background to write this book than Luke. He was a close associate of Apostle Paul. Dr. Luke was a man familiar with culture, history and Greek language. The book of Acts is the chief source book of the birth of the church, world missions, cross cultural evangelism and the spread of Christianity. Witness is the key word in the book of Acts and is used 29 times. The Holy Spirit is referred to more than fifty times in this book. The key verse of the book is Acts 1:8. All believers are expected to be witnesses of Christ. While the apostles are mentioned collectively as witnesses, this book primarily records the ministry of Peter (1-12) and the ministry of Paul (13-28) in particular. Scholars suggest that this evangelistic mission lasted 2 years in Jerusalem (1-7), 13 years in Judea and Samaria (8-12) and 15 years in the foreign mission fields or among Gentiles (13-28). This book clarifies the historical references in the Pauline Epistles. It is the primary textbook of missionary principles and the defense of the Christian faith. It is always true that the light that shines the farthest will shine the brightest at home. The early church was a worshiping and witnessing community.
Chapter 1
Introduction: Acts 1:1-4.
The book of Acts is a book about Jesus and his continuing work through the church. This book gives the account of the preaching of the gospel and the disciple making mission. What Jesus Christ has began to do is continued by the Holy Spirit in the book of the Acts of the Apostles. The risen Christ personally prepared the apostles for His ministry. This book is addressed to Theophilus, which means “Dear to God” and to the church in general. There is no reason to suppose that Theophilus was not a real person. He may be a believer who was interested in Christ and his ministry. Before Christ ascended to heaven, He appeared at least 10 times to His followers to prove the reality that He is alive. The central theme of the apostolic preaching was the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is mentioned about 22 times in the book of Acts. Jesus spoke to them about the kingdom of God. It is a reference to the Messianic Kingdom Jesus would establish one day (Dan 7). Just prior to His ascension, Jesus commanded His apostles to wait for the promise of the Father in Jerusalem (1:4). Christ also promised about the coming of the Holy Spirit in His upper room discourse (John 15:26; Acts 2:16). The Holy Spirit now took up His residence permanently in the believers and baptized them into the body of Christ which is the church (1 Cor 3:16-17; 6:19; 12:13). This was also promised by John the Baptist (Matt 3:11). The power of the Holy Spirit allowed the disciples to become Christ's witnesses. This is the primary task of the people of God. The Church is Jesus’ vehicle for continuing His work in the world today.
The Ascension of Jesus: Acts 1:6-7.
The disciples were commanded to bear witness to the risen Christ whom they had seen with their own eyes by beginning Jerusalem to the end of the earth (1:8). God wants that believers should share what they have experienced in Christ to others. Christ has redeemed us by his blood to become his witnesses (Isa 43:1, 10). The disciples were confused about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel and true purpose of Christ’s first coming into the world. Jesus did not answer the question concerning the precise time when God will restore the kingdom to Israel. God will fulfill His sovereign plan and purposes for the universe in His own appointed time. But Jesus wanted the apostles to wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit will come upon them, they will be empowered to become His witnesses in the world (1:8). The indwelling Spirit motivates us not only to grow spiritually but also empowers us to proclaim the gospel. For God has not given us a Spirit of fear but of power, love and self control (2 Tim 1:7). Holy Spirit gives us boldness to witness Christ. The primary task of apostles was to become Christ's witnesses in the world whom they had seen with their own eyes. They wanted to share what Christ has done in their life with others. Their witnessing of Christ changed the lives of people who responded to it forever.
The promise of Power for Witnessing: Acts 1:8-11.
Chapter 1:8, unfolds God's plan of witnessing and worldwide evangelism. The witnessing begins in Jerusalem and then moving outward to the end of the earth (1:8). God always wanted His redeemed people to witness His greatness (Isaiah 43:1; Psalms 107:1, 2, 21). God says of Israel in Isaiah “You are my witnesses and my servants whom I have chosen” (Isaiah 43:10). God commands us to declare His glory among the nations (Psalms 96:3). He has called us out of the darkness into His marvelous light to proclaim His praise (1 Pet 2:9). If we do not witness Christ, how will people ever know of God’s love and grace? (Rom 1:14-15). Our witnessing and life should go together (Matt 5:16). All believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit but only when we are controlled and energized by the Holy Spirit we become effective witnesses for Christ (Rom 8:9). Christians should prayerfully seek God to empower them with his Spirit to become his witnesses. The book of Acts shows the centrality of Christ in the gospel proclamation. Having commissioned His disciples, a cloud took Jesus out of their sight. Throughout the scripture this cloud speaks of the visible presence of God (Ex 13:21; Matt 17:5; 24:30). Jesus was once again restored to the glory which He had with the Father before (John 17:4-5). He will return in glory for all to see on the Mount of Olives soon (Rev 1:7: Phi 3:21; Zechariah 14:4). The disciples were comforted by two angels by reassuring them of Christ return in glory. The Church is Jesus' vehicle for continuing his work in the world.
Mathias Chosen to Replace Judas: Acts 1:12-26.
The disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy and waited there for the promise of the Holy Spirit. There was great unity among them and their fellowship was centered in the risen Christ. They continued with one accord in prayer. Prayer always unites believers. There were women, men and members of Christ’s family in that gathering of the disciples. It seems Christ’s brothers had believed in Him after His resurrection (John 7:5; Act 1:14). The phrase “With one accord” is found many times in the book of Acts. Prayer was an integral part of the early church. In almost every chapter in the book of Acts we find a reference to prayer. Early Christians recognized that the true power needed for the disciple-making mission comes from God alone. Peter has become the recognized leader among the apostles. He was enabled by the Holy Spirit to understand the defection of Judas Iscariot. The defection of Judas was a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (Psalms 41:9). Both the Old Testament and the New Testament are important because all scripture is given by the inspiration of God (2 Tim 3:16). The twofold criteria for the replacement for Judas were, he must have been with the Lord from the baptism of Christ unto His ascension. And also he must be a witness of the Christ’s resurrection (1:21, 22). Seeking the will of God by casting lots was a normal Hebrew custom (Pro 16:33). The disciples believed in the divine providence of selecting the most qualified person to fill Judas vacancy. The lot fell on Mathias. Only 120 disciples were present in the upper room. They prayerfully waited for the Holy Spirit to empower them. Today God reveals his will to us through His written Word as we wait on him in prayer. Pray that you would have a deeper appreciation of Christ and empowered with the Holy Spirit to become his witnesses.
The book of Acts is a book about Jesus and his continuing work through the church. This book gives the account of the preaching of the gospel and the disciple making mission. What Jesus Christ has began to do is continued by the Holy Spirit in the book of the Acts of the Apostles. The risen Christ personally prepared the apostles for His ministry. This book is addressed to Theophilus, which means “Dear to God” and to the church in general. There is no reason to suppose that Theophilus was not a real person. He may be a believer who was interested in Christ and his ministry. Before Christ ascended to heaven, He appeared at least 10 times to His followers to prove the reality that He is alive. The central theme of the apostolic preaching was the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is mentioned about 22 times in the book of Acts. Jesus spoke to them about the kingdom of God. It is a reference to the Messianic Kingdom Jesus would establish one day (Dan 7). Just prior to His ascension, Jesus commanded His apostles to wait for the promise of the Father in Jerusalem (1:4). Christ also promised about the coming of the Holy Spirit in His upper room discourse (John 15:26; Acts 2:16). The Holy Spirit now took up His residence permanently in the believers and baptized them into the body of Christ which is the church (1 Cor 3:16-17; 6:19; 12:13). This was also promised by John the Baptist (Matt 3:11). The power of the Holy Spirit allowed the disciples to become Christ's witnesses. This is the primary task of the people of God. The Church is Jesus’ vehicle for continuing His work in the world today.
The Ascension of Jesus: Acts 1:6-7.
The disciples were commanded to bear witness to the risen Christ whom they had seen with their own eyes by beginning Jerusalem to the end of the earth (1:8). God wants that believers should share what they have experienced in Christ to others. Christ has redeemed us by his blood to become his witnesses (Isa 43:1, 10). The disciples were confused about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel and true purpose of Christ’s first coming into the world. Jesus did not answer the question concerning the precise time when God will restore the kingdom to Israel. God will fulfill His sovereign plan and purposes for the universe in His own appointed time. But Jesus wanted the apostles to wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit will come upon them, they will be empowered to become His witnesses in the world (1:8). The indwelling Spirit motivates us not only to grow spiritually but also empowers us to proclaim the gospel. For God has not given us a Spirit of fear but of power, love and self control (2 Tim 1:7). Holy Spirit gives us boldness to witness Christ. The primary task of apostles was to become Christ's witnesses in the world whom they had seen with their own eyes. They wanted to share what Christ has done in their life with others. Their witnessing of Christ changed the lives of people who responded to it forever.
The promise of Power for Witnessing: Acts 1:8-11.
Chapter 1:8, unfolds God's plan of witnessing and worldwide evangelism. The witnessing begins in Jerusalem and then moving outward to the end of the earth (1:8). God always wanted His redeemed people to witness His greatness (Isaiah 43:1; Psalms 107:1, 2, 21). God says of Israel in Isaiah “You are my witnesses and my servants whom I have chosen” (Isaiah 43:10). God commands us to declare His glory among the nations (Psalms 96:3). He has called us out of the darkness into His marvelous light to proclaim His praise (1 Pet 2:9). If we do not witness Christ, how will people ever know of God’s love and grace? (Rom 1:14-15). Our witnessing and life should go together (Matt 5:16). All believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit but only when we are controlled and energized by the Holy Spirit we become effective witnesses for Christ (Rom 8:9). Christians should prayerfully seek God to empower them with his Spirit to become his witnesses. The book of Acts shows the centrality of Christ in the gospel proclamation. Having commissioned His disciples, a cloud took Jesus out of their sight. Throughout the scripture this cloud speaks of the visible presence of God (Ex 13:21; Matt 17:5; 24:30). Jesus was once again restored to the glory which He had with the Father before (John 17:4-5). He will return in glory for all to see on the Mount of Olives soon (Rev 1:7: Phi 3:21; Zechariah 14:4). The disciples were comforted by two angels by reassuring them of Christ return in glory. The Church is Jesus' vehicle for continuing his work in the world.
Mathias Chosen to Replace Judas: Acts 1:12-26.
The disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy and waited there for the promise of the Holy Spirit. There was great unity among them and their fellowship was centered in the risen Christ. They continued with one accord in prayer. Prayer always unites believers. There were women, men and members of Christ’s family in that gathering of the disciples. It seems Christ’s brothers had believed in Him after His resurrection (John 7:5; Act 1:14). The phrase “With one accord” is found many times in the book of Acts. Prayer was an integral part of the early church. In almost every chapter in the book of Acts we find a reference to prayer. Early Christians recognized that the true power needed for the disciple-making mission comes from God alone. Peter has become the recognized leader among the apostles. He was enabled by the Holy Spirit to understand the defection of Judas Iscariot. The defection of Judas was a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (Psalms 41:9). Both the Old Testament and the New Testament are important because all scripture is given by the inspiration of God (2 Tim 3:16). The twofold criteria for the replacement for Judas were, he must have been with the Lord from the baptism of Christ unto His ascension. And also he must be a witness of the Christ’s resurrection (1:21, 22). Seeking the will of God by casting lots was a normal Hebrew custom (Pro 16:33). The disciples believed in the divine providence of selecting the most qualified person to fill Judas vacancy. The lot fell on Mathias. Only 120 disciples were present in the upper room. They prayerfully waited for the Holy Spirit to empower them. Today God reveals his will to us through His written Word as we wait on him in prayer. Pray that you would have a deeper appreciation of Christ and empowered with the Holy Spirit to become his witnesses.
Chapter 2
The Birth of the Church: Acts 2:1-3.
The story of book of Acts is is also our story because we are part of the church. The descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles is really the birth story of all who are in Christ. It is the birth story of the church. Since the time of Babel the nations were divided by languages (Gen 11:1-9). With the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost the gospel is made available to all nations and all languages. When the disciples were together in one place in Jerusalem suddenly they were filled with the Holy Spirit and they began to speak in other languages (2:4). The descent of the Spirit on the apostles is really the birth story of all who are in Christ. The Old Testament Pentecost occurred 50 days after Israel left Egypt (Leviticus 23). It was a harvest festival. The New Testament Pentecost occurred 50 days after Christ had risen from the dead. Pentecost means fiftieth and celebrated fifty days after the Feast of the First fruits. Passover is the picture of Christ’s death (1 Cor 5:7). The Feast of the First-fruits speaks of Christ’s resurrection (1 Cor 15:20-23). Fifty days after the Feast of the First-fruits was the feast of Pentecost (Lev 23). Pentecost celebrated the birth of the nation of Israel (Ex 19:5). While Old Testament Pentecost witnessed the slaying of 3000 souls, the New Testament Pentecost witnessed the salvation of 3000 souls. The Pentecost was a once for all event that will not be repeated. We should not expect another Pentecost any more than we would ask for another Calvary. In the Old Testament the Holy Spirit was given only to a selected few to perform specific tasks. But in the church the Holy Spirit is given to all believers (Rom 8:9). The Holy Spirit does not draw attention to Himself but to Christ. The coming of the Holy Spirit was accompanied by three special manifestations. It was like rushing wind and like divided tongue as of fire, and praising God in other languages. At Pentecost the curse of Babel begins to unravel. The gospel is available to all nations and all languages. The age of grace has begun. One day Christ's reign will be fully realized. The wind is symbolic of the Spirit of God (Ezekiel 37:5-9). The fire and wind make a graphic picture of the coming of the Spirit of God (Matt 3:11; Luke 3:16). The filling of the Spirit was for service (Ephesians 5: 18).
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit: Acts 2:4-13.
The Holy Spirit could not have come upon the disciples before Christ was raised from the dead and ascended to heaven (John 7:37-39). At Pentecost believers are baptized into the spiritual body of Christ, the church (1 Cor 12:13). When Christ was raised from the dead and sat at the right hand of God, the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples. Thus the church came into being. The church is made up of Jews and gentiles. To show that there is no difference between them, the sign gift of tongue was given. Jews from 17 nationalities were there to celebrate the feast of Pentecost. The gift of tongue enabled them to hear the Word of God in their own languages (2:6). This was God’s timing to reverse what had happened in Genesis 11. This was the fulfillment of the prophecy given to prophet Joel (2:17-18). Peter preached the first sermon which marked the birth of the church in Jerusalem through the baptism of the Holy Spirit. There is considerable difference of view among believers concerning this subject. Some consider baptism, a second blessing of the Holy Spirit that makes them more spiritual. There is no scriptural support for such view. Some accused those who spoke in tongues as being drunk. God has not given us the Spirit of fear but power, love and self-control (2 Tim 1:7).
Peter Preaches to the Crowd: Acts 2:14-36.
Peter standing with the eleven addressed the crowd. How important to have unity of spirit in the ministry! Peter made it clear that it is not a custom among Israel to drink in the early morning hours. He began his sermon with a reference to the Old Testament prophet Joel that in the last days, God will pour out his Spirit on all flesh-men and women, young and old, Jews and Gentiles (2:12-14). According to Peter the last days have begun. Peter's sermon was filled with many truths. Jesus is Lord and He is the fulfillment of God's promise to reign in the eternal Kingdom (2:29-36). Peter preached that “Christ’s death and resurrection was according to the determined council and foreknowledge of God". But Jews unknowingly put him to death. But God raised Jesus from the dead, for death could not keep Him in its grip. Peter supports his message by quoting from Psalm 16:8-11. David was writing about the Christ because his prophecy did not find its fulfillment in David. His body is buried still in a sepulcher. Christ is glorified and exalted to sit at the right hand of the Father in heaven. Peter concluded his message by saying that “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this, God had made this Jesus whom you crucified both Lord and Christ” (2:36). The greatest crime Israel has committed was crucifying their Messiah. Peter supported his message from the Old Testament (Psalm 110:1). He preached that Jesus is Lord and he is the fulfillment of God's promise to Israel (2:29-36). Though they crucified Jesus, God raised him from the dead. By his death and resurrection Jesus has reconciled to himself all of us God. He is highly exalted and given the church the Holy Spirit (2:33). The preaching of the gospel will lead people to repentance and faith in Christ.
What shall we do? Acts 2:37-40.
Because of their rejection of Jesus and crucifixion, people were "cut to the heart" . People asked Peter “What shall we do?” There was no alter call. When God is at work, people will be convicted of their sin and drawn to Christ. Peter said “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit”. Despite their original sin, those who repented and identified with Christ were forgiven. On that day 3000 people were saved. They were baptized and added to the church. The result of repentance and faith in Christ made them to receive the blessing of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 is one of the misunderstood verse in the Bible. Some link this verse to their baptismal regeneration theory. Bible does not teach that salvation is dependent on baptism (1 Cor 1:17). Peter quoted from Joel 2:28-32. Here we see what God had promised through His prophets. Those who turn from sin and identify with Christ will be saved. True repentance brings changes in attitude and actions (Isaiah 55:6-7). Baptism symbolizes our identification with Christ in his death and resurrection. Those who put their trust in Christ for the remission of sins will be saved. How wonderful to be forgiven of Sin (1 John 1:7). God graciously extends this promise to all who are far and near. Gospel is not confined by ethnic boundaries. None are so far removed that God cannot save them. Those who trust Jesus are new creation in Christ and partakers of his divine nature (John 3:5; 2 Cor 5:17; (1 Pet 1:4; Titus 3:5). This promise is available to all who trust in Christ (2:39).
Early Church Gathering: Acts 2:41-47.
Christ's righteousness is what provides our right standing before God. Those who believed Christ devoted themselves to the apostle's teaching, fellowship, worship and prayer in the the early church. The Holy Spirit brought forth devotion to apostolic teaching, fellowship, prayer and worship among them. They continued steadfastly in the apostles’ teaching, in fellowship, in breaking of bread and in prayers. They were devoted to fellowship and sharing burdens with one another. Though believers retained rights over their property, they cared for one another and "had all things in common". The early church was committed to the teaching of the apostles. Neglecting the sound teaching of the scripture makes us spiritually weak and ineffective in Christian life (Heb: 10:24, 25). Christian fellowship is more than being together. Fellowship means “having in common”. The early believers shared material goods according to their needs. Their sharing was motivated by love
(2 Cor 9). The breaking of bread refers to regular meals and at the end, remembering the death of Christ by observing the Lord’s Supper (20:7). The corporate worship and prayer allowed believers to express their thanks to God and to present their request before God as a body. It was a witnessing and a growing church. Because of the unity and love among them, they enjoyed the goodwill of all people. The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved (2:47). On the day of Pentecost 3000 people were saved and their number increased daily (5:14). Christ is building the church with those who are saved. The gospel centered and Spirit filled preaching draws people to Christ always. Pray that our church would follow this example. The early church was a growing church, strengthened in the faith and increasing in numbers daily (16:5).
The story of book of Acts is is also our story because we are part of the church. The descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles is really the birth story of all who are in Christ. It is the birth story of the church. Since the time of Babel the nations were divided by languages (Gen 11:1-9). With the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost the gospel is made available to all nations and all languages. When the disciples were together in one place in Jerusalem suddenly they were filled with the Holy Spirit and they began to speak in other languages (2:4). The descent of the Spirit on the apostles is really the birth story of all who are in Christ. The Old Testament Pentecost occurred 50 days after Israel left Egypt (Leviticus 23). It was a harvest festival. The New Testament Pentecost occurred 50 days after Christ had risen from the dead. Pentecost means fiftieth and celebrated fifty days after the Feast of the First fruits. Passover is the picture of Christ’s death (1 Cor 5:7). The Feast of the First-fruits speaks of Christ’s resurrection (1 Cor 15:20-23). Fifty days after the Feast of the First-fruits was the feast of Pentecost (Lev 23). Pentecost celebrated the birth of the nation of Israel (Ex 19:5). While Old Testament Pentecost witnessed the slaying of 3000 souls, the New Testament Pentecost witnessed the salvation of 3000 souls. The Pentecost was a once for all event that will not be repeated. We should not expect another Pentecost any more than we would ask for another Calvary. In the Old Testament the Holy Spirit was given only to a selected few to perform specific tasks. But in the church the Holy Spirit is given to all believers (Rom 8:9). The Holy Spirit does not draw attention to Himself but to Christ. The coming of the Holy Spirit was accompanied by three special manifestations. It was like rushing wind and like divided tongue as of fire, and praising God in other languages. At Pentecost the curse of Babel begins to unravel. The gospel is available to all nations and all languages. The age of grace has begun. One day Christ's reign will be fully realized. The wind is symbolic of the Spirit of God (Ezekiel 37:5-9). The fire and wind make a graphic picture of the coming of the Spirit of God (Matt 3:11; Luke 3:16). The filling of the Spirit was for service (Ephesians 5: 18).
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit: Acts 2:4-13.
The Holy Spirit could not have come upon the disciples before Christ was raised from the dead and ascended to heaven (John 7:37-39). At Pentecost believers are baptized into the spiritual body of Christ, the church (1 Cor 12:13). When Christ was raised from the dead and sat at the right hand of God, the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples. Thus the church came into being. The church is made up of Jews and gentiles. To show that there is no difference between them, the sign gift of tongue was given. Jews from 17 nationalities were there to celebrate the feast of Pentecost. The gift of tongue enabled them to hear the Word of God in their own languages (2:6). This was God’s timing to reverse what had happened in Genesis 11. This was the fulfillment of the prophecy given to prophet Joel (2:17-18). Peter preached the first sermon which marked the birth of the church in Jerusalem through the baptism of the Holy Spirit. There is considerable difference of view among believers concerning this subject. Some consider baptism, a second blessing of the Holy Spirit that makes them more spiritual. There is no scriptural support for such view. Some accused those who spoke in tongues as being drunk. God has not given us the Spirit of fear but power, love and self-control (2 Tim 1:7).
Peter Preaches to the Crowd: Acts 2:14-36.
Peter standing with the eleven addressed the crowd. How important to have unity of spirit in the ministry! Peter made it clear that it is not a custom among Israel to drink in the early morning hours. He began his sermon with a reference to the Old Testament prophet Joel that in the last days, God will pour out his Spirit on all flesh-men and women, young and old, Jews and Gentiles (2:12-14). According to Peter the last days have begun. Peter's sermon was filled with many truths. Jesus is Lord and He is the fulfillment of God's promise to reign in the eternal Kingdom (2:29-36). Peter preached that “Christ’s death and resurrection was according to the determined council and foreknowledge of God". But Jews unknowingly put him to death. But God raised Jesus from the dead, for death could not keep Him in its grip. Peter supports his message by quoting from Psalm 16:8-11. David was writing about the Christ because his prophecy did not find its fulfillment in David. His body is buried still in a sepulcher. Christ is glorified and exalted to sit at the right hand of the Father in heaven. Peter concluded his message by saying that “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this, God had made this Jesus whom you crucified both Lord and Christ” (2:36). The greatest crime Israel has committed was crucifying their Messiah. Peter supported his message from the Old Testament (Psalm 110:1). He preached that Jesus is Lord and he is the fulfillment of God's promise to Israel (2:29-36). Though they crucified Jesus, God raised him from the dead. By his death and resurrection Jesus has reconciled to himself all of us God. He is highly exalted and given the church the Holy Spirit (2:33). The preaching of the gospel will lead people to repentance and faith in Christ.
What shall we do? Acts 2:37-40.
Because of their rejection of Jesus and crucifixion, people were "cut to the heart" . People asked Peter “What shall we do?” There was no alter call. When God is at work, people will be convicted of their sin and drawn to Christ. Peter said “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit”. Despite their original sin, those who repented and identified with Christ were forgiven. On that day 3000 people were saved. They were baptized and added to the church. The result of repentance and faith in Christ made them to receive the blessing of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 is one of the misunderstood verse in the Bible. Some link this verse to their baptismal regeneration theory. Bible does not teach that salvation is dependent on baptism (1 Cor 1:17). Peter quoted from Joel 2:28-32. Here we see what God had promised through His prophets. Those who turn from sin and identify with Christ will be saved. True repentance brings changes in attitude and actions (Isaiah 55:6-7). Baptism symbolizes our identification with Christ in his death and resurrection. Those who put their trust in Christ for the remission of sins will be saved. How wonderful to be forgiven of Sin (1 John 1:7). God graciously extends this promise to all who are far and near. Gospel is not confined by ethnic boundaries. None are so far removed that God cannot save them. Those who trust Jesus are new creation in Christ and partakers of his divine nature (John 3:5; 2 Cor 5:17; (1 Pet 1:4; Titus 3:5). This promise is available to all who trust in Christ (2:39).
Early Church Gathering: Acts 2:41-47.
Christ's righteousness is what provides our right standing before God. Those who believed Christ devoted themselves to the apostle's teaching, fellowship, worship and prayer in the the early church. The Holy Spirit brought forth devotion to apostolic teaching, fellowship, prayer and worship among them. They continued steadfastly in the apostles’ teaching, in fellowship, in breaking of bread and in prayers. They were devoted to fellowship and sharing burdens with one another. Though believers retained rights over their property, they cared for one another and "had all things in common". The early church was committed to the teaching of the apostles. Neglecting the sound teaching of the scripture makes us spiritually weak and ineffective in Christian life (Heb: 10:24, 25). Christian fellowship is more than being together. Fellowship means “having in common”. The early believers shared material goods according to their needs. Their sharing was motivated by love
(2 Cor 9). The breaking of bread refers to regular meals and at the end, remembering the death of Christ by observing the Lord’s Supper (20:7). The corporate worship and prayer allowed believers to express their thanks to God and to present their request before God as a body. It was a witnessing and a growing church. Because of the unity and love among them, they enjoyed the goodwill of all people. The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved (2:47). On the day of Pentecost 3000 people were saved and their number increased daily (5:14). Christ is building the church with those who are saved. The gospel centered and Spirit filled preaching draws people to Christ always. Pray that our church would follow this example. The early church was a growing church, strengthened in the faith and increasing in numbers daily (16:5).
Chapter 3
Peter Heals the Lame Man: Acts 3:1-11.
The book of Acts is sometime called the book of the acts of the Holy Spirit. In Chapter one, the apostles were waiting for the Holy Spirit, Chapter two explained the coming of the Holy Spirit and Chapter three shows the apostles being empowered with the Holy Spirit. Those who are filled with the Holy Spirit experience the power of God in life and ministry. Peter and John went to the temple for their traditional prayer. As they entered the temple compound through the gate called "Beautiful", they met a man who was lame from birth. He asked for alms. Giving alms was a practice of the Jewish faith. Peter and John had no money to give. But in the name of Jesus the beggar was healed. Peter freely healed the one who had no right to claim it. He gave evidence of healing by “Walking and leaping, and praising God”. People looked on him with amazement when he entered the temple along with apostles. This is a picture of what salvation does in our lives. Once we were spiritually lame and unable to do anything to please God. We have nothing to offer in exchange for our salvation. In the their interaction with the beggar, apostles have shown concern for weak and afflicted. Gospel extends power of healing to one who has no right or ability to claim it. Pray that God would give us tender heart to share the gospel to those who are in need of salvation. God freely gives salvation to all those believe in Christ.
Peter’s Second Sermon: Acts 3:12-26.
People marveled at the healing of the lame man. Peter took this opportunity to address the Jewish crowd and said that this miracle was the work of the God. He was healed in the name of Jesus whom they have denied and crucified. He is the Holy One, the Just One, the prince of life and the God’s only Son. You killed the righteous one but God raised him from the dead. Jesus is the Messiah and His suffering was foretold by the prophets (Deut 18:15; Act 3:22). Starting with Moses, every prophet spoke about Jesus (Luke 24:27). Even though Israel failed to honor their Messiah, God continues to call them back to himself. The refreshment mentioned here may be a reference to the millennium reign which is to come (Zechariah 12:10-14). God will once again deal with the nation of Israel and restore them (Rom 11:26-27). God is faithful in the promises he made with their father Abraham. “And in your seed, all the families of the earth will be blessed” (Gen 12:3; Acts 3:25). Peter urged them to repent of their sins and to trust Jesus to be saved. True repentance is not feeling sorry for sins but the change of mind about sins and the Savior. It is admitting that what God says is true. Salvation is the supernatural work of God’s grace. Jesus is the fulfillment of God's plan of salvation from the beginning. Pray that God would give you a tender heart for those who are perishing in their sins. Share the gospel with them. Are you saved?
The book of Acts is sometime called the book of the acts of the Holy Spirit. In Chapter one, the apostles were waiting for the Holy Spirit, Chapter two explained the coming of the Holy Spirit and Chapter three shows the apostles being empowered with the Holy Spirit. Those who are filled with the Holy Spirit experience the power of God in life and ministry. Peter and John went to the temple for their traditional prayer. As they entered the temple compound through the gate called "Beautiful", they met a man who was lame from birth. He asked for alms. Giving alms was a practice of the Jewish faith. Peter and John had no money to give. But in the name of Jesus the beggar was healed. Peter freely healed the one who had no right to claim it. He gave evidence of healing by “Walking and leaping, and praising God”. People looked on him with amazement when he entered the temple along with apostles. This is a picture of what salvation does in our lives. Once we were spiritually lame and unable to do anything to please God. We have nothing to offer in exchange for our salvation. In the their interaction with the beggar, apostles have shown concern for weak and afflicted. Gospel extends power of healing to one who has no right or ability to claim it. Pray that God would give us tender heart to share the gospel to those who are in need of salvation. God freely gives salvation to all those believe in Christ.
Peter’s Second Sermon: Acts 3:12-26.
People marveled at the healing of the lame man. Peter took this opportunity to address the Jewish crowd and said that this miracle was the work of the God. He was healed in the name of Jesus whom they have denied and crucified. He is the Holy One, the Just One, the prince of life and the God’s only Son. You killed the righteous one but God raised him from the dead. Jesus is the Messiah and His suffering was foretold by the prophets (Deut 18:15; Act 3:22). Starting with Moses, every prophet spoke about Jesus (Luke 24:27). Even though Israel failed to honor their Messiah, God continues to call them back to himself. The refreshment mentioned here may be a reference to the millennium reign which is to come (Zechariah 12:10-14). God will once again deal with the nation of Israel and restore them (Rom 11:26-27). God is faithful in the promises he made with their father Abraham. “And in your seed, all the families of the earth will be blessed” (Gen 12:3; Acts 3:25). Peter urged them to repent of their sins and to trust Jesus to be saved. True repentance is not feeling sorry for sins but the change of mind about sins and the Savior. It is admitting that what God says is true. Salvation is the supernatural work of God’s grace. Jesus is the fulfillment of God's plan of salvation from the beginning. Pray that God would give you a tender heart for those who are perishing in their sins. Share the gospel with them. Are you saved?
Chapter 4
The Persecution of the Early Church: Acts 4:1-11.
Acts chapter 4 marks the first persecution of the early church. What made the early church so dynamic was their commitment to follow Christ wholeheartedly. The Sadducees and high priests were angered at the preaching of apostles and were violently opposed to the teaching of resurrection. They arrested Peter and john and put them in the prison until next day. But many believed in Christ and the number totaled about five thousand men. From this chapter onward, Acts gives the account of conflict between the Jewish leaders and the church. The next day Peter and John were brought before the Sanhedrin. People were amazed at the boldness of apostles though they were uneducated and common people. The rulers asked the apostles “By what authority they have healed the lame man?” Then Peter filled with the Holy Spirit said that this man was healed by the name of Jesus whom they have crucified but God raised him from the dead. Peter quoted Psalms 118:22 to support his statement. “The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone”. The Jesus, the one whom they despised now is glorified and is seated at the right hand of God. Jews stumbled over the rock and when they rejected their Messiah (Rom 9:32). But those who have received Christ, He is the precious cornerstone (1 Pet 2:4-8). Peter proclaimed the gospel boldly though he was facing persecution. Eloquence in public speaking is not necessary to witness Christ but the power of God. Our failures are not barriers to witnessing Christ instead, they glorify God all the more. Pray that God would give you divine insight and power to share the gospel to others. Only the gospel can rescue sinners from eternal judgment.
Jesus Christ is the Only Way to God: Acts 4:12-15.
Peter immediately took the opportunity to preach to the crowd. He boldly affirmed that salvation is found only in Jesus Christ (4:12). Salvation is more than deliverance from sin and its consequences. It means wholeness and spiritual health. Only Jesus can heal our greatest malady of sin. Jesus said “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). God desires that all should be saved (1 Tim 2:5). This speaks of God’s nature and His gracious heart. God does not delight in the death of the wicked. Jesus is the only mediator between God and man, because He is both God and Man. Christ gave Himself as a ransom for all. Those who reject His offer of forgiveness cannot be saved. The members of the council were amazed at the boldness of Peter and John. They could not explain how “Uneducated and untrained people could speak with such authority. They realized that they had been with Jesus” (4:13). Once they were hiding behind the closed door. But when the risen Christ appeared to them and received the Holy Spirit, their lives miraculously changed. Many believers live in fear. Fear has many faces and can be devastating. We fear for our health, failure, tragedy and death. Fear can master us, deceive us and even destroy us. The Bible tells us over 365 times, “Do not be afraid”. David said "When I am afraid, I will trust in the Lord" (Psalm 56:3). To believe in Jesus is to believe in the supernatural. Pray that God would give you the boldness to witness Christ to others.
The Most Powerful Name: Acts 4:16-22.
The Council threatened the apostle that they should teach no more in the name of Jesus. They thought that this would render the church ineffective. The disciples placed their confidence in the risen Savior. The miracle was only a context for Peter’s message and not the proof of the resurrection of Christ. Satan can perform miracles and deceive people (2 Thess 2:9-10). Miracles are no substitute for the Word of God. Satan fears the witness of the church more than anything else. Peter refused to be intimidated by the threats and said “Is is right to obey you rather than God, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard” (4:19-20). Apostles respected the authority of the council but obeyed the Lord (Rom 13:1). They used their arrest as opportunity to witness Christ. The proclamation of the gospel is God’s method for evangelism. The persecution of the church helped the growth of the church. The Council threatened the apostles and let them go. Satan will bring opposition to hinder us from sharing the gospel. Pray for those who are being persecuted and use them for the advancement of the gospel. The proclamation of the gospel is what helped the church to grow. Christians cannot be silent about the gospel of Jesus. Pray that God would use you powerfully for the advancement of the gospel.
Prayer for Boldness: Acts 4:23-37.
As soon as Apostles were released, they went to other disciples and reported what the chief priests and the elders had told them. They rejoiced together and prayed to the sovereign God. This is one of the great prayers recorded in the Bible. This prayer was born out of their need of boldness for witnessing. There is a sense of urgency in this prayer. Our prayer should be need-oriented and not casual. It was a united prayer-meeting led by the Spirit (4:24). It was also a scriptural based prayer. Prayer is not telling God what to do but making ourselves available to God to accomplish His will in our lives. It is not persuading God to move things on our way or overcoming God’s reluctance. They prayed in faith for God’s divine power to serve God and not for easy living. They prayed to the “Sovereign Lord”. He is the maker of all things and has control over the universe. They believed that Satan cannot stop the sovereign purposes of God. They believed that Christ’s death was according to the predetermined council of God. Since Jesus reigns and rules, there is no need to fear. “If God is for us who can be against us” (Rom 8:31). The faith in the sovereign Lord gave them courage to serve the Lord. They did not ask for protection but for power to preach the Word. When they prayed, the place was shaken and they were filled with the Holy Spirit (4:31). They preached the gospel with boldness. The disciples enjoyed unity and singleness of purpose in their prayer and ministry (4:32). Though persecution was severe the message of the gospel continued to matured believers. They believed that what others intend for evil, God will work it for our good and his glory (Gen 5:20). The ultimate example is the crucifixion of Jesus. It produced community of love. They cared for one another. Generosity is the mark of people who are impacted by the grace of God. Barnabas, who was impacted by the love of Christ, sold a field and gave the money to the apostles. Barnabas means, son of encouragement. The principles of Christian-giving are outlined in the second Corinthians chapter 8-9. Those who have been impacted by the grace of God will show mercy to those who are in need. Do not hesitate to ask God to deliver you from every form of evil and brokenness. We serve a powerful Savior who defeated death.
Acts chapter 4 marks the first persecution of the early church. What made the early church so dynamic was their commitment to follow Christ wholeheartedly. The Sadducees and high priests were angered at the preaching of apostles and were violently opposed to the teaching of resurrection. They arrested Peter and john and put them in the prison until next day. But many believed in Christ and the number totaled about five thousand men. From this chapter onward, Acts gives the account of conflict between the Jewish leaders and the church. The next day Peter and John were brought before the Sanhedrin. People were amazed at the boldness of apostles though they were uneducated and common people. The rulers asked the apostles “By what authority they have healed the lame man?” Then Peter filled with the Holy Spirit said that this man was healed by the name of Jesus whom they have crucified but God raised him from the dead. Peter quoted Psalms 118:22 to support his statement. “The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone”. The Jesus, the one whom they despised now is glorified and is seated at the right hand of God. Jews stumbled over the rock and when they rejected their Messiah (Rom 9:32). But those who have received Christ, He is the precious cornerstone (1 Pet 2:4-8). Peter proclaimed the gospel boldly though he was facing persecution. Eloquence in public speaking is not necessary to witness Christ but the power of God. Our failures are not barriers to witnessing Christ instead, they glorify God all the more. Pray that God would give you divine insight and power to share the gospel to others. Only the gospel can rescue sinners from eternal judgment.
Jesus Christ is the Only Way to God: Acts 4:12-15.
Peter immediately took the opportunity to preach to the crowd. He boldly affirmed that salvation is found only in Jesus Christ (4:12). Salvation is more than deliverance from sin and its consequences. It means wholeness and spiritual health. Only Jesus can heal our greatest malady of sin. Jesus said “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). God desires that all should be saved (1 Tim 2:5). This speaks of God’s nature and His gracious heart. God does not delight in the death of the wicked. Jesus is the only mediator between God and man, because He is both God and Man. Christ gave Himself as a ransom for all. Those who reject His offer of forgiveness cannot be saved. The members of the council were amazed at the boldness of Peter and John. They could not explain how “Uneducated and untrained people could speak with such authority. They realized that they had been with Jesus” (4:13). Once they were hiding behind the closed door. But when the risen Christ appeared to them and received the Holy Spirit, their lives miraculously changed. Many believers live in fear. Fear has many faces and can be devastating. We fear for our health, failure, tragedy and death. Fear can master us, deceive us and even destroy us. The Bible tells us over 365 times, “Do not be afraid”. David said "When I am afraid, I will trust in the Lord" (Psalm 56:3). To believe in Jesus is to believe in the supernatural. Pray that God would give you the boldness to witness Christ to others.
The Most Powerful Name: Acts 4:16-22.
The Council threatened the apostle that they should teach no more in the name of Jesus. They thought that this would render the church ineffective. The disciples placed their confidence in the risen Savior. The miracle was only a context for Peter’s message and not the proof of the resurrection of Christ. Satan can perform miracles and deceive people (2 Thess 2:9-10). Miracles are no substitute for the Word of God. Satan fears the witness of the church more than anything else. Peter refused to be intimidated by the threats and said “Is is right to obey you rather than God, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard” (4:19-20). Apostles respected the authority of the council but obeyed the Lord (Rom 13:1). They used their arrest as opportunity to witness Christ. The proclamation of the gospel is God’s method for evangelism. The persecution of the church helped the growth of the church. The Council threatened the apostles and let them go. Satan will bring opposition to hinder us from sharing the gospel. Pray for those who are being persecuted and use them for the advancement of the gospel. The proclamation of the gospel is what helped the church to grow. Christians cannot be silent about the gospel of Jesus. Pray that God would use you powerfully for the advancement of the gospel.
Prayer for Boldness: Acts 4:23-37.
As soon as Apostles were released, they went to other disciples and reported what the chief priests and the elders had told them. They rejoiced together and prayed to the sovereign God. This is one of the great prayers recorded in the Bible. This prayer was born out of their need of boldness for witnessing. There is a sense of urgency in this prayer. Our prayer should be need-oriented and not casual. It was a united prayer-meeting led by the Spirit (4:24). It was also a scriptural based prayer. Prayer is not telling God what to do but making ourselves available to God to accomplish His will in our lives. It is not persuading God to move things on our way or overcoming God’s reluctance. They prayed in faith for God’s divine power to serve God and not for easy living. They prayed to the “Sovereign Lord”. He is the maker of all things and has control over the universe. They believed that Satan cannot stop the sovereign purposes of God. They believed that Christ’s death was according to the predetermined council of God. Since Jesus reigns and rules, there is no need to fear. “If God is for us who can be against us” (Rom 8:31). The faith in the sovereign Lord gave them courage to serve the Lord. They did not ask for protection but for power to preach the Word. When they prayed, the place was shaken and they were filled with the Holy Spirit (4:31). They preached the gospel with boldness. The disciples enjoyed unity and singleness of purpose in their prayer and ministry (4:32). Though persecution was severe the message of the gospel continued to matured believers. They believed that what others intend for evil, God will work it for our good and his glory (Gen 5:20). The ultimate example is the crucifixion of Jesus. It produced community of love. They cared for one another. Generosity is the mark of people who are impacted by the grace of God. Barnabas, who was impacted by the love of Christ, sold a field and gave the money to the apostles. Barnabas means, son of encouragement. The principles of Christian-giving are outlined in the second Corinthians chapter 8-9. Those who have been impacted by the grace of God will show mercy to those who are in need. Do not hesitate to ask God to deliver you from every form of evil and brokenness. We serve a powerful Savior who defeated death.
Chapter 5
Ananias and Sapphira: Acts 5:1-11.
The story of Ananias and Sapphira is one of the most disturbing accounts in the New Testament. They sold their property and brought only a part of the money before the apostles. They were attempting to deceive God himself (5:3, 9). It reveals the seriousness of deception in the Christian life. Their desire for recognition among people led them to sin. They thought that they can make others to think that they are spiritual. They sought the praises of men rather than the glory of God. There is no such thing as secret sin before God. They were motivated by pride to sin against God. God is more concerned about our character than our reputation. When lustful desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin eventually produced death (James 1:15). Pride goes before fall (Isaiah 14:12-15). Their sin was not robbing God of money but lying to God (5:4). Lying to a servant of God is tantamount to lying to God. They were not required to sell their property and give the money to the church. Satan was using them to accomplish in the church what he could not do from outside. When Satan cannot defeat us he will try to corrupt our character. Thankfully most of us do not receive immediate judgment for our sins now because is gracious and merciful. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of God (Hebrews 10:30-31). If we judge ourselves, God would not have to judge us (1 Cor 11:31). By confessing our sins we judge ourselves. The wages of sin is always death (Rom 6:23). God’s punishment of Ananias and Sapphira brought great fear in the church (5:11). Pray that God would help us to live a life of integrity before God.
The Healing Ministry of the Apostles: Acts 5:12-16.
Many miraculous signs and wonders were done by the apostles. These miracles were God’s way of authenticating the ministry of apostles. Jesus used miracles to prove that He is the Son of God. One of the qualifications of apostle was that he could perform miracles (2 Cor 12:12). Satan can do counterfeit miracles to deceive people (2 Thess 2:9). It is significant that all those who came to Jesus were healed immediately and completely. Jews sought sign to believe in Christ (1 Cor 1:22). Jesus said “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29). Only the gospel can save sinners. The miracle of all miracles is the transformation of a lost sinner into a child of God. The Bible tells us to test the spirit whether they are from God (1 John 4:1). It is a reference to knowing the motivations behind the false teaching. Does our teaching Christ centered? Does it agree with rest of the scriptures? Does the miracle bring glory to God or to man? The more we study the scriptures, the more quickly we will be able to identify the counterfeit doctrines (1 John 4:4). God uses even the most painful experiences to accomplish His purposes in the church. The death of Ananias and Sapphira produced healthy fear but that did not prevent the church from growing. God always does what is best for you and the church. Ask God to help you through your difficulties.
The Apostles facing Opposition: Acts 5:17-32.
The growth of the church had provoked the Jewish leaders to arrest Peter and John. They were accused of not obeying the law and preaching that Jesus is alive. Persecution got intensified as the church grew. The apostles did not resist arrest. God sent angels to release them from the prison. The angels are the ministering spirit of the servants of God (Hebrews 1:14). While angels play a significant role in the lives of believers, our praise and honor should be reserved for God only. Our religious zeal should not be hidden under the disguise of spirituality. Despite the suffering, the apostles continued to proclaim the gospel in the temple. The officers were sent to arrest Peter and John. But they could not arrest them because they were afraid that people would stone them. Apostles were accused of filling Jerusalem with their doctrines. They said that “We cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard” (4:20). Once we have experienced the goodness of the grace of God and empowered by the Holy Spirit we cannot stop sharing the gospel. The high priest questioned the apostles. They were told not to teach in the name of Christ. Their jealousy and hatred were so strong against the apostles that they wanted to kill them (5:33). The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection from the dead. The apostles obeyed God rather than men (5:29). Pray for boldness to witness Christ.
The Conviction of the Apostles: Acts 5:33-42.
Despite the suffering, the apostles affirmed that Christ had been raised from the dead and exalted at the right hand of God as Lord and Savior. The right hand is the place of power, honor and authority (Psalm 110:1; Acts 7:55). Only Christ can forgive sin (5:31). He is the captain or pioneer of our salvation (Hebrews 2:10). Every time the gospel meets with opposition, God finds a way to advance his message. Luke shows that God stands behind the gospel as it advanced and no one is able to stop it. Gamaliel was a Pharisee highly esteemed among the Jews. He was the leader of the famous school of Hillel (22:3). He used his logic to conclude that if the movement of Jesus is not of God, it will come to nothing. But on the other hand, if it is of God, the Sanhedrin should not fight against it. He counseled the Sanhedrin that trouble makers like Theudas and Judas will come and go. The council hated the movement of Jesus, but accepted the reasoning of Gamaliel. They released the apostles and ordered them not to preach in the name of Jesus. They had been beaten before they were released. The apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the gospel (Phil. 1:29). They witnessed Christ daily in the temple and from house to house. The disciples took every opportunity to reach people with gospel. History shows that the persecutions of the church led the expansion of the gospel (8:1). Gospel can’t be stopped, because it is the power of God for salvation to all (Rom 1:16). Pray for boldness to share the gospel.
The story of Ananias and Sapphira is one of the most disturbing accounts in the New Testament. They sold their property and brought only a part of the money before the apostles. They were attempting to deceive God himself (5:3, 9). It reveals the seriousness of deception in the Christian life. Their desire for recognition among people led them to sin. They thought that they can make others to think that they are spiritual. They sought the praises of men rather than the glory of God. There is no such thing as secret sin before God. They were motivated by pride to sin against God. God is more concerned about our character than our reputation. When lustful desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin eventually produced death (James 1:15). Pride goes before fall (Isaiah 14:12-15). Their sin was not robbing God of money but lying to God (5:4). Lying to a servant of God is tantamount to lying to God. They were not required to sell their property and give the money to the church. Satan was using them to accomplish in the church what he could not do from outside. When Satan cannot defeat us he will try to corrupt our character. Thankfully most of us do not receive immediate judgment for our sins now because is gracious and merciful. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of God (Hebrews 10:30-31). If we judge ourselves, God would not have to judge us (1 Cor 11:31). By confessing our sins we judge ourselves. The wages of sin is always death (Rom 6:23). God’s punishment of Ananias and Sapphira brought great fear in the church (5:11). Pray that God would help us to live a life of integrity before God.
The Healing Ministry of the Apostles: Acts 5:12-16.
Many miraculous signs and wonders were done by the apostles. These miracles were God’s way of authenticating the ministry of apostles. Jesus used miracles to prove that He is the Son of God. One of the qualifications of apostle was that he could perform miracles (2 Cor 12:12). Satan can do counterfeit miracles to deceive people (2 Thess 2:9). It is significant that all those who came to Jesus were healed immediately and completely. Jews sought sign to believe in Christ (1 Cor 1:22). Jesus said “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29). Only the gospel can save sinners. The miracle of all miracles is the transformation of a lost sinner into a child of God. The Bible tells us to test the spirit whether they are from God (1 John 4:1). It is a reference to knowing the motivations behind the false teaching. Does our teaching Christ centered? Does it agree with rest of the scriptures? Does the miracle bring glory to God or to man? The more we study the scriptures, the more quickly we will be able to identify the counterfeit doctrines (1 John 4:4). God uses even the most painful experiences to accomplish His purposes in the church. The death of Ananias and Sapphira produced healthy fear but that did not prevent the church from growing. God always does what is best for you and the church. Ask God to help you through your difficulties.
The Apostles facing Opposition: Acts 5:17-32.
The growth of the church had provoked the Jewish leaders to arrest Peter and John. They were accused of not obeying the law and preaching that Jesus is alive. Persecution got intensified as the church grew. The apostles did not resist arrest. God sent angels to release them from the prison. The angels are the ministering spirit of the servants of God (Hebrews 1:14). While angels play a significant role in the lives of believers, our praise and honor should be reserved for God only. Our religious zeal should not be hidden under the disguise of spirituality. Despite the suffering, the apostles continued to proclaim the gospel in the temple. The officers were sent to arrest Peter and John. But they could not arrest them because they were afraid that people would stone them. Apostles were accused of filling Jerusalem with their doctrines. They said that “We cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard” (4:20). Once we have experienced the goodness of the grace of God and empowered by the Holy Spirit we cannot stop sharing the gospel. The high priest questioned the apostles. They were told not to teach in the name of Christ. Their jealousy and hatred were so strong against the apostles that they wanted to kill them (5:33). The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection from the dead. The apostles obeyed God rather than men (5:29). Pray for boldness to witness Christ.
The Conviction of the Apostles: Acts 5:33-42.
Despite the suffering, the apostles affirmed that Christ had been raised from the dead and exalted at the right hand of God as Lord and Savior. The right hand is the place of power, honor and authority (Psalm 110:1; Acts 7:55). Only Christ can forgive sin (5:31). He is the captain or pioneer of our salvation (Hebrews 2:10). Every time the gospel meets with opposition, God finds a way to advance his message. Luke shows that God stands behind the gospel as it advanced and no one is able to stop it. Gamaliel was a Pharisee highly esteemed among the Jews. He was the leader of the famous school of Hillel (22:3). He used his logic to conclude that if the movement of Jesus is not of God, it will come to nothing. But on the other hand, if it is of God, the Sanhedrin should not fight against it. He counseled the Sanhedrin that trouble makers like Theudas and Judas will come and go. The council hated the movement of Jesus, but accepted the reasoning of Gamaliel. They released the apostles and ordered them not to preach in the name of Jesus. They had been beaten before they were released. The apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the gospel (Phil. 1:29). They witnessed Christ daily in the temple and from house to house. The disciples took every opportunity to reach people with gospel. History shows that the persecutions of the church led the expansion of the gospel (8:1). Gospel can’t be stopped, because it is the power of God for salvation to all (Rom 1:16). Pray for boldness to share the gospel.
Chapter 6
Seven Men Chosen to Serve: Acts 6:1-7.
The church was growing in number and there was a complaint about the distribution of food among widows. The Greek speaking believers complained that their widows were being neglected in favor of the more traditional Hebrew speaking Jews. The apostles handled this problem with great wisdom. The apostles studied the situation and understood that it is not right to give up prayer and preaching of the Word of God to serve tables. Every ministry in the church is important but it is a matter of priorities. Nothing should create a spiritual deficiency in the church. So the apostles called the disciples together and asked them to select seven men to serve the tables. Among them, Nicolas was a proselyte from Antioch. These men were humble servants of God full of faith and the Holy Spirit. Stephen and Philip became bold witnesses of the gospel later. They were appointed to serve the tables by the apostle. The qualifications of deacons are given in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. This enabled the church to remain unified and helped apostle to devote themselves to prayer and to the ministry of the Word. The church continued to grow and many priests became obedient to the faith in Christ. Once they opposed the gospel. Some suggest that there were 8000 Jewish priest attached to the temple ministry at that time. Their conversion is an indication of the power of the gospel to save those who oppose Jesus. The evangelistic zeal and social concern for others helped the early church to advance.
Stephen’s witness: Acts 6:8-15.
Stephen was a faithful and a Spirit-filled witness of Christ. The Holy Spirit empowered Stephen to perform miracles. His opponents could not stand against the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking. His ministry was marked by power of the Holy Spirit. Jewish leaders instigated men to speak against Stephen. Their only defense was to use lies and half truths against Stephen (6:11-14). They said they have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this temple and change the customs that Moses delivered. (John 2:19; Mat 27). It was only a reference to Christ’s claim about his resurrection. Their treatment of him was parallel to the treatment Jesus received from Jewish leaders (Mat 26:59-61). Stephen was arrested and dragged before the council. His powerful response is given in Chapter 7. The council saw his face as it had been the face of an angel. His face was glowing with love of Christ for those who persecuted him. Stephen was a man of character, courage and commitment. Nobody can underestimate the power of the gospel preached in the power of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 1:18).
The church was growing in number and there was a complaint about the distribution of food among widows. The Greek speaking believers complained that their widows were being neglected in favor of the more traditional Hebrew speaking Jews. The apostles handled this problem with great wisdom. The apostles studied the situation and understood that it is not right to give up prayer and preaching of the Word of God to serve tables. Every ministry in the church is important but it is a matter of priorities. Nothing should create a spiritual deficiency in the church. So the apostles called the disciples together and asked them to select seven men to serve the tables. Among them, Nicolas was a proselyte from Antioch. These men were humble servants of God full of faith and the Holy Spirit. Stephen and Philip became bold witnesses of the gospel later. They were appointed to serve the tables by the apostle. The qualifications of deacons are given in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. This enabled the church to remain unified and helped apostle to devote themselves to prayer and to the ministry of the Word. The church continued to grow and many priests became obedient to the faith in Christ. Once they opposed the gospel. Some suggest that there were 8000 Jewish priest attached to the temple ministry at that time. Their conversion is an indication of the power of the gospel to save those who oppose Jesus. The evangelistic zeal and social concern for others helped the early church to advance.
Stephen’s witness: Acts 6:8-15.
Stephen was a faithful and a Spirit-filled witness of Christ. The Holy Spirit empowered Stephen to perform miracles. His opponents could not stand against the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking. His ministry was marked by power of the Holy Spirit. Jewish leaders instigated men to speak against Stephen. Their only defense was to use lies and half truths against Stephen (6:11-14). They said they have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this temple and change the customs that Moses delivered. (John 2:19; Mat 27). It was only a reference to Christ’s claim about his resurrection. Their treatment of him was parallel to the treatment Jesus received from Jewish leaders (Mat 26:59-61). Stephen was arrested and dragged before the council. His powerful response is given in Chapter 7. The council saw his face as it had been the face of an angel. His face was glowing with love of Christ for those who persecuted him. Stephen was a man of character, courage and commitment. Nobody can underestimate the power of the gospel preached in the power of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 1:18).
Chapter 7
Stephen’s Defense before the Council: Acts 7:1-43.
This is the longest address in the book of Acts. Stephen was falsely accused that he sought to destroy the temple and spoke against the Law of Moses. Stephen begins his defense in a polite and respectful manner. Christians should defend their faith always in a gentle and respectful manner (1 Pet 3:15). He begins and ends his address giving glory to God (7:2, 55). In his defense, Stephen gives an account of Israel’s history. He affirmed that Christian faith is the natural fulfillment of the promises given in the Old Testament. Jesus is the Son of Abraham (Matt 1:1; Gal 3:16). Stephen relates God’s promises to Abraham and proved that if you believe in Christ you are Abraham’s offspring and heirs according to promise (Gal 3:29). He explains that Israel rejected the prophets. But it did not prevent God from carrying out the plan of salvation through Christ. He quotes the promise that “God will raise up for them a prophet like Moses from Israel” (Deut 18:15). This was a promise about their coming Messiah (7:37). God gave them law to protect them from idol worship and pagan influences. Yet they despised the law. Outwardly they were worshiping God but inwardly their hearts were far away from God.
Temple was only Shadow of Christ: Acts 7:44-53.
Jews failed to understand that the Law and Temple point to Jesus Christ and are shadows. But Israel rejected their Messiah because of their blindness (2 Cor 4:4). Stephen pointed out that our salvation is a gracious gift of God from beginning to end. Christ’s ministry, death and resurrection are the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises. But Jews replaced God’s living truth with their traditions. Yet God in His grace carefully prepared Israel for our salvation through Christ. He carefully crafted history using people like Joseph and Moses for the great deliverance through Jesus Christ. Because of our union with Christ we have become the children of Abraham to share God's great promises to Abraham. Throughout Israel's history, God was graciously orchestrating events that leads to the coming of their Messiah. Jews mistakenly believed that their temple was the ultimate dwelling place of God. They failed to understand that God is not limited by a structure made with human hands. God is near to all who call on him. We can come near to God through Jesus Christ. Christ's life, ministry, death, resurrection are the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises.
Stephen the Martyr: Acts 7:54-60.
The Jewish leaders became very angry at Stephens’s defense. They gnashed their teeth and shook their fists against Stephen. He suffered an unjust death at the hand of an angry mob. His dying request to God was to forgive his murderers. He has learned this from Jesus and set an example of loving one's enemies. He made no retaliation toward the council but fastened his sight on heaven. He saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. The crowd dragged him out of the city and cried for his death. They stoned Stephen. That was the Jewish form of death for blaspheming. The Sanhedrin provided the oversight of his murder. It was customary that the witnesses cast the first stone. Their garments were placed at the feet of a young man named Soul. While they were stoning, Stephen prayed for the forgiveness of his persecutors. Such radical forgiveness and love must have influenced Soul (7:58). Stephen lived by the gospel and died by the gospel. He influenced Paul who later became the most famous supporter of the gospel. As they stoned him, Stephen prayed “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit”. Jesus stood up to welcome his servant to glory. His concern was not for himself but for those who were stoning him. When the Jewish religious leaders were at their worst, Stephen was at his best. For Christians, death is a promotion to the presence of Christ. God does not call all of us to be martyrs but He wants us to be the living sacrifice (Rom 12:1, 2). It may be harder for some to live for Christ than to die for Him. Those who are willing to live for Christ will not find it hard to die for Him. Christ wants us to remain faithful unto death by following his example.
This is the longest address in the book of Acts. Stephen was falsely accused that he sought to destroy the temple and spoke against the Law of Moses. Stephen begins his defense in a polite and respectful manner. Christians should defend their faith always in a gentle and respectful manner (1 Pet 3:15). He begins and ends his address giving glory to God (7:2, 55). In his defense, Stephen gives an account of Israel’s history. He affirmed that Christian faith is the natural fulfillment of the promises given in the Old Testament. Jesus is the Son of Abraham (Matt 1:1; Gal 3:16). Stephen relates God’s promises to Abraham and proved that if you believe in Christ you are Abraham’s offspring and heirs according to promise (Gal 3:29). He explains that Israel rejected the prophets. But it did not prevent God from carrying out the plan of salvation through Christ. He quotes the promise that “God will raise up for them a prophet like Moses from Israel” (Deut 18:15). This was a promise about their coming Messiah (7:37). God gave them law to protect them from idol worship and pagan influences. Yet they despised the law. Outwardly they were worshiping God but inwardly their hearts were far away from God.
Temple was only Shadow of Christ: Acts 7:44-53.
Jews failed to understand that the Law and Temple point to Jesus Christ and are shadows. But Israel rejected their Messiah because of their blindness (2 Cor 4:4). Stephen pointed out that our salvation is a gracious gift of God from beginning to end. Christ’s ministry, death and resurrection are the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises. But Jews replaced God’s living truth with their traditions. Yet God in His grace carefully prepared Israel for our salvation through Christ. He carefully crafted history using people like Joseph and Moses for the great deliverance through Jesus Christ. Because of our union with Christ we have become the children of Abraham to share God's great promises to Abraham. Throughout Israel's history, God was graciously orchestrating events that leads to the coming of their Messiah. Jews mistakenly believed that their temple was the ultimate dwelling place of God. They failed to understand that God is not limited by a structure made with human hands. God is near to all who call on him. We can come near to God through Jesus Christ. Christ's life, ministry, death, resurrection are the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises.
Stephen the Martyr: Acts 7:54-60.
The Jewish leaders became very angry at Stephens’s defense. They gnashed their teeth and shook their fists against Stephen. He suffered an unjust death at the hand of an angry mob. His dying request to God was to forgive his murderers. He has learned this from Jesus and set an example of loving one's enemies. He made no retaliation toward the council but fastened his sight on heaven. He saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. The crowd dragged him out of the city and cried for his death. They stoned Stephen. That was the Jewish form of death for blaspheming. The Sanhedrin provided the oversight of his murder. It was customary that the witnesses cast the first stone. Their garments were placed at the feet of a young man named Soul. While they were stoning, Stephen prayed for the forgiveness of his persecutors. Such radical forgiveness and love must have influenced Soul (7:58). Stephen lived by the gospel and died by the gospel. He influenced Paul who later became the most famous supporter of the gospel. As they stoned him, Stephen prayed “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit”. Jesus stood up to welcome his servant to glory. His concern was not for himself but for those who were stoning him. When the Jewish religious leaders were at their worst, Stephen was at his best. For Christians, death is a promotion to the presence of Christ. God does not call all of us to be martyrs but He wants us to be the living sacrifice (Rom 12:1, 2). It may be harder for some to live for Christ than to die for Him. Those who are willing to live for Christ will not find it hard to die for Him. Christ wants us to remain faithful unto death by following his example.
Chapter 8
Persecution and the Spread of the Gospel: Acts 8:1-8.
The church faced severe persecution after the death of Stephen. The disciples were forced to flee Jerusalem as the persecution intensified. In the next four chapters Luke gives the account of the gospel spreading across boarder to the Samaritan, then to the Gentiles. Samaritans were considered "half" Jewish and the Jews regarded them not having any part in the promise of God to Israel. Although persecution was deadly, it accomplished the purpose of God (1:8). In fact persecution turned out to be the fuel for the gospel to progress. "The blood of martyrs is the seed of the church". God used Philip to proclaim Christ to Samaritans and many people were healed (8:4-8). Only the apostles stayed in Jerusalem in the wake of intense persecution. Soul tried to destroy Christianity believing that it is a cult. What was intended to crush the movement turns into fuel for the gospel to spread. Nobody was ever saved simply because of miracles (John 2:23-25). There was great joy in Samaria over those who had believed in Jesus Christ (8:8). Gospel is the good news of God's love for sinners in Christ Jesus.
Simon the counterfeit Christian: Acts 8:9-25.
Wherever the gospel is preached, Satan will sow the counterfeit message. When the apostles heard that the people of Samaria had accepted the gospel, they sent Peter and John there. They prayed and laid their hands on the believers and they received the Holy Spirit. God withhold the giving of the Spirit until the apostles arrived to show the connection between the Jerusalem church and the Samaritan believers. Otherwise Jerusalem church may not have accepted them as believers in Christ. Thus Peter opened the door of faith to Samaritans and they were filled with the Holy Spirit. The extraordinary sign confirmed the truth that the Samaritan believers are now included in the church like the Jerusalem believers. This pattern was repeated in the transition period of the church. This was also the sign of unity among believers in the early Church. When a man named Simon who had been a sorcerer for many years saw the miracles began to follow Philip. There is no indication that Simon was believer. The basis of Simon’s faith was not the Word of God but the miracle Philip performed. He was willing to pay money for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Peter had to expose his wickedness by saying “May your silver perishes with you because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money” (8:20). It shows how close a person can come to salvation and still not be saved. The grace of God is not reserved for any ethnic group or nationality but to any one who put faith in Christ. After this, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem.
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch: Acts 8:26-35.
The evangelistic efforts among Samaritans continued. Here we see how the disciple-making mission took place. Philip was opened to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Often it comes in the form of desire to share the gospel (8:29). Secondly Philip obeyed God’s command without delay. When the angel of the Lord said to Philip “Arise and go toward the south”, he obeyed. He began with the scripture and shared the gospel about Jesus. We must be ready to preach the gospel at all time (2 Tim 4:2). Only the Word of God makes us wise unto salvation. There is much heat in argument but no light. God is not looking for our ability but our availability. Philip went to Gaza, a narrow desert road and encountered a man of Ethiopia. He was the eunuch of authority under the queen. He was a God fearing proselyte returning from Jerusalem. He was reading, Isaiah 53 in his chariot and the Spirit of the Lord asked Philip to go over and walk beside the chariot. Here we see how God’s providence and power work in evangelism. Philip took the initiative and asked the eunuch “Do you understand what you are reading”. The man replied “How can I, when there is no one to instruct me?”. He requested Philip to come up into the carriage and sit with him. This passage was about the suffering servant of God. Philip explained to him the good news of Jesus Christ. The Ethiopian understood that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. He believed in Jesus and was saved. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God (Rom 10:17). Our godly lifestyle is a crucial part of our witnessing but our deeds are not able to save souls. Present the gospel, keep it simple; God's Word and God's Spirit do the work of persuasion.
The Eunuch and the Baptism: Acts 8:36-40.
Philip must have explained to the eunuch the importance of baptism while sharing the gospel. Only believers should be baptized. It is the public confession of their identification with Christ. Baptism is symbolic of the believer’s identification with Christ in his death and resurrection. Believers should give clear testimony of their faith in Jesus Christ before baptism. The baptism does not save anybody (8:13). Immersion-baptism is the picture of our identification with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection. Baptism is an important ordinance of Christian faith. New converts are admitted to church fellowship by baptism in the early church. Philip and the eunuch descended into the water and Philip baptized him. He went on his way rejoicing. Obedience is the secret of joy in Christian life. Believers are baptized “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matt 28:19). Immediately after the baptism the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away. He passed through the towns preaching the gospel until he came to Caesarea. Pray that God would give you opportunities to share the gospel with others.
The church faced severe persecution after the death of Stephen. The disciples were forced to flee Jerusalem as the persecution intensified. In the next four chapters Luke gives the account of the gospel spreading across boarder to the Samaritan, then to the Gentiles. Samaritans were considered "half" Jewish and the Jews regarded them not having any part in the promise of God to Israel. Although persecution was deadly, it accomplished the purpose of God (1:8). In fact persecution turned out to be the fuel for the gospel to progress. "The blood of martyrs is the seed of the church". God used Philip to proclaim Christ to Samaritans and many people were healed (8:4-8). Only the apostles stayed in Jerusalem in the wake of intense persecution. Soul tried to destroy Christianity believing that it is a cult. What was intended to crush the movement turns into fuel for the gospel to spread. Nobody was ever saved simply because of miracles (John 2:23-25). There was great joy in Samaria over those who had believed in Jesus Christ (8:8). Gospel is the good news of God's love for sinners in Christ Jesus.
Simon the counterfeit Christian: Acts 8:9-25.
Wherever the gospel is preached, Satan will sow the counterfeit message. When the apostles heard that the people of Samaria had accepted the gospel, they sent Peter and John there. They prayed and laid their hands on the believers and they received the Holy Spirit. God withhold the giving of the Spirit until the apostles arrived to show the connection between the Jerusalem church and the Samaritan believers. Otherwise Jerusalem church may not have accepted them as believers in Christ. Thus Peter opened the door of faith to Samaritans and they were filled with the Holy Spirit. The extraordinary sign confirmed the truth that the Samaritan believers are now included in the church like the Jerusalem believers. This pattern was repeated in the transition period of the church. This was also the sign of unity among believers in the early Church. When a man named Simon who had been a sorcerer for many years saw the miracles began to follow Philip. There is no indication that Simon was believer. The basis of Simon’s faith was not the Word of God but the miracle Philip performed. He was willing to pay money for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Peter had to expose his wickedness by saying “May your silver perishes with you because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money” (8:20). It shows how close a person can come to salvation and still not be saved. The grace of God is not reserved for any ethnic group or nationality but to any one who put faith in Christ. After this, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem.
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch: Acts 8:26-35.
The evangelistic efforts among Samaritans continued. Here we see how the disciple-making mission took place. Philip was opened to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Often it comes in the form of desire to share the gospel (8:29). Secondly Philip obeyed God’s command without delay. When the angel of the Lord said to Philip “Arise and go toward the south”, he obeyed. He began with the scripture and shared the gospel about Jesus. We must be ready to preach the gospel at all time (2 Tim 4:2). Only the Word of God makes us wise unto salvation. There is much heat in argument but no light. God is not looking for our ability but our availability. Philip went to Gaza, a narrow desert road and encountered a man of Ethiopia. He was the eunuch of authority under the queen. He was a God fearing proselyte returning from Jerusalem. He was reading, Isaiah 53 in his chariot and the Spirit of the Lord asked Philip to go over and walk beside the chariot. Here we see how God’s providence and power work in evangelism. Philip took the initiative and asked the eunuch “Do you understand what you are reading”. The man replied “How can I, when there is no one to instruct me?”. He requested Philip to come up into the carriage and sit with him. This passage was about the suffering servant of God. Philip explained to him the good news of Jesus Christ. The Ethiopian understood that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. He believed in Jesus and was saved. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God (Rom 10:17). Our godly lifestyle is a crucial part of our witnessing but our deeds are not able to save souls. Present the gospel, keep it simple; God's Word and God's Spirit do the work of persuasion.
The Eunuch and the Baptism: Acts 8:36-40.
Philip must have explained to the eunuch the importance of baptism while sharing the gospel. Only believers should be baptized. It is the public confession of their identification with Christ. Baptism is symbolic of the believer’s identification with Christ in his death and resurrection. Believers should give clear testimony of their faith in Jesus Christ before baptism. The baptism does not save anybody (8:13). Immersion-baptism is the picture of our identification with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection. Baptism is an important ordinance of Christian faith. New converts are admitted to church fellowship by baptism in the early church. Philip and the eunuch descended into the water and Philip baptized him. He went on his way rejoicing. Obedience is the secret of joy in Christian life. Believers are baptized “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matt 28:19). Immediately after the baptism the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away. He passed through the towns preaching the gospel until he came to Caesarea. Pray that God would give you opportunities to share the gospel with others.
Chapter 9
Conversion of Saul of Tarsus: Acts 9:1-9.
The conversion of Saul of Tarsus was one of the great events in the church history. Saul was leading the persecution against Christians. He wanted to arrest the disciples who are in Damascus and bring them back to Jerusalem. Saul thought he was doing God a service by persecuting the church. He was born in Tarsus in Cilicia and a Hebrew of the Hebrews (Act 22:3; Phil3:5). He was educated in Jerusalem under Gamaliel and a son of a Pharisee (Acts 22:3, 6). Saul was also a Roman citizen (Acts 16:37). But in spite of his great learning, he was spiritually blind. Self-righteous people do not see their need for a Savior. As Saul approached Damascus, suddenly a brilliant light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me”. Saul asked “Who are you Lord?” And he heard, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting”. Saul asked, ”Lord, what do you want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do” (9:5, 6). Saul was blinded by brilliance and his physical blindness allowed him to see himself. Saul recognized his own powerlessness and humbly accepted his weakness. He was ready for his restoration. God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Soul's friends led him to the city where he fasted and prayed for three days (9:11). No one is beyond the reach of God. He can convert his enemies and make them instruments of the gospel of grace.
Saul Meets Ananias: Acts 9: 10-19.
Ananias was a devout Jew who believed in Jesus Christ. The Lord spoke to him in a vision and said “Go to the house of Judas to meet Saul”. Ananias was afraid of Saul but was obedient. He laid his hands on Saul and prayed and he received his sight. Saul was a chosen instrument to take the gospel to the gentiles (9:15). Paul later made reference to his calling (Gal 1:15-16). He got up and was baptized. Afterward he ate food and was strengthened. God used his humble servant to minister Paul. When God calls, we should never be afraid to obey. We should never underestimate what God can do through his servants. Saul of Tarsus became Apostle Paul and Simon became Apostle Peter. Saul was at his worst when Jesus met him but he became the leading figure in church history. He preached the gospel in Jerusalem. Later he was sent to Tarsus for a season. Paul learned that discipleship is not a calling to comfort but it requires a willingness to lay aside temporary comfort this world offers. Paul himself would later teach that "Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God". Jesus endured the cross, despising the shame on the cross. We should follow his example.
Soul Facing Opposition: Acts 9:20-31.
Following Saul’s conversion, he boldly preached that Jesus is the Son of God (9:20). All who heard him were amazed at his preaching. Jews in Damascus could not refute his message. Jewish leaders decided to kill Saul. When Saul came to know that Jews plot to kill him, believers let him down in a large basket through an opening in the city wall. Scholars suggest that after this, Saul visited Arabia (Gal 1:17). During those three years he was alone with the Lord and probably was instructed in the Word of God (Gal 1:10-24). Then he went to Jerusalem. When he reached Jerusalem, the church was afraid of him and did not receive him. Barnabas befriended Saul and brought him before the apostles. He convinced the church that Saul was genuinely saved by the grace of God and he had spoken boldly of the Lord Jesus in Damascus. Then the apostles accepted Saul into fellowship. Jews plotted to murder him in Jerusalem. The Lord spoke to Saul and reminded him of his commission to take the gospel to the gentiles (22:18). We will not meet Saul again until Acts 11:25. When believers heard about the plot to murder Saul, they took him to Caesarea and sent him to Tarsus. Then the church experienced a time of peace and it grew in strength and number. Throughout Paul’s ministry, he was persecuted by Jews (2 Cor 11:24-26). Paul counted it a privilege to suffer for Christ. Christian ministry is not a ministry of comfort (Acts 14:22). God never promises to keep us out of danger but he does promise to help us in our difficulties.
Peter’s Healing Ministry: Acts 9:32-43.
Peter appears to be engaged in the ministry in Judea (8:25). He decided to visit the believers in Lydda, a city about 25 miles from Jerusalem. There he encountered Aeneas, who was crippled and helpless for eight years. Peter said to him “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; arise and make your bed”. Immediately he was healed and those who saw the miracle believed in Christ. From there Peter went to Joppa. Joppa was a coastal city about 10 miles of Lydda. Today Joppa is known as Jaffa. Peter heals a paralyzed man. There was a believer named Tabitha (which in Greek is Dorcas). She was known for her good work and helpful to the poor. She became ill and died. Peter said “Tabitha, arise”. She opened her eyes and when she saw Pete she sat up. This news spread throughout the whole town and many believed in Christ. As the gospel is preached, God proved that the message was true by giving them power to do miraculous sings and wonders (14:3). Peter stayed in Joppa for many
The conversion of Saul of Tarsus was one of the great events in the church history. Saul was leading the persecution against Christians. He wanted to arrest the disciples who are in Damascus and bring them back to Jerusalem. Saul thought he was doing God a service by persecuting the church. He was born in Tarsus in Cilicia and a Hebrew of the Hebrews (Act 22:3; Phil3:5). He was educated in Jerusalem under Gamaliel and a son of a Pharisee (Acts 22:3, 6). Saul was also a Roman citizen (Acts 16:37). But in spite of his great learning, he was spiritually blind. Self-righteous people do not see their need for a Savior. As Saul approached Damascus, suddenly a brilliant light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me”. Saul asked “Who are you Lord?” And he heard, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting”. Saul asked, ”Lord, what do you want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do” (9:5, 6). Saul was blinded by brilliance and his physical blindness allowed him to see himself. Saul recognized his own powerlessness and humbly accepted his weakness. He was ready for his restoration. God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Soul's friends led him to the city where he fasted and prayed for three days (9:11). No one is beyond the reach of God. He can convert his enemies and make them instruments of the gospel of grace.
Saul Meets Ananias: Acts 9: 10-19.
Ananias was a devout Jew who believed in Jesus Christ. The Lord spoke to him in a vision and said “Go to the house of Judas to meet Saul”. Ananias was afraid of Saul but was obedient. He laid his hands on Saul and prayed and he received his sight. Saul was a chosen instrument to take the gospel to the gentiles (9:15). Paul later made reference to his calling (Gal 1:15-16). He got up and was baptized. Afterward he ate food and was strengthened. God used his humble servant to minister Paul. When God calls, we should never be afraid to obey. We should never underestimate what God can do through his servants. Saul of Tarsus became Apostle Paul and Simon became Apostle Peter. Saul was at his worst when Jesus met him but he became the leading figure in church history. He preached the gospel in Jerusalem. Later he was sent to Tarsus for a season. Paul learned that discipleship is not a calling to comfort but it requires a willingness to lay aside temporary comfort this world offers. Paul himself would later teach that "Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God". Jesus endured the cross, despising the shame on the cross. We should follow his example.
Soul Facing Opposition: Acts 9:20-31.
Following Saul’s conversion, he boldly preached that Jesus is the Son of God (9:20). All who heard him were amazed at his preaching. Jews in Damascus could not refute his message. Jewish leaders decided to kill Saul. When Saul came to know that Jews plot to kill him, believers let him down in a large basket through an opening in the city wall. Scholars suggest that after this, Saul visited Arabia (Gal 1:17). During those three years he was alone with the Lord and probably was instructed in the Word of God (Gal 1:10-24). Then he went to Jerusalem. When he reached Jerusalem, the church was afraid of him and did not receive him. Barnabas befriended Saul and brought him before the apostles. He convinced the church that Saul was genuinely saved by the grace of God and he had spoken boldly of the Lord Jesus in Damascus. Then the apostles accepted Saul into fellowship. Jews plotted to murder him in Jerusalem. The Lord spoke to Saul and reminded him of his commission to take the gospel to the gentiles (22:18). We will not meet Saul again until Acts 11:25. When believers heard about the plot to murder Saul, they took him to Caesarea and sent him to Tarsus. Then the church experienced a time of peace and it grew in strength and number. Throughout Paul’s ministry, he was persecuted by Jews (2 Cor 11:24-26). Paul counted it a privilege to suffer for Christ. Christian ministry is not a ministry of comfort (Acts 14:22). God never promises to keep us out of danger but he does promise to help us in our difficulties.
Peter’s Healing Ministry: Acts 9:32-43.
Peter appears to be engaged in the ministry in Judea (8:25). He decided to visit the believers in Lydda, a city about 25 miles from Jerusalem. There he encountered Aeneas, who was crippled and helpless for eight years. Peter said to him “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; arise and make your bed”. Immediately he was healed and those who saw the miracle believed in Christ. From there Peter went to Joppa. Joppa was a coastal city about 10 miles of Lydda. Today Joppa is known as Jaffa. Peter heals a paralyzed man. There was a believer named Tabitha (which in Greek is Dorcas). She was known for her good work and helpful to the poor. She became ill and died. Peter said “Tabitha, arise”. She opened her eyes and when she saw Pete she sat up. This news spread throughout the whole town and many believed in Christ. As the gospel is preached, God proved that the message was true by giving them power to do miraculous sings and wonders (14:3). Peter stayed in Joppa for many
Chapter 10
Cornelius Receives the Gospel: Acts 10:1-22.
Acts chapter ten records the conversion of Cornelius. This is the longest conversion narrative in the book of Acts. This event took place about ten years after Pentecost. The persecution of the church helped the spread of the gospel to Samaria and to the gentile world. God does all things in his time and according to his eternal plan. Salvation is a divine work of grace. Cornelius was a Roman army officer who lived in Caesarea. It was coastal city 30 miles north of Joppa. He was a devout man who feared God. He gave generously to charity and was a man attended the synagogue. One day Cornelius had a vision of an angel of God. He was instructed to call Peter who was staying with Simon, the leather worker. He immediately obeyed the Lord and sent two of his servants and a devout soldier to Joppa. God was preparing Cornelius and Peter for this event. Peter went up on the housetop to pray. He saw in a vision the sky opened and something like a large sheet coming down from heaven. In the sheet were all sorts of animals, reptiles and birds. Then a voice said to him, “Get up Peter, kill and eat them” (10:11-13). Peter reacted with horror at the idea of eating unclean foods. But when the non Jewish Cornelius sent the servant for him, Peter understood the message. God is able to make all who believes in Christ, clean. The gentiles were considered unclean by Jews. But there is no difference either in condemnation or in salvation when it comes to the gospel (Rom 3:9, 23). The gospel knows no ethnic or religious boundaries. Peter’s visions, reminds us that what God calls clean, we have no right to call unclean (10:15). There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Rom 8:1). God has made scarlet sins as white as snow.
Peter’s Message: Acts 10:23-43.
Peter went to Caesarea where Cornelius was waiting for him. When Cornelius fell down to worship him, Peter stopped him because only God should be worshiped. He said “Stand up! I am a man just like you”. Cornelius and his family are ready to hear the gospel. Then Peter presented the gospel to a captive audience. A seeking Savior will always find the seeking sinner (Luke 19:10). Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be satisfied (Matt 5:6). Peter summarized the historical facts about the life, death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He is appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead. Jesus was approved by God and anointed by the Holy Spirit. His teaching was accompanied by signs and wonders (10:38). The disciples are the witnesses of his death and resurrection. Everyone who believes in Jesus receives forgiveness of sins through his name (10:43). God shows no partiality, but freely receives all who believe in Christ. Someone has said "The cross of Christ is the great equalizer, yet at the cross, the offer of forgiveness is made to all without distinction". Peter did not quote any Old Testament passage to this gentile audience. His message remains consistent. God shows no partiality but freely receives all who believe in Christ. At the cross, the offer of forgives is made to all who believe in Christ. Jesus is Lord of all and his gospel is available to all.
The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles: Acts 10:44-48.
While Peter was speaking, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who heard the gospel. The Jewish brothers were amazed that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the gentiles and they were speaking in tongues. They thought that gentiles should become Jewish convert first to receive the Holy Spirit. Gentile believers are now on an equal footing with Jewish believers. This does not suggest that every new believer gives evidence of salvation by speaking in tongues. The Holy Spirit came on Jews, came on Samaritans and gentiles to unite them into the body of Christ which is the church (1 Cor 12:13). It was the unique events in the transition period of the early church. There would have been good reason to doubt the salvation of gentile believers if their faith was not accompanied by the baptism of the spirit and speaking in tongues. Peter recognized that these gentiles were saved because they gave evidence of their salvation (10:47). They were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ to show the world that they had been identified with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They are fellow believers in Christ Jesus. The early church faithfully obeyed the great commission. Pray that God would help us to obey the great commission with joy.
Acts chapter ten records the conversion of Cornelius. This is the longest conversion narrative in the book of Acts. This event took place about ten years after Pentecost. The persecution of the church helped the spread of the gospel to Samaria and to the gentile world. God does all things in his time and according to his eternal plan. Salvation is a divine work of grace. Cornelius was a Roman army officer who lived in Caesarea. It was coastal city 30 miles north of Joppa. He was a devout man who feared God. He gave generously to charity and was a man attended the synagogue. One day Cornelius had a vision of an angel of God. He was instructed to call Peter who was staying with Simon, the leather worker. He immediately obeyed the Lord and sent two of his servants and a devout soldier to Joppa. God was preparing Cornelius and Peter for this event. Peter went up on the housetop to pray. He saw in a vision the sky opened and something like a large sheet coming down from heaven. In the sheet were all sorts of animals, reptiles and birds. Then a voice said to him, “Get up Peter, kill and eat them” (10:11-13). Peter reacted with horror at the idea of eating unclean foods. But when the non Jewish Cornelius sent the servant for him, Peter understood the message. God is able to make all who believes in Christ, clean. The gentiles were considered unclean by Jews. But there is no difference either in condemnation or in salvation when it comes to the gospel (Rom 3:9, 23). The gospel knows no ethnic or religious boundaries. Peter’s visions, reminds us that what God calls clean, we have no right to call unclean (10:15). There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Rom 8:1). God has made scarlet sins as white as snow.
Peter’s Message: Acts 10:23-43.
Peter went to Caesarea where Cornelius was waiting for him. When Cornelius fell down to worship him, Peter stopped him because only God should be worshiped. He said “Stand up! I am a man just like you”. Cornelius and his family are ready to hear the gospel. Then Peter presented the gospel to a captive audience. A seeking Savior will always find the seeking sinner (Luke 19:10). Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be satisfied (Matt 5:6). Peter summarized the historical facts about the life, death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He is appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead. Jesus was approved by God and anointed by the Holy Spirit. His teaching was accompanied by signs and wonders (10:38). The disciples are the witnesses of his death and resurrection. Everyone who believes in Jesus receives forgiveness of sins through his name (10:43). God shows no partiality, but freely receives all who believe in Christ. Someone has said "The cross of Christ is the great equalizer, yet at the cross, the offer of forgiveness is made to all without distinction". Peter did not quote any Old Testament passage to this gentile audience. His message remains consistent. God shows no partiality but freely receives all who believe in Christ. At the cross, the offer of forgives is made to all who believe in Christ. Jesus is Lord of all and his gospel is available to all.
The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles: Acts 10:44-48.
While Peter was speaking, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who heard the gospel. The Jewish brothers were amazed that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the gentiles and they were speaking in tongues. They thought that gentiles should become Jewish convert first to receive the Holy Spirit. Gentile believers are now on an equal footing with Jewish believers. This does not suggest that every new believer gives evidence of salvation by speaking in tongues. The Holy Spirit came on Jews, came on Samaritans and gentiles to unite them into the body of Christ which is the church (1 Cor 12:13). It was the unique events in the transition period of the early church. There would have been good reason to doubt the salvation of gentile believers if their faith was not accompanied by the baptism of the spirit and speaking in tongues. Peter recognized that these gentiles were saved because they gave evidence of their salvation (10:47). They were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ to show the world that they had been identified with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They are fellow believers in Christ Jesus. The early church faithfully obeyed the great commission. Pray that God would help us to obey the great commission with joy.
Chapter 11
Peter Defends His Ministry among Gentiles: Acts 11:1-18.
Acts 11 describes how the church in Jerusalem reacted to the conversion of gentiles. When Peter went to Jerusalem, he faced criticism for associating with non-Jews (11:1-2). Jewish Christians at Jerusalem were zealous about their traditions and having fellowship with gentiles was a new experience for them. It was a matter of culture too hard for them to break. They looked on non-Jews as outsiders. They did not know that in Christ, Jews and gentiles are united in the church (Gal 3:26-28). Peter explained his experiences at Joppa and Caesarea to them (11:4-18). His experience at Cornelius’s home convinced him that he should not stand in God’s way (11:17). Peter made reference to the teaching of the Jesus concerning baptism and said “John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit”. The pouring out of God’s Spirit on the household of Cornelius brought about the realization that salvation is for Jews as well as for the gentiles. Peter was convinced of the vision he received from God (11:15-17). When they heard this, all their objections were answered and they praised God saying that now God has given the gentiles the privilege of turning from sin to salvation. The baptism of the Spirit accompanied by speaking in tongues was not an everyday occurrence in the early church. Samaritans received the gift of Spirit through laying of hands on them (8:14-17). But the Cornelius household received the Spirit the moment they trusted Christ. The cultural differences and traditions have no place in the church (Rom 14).The door was now wide open to make disciples of all nations. Pray that God would give you a burden to share the gospel with others.
The Church in Antioch: Acts 11:19-26.
The persecution following Stephen’s death scattered the disciples. Thus God used persecution to spread the gospel to the gentile world. Some of them ended up in Antioch, the capital city of Syria. It was a city of great wealth, commerce and political power. Antioch was a free Roman city with a population of half a million people. This city was open for evangelism. A great number of people believed in Jesus and turned to the Lord. Thus an effective church was formed there and became the center of work among the gentiles. When the church at Jerusalem heard what happened, they sent Barnabas to Antioch. He was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and faith. When he saw the great number of believers saved by the grace of God, he was glad, and he encouraged them to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose (11:23). He knew that the grace that saves them can also keep them in their faith. The grace of God was evident as the gospel message rapidly spread among gentiles (11:24). And a great many people were added to the Lord. Barnabas needed support for the ministry and he went to Tarsus to look for Saul. When he found Soul he brought him to Antioch. Soul was a chosen and prepared person for the ministry among gentiles (9:15). The ministry under Barnabas and Saul grew both in number and depth. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. It was a derogatory term originally. Christian means “Christ-ones”. Some follow Jesus for the miracles he performed, some considered Jesus as the carpenter's son, some expected him to be their political leader and some thought he is a great teacher. Sadly many people do not acknowledge Jesus as the source of eternal life. The term Christian is used three times in the Bible (Act 11:26; 26:28; 1 Pet 4:16). They were willing to suffer for Christ (1 Pet 4:16). Unfortunately the word, "Christian" has lost its meaning and significance in this pluralistic society.
This was a Caring Church: Acts 11:27-30.
During this time a prophet named Agabus came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. He predicted by the Spirit that a great famine was coming upon the entire world. This occurred in the days of Claudius Caesar (AD 41-54). So the believers in Antioch decided to send relief to the brothers and sisters in Judea. They entrusted their gift to Barnabas and Saul to take it to the church in Jerusalem. It was an expression of the love for the brethren (John 13:35). A model church should not only care for the souls but also for the basic needs of people (Gal 6:6). There is a blessing both in giving and receiving in Christian life. This church was a growing model church. Is your church a spiritually growing church? A missionary church will be a caring church. Every ministry of the church must have an evangelistic purpose.
Acts 11 describes how the church in Jerusalem reacted to the conversion of gentiles. When Peter went to Jerusalem, he faced criticism for associating with non-Jews (11:1-2). Jewish Christians at Jerusalem were zealous about their traditions and having fellowship with gentiles was a new experience for them. It was a matter of culture too hard for them to break. They looked on non-Jews as outsiders. They did not know that in Christ, Jews and gentiles are united in the church (Gal 3:26-28). Peter explained his experiences at Joppa and Caesarea to them (11:4-18). His experience at Cornelius’s home convinced him that he should not stand in God’s way (11:17). Peter made reference to the teaching of the Jesus concerning baptism and said “John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit”. The pouring out of God’s Spirit on the household of Cornelius brought about the realization that salvation is for Jews as well as for the gentiles. Peter was convinced of the vision he received from God (11:15-17). When they heard this, all their objections were answered and they praised God saying that now God has given the gentiles the privilege of turning from sin to salvation. The baptism of the Spirit accompanied by speaking in tongues was not an everyday occurrence in the early church. Samaritans received the gift of Spirit through laying of hands on them (8:14-17). But the Cornelius household received the Spirit the moment they trusted Christ. The cultural differences and traditions have no place in the church (Rom 14).The door was now wide open to make disciples of all nations. Pray that God would give you a burden to share the gospel with others.
The Church in Antioch: Acts 11:19-26.
The persecution following Stephen’s death scattered the disciples. Thus God used persecution to spread the gospel to the gentile world. Some of them ended up in Antioch, the capital city of Syria. It was a city of great wealth, commerce and political power. Antioch was a free Roman city with a population of half a million people. This city was open for evangelism. A great number of people believed in Jesus and turned to the Lord. Thus an effective church was formed there and became the center of work among the gentiles. When the church at Jerusalem heard what happened, they sent Barnabas to Antioch. He was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and faith. When he saw the great number of believers saved by the grace of God, he was glad, and he encouraged them to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose (11:23). He knew that the grace that saves them can also keep them in their faith. The grace of God was evident as the gospel message rapidly spread among gentiles (11:24). And a great many people were added to the Lord. Barnabas needed support for the ministry and he went to Tarsus to look for Saul. When he found Soul he brought him to Antioch. Soul was a chosen and prepared person for the ministry among gentiles (9:15). The ministry under Barnabas and Saul grew both in number and depth. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. It was a derogatory term originally. Christian means “Christ-ones”. Some follow Jesus for the miracles he performed, some considered Jesus as the carpenter's son, some expected him to be their political leader and some thought he is a great teacher. Sadly many people do not acknowledge Jesus as the source of eternal life. The term Christian is used three times in the Bible (Act 11:26; 26:28; 1 Pet 4:16). They were willing to suffer for Christ (1 Pet 4:16). Unfortunately the word, "Christian" has lost its meaning and significance in this pluralistic society.
This was a Caring Church: Acts 11:27-30.
During this time a prophet named Agabus came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. He predicted by the Spirit that a great famine was coming upon the entire world. This occurred in the days of Claudius Caesar (AD 41-54). So the believers in Antioch decided to send relief to the brothers and sisters in Judea. They entrusted their gift to Barnabas and Saul to take it to the church in Jerusalem. It was an expression of the love for the brethren (John 13:35). A model church should not only care for the souls but also for the basic needs of people (Gal 6:6). There is a blessing both in giving and receiving in Christian life. This church was a growing model church. Is your church a spiritually growing church? A missionary church will be a caring church. Every ministry of the church must have an evangelistic purpose.
Chapter 12
Peter’s Release from the Prison: Acts 12:1-19.
About that time king Herod Agrippa began to persecute the church. He was the nephew of Herod Antipas and a grandson of Herod the Great. Agrippa enjoyed unusual popularity among the Jews by persecuting the church. He killed James the brother of John. Having executed James, Herod plans to murder Peter also. Peter was arrested and put under heavy guard in the prison. The church earnestly prayed for Peter. This helped them to take their eyes off their helplessness. They prayed fervently and specifically on Peter’s behalf. Someone has said, “Satan trembles when he sees the weakest saints on his knee”. When angel came to rescue Peter, he was sleeping. What was the secret of his sound sleep? Because the Lord had promised Peter that he would live to be an old man before his violent death (John 21:18-19). David wrote” I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe” (Psalms 4:8). Peter’s escape was an answer to the prayers of believers. We should never underestimate the power of prayer. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power (James 5:16). Peter came to the house of Mary the mother of John and knocked on the gate. A young girl named Rhoda, standing on guard to warn the praying disciples recognized Peter’s voice and reported that Peter was standing at the gate. The Disciples immediate response was one of unbelief. Peter continued knocking and when they saw him they were amazed. Peter explained to them how the Lord released him out of prison. And he instructed them to tell James and other brothers about his release. James is the half brother of Jesus. He was a leader in the church. Why Peter was released and James was allowed to die? The only answer is that it was the sovereign will of God (Acts 4:24-30). When King Agrippa came to know about the escape of Peter, he ordered that the guards should be killed. Then Herod left Judea for Caesarea. When we pray our Father in heaven is eager to answer our prayers. Pray that God would strengthen you for the challenges lie ahead. A praying church will be a dynamic church.
The Death of Herod Agrippa: Acts 12:20-25.
The people of Tyre and Sidon depended on King Agrippa for their food and at peace with him. On an appointed day Herod put on his royal rob made of silver and sat on his throne. People who heard his speech said “It is the voice of a god and not a man”. Agrippa loved their praise and did not give glory to God (Isaiah 42:8). Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down. He was eaten by worms and died. With Herod’s death, the Word of God increased and multiplied (Acts 12:24). God will not share his glory with others. The humble and lowly will receive the life giving blessings of God's mercy and grace. No human can stand in the way of God’s work. Christians prayed fervently in the mist of persecution and God works beyond what they ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). At this point Barnabas and Saul return to Antioch. They took John Mark with them. They had come to Jerusalem to deliver the relief fund collected by the church of Antioch. Pray that God would help us to live for his glory.
About that time king Herod Agrippa began to persecute the church. He was the nephew of Herod Antipas and a grandson of Herod the Great. Agrippa enjoyed unusual popularity among the Jews by persecuting the church. He killed James the brother of John. Having executed James, Herod plans to murder Peter also. Peter was arrested and put under heavy guard in the prison. The church earnestly prayed for Peter. This helped them to take their eyes off their helplessness. They prayed fervently and specifically on Peter’s behalf. Someone has said, “Satan trembles when he sees the weakest saints on his knee”. When angel came to rescue Peter, he was sleeping. What was the secret of his sound sleep? Because the Lord had promised Peter that he would live to be an old man before his violent death (John 21:18-19). David wrote” I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe” (Psalms 4:8). Peter’s escape was an answer to the prayers of believers. We should never underestimate the power of prayer. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power (James 5:16). Peter came to the house of Mary the mother of John and knocked on the gate. A young girl named Rhoda, standing on guard to warn the praying disciples recognized Peter’s voice and reported that Peter was standing at the gate. The Disciples immediate response was one of unbelief. Peter continued knocking and when they saw him they were amazed. Peter explained to them how the Lord released him out of prison. And he instructed them to tell James and other brothers about his release. James is the half brother of Jesus. He was a leader in the church. Why Peter was released and James was allowed to die? The only answer is that it was the sovereign will of God (Acts 4:24-30). When King Agrippa came to know about the escape of Peter, he ordered that the guards should be killed. Then Herod left Judea for Caesarea. When we pray our Father in heaven is eager to answer our prayers. Pray that God would strengthen you for the challenges lie ahead. A praying church will be a dynamic church.
The Death of Herod Agrippa: Acts 12:20-25.
The people of Tyre and Sidon depended on King Agrippa for their food and at peace with him. On an appointed day Herod put on his royal rob made of silver and sat on his throne. People who heard his speech said “It is the voice of a god and not a man”. Agrippa loved their praise and did not give glory to God (Isaiah 42:8). Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down. He was eaten by worms and died. With Herod’s death, the Word of God increased and multiplied (Acts 12:24). God will not share his glory with others. The humble and lowly will receive the life giving blessings of God's mercy and grace. No human can stand in the way of God’s work. Christians prayed fervently in the mist of persecution and God works beyond what they ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). At this point Barnabas and Saul return to Antioch. They took John Mark with them. They had come to Jerusalem to deliver the relief fund collected by the church of Antioch. Pray that God would help us to live for his glory.
Chapter 13
Barnabas and Saul are sent out as Missionaries: Acts 13:1-3.
As the believers were worshiping and fasting, the Holy Spirit told the church in Antioch to send Barnabas and Saul for the ministry. Early church practiced fasting by abstaining from worldly pleasures to concentrate on God to know His will. The believers were united in love and harmony. It was a spiritually growing church. The revelation of the Holy Spirit probably came through a prophet. Christians are commissioned to make disciples (Matt 28:20). Barnabas and Saul were the first missionaries send from a church. They started a 900-mile discipleship making journey and the gospel began to spread even to the end of the earth (Act 1:8). They were separated for the ministry by laying hands on them. The laying of hands was to confirm their calling and to show the church’s fellowship with them. Throughout the scripture, it is always God who calls people to serve others. There is no reference of mission boards in the book of Acts. Pray that God would use you to share the gospel with others and open their eyes to see the reality of Jesus and salvation.
Paul’s First Missionary Journey: Acts 13:4-13.
Barnabas and Saul sailed for Cyprus, the large island in the Mediterranean Sea. John Mark was there to assist the missionaries. He later wrote the Gospel of Mark. Finally they reached Paphos, where they met a Jewish sorcerer. He was an adviser to the governor, Sergius Paulus. The governor invited Barnabas and Saul to visit and share the Word of God with him. But Elymas, the sorcerer attempted to interfere with the visit and urged the governor to pay no attention to Barnabas and Saul. He tried to keep the governor from believing in Christ. At this point Saul changed his name to Paul to identify with the people of Greek culture and gentiles. Paul was filled with the Holy Spirit and rebuked the false prophet. He was struck with blindness for some time. When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer and amazed at the teaching of Paul. When the Word of God is preached in the power of the Holy Spirit, lives are transformed. Now Paul and his friends sailed to modern day Turkey. When they reached Perga, for some unknown reason John Mark return to Jerusalem. Paul took this seriously and refused to give him a second chance (15:37). But Barnabas reconciled with Mark and restored him for effective ministry
(2 Tim 4:11). Antioch became the base to send missionaries into the gentile world. If we do not obey the great commission the church will be in danger of becoming little more than a comfortable social club.
Paul Preaches in Antioch of Pisidia: Acts 13:14-45.
Paul and Barnabas reached Antioch in Pisidia. This is the modern day Turkey. They enter the synagogue on the Sabbath day. When visitors were asked, “If they have a Word of encouragement for the people” Paul took the opportunity to give an overview of Israel’s history. He proved that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel. Scripture reveals the historical facts of what God has done in the history. Philosophy is man’s world view. The Bible is the unfolding history about God and His eternal kingdom. The better we know the story of the Bible, the fuller we will see the glory of Jesus Christ. The resurrection of Christ was the central theme of Paul’s message. The evangelistic message always centers in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ (13:32-37). Here Paul quotes Psalm 2 and 16 to prove his point. With the coming of Christ, forgiveness of sin is now available to all (13:38). The law gave only the knowledge of sin but powerless to forgive sins. Christ came to become our ultimate sin offering to provide eternal forgiveness to all those who trust Him (Roman 8:3). Only God’s grace motivates us to love God. It is true that the law is perfect, true and righteous altogether (Psalms 19:7-9). But only the grace of God empowers us to obey the Word of God (Titus 2:11, 12). Based on the finished work of Christ, the forgiveness of sin is available to all. Paul’s Message created great excitement among the hearers and they begged Paul to speak again. Many Jews followed Paul and Barnabas. This provoked envy among some Jews and they slandered Paul and argued against Paul’s message (13:45). This will be the case always. Only the grace and love motivate changed lives (2 Cor 5:14).
Paul Turns to the Gentiles: Acts 13:46-52.
Acts 14:46 marks Paul and Barnabas turning to gentiles to bring the gospel to them. It was God's plan all along and foretold by the prophet (Isaiah 49:6). It was necessary that the gospel should be first preached to Jews. But they rejected the gospel and made themselves unworthy of God’s gracious gift. The preaching of the gospel among gentiles played a crucial role in the advancement of it in the world. When the gentiles heard the gospel, many who were chosen for eternal life believed (13:48). It is a reference to predestination of those who believed. God is sovereign in sending his messengers with his message to open their hearts to believe. Luke shows that even our faith in the gospel is a gift of God’s grace. But it is our responsibility to carry the message of Christ to whole world. Luke records that not only the majority of Jews rejected the gospel but also they stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their town. But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. The disciples were not discouraged by this incident but were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. Pray that God would increase your faith and appreciation for the gospel so that even in the midst of persecution you may faithfully proclaim the Gospel.
As the believers were worshiping and fasting, the Holy Spirit told the church in Antioch to send Barnabas and Saul for the ministry. Early church practiced fasting by abstaining from worldly pleasures to concentrate on God to know His will. The believers were united in love and harmony. It was a spiritually growing church. The revelation of the Holy Spirit probably came through a prophet. Christians are commissioned to make disciples (Matt 28:20). Barnabas and Saul were the first missionaries send from a church. They started a 900-mile discipleship making journey and the gospel began to spread even to the end of the earth (Act 1:8). They were separated for the ministry by laying hands on them. The laying of hands was to confirm their calling and to show the church’s fellowship with them. Throughout the scripture, it is always God who calls people to serve others. There is no reference of mission boards in the book of Acts. Pray that God would use you to share the gospel with others and open their eyes to see the reality of Jesus and salvation.
Paul’s First Missionary Journey: Acts 13:4-13.
Barnabas and Saul sailed for Cyprus, the large island in the Mediterranean Sea. John Mark was there to assist the missionaries. He later wrote the Gospel of Mark. Finally they reached Paphos, where they met a Jewish sorcerer. He was an adviser to the governor, Sergius Paulus. The governor invited Barnabas and Saul to visit and share the Word of God with him. But Elymas, the sorcerer attempted to interfere with the visit and urged the governor to pay no attention to Barnabas and Saul. He tried to keep the governor from believing in Christ. At this point Saul changed his name to Paul to identify with the people of Greek culture and gentiles. Paul was filled with the Holy Spirit and rebuked the false prophet. He was struck with blindness for some time. When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer and amazed at the teaching of Paul. When the Word of God is preached in the power of the Holy Spirit, lives are transformed. Now Paul and his friends sailed to modern day Turkey. When they reached Perga, for some unknown reason John Mark return to Jerusalem. Paul took this seriously and refused to give him a second chance (15:37). But Barnabas reconciled with Mark and restored him for effective ministry
(2 Tim 4:11). Antioch became the base to send missionaries into the gentile world. If we do not obey the great commission the church will be in danger of becoming little more than a comfortable social club.
Paul Preaches in Antioch of Pisidia: Acts 13:14-45.
Paul and Barnabas reached Antioch in Pisidia. This is the modern day Turkey. They enter the synagogue on the Sabbath day. When visitors were asked, “If they have a Word of encouragement for the people” Paul took the opportunity to give an overview of Israel’s history. He proved that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel. Scripture reveals the historical facts of what God has done in the history. Philosophy is man’s world view. The Bible is the unfolding history about God and His eternal kingdom. The better we know the story of the Bible, the fuller we will see the glory of Jesus Christ. The resurrection of Christ was the central theme of Paul’s message. The evangelistic message always centers in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ (13:32-37). Here Paul quotes Psalm 2 and 16 to prove his point. With the coming of Christ, forgiveness of sin is now available to all (13:38). The law gave only the knowledge of sin but powerless to forgive sins. Christ came to become our ultimate sin offering to provide eternal forgiveness to all those who trust Him (Roman 8:3). Only God’s grace motivates us to love God. It is true that the law is perfect, true and righteous altogether (Psalms 19:7-9). But only the grace of God empowers us to obey the Word of God (Titus 2:11, 12). Based on the finished work of Christ, the forgiveness of sin is available to all. Paul’s Message created great excitement among the hearers and they begged Paul to speak again. Many Jews followed Paul and Barnabas. This provoked envy among some Jews and they slandered Paul and argued against Paul’s message (13:45). This will be the case always. Only the grace and love motivate changed lives (2 Cor 5:14).
Paul Turns to the Gentiles: Acts 13:46-52.
Acts 14:46 marks Paul and Barnabas turning to gentiles to bring the gospel to them. It was God's plan all along and foretold by the prophet (Isaiah 49:6). It was necessary that the gospel should be first preached to Jews. But they rejected the gospel and made themselves unworthy of God’s gracious gift. The preaching of the gospel among gentiles played a crucial role in the advancement of it in the world. When the gentiles heard the gospel, many who were chosen for eternal life believed (13:48). It is a reference to predestination of those who believed. God is sovereign in sending his messengers with his message to open their hearts to believe. Luke shows that even our faith in the gospel is a gift of God’s grace. But it is our responsibility to carry the message of Christ to whole world. Luke records that not only the majority of Jews rejected the gospel but also they stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their town. But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. The disciples were not discouraged by this incident but were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. Pray that God would increase your faith and appreciation for the gospel so that even in the midst of persecution you may faithfully proclaim the Gospel.
Chapter 14
Ministry in Iconium: Acts 14:1-7.
Paul and Barnabas went to Iconium which was located east south of Antioch in Asia Minor. They went to the Jewish synagogue and preached the gospel with power and a great number of Jews and Greeks believed in Christ. However some of the Jews stirred up opposition against them. But the apostles were able to remain there and preach the gospel. Wherever the gospel preached, there will be opposition. Here gospel is called “the Word of God’s grace”. The message of the gospel is the message of grace. When Jews incited riot, Paul and Barnabas fled to Lystra and Derbe. There they continued to preach the good news. Their ministry always had an evangelistic purpose. All our ministries should be gospel centered.
Stoning at Lystra: Acts 14:8-18.
At Lystra, apostles healed a crippled man. When people saw the power of God at work, they mistakenly thought that Paul and Barnabas are divine. They considered Barnabas was the Greek god, Zeus and Paul as Hermes. They wanted to offer sacrifice to the apostle. But apostles tore their garments and stopped them from offering sacrifice to them. They said to the people that they are only human beings and they have come to bring the good news. Apostles knew that the power to heal the crippled man came from Jesus and gave glory to God. Paul reminded them that in the past God permitted all the nations to go in their selfish ways but never left them without witness (Gen 10, 11). Early Christians never considered themselves worthy of worship and sainthood. They were servants of God carrying out the great commission. May God help us to follow their example.
Paul Surviving the Stoning at Lystra: Acts 14:19-23.
Then some Jews, who came from Antioch and Iconium, opposed the preaching of Paul and incited the crowd to stone Paul. They dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. But when the disciples gathered around Paul, he rose up and entered the city. After surviving an attempted execution, Paul continued preaching the gospel. Paul refers to this experience in 2 Corinthians 11:24, 25. The next day they left for Derbe and preached the gospel and made many disciples. Many scholars believe that Paul led Timothy to Christ during this time. The apostles returned to each city they have visited before and encouraged the believers. They exhorted them to continue in the faith and said “We must through many tribulations and enter the Kingdom of God (14:22). This power for enduring suffering comes from God who works in us (Phil 2:12-13). God never promises to keep us out of troubles but He does promise to help us through them. We should cooperate with God by accepting the resources to witnesses Christ. God who has begun the good work in us will bring it to completion (Phil 1:6). Apostles appointed elders in each church. The elders shared the spiritual oversight of the local church among believers. In fact they are appointed by God to minister under His authority. They have to obey God’s agenda which is teaching the Word of God and shepherd the flock. The greatest need in leadership role is the wisdom that comes from God (James 1:5; 3:13-18). Shepherds are under authority to bring the sheep to the chief shepherd (Heb 13:20). The local church was independent and there was no hierarchical structure in the early church.
The End of the First Missionary Journey: Acts 14:24-28.
Finally Paul and Barnabas returned to Antioch. Upon arrival in Antioch, they called the church and reported everything God had done through them. They testified that it was God who had opened the door of faith to the gentiles. They stayed in Antioch for a long time with the disciples. It is assumed that the first missionary journey took about one year covering 900 miles. They preached Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit. They were willing to suffer for the gospel. They discipled the new converts and established them in the faith. They also enjoyed the support and fellowship of the sending church. And they did all things for the glory of God. May God help us to follow their example! Pray that the love of Christ would compel us to witness Christ to the lost and dying.
Paul and Barnabas went to Iconium which was located east south of Antioch in Asia Minor. They went to the Jewish synagogue and preached the gospel with power and a great number of Jews and Greeks believed in Christ. However some of the Jews stirred up opposition against them. But the apostles were able to remain there and preach the gospel. Wherever the gospel preached, there will be opposition. Here gospel is called “the Word of God’s grace”. The message of the gospel is the message of grace. When Jews incited riot, Paul and Barnabas fled to Lystra and Derbe. There they continued to preach the good news. Their ministry always had an evangelistic purpose. All our ministries should be gospel centered.
Stoning at Lystra: Acts 14:8-18.
At Lystra, apostles healed a crippled man. When people saw the power of God at work, they mistakenly thought that Paul and Barnabas are divine. They considered Barnabas was the Greek god, Zeus and Paul as Hermes. They wanted to offer sacrifice to the apostle. But apostles tore their garments and stopped them from offering sacrifice to them. They said to the people that they are only human beings and they have come to bring the good news. Apostles knew that the power to heal the crippled man came from Jesus and gave glory to God. Paul reminded them that in the past God permitted all the nations to go in their selfish ways but never left them without witness (Gen 10, 11). Early Christians never considered themselves worthy of worship and sainthood. They were servants of God carrying out the great commission. May God help us to follow their example.
Paul Surviving the Stoning at Lystra: Acts 14:19-23.
Then some Jews, who came from Antioch and Iconium, opposed the preaching of Paul and incited the crowd to stone Paul. They dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. But when the disciples gathered around Paul, he rose up and entered the city. After surviving an attempted execution, Paul continued preaching the gospel. Paul refers to this experience in 2 Corinthians 11:24, 25. The next day they left for Derbe and preached the gospel and made many disciples. Many scholars believe that Paul led Timothy to Christ during this time. The apostles returned to each city they have visited before and encouraged the believers. They exhorted them to continue in the faith and said “We must through many tribulations and enter the Kingdom of God (14:22). This power for enduring suffering comes from God who works in us (Phil 2:12-13). God never promises to keep us out of troubles but He does promise to help us through them. We should cooperate with God by accepting the resources to witnesses Christ. God who has begun the good work in us will bring it to completion (Phil 1:6). Apostles appointed elders in each church. The elders shared the spiritual oversight of the local church among believers. In fact they are appointed by God to minister under His authority. They have to obey God’s agenda which is teaching the Word of God and shepherd the flock. The greatest need in leadership role is the wisdom that comes from God (James 1:5; 3:13-18). Shepherds are under authority to bring the sheep to the chief shepherd (Heb 13:20). The local church was independent and there was no hierarchical structure in the early church.
The End of the First Missionary Journey: Acts 14:24-28.
Finally Paul and Barnabas returned to Antioch. Upon arrival in Antioch, they called the church and reported everything God had done through them. They testified that it was God who had opened the door of faith to the gentiles. They stayed in Antioch for a long time with the disciples. It is assumed that the first missionary journey took about one year covering 900 miles. They preached Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit. They were willing to suffer for the gospel. They discipled the new converts and established them in the faith. They also enjoyed the support and fellowship of the sending church. And they did all things for the glory of God. May God help us to follow their example! Pray that the love of Christ would compel us to witness Christ to the lost and dying.
Chapter 15
The Conflict Over Circumcision: Acts 15:1-5.
The Jerusalem council was a turning point in the church history. The church was facing persecution from outside and there was disagreement about the admission of gentile believers in the church. The Jewish believers insisted that gentile believers should be circumcised in order to be saved. They argued that unless gentiles submit to the requirements of the Law of Moses, they cannot be saved (15:5). Some of these believers were from strict Jewish religious sect. They considered Christianity as a movement within Judaism at this point. Paul and Barnabas disagreed and debated with them. We are saved by grace and we live also by grace (Ephesians 2:8). No one is saved on the basis of their own good work. Many people attempt to ease their conscience through good works. This will only lead them to guilt and fear. No one can be sure whether they have done enough to please God in this life. True freedom comes only when we recognize the boundless grace of God sending His Son to die for us. The letter of Galatians was written to counter the false teaching. It was a threat to the progress of the gospel of grace in Antioch and Asia Minor. The church of Antioch sent Paul and Barnabas and some others to discuss this matter with apostles and elders in the Jerusalem church. When the delegates from Antioch arrived in Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church. Is your church a welcoming church?
The Jerusalem Council: Acts 15:6-21.
The apostles and elders met together to discuss the problem. While the leaders were involved in the discussion the whole church participated as well (15:12, 22). After much debate, Peter asked “Why are you now challenging God by burdening the gentile believers with a yoke neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?” (15:10). Peter was earlier rebuked about it in Antioch (Gal 2:11). He reinforced his original position by saying that there is no difference between Jews and gentiles when it comes to salvation. The law is the perfect standard to reveal how to live a holy life but it never provided the power to do that . Peter insisted that both Jews and Gentiles are saved only by grace through faith in Christ and not by circumcision. This gave Barnabas and Paul an opportunity to explain what God has done through them among gentiles. They argued that imposing the burden of the law only bring discouragement and despair (Mat 11:28). Then the turning point came when James the brother of Jesus spoke regarding this matter. He was one of the elders of the Jerusalem church. James suggested that believers should abstain from idols, from fornication and from things strangled and from blood. These instructions were not to encourage gentiles to earn their salvation but to demonstrate love and respect for the Jewish Christians. The gentile believers joyfully accepted what James said (15:31). Here we see the example of the principle of loving and respecting the weaker brother in the faith (Rom 14:1). The Spirit filled ministry will always bring harmony and fellowship among believers. The final decision was reached unanimously and it pleased the leadership and the whole church. Judas and Silas were chosen to take a letter to the church of Antioch. This letter is quoted in its entirety in verses 23-29. Thus the issue was settled in the church. Judas and Salas are referred here as prophets (15:32). The reference to “Prophets” speaks of the ministry of proclaiming the Word of God. Does our ministry bring harmony and fellowship among believers? Pray to God to help you to use your freedom in Christ to serve others.
Division over John Mark: Acts 15:36-41.
After some time Paul and Barnabas decided to visit the churches they have established. But they could not come to an agreement about John Mark because he had abandoned them in their first missionary journey from Pamphylia. They both wanted to do the right thing. Paul placed ministry first and Barnabas the individual first. If they are doing this for the glory of God, both are right. Their disagreement was so sharp that they decided to separate from each other. Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus, his native place. Paul chose Silas and went to Cilicia, his native place. Missionary handbook suggests that evangelism is most effective in native places than cross-cultural evangelism. Both teams were very effective. Barnabas was able to restore and rebuild Mark for the ministry (Col 4:10; 2 Tim 4:11). Paul later wrote that he had great respect for Barnabas (1 Cor 9:6). Paul and Mark eventually reconciled and became close fellow workers. The tension between Paul and Barnabas shows that even godly servants can have interpersonal conflict. Only the gospel can strengthen us to be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave us (Eph 4:32). Only because of God’s mercy and love, we can be reconciled and continue to love one another. May God give us a tender heart to love and consider one another! Pray for humility and love to handle interpersonal conflict.
The Jerusalem council was a turning point in the church history. The church was facing persecution from outside and there was disagreement about the admission of gentile believers in the church. The Jewish believers insisted that gentile believers should be circumcised in order to be saved. They argued that unless gentiles submit to the requirements of the Law of Moses, they cannot be saved (15:5). Some of these believers were from strict Jewish religious sect. They considered Christianity as a movement within Judaism at this point. Paul and Barnabas disagreed and debated with them. We are saved by grace and we live also by grace (Ephesians 2:8). No one is saved on the basis of their own good work. Many people attempt to ease their conscience through good works. This will only lead them to guilt and fear. No one can be sure whether they have done enough to please God in this life. True freedom comes only when we recognize the boundless grace of God sending His Son to die for us. The letter of Galatians was written to counter the false teaching. It was a threat to the progress of the gospel of grace in Antioch and Asia Minor. The church of Antioch sent Paul and Barnabas and some others to discuss this matter with apostles and elders in the Jerusalem church. When the delegates from Antioch arrived in Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church. Is your church a welcoming church?
The Jerusalem Council: Acts 15:6-21.
The apostles and elders met together to discuss the problem. While the leaders were involved in the discussion the whole church participated as well (15:12, 22). After much debate, Peter asked “Why are you now challenging God by burdening the gentile believers with a yoke neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?” (15:10). Peter was earlier rebuked about it in Antioch (Gal 2:11). He reinforced his original position by saying that there is no difference between Jews and gentiles when it comes to salvation. The law is the perfect standard to reveal how to live a holy life but it never provided the power to do that . Peter insisted that both Jews and Gentiles are saved only by grace through faith in Christ and not by circumcision. This gave Barnabas and Paul an opportunity to explain what God has done through them among gentiles. They argued that imposing the burden of the law only bring discouragement and despair (Mat 11:28). Then the turning point came when James the brother of Jesus spoke regarding this matter. He was one of the elders of the Jerusalem church. James suggested that believers should abstain from idols, from fornication and from things strangled and from blood. These instructions were not to encourage gentiles to earn their salvation but to demonstrate love and respect for the Jewish Christians. The gentile believers joyfully accepted what James said (15:31). Here we see the example of the principle of loving and respecting the weaker brother in the faith (Rom 14:1). The Spirit filled ministry will always bring harmony and fellowship among believers. The final decision was reached unanimously and it pleased the leadership and the whole church. Judas and Silas were chosen to take a letter to the church of Antioch. This letter is quoted in its entirety in verses 23-29. Thus the issue was settled in the church. Judas and Salas are referred here as prophets (15:32). The reference to “Prophets” speaks of the ministry of proclaiming the Word of God. Does our ministry bring harmony and fellowship among believers? Pray to God to help you to use your freedom in Christ to serve others.
Division over John Mark: Acts 15:36-41.
After some time Paul and Barnabas decided to visit the churches they have established. But they could not come to an agreement about John Mark because he had abandoned them in their first missionary journey from Pamphylia. They both wanted to do the right thing. Paul placed ministry first and Barnabas the individual first. If they are doing this for the glory of God, both are right. Their disagreement was so sharp that they decided to separate from each other. Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus, his native place. Paul chose Silas and went to Cilicia, his native place. Missionary handbook suggests that evangelism is most effective in native places than cross-cultural evangelism. Both teams were very effective. Barnabas was able to restore and rebuild Mark for the ministry (Col 4:10; 2 Tim 4:11). Paul later wrote that he had great respect for Barnabas (1 Cor 9:6). Paul and Mark eventually reconciled and became close fellow workers. The tension between Paul and Barnabas shows that even godly servants can have interpersonal conflict. Only the gospel can strengthen us to be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave us (Eph 4:32). Only because of God’s mercy and love, we can be reconciled and continue to love one another. May God give us a tender heart to love and consider one another! Pray for humility and love to handle interpersonal conflict.
Chapter 16
Paul’s Second Missionary Journey: Acts 16:1-8.
Paul first went to Derbe and to Lystra. There was a disciple named Timothy whose mother was Jewish but the father was Greek. Timothy had a good testimony among the believers. Paul wanted Timothy to join him on their missionary journey. Timothy was circumcised to remove the barrier to witness among Jews and as well as Gentiles. Paul never considered this as a requirement for salvation but he allowed this to remove the barrier that would prevent people from hearing the gospel. Paul’s foremost interest was to preach the gospel and win people to Jesus Christ. Paul became all things to all men and was willing to give up cultural practices and preferences (1Cor 9:22). Cultural accommodation in evangelism is often necessary to the furtherance of the gospel. They went from churches to churches which they have established and instructed the believers to follow the decisions of Jerusalem council. So the churches were strengthened and increased in number daily. Personal evangelism was the strength of the early church. This is a pattern Christians should follow at all time. Paul and Silas were prevented by the Holy Spirit to preach the Word in the province of Asia Minor. They traveled through Mysia and reached the seaport of Troas. Paul waited for God’s direction, which came in a vision from Macedonia saying “Come over and help us”. With clear direction, Paul and his team went to Macedonia (16:9). Luke was from Macedonia. Christ is the Lord of the Harvest. The sovereign Lord closed the door in Asia and opened the door in Europe. Are we willing to go to places where doors are opened for the gospel?
A Call from Macedonia: Acts 16:9-15.
Those who wait on the Lord will always find God’s leading in the ministry. Lord’s guidance often comes through the scriptures and through circumstances. Sometimes through the council of godly men, God guides us. At Troas Luke joined Paul, Silas and Timothy. They immediately sailed to the island of Samothrace and on to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi. Philippi was a Roman colony that enjoyed the privileges of Roman citizens and self government. It was the leading city of Macedonia. There was no Jewish synagogue. On the Sabbath, Paul and fellow evangelists went outside the city to a riverside. There they encountered Lydia, a woman from Thyatira and she was a God-fearing Jewish proselyte. She also was a seller of purple, a woman of wealth and a worshiper of God. The Lord graciously opened her heart to repent and believe the gospel. She was baptized along with her family. She urged God’s servants to come and stay at her home. Only God has the power to open a person’s eye to see the glory of Chris
(2 Cor 4:4-6). Our salvation is an act of God from beginning to end. Pray that God would open the eyes of those who have not surrendered their lives to Jesus.
Paul and Silas in Prison: Acts 16:16-24.
Paul and team encountered a young demon-possessed slave girl who earned a great deal of money for her masters by fortunetelling. She followed the evangelists, chanting “These men are servants of the Most High God “. She recognized Paul and his companions as the servants of God just as the demon had recognized Jesus as the “Holy One” (Mark 1:24). Her insight was inspired by an evil spirit (16:16-17). Paul commanded the evil spirit to leave her and thus rescued her from the power of demon. This girl’s conversion to Christ resulted in the imprisonment of Paul and Silas. Rather than rejoicing at her deliverance, her masters seized Paul and Silas and dragged them before the authority at the marketplace. The magistrates gave orders to beat them with rode. After they had been beaten, they were thrown into prison, ordering the Jailer to put them in the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. Paul and Silas were savagely beaten and jailed as anarchists. Those who do not know Christ, often view Christian works as threat to their sinful interests and values. When we face such situation, we should pray for boldness to show Christ’s love toward them. There is no greater love than doing the best for others.
The Conversion of Jailer: Acts 16:25-40.
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing to God. Suddenly there was a great earthquake and the prison was shaken to its foundation and all the doors were opened and the chains of every prisoner were unfastened. The jailer assumed that the prisoners had escaped and he decided to kill himself. But Paul said “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here” (16:28). Thus God rescued this helpless man. The jailer fell at the feet of Paul and Silas. Then jailer brought them out of prison. He asked Paul and Silas “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Paul said “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved and your household”. They used this tragedy as an opportunity to present the gospel. Paul’s answer is really the gospel in nutshell. He did not command jailer to forsake all his sinful ways but to believe in Christ. Genuine trust in Christ is all that required to be saved from sin. The jailer and his entire household believed and were baptized at once. Those who believe in Christ should be baptized immediately. They are not to be placed on probation for some time to make sure of their salvation. The jailer’s act of washing the stripes of Paul and Silas was an act of mercy and the proof of his conversion. When the magistrates came to know that Paul and Silas were Roman Citizens and they were frightened. They apologized to Paul and Silas and asked them to leave the city in peace. Then they visited Lydia and encouraged believers, and departed. The use of “we” is not mentioned again until Acts chapter 20:5. God uses His servants to save souls. We can share the gospel with confidence knowing that nothing can prevent God's power from saving the souls. Gospel is the power of God unto salvation. Apparently Luke stayed in Philippi to oversee the work there. Faith comes as a result of hearing the Word of God. Christians must rejoice in all circumstances and must have an evangelistic purpose in all they do. Pray that God would strengthen you to share the gospel with great confidence.
Paul first went to Derbe and to Lystra. There was a disciple named Timothy whose mother was Jewish but the father was Greek. Timothy had a good testimony among the believers. Paul wanted Timothy to join him on their missionary journey. Timothy was circumcised to remove the barrier to witness among Jews and as well as Gentiles. Paul never considered this as a requirement for salvation but he allowed this to remove the barrier that would prevent people from hearing the gospel. Paul’s foremost interest was to preach the gospel and win people to Jesus Christ. Paul became all things to all men and was willing to give up cultural practices and preferences (1Cor 9:22). Cultural accommodation in evangelism is often necessary to the furtherance of the gospel. They went from churches to churches which they have established and instructed the believers to follow the decisions of Jerusalem council. So the churches were strengthened and increased in number daily. Personal evangelism was the strength of the early church. This is a pattern Christians should follow at all time. Paul and Silas were prevented by the Holy Spirit to preach the Word in the province of Asia Minor. They traveled through Mysia and reached the seaport of Troas. Paul waited for God’s direction, which came in a vision from Macedonia saying “Come over and help us”. With clear direction, Paul and his team went to Macedonia (16:9). Luke was from Macedonia. Christ is the Lord of the Harvest. The sovereign Lord closed the door in Asia and opened the door in Europe. Are we willing to go to places where doors are opened for the gospel?
A Call from Macedonia: Acts 16:9-15.
Those who wait on the Lord will always find God’s leading in the ministry. Lord’s guidance often comes through the scriptures and through circumstances. Sometimes through the council of godly men, God guides us. At Troas Luke joined Paul, Silas and Timothy. They immediately sailed to the island of Samothrace and on to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi. Philippi was a Roman colony that enjoyed the privileges of Roman citizens and self government. It was the leading city of Macedonia. There was no Jewish synagogue. On the Sabbath, Paul and fellow evangelists went outside the city to a riverside. There they encountered Lydia, a woman from Thyatira and she was a God-fearing Jewish proselyte. She also was a seller of purple, a woman of wealth and a worshiper of God. The Lord graciously opened her heart to repent and believe the gospel. She was baptized along with her family. She urged God’s servants to come and stay at her home. Only God has the power to open a person’s eye to see the glory of Chris
(2 Cor 4:4-6). Our salvation is an act of God from beginning to end. Pray that God would open the eyes of those who have not surrendered their lives to Jesus.
Paul and Silas in Prison: Acts 16:16-24.
Paul and team encountered a young demon-possessed slave girl who earned a great deal of money for her masters by fortunetelling. She followed the evangelists, chanting “These men are servants of the Most High God “. She recognized Paul and his companions as the servants of God just as the demon had recognized Jesus as the “Holy One” (Mark 1:24). Her insight was inspired by an evil spirit (16:16-17). Paul commanded the evil spirit to leave her and thus rescued her from the power of demon. This girl’s conversion to Christ resulted in the imprisonment of Paul and Silas. Rather than rejoicing at her deliverance, her masters seized Paul and Silas and dragged them before the authority at the marketplace. The magistrates gave orders to beat them with rode. After they had been beaten, they were thrown into prison, ordering the Jailer to put them in the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. Paul and Silas were savagely beaten and jailed as anarchists. Those who do not know Christ, often view Christian works as threat to their sinful interests and values. When we face such situation, we should pray for boldness to show Christ’s love toward them. There is no greater love than doing the best for others.
The Conversion of Jailer: Acts 16:25-40.
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing to God. Suddenly there was a great earthquake and the prison was shaken to its foundation and all the doors were opened and the chains of every prisoner were unfastened. The jailer assumed that the prisoners had escaped and he decided to kill himself. But Paul said “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here” (16:28). Thus God rescued this helpless man. The jailer fell at the feet of Paul and Silas. Then jailer brought them out of prison. He asked Paul and Silas “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Paul said “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved and your household”. They used this tragedy as an opportunity to present the gospel. Paul’s answer is really the gospel in nutshell. He did not command jailer to forsake all his sinful ways but to believe in Christ. Genuine trust in Christ is all that required to be saved from sin. The jailer and his entire household believed and were baptized at once. Those who believe in Christ should be baptized immediately. They are not to be placed on probation for some time to make sure of their salvation. The jailer’s act of washing the stripes of Paul and Silas was an act of mercy and the proof of his conversion. When the magistrates came to know that Paul and Silas were Roman Citizens and they were frightened. They apologized to Paul and Silas and asked them to leave the city in peace. Then they visited Lydia and encouraged believers, and departed. The use of “we” is not mentioned again until Acts chapter 20:5. God uses His servants to save souls. We can share the gospel with confidence knowing that nothing can prevent God's power from saving the souls. Gospel is the power of God unto salvation. Apparently Luke stayed in Philippi to oversee the work there. Faith comes as a result of hearing the Word of God. Christians must rejoice in all circumstances and must have an evangelistic purpose in all they do. Pray that God would strengthen you to share the gospel with great confidence.
Chapter 17
Paul Preaches Christ in Thessalonica: Acts 17:1-9.
Paul and Silas traveled westward and came to Thessalonica. It was the capital of the province of Macedonia. Paul followed missionary strategy in evangelistic outreach to establish Churches in important cities. In Thessalonica, Paul found a synagogue of the Jews. For three Sabbaths, Paul reasoned with them about Jesus Christ. He used the Old Testament scriptures to prove that Jesus is their Messiah and proved that it was necessary for Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead (17:3). "Jesus’ crucifixion was no accident, it was according to the foreknowledge of God" (Acts 2:23; Isaiah 53; Luke 24:25-26). There was no other way we could be saved (Mark 14:36). The righteous had to suffer for the unrighteous, so that he might bring them to God (1 Pet 3:18). Some of the God fearing Greeks, Jews and few prominent women believed in Christ. But unbelieving Jews opposed the gospel. They form a mob and attacked the house of Jason. When they failed to find Paul and Silas, they brought Jason and other believers before the authorities. They were accused of “Turning the world upside down and claiming to have another king, Jesus” (17:7). At that time king was a common Greek designation for the Roman emperor. Rome was tolerant of many things but not against rebellion of the emperor. “The turning the world upside down” is a reference to the impact of the gospel they preached. Paul lived and ministered with eternity in mind (Acts 20:24). When a person is prepared to die for Christ, he has no problem to live for the gospel. The officials forced Jason to post bond and let them go. In the mean time, Paul and Silas slipped away at night unto Berea. Throughout the book of Acts, Paul faces persecution and opposition. Serving Christ is costly. Hindrance is an opportunity for God to work.
Paul and Silas in Berea: Acts 17:10-15.
After the riot in Thessalonica, Paul and companions moved to Berea. There they preached the gospel of Christ in the Jewish synagogue. They were more open minded than people of Thessalonica to receive the gospel. Paul spent more time in Berea because they received the Word with all eagerness. They examined the scripture daily to see if these things were so. The method of evangelism among Jews focused on the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies concerning Christ. Many of them believed in Christ. The numerical growth was the proof of the power of the gospel message. The Bereans set an example for us by examining the scriptures to make sure it is true. They knew that the teaching that is not consistent with the Bible is not from God and should be rejected. Paul had to leave Berea when Jews stirred up opposition to his work. The believers sent Paul to Athens while Silas and Timothy stayed in Berea. Paul instructed them to join him in Athens as soon as possible. Pray that our walk with God would be marked with similar love for the Word of God.
Paul Preaches in Athens: Acts 17:17-34.
Paul used every opportunities to present the gospel. The gospel has not change, but Paul's presentation of the gospel was different form usual in Athens. Paul used the Greek culture to build the bridge to people to present the gospel (17:23-24; 30-31). Proclaiming the gospel takes a variety of forms in the book of Acts. Paul usually reasoned with people from the scriptures in the synagogue. Paul’s initial plan in Athens was to wait for Silas and Timothy to rejoin him. Athens was world’s most intellectual center and known for its university. Paul was deeply troubled by all the idols he saw in the city. He went to the synagogue and reasoned with Jews. He also spoke daily in the public square and market place. He was invited to explain his message on the Mars Hill among Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. Epicurean philosophy of life was of pleasure and freedom from fear of death. “Eat, drink and be merry” was their motto of life. It was founded in 300 B.C by Epicurus. On the other hand, Stoic believed in the brotherhood of all men and held high moral principles of self-denial. It was founded by Zeno around 300 B.C. Paul began his message by saying that they are religious in every way. Paul found an alter with the inscription “to the unknown god”. Paul said that the God who was unknown to them is the creator, provider, the governor, Savior and judge of the world (17:24-27). God does not dwell in the temples made with human hands and He is not far from us. Paul did not quote from the Old Testament here. Referring two Greek poets he said “We are the offspring of God, implying we are all creatures of God and responsible to Him. God overlooks past ignorance but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent. The resurrection of Christ is the main theme of Paul’s message. To these philosophers, Paul seemed to be babbler, one who picks ideas from here and there and put them together. Every time we share the gospel there will be a response. Some laugh in contempt and others believe. Among those who believed Dionysius was a member of the Greek council and a woman named Damaris. God is gracious to reach each culture even those who embrace idolatry. Pray that God may use you to spread the good news of Christ to those who never heard the gospel. Pray that God would use you and your church to share the gospel that saves sinners.
Paul and Silas traveled westward and came to Thessalonica. It was the capital of the province of Macedonia. Paul followed missionary strategy in evangelistic outreach to establish Churches in important cities. In Thessalonica, Paul found a synagogue of the Jews. For three Sabbaths, Paul reasoned with them about Jesus Christ. He used the Old Testament scriptures to prove that Jesus is their Messiah and proved that it was necessary for Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead (17:3). "Jesus’ crucifixion was no accident, it was according to the foreknowledge of God" (Acts 2:23; Isaiah 53; Luke 24:25-26). There was no other way we could be saved (Mark 14:36). The righteous had to suffer for the unrighteous, so that he might bring them to God (1 Pet 3:18). Some of the God fearing Greeks, Jews and few prominent women believed in Christ. But unbelieving Jews opposed the gospel. They form a mob and attacked the house of Jason. When they failed to find Paul and Silas, they brought Jason and other believers before the authorities. They were accused of “Turning the world upside down and claiming to have another king, Jesus” (17:7). At that time king was a common Greek designation for the Roman emperor. Rome was tolerant of many things but not against rebellion of the emperor. “The turning the world upside down” is a reference to the impact of the gospel they preached. Paul lived and ministered with eternity in mind (Acts 20:24). When a person is prepared to die for Christ, he has no problem to live for the gospel. The officials forced Jason to post bond and let them go. In the mean time, Paul and Silas slipped away at night unto Berea. Throughout the book of Acts, Paul faces persecution and opposition. Serving Christ is costly. Hindrance is an opportunity for God to work.
Paul and Silas in Berea: Acts 17:10-15.
After the riot in Thessalonica, Paul and companions moved to Berea. There they preached the gospel of Christ in the Jewish synagogue. They were more open minded than people of Thessalonica to receive the gospel. Paul spent more time in Berea because they received the Word with all eagerness. They examined the scripture daily to see if these things were so. The method of evangelism among Jews focused on the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies concerning Christ. Many of them believed in Christ. The numerical growth was the proof of the power of the gospel message. The Bereans set an example for us by examining the scriptures to make sure it is true. They knew that the teaching that is not consistent with the Bible is not from God and should be rejected. Paul had to leave Berea when Jews stirred up opposition to his work. The believers sent Paul to Athens while Silas and Timothy stayed in Berea. Paul instructed them to join him in Athens as soon as possible. Pray that our walk with God would be marked with similar love for the Word of God.
Paul Preaches in Athens: Acts 17:17-34.
Paul used every opportunities to present the gospel. The gospel has not change, but Paul's presentation of the gospel was different form usual in Athens. Paul used the Greek culture to build the bridge to people to present the gospel (17:23-24; 30-31). Proclaiming the gospel takes a variety of forms in the book of Acts. Paul usually reasoned with people from the scriptures in the synagogue. Paul’s initial plan in Athens was to wait for Silas and Timothy to rejoin him. Athens was world’s most intellectual center and known for its university. Paul was deeply troubled by all the idols he saw in the city. He went to the synagogue and reasoned with Jews. He also spoke daily in the public square and market place. He was invited to explain his message on the Mars Hill among Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. Epicurean philosophy of life was of pleasure and freedom from fear of death. “Eat, drink and be merry” was their motto of life. It was founded in 300 B.C by Epicurus. On the other hand, Stoic believed in the brotherhood of all men and held high moral principles of self-denial. It was founded by Zeno around 300 B.C. Paul began his message by saying that they are religious in every way. Paul found an alter with the inscription “to the unknown god”. Paul said that the God who was unknown to them is the creator, provider, the governor, Savior and judge of the world (17:24-27). God does not dwell in the temples made with human hands and He is not far from us. Paul did not quote from the Old Testament here. Referring two Greek poets he said “We are the offspring of God, implying we are all creatures of God and responsible to Him. God overlooks past ignorance but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent. The resurrection of Christ is the main theme of Paul’s message. To these philosophers, Paul seemed to be babbler, one who picks ideas from here and there and put them together. Every time we share the gospel there will be a response. Some laugh in contempt and others believe. Among those who believed Dionysius was a member of the Greek council and a woman named Damaris. God is gracious to reach each culture even those who embrace idolatry. Pray that God may use you to spread the good news of Christ to those who never heard the gospel. Pray that God would use you and your church to share the gospel that saves sinners.
Chapter 18
Paul in Corinth: Acts 18:1-11.
The city of Corinth was Paul’s next stop from Athens. It was a port city and bigger than Athens. It had two main ports, flourishing with industry and trade. Corinth was known for its corruption by the temple of Aphrodite, built on a hill overlooking the city. Aphrodite was the goddess of love and there were 1000 temple prostitutes. When Paul went to Corinth, he resolved to know nothing except Jesus Christ the one who was crucified. He came there in weakness, in fear and in much trembling (1 Cor 2:2-3). Paul preached the gospel so that Christ might be saved. In Corinth Paul met Aquila and Priscilla who had recently been driven from Rome by Caesar Claudius. Paul lived and worked with them for they were tent makers by trade. At this time Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia and joined Paul in the ministry. Each Sabbath Paul reasoned with the Jews in the Synagogue. But he was rejected by the Jews. When Jews opposed the gospel, Paul shook out dust from his cloths and said “Your blood is upon your own heads! I am innocent. From now on I will go to the gentiles” (18:6). Paul was discouraged and frustrated. But the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and said “Do not be afraid; keep on preaching, do not be silent. For I am with you, no one will harm you, for many people in this city belong to me” (18:9-10). God ensured Paul that he will be protected. When we face similar situation in the ministry, the Lord is faithful to encourage us by his presence and protection. He stayed a year and six month in Corinth, teaching the Word of God among them. Difficulties in the ministry is not a sign of God’s disapproval but opportunity to manifest his power. The Christian life should not be characterized by fear. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7).
Paul Returns to Antioch: Acts 18:12-23.
The conversion of Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue and his family must have been a tremendous encouragement to to Paul. Here also Paul had to face the opposition from the Jews. Paul was accused before Roman governor Gallio that he is persuading people to worship God contrary to Jewish law. Because of the religious nature of the case, Gallio dismissed it. They instigated a riot and brought Sosthenes, the leader of the synagogue before Gallio. But Gallio paid no attention to it. Paul continued the ministry in Corinth in spite of hardship and strengthened the believers. During this period he wrote first and second Thessalonians. Then Paul sailed for Syria with Priscilla and Aquila. Arriving at Ephesus, Paul left Aquila and Priscilla there and reasoned with Jews in their synagogue. They asked him to stay longer but he declined by saying that “I will return to you if God wills” (18:21). Such should be our attitude towards the work of God. Paul sailed to Caesarea and greeted the church. Then he went down to Antioch to give report of his second missionary journey. Pray that God would free us from fear and anxiety.
Apollos Ministry at Ephesus: Acts 18:24-28.
About this time a Jew named Apollos arrived in Ephesus on a preaching tour. He was an eloquent preacher born in Alexandria, Egypt. He had heard about the message of John the Baptist and faithfully proclaimed what he knew about Jesus. He was an effective speaker but lacked full understanding of the nature of Christ’s work on the cross. Aquila and Priscilla took him aside and explained the way of Christ more accurately. He was convinced of God’s call for the ministry and departed to Achaia with the written letter of recommendation. Apollos was greatly used by God in his public ministry. He carefully handled the scriptures to convince the Jews that Jesus is Messiah. Salvation is completely the work of God's grace. Faith is a gracious gift of God which comes through the hearing of the Word of God (Rom 10:17). Pray that the Holy Spirit would help us to preach the gospel accurately and effectively.
The city of Corinth was Paul’s next stop from Athens. It was a port city and bigger than Athens. It had two main ports, flourishing with industry and trade. Corinth was known for its corruption by the temple of Aphrodite, built on a hill overlooking the city. Aphrodite was the goddess of love and there were 1000 temple prostitutes. When Paul went to Corinth, he resolved to know nothing except Jesus Christ the one who was crucified. He came there in weakness, in fear and in much trembling (1 Cor 2:2-3). Paul preached the gospel so that Christ might be saved. In Corinth Paul met Aquila and Priscilla who had recently been driven from Rome by Caesar Claudius. Paul lived and worked with them for they were tent makers by trade. At this time Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia and joined Paul in the ministry. Each Sabbath Paul reasoned with the Jews in the Synagogue. But he was rejected by the Jews. When Jews opposed the gospel, Paul shook out dust from his cloths and said “Your blood is upon your own heads! I am innocent. From now on I will go to the gentiles” (18:6). Paul was discouraged and frustrated. But the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and said “Do not be afraid; keep on preaching, do not be silent. For I am with you, no one will harm you, for many people in this city belong to me” (18:9-10). God ensured Paul that he will be protected. When we face similar situation in the ministry, the Lord is faithful to encourage us by his presence and protection. He stayed a year and six month in Corinth, teaching the Word of God among them. Difficulties in the ministry is not a sign of God’s disapproval but opportunity to manifest his power. The Christian life should not be characterized by fear. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7).
Paul Returns to Antioch: Acts 18:12-23.
The conversion of Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue and his family must have been a tremendous encouragement to to Paul. Here also Paul had to face the opposition from the Jews. Paul was accused before Roman governor Gallio that he is persuading people to worship God contrary to Jewish law. Because of the religious nature of the case, Gallio dismissed it. They instigated a riot and brought Sosthenes, the leader of the synagogue before Gallio. But Gallio paid no attention to it. Paul continued the ministry in Corinth in spite of hardship and strengthened the believers. During this period he wrote first and second Thessalonians. Then Paul sailed for Syria with Priscilla and Aquila. Arriving at Ephesus, Paul left Aquila and Priscilla there and reasoned with Jews in their synagogue. They asked him to stay longer but he declined by saying that “I will return to you if God wills” (18:21). Such should be our attitude towards the work of God. Paul sailed to Caesarea and greeted the church. Then he went down to Antioch to give report of his second missionary journey. Pray that God would free us from fear and anxiety.
Apollos Ministry at Ephesus: Acts 18:24-28.
About this time a Jew named Apollos arrived in Ephesus on a preaching tour. He was an eloquent preacher born in Alexandria, Egypt. He had heard about the message of John the Baptist and faithfully proclaimed what he knew about Jesus. He was an effective speaker but lacked full understanding of the nature of Christ’s work on the cross. Aquila and Priscilla took him aside and explained the way of Christ more accurately. He was convinced of God’s call for the ministry and departed to Achaia with the written letter of recommendation. Apollos was greatly used by God in his public ministry. He carefully handled the scriptures to convince the Jews that Jesus is Messiah. Salvation is completely the work of God's grace. Faith is a gracious gift of God which comes through the hearing of the Word of God (Rom 10:17). Pray that the Holy Spirit would help us to preach the gospel accurately and effectively.
Chapter 19
Paul at Ephesus: Acts 19:1-7.
After leaving Corinth, Paul reached Ephesus where he encountered a group of 12 men. They were followers of John the Baptist. They knew about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus but not about the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Knowing the facts of the gospel will not save anybody. It is experiencing the life of Christ in daily lives. Paul asked them “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed? They said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit”. On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul had laid his hand on them, the Holy Spirit came on them and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying. There is no Christian life without the Holy Spirit (Rom 8:9; 1 Cor 12:3). The indwelling presence and controlling of the Holy Spirit in the believer deepens their relationship with Christ (1 John 3:24). John’s baptism of repentance was only a preparation for the coming of Christ. Believers are baptized by Holy Spirit into the body of Christ, the church (1 Cor 12:13). Christian baptism is a picture of our identification with Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. This vital union with Christ is necessary to experience the life of Christ in our daily lives. Like Jews at Pentecost, the believers of Samaria, the gentile covert, these disciples of John the Baptists received the baptism of the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues (Acts 2, 8, 10,19). Paul had to remind believers that this never intended to continue forever (1 Cor 12:13, 29-31). This progression shows the expanding scope of the gospel in the whole world. The Holy Spirit unifies the believers and enables them to love one another. Also Spirit creates hunger and thirst for righteousness in believer’s lives (John 15:26; 16:14-15).
Paul’s Ministry in Ephesus: Acts 19:8-20.
For the next three months Paul spoke boldly and reasoned with Jews about the kingdom of God in the synagogue. But some of them rejected his message and publicly spoke against the way of Christ. So Paul centered his daily teaching ministry in the school of Tyrannus. Some scholars suggest that Paul taught there from 11 A. M to 4 P.M daily. It went on for two years and as a result the Word of God spread throughout the province of Asia. The ministry of the Word of God was the foundation of the early church. God performed great miracles through Paul and many people were healed from their diseases. While God still heals as a result of answered prayers, healing by means of handkerchief is no longer a common practice among Christians. The practice of the casting out of the evil spirit was common in those days. When seven sons of Jewish high priest Sceva, attempted do this in the name of Jesus, the man with evil spirit said “I know Jesus and I know Paul, but who are you” (19:15). Then the man with evil spirit leaped on them, beat them and stripped them naked. This story spread quickly and many believed in Christ. They forsook their former practice of black magic. They brought their incantation books and burned them in the sight of all. The value of the books was fifty thousand pieces of silver. Thus the Word of the Lord spread widely and effectively. Missionaries report that this is a common practice among many people groups.
The Riot in Ephesus: Acts 19:21-41.
Afterward Paul passed through Macedonia and Achaia and went to Jerusalem. He also planned to visit Rome on his way to Spain. It was Paul’s normal practice to preach the gospel where it had never been preached. While Paul stayed in Asia, he sent Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia ahead of him. About this time serious disturbance developed under the leadership of Demetrius, the silversmith. He complained that Paul’s preaching was destroying their idol business and income. He was also concern about the loss of influence of the temple of Diana and goddess Artemis. This temple was one of the seven wonders of ancient world. The image of this goddess with many breasts signifies the fertility of nature. Ephesians believed that this stone had fallen from heaven. The ministry of the gospel always poses a threat to the unsaved. Soon the whole city was filled with confusion and a riot broke out. People started shouting “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians” for two hours. The church at Ephesus was an outstanding Church. Their first love for the Lord, and the Word was an example for every church to follow. When truth is preached in the power of the Holy Spirit, it will produce result always. Paul’s preaching was free from accusation, clear and strong in persuasion. Today people do not oppose the church because we do not pose any threat to them. Paul wanted to appear before people in the arena. But Alexander came forward to explain the situation. But when the crowd realized that he was a Jew, they started shouting again. Finally order was restored by the town clerk by saying that the city was not going to be destroyed by Christians and they are not here to robe the temple. If they seek anything further, it will be settled in the legal court. Then he dismissed the crowd. God never receives worship along with false gods. Pray that God would give you a loyal heart to worship Christ and have a passion for the gospel.
After leaving Corinth, Paul reached Ephesus where he encountered a group of 12 men. They were followers of John the Baptist. They knew about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus but not about the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Knowing the facts of the gospel will not save anybody. It is experiencing the life of Christ in daily lives. Paul asked them “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed? They said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit”. On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul had laid his hand on them, the Holy Spirit came on them and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying. There is no Christian life without the Holy Spirit (Rom 8:9; 1 Cor 12:3). The indwelling presence and controlling of the Holy Spirit in the believer deepens their relationship with Christ (1 John 3:24). John’s baptism of repentance was only a preparation for the coming of Christ. Believers are baptized by Holy Spirit into the body of Christ, the church (1 Cor 12:13). Christian baptism is a picture of our identification with Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. This vital union with Christ is necessary to experience the life of Christ in our daily lives. Like Jews at Pentecost, the believers of Samaria, the gentile covert, these disciples of John the Baptists received the baptism of the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues (Acts 2, 8, 10,19). Paul had to remind believers that this never intended to continue forever (1 Cor 12:13, 29-31). This progression shows the expanding scope of the gospel in the whole world. The Holy Spirit unifies the believers and enables them to love one another. Also Spirit creates hunger and thirst for righteousness in believer’s lives (John 15:26; 16:14-15).
Paul’s Ministry in Ephesus: Acts 19:8-20.
For the next three months Paul spoke boldly and reasoned with Jews about the kingdom of God in the synagogue. But some of them rejected his message and publicly spoke against the way of Christ. So Paul centered his daily teaching ministry in the school of Tyrannus. Some scholars suggest that Paul taught there from 11 A. M to 4 P.M daily. It went on for two years and as a result the Word of God spread throughout the province of Asia. The ministry of the Word of God was the foundation of the early church. God performed great miracles through Paul and many people were healed from their diseases. While God still heals as a result of answered prayers, healing by means of handkerchief is no longer a common practice among Christians. The practice of the casting out of the evil spirit was common in those days. When seven sons of Jewish high priest Sceva, attempted do this in the name of Jesus, the man with evil spirit said “I know Jesus and I know Paul, but who are you” (19:15). Then the man with evil spirit leaped on them, beat them and stripped them naked. This story spread quickly and many believed in Christ. They forsook their former practice of black magic. They brought their incantation books and burned them in the sight of all. The value of the books was fifty thousand pieces of silver. Thus the Word of the Lord spread widely and effectively. Missionaries report that this is a common practice among many people groups.
The Riot in Ephesus: Acts 19:21-41.
Afterward Paul passed through Macedonia and Achaia and went to Jerusalem. He also planned to visit Rome on his way to Spain. It was Paul’s normal practice to preach the gospel where it had never been preached. While Paul stayed in Asia, he sent Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia ahead of him. About this time serious disturbance developed under the leadership of Demetrius, the silversmith. He complained that Paul’s preaching was destroying their idol business and income. He was also concern about the loss of influence of the temple of Diana and goddess Artemis. This temple was one of the seven wonders of ancient world. The image of this goddess with many breasts signifies the fertility of nature. Ephesians believed that this stone had fallen from heaven. The ministry of the gospel always poses a threat to the unsaved. Soon the whole city was filled with confusion and a riot broke out. People started shouting “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians” for two hours. The church at Ephesus was an outstanding Church. Their first love for the Lord, and the Word was an example for every church to follow. When truth is preached in the power of the Holy Spirit, it will produce result always. Paul’s preaching was free from accusation, clear and strong in persuasion. Today people do not oppose the church because we do not pose any threat to them. Paul wanted to appear before people in the arena. But Alexander came forward to explain the situation. But when the crowd realized that he was a Jew, they started shouting again. Finally order was restored by the town clerk by saying that the city was not going to be destroyed by Christians and they are not here to robe the temple. If they seek anything further, it will be settled in the legal court. Then he dismissed the crowd. God never receives worship along with false gods. Pray that God would give you a loyal heart to worship Christ and have a passion for the gospel.
Chapter 20
Being over Paul’s final visit to Troas: Acts 20:1-16.
We read about Paul’s third missionary journey from Acts 18:23 to 21:14. When the riot was over at Ephesus, Paul said farewell to believers and left for Macedonia to revisit and strengthen the churches there. He stayed there three months. Paul was preparing to return to Syria when he discovered a plot by some Jews to kill him. So he decided to return to Syria through Macedonia. Several men accompanied him during this journey (20:4). Paul never worked alone. Upon their arrival at Philippi, Luke rejoined Paul. The team went ahead and waited for Paul and Luke at Troas. Five days later they joined the team at Troas and stayed there for seven days. On the first day of the week they gathered with the local believers to break bread. They remembered the Lord’s death and resurrection. It is a day of fellowship and worship in the early church. Since Paul was leaving the next day, his teaching continued until midnight. Being overcome by sleep tragically a young man named Eutychus fell down from the third story and died. Paul raised the young man alive to the amazement of all. Worship and fellowship are necessary for spiritual growth. Those who follow Christ must make the breaking of the bread meeting a priority in their lives (Heb 10: 25). It is to commemorate what Christ has done for us on the cross. Sunday is a day of spiritual rest and renewal. The weekly gathering of the church body is the most important gathering of the local church. The church is designed to be a place for spiritual growth, worship and fellowship.
Paul’s Farewell to Ephesians Elders: Acts 20:17-36.
When Paul arrived at Miletus, he called the elders of the church at Ephesus to meet with them. Paul reminded them how God has enabled him to testify the gospel of grace. Paul knew that this is not only the saving grace but also the sustaining grace. Grace is powerful than the law because it transforms lives and motivates to serve Christ. Paul explained how he ministered among them. He taught them with humility and with tears. His teaching was in public and from house to house. Paul kept back nothing that was spiritually helpful to them. His message had twofold emphasis “Repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ”. Repentance and faith are essential for salvation. We must have a changed attitude toward God in order to have genuine faith in Christ. Paul was a soul winner. He had a clear conscience before God and man. He used every opportunity to witness Christ. He declared the whole council of God (20:27). Paul was determined to finish the ministry that he received from the Lord with joy (20:24). He sacrificially served the Lord. Paul never coveted money or celebrity status. Paul worked with his own hand to support himself and others. Paul was mindful of the words of Christ “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (20:35).
Paul’s Farewell: Acts 20:36-38.
Paul reminded the elders to guard themselves against false teachers and pay careful attention to the ministry the Holy Spirit has given them (20:28). The nature of the pastoral care is clearly placed in the hands of leadership in the church. Christ is the head of the church and He purchased it with His own blood. He invests His authority on the under-shepherds to oversee the direction of the church. Their responsibility is to lead believers by example, feed them by the ministry of the Word and guard them from errors. Paul warned them that after his departure, false teachers will enter the church (1 Tim 1:3-4). They will distort the truth and draw away disciples to themselves (20:29). Paul finished his discourse with the elders by entrusting them to God and to the word of his grace. He knelt down and prayed with them. They embraced Paul and kissed him good-by. They were sad that they would not see Paul again and accompanied him to the ship. Their loyalty to Paul was based on his ministry of truth rather than his personality. Do we appreciate the ministry of the Word among us?
We read about Paul’s third missionary journey from Acts 18:23 to 21:14. When the riot was over at Ephesus, Paul said farewell to believers and left for Macedonia to revisit and strengthen the churches there. He stayed there three months. Paul was preparing to return to Syria when he discovered a plot by some Jews to kill him. So he decided to return to Syria through Macedonia. Several men accompanied him during this journey (20:4). Paul never worked alone. Upon their arrival at Philippi, Luke rejoined Paul. The team went ahead and waited for Paul and Luke at Troas. Five days later they joined the team at Troas and stayed there for seven days. On the first day of the week they gathered with the local believers to break bread. They remembered the Lord’s death and resurrection. It is a day of fellowship and worship in the early church. Since Paul was leaving the next day, his teaching continued until midnight. Being overcome by sleep tragically a young man named Eutychus fell down from the third story and died. Paul raised the young man alive to the amazement of all. Worship and fellowship are necessary for spiritual growth. Those who follow Christ must make the breaking of the bread meeting a priority in their lives (Heb 10: 25). It is to commemorate what Christ has done for us on the cross. Sunday is a day of spiritual rest and renewal. The weekly gathering of the church body is the most important gathering of the local church. The church is designed to be a place for spiritual growth, worship and fellowship.
Paul’s Farewell to Ephesians Elders: Acts 20:17-36.
When Paul arrived at Miletus, he called the elders of the church at Ephesus to meet with them. Paul reminded them how God has enabled him to testify the gospel of grace. Paul knew that this is not only the saving grace but also the sustaining grace. Grace is powerful than the law because it transforms lives and motivates to serve Christ. Paul explained how he ministered among them. He taught them with humility and with tears. His teaching was in public and from house to house. Paul kept back nothing that was spiritually helpful to them. His message had twofold emphasis “Repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ”. Repentance and faith are essential for salvation. We must have a changed attitude toward God in order to have genuine faith in Christ. Paul was a soul winner. He had a clear conscience before God and man. He used every opportunity to witness Christ. He declared the whole council of God (20:27). Paul was determined to finish the ministry that he received from the Lord with joy (20:24). He sacrificially served the Lord. Paul never coveted money or celebrity status. Paul worked with his own hand to support himself and others. Paul was mindful of the words of Christ “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (20:35).
Paul’s Farewell: Acts 20:36-38.
Paul reminded the elders to guard themselves against false teachers and pay careful attention to the ministry the Holy Spirit has given them (20:28). The nature of the pastoral care is clearly placed in the hands of leadership in the church. Christ is the head of the church and He purchased it with His own blood. He invests His authority on the under-shepherds to oversee the direction of the church. Their responsibility is to lead believers by example, feed them by the ministry of the Word and guard them from errors. Paul warned them that after his departure, false teachers will enter the church (1 Tim 1:3-4). They will distort the truth and draw away disciples to themselves (20:29). Paul finished his discourse with the elders by entrusting them to God and to the word of his grace. He knelt down and prayed with them. They embraced Paul and kissed him good-by. They were sad that they would not see Paul again and accompanied him to the ship. Their loyalty to Paul was based on his ministry of truth rather than his personality. Do we appreciate the ministry of the Word among us?
Chapter 21
Paul’s Journey to Jerusalem: Acts 21:1-14.
After saying farewell to the Ephesian elders, Paul and team sailed and reached Syria. Paul spent seven days with a group of believers while his ship unloaded its cargo. These believers warned Paul that he should not go to Jerusalem. The Holy Spirit made clear to them that suffering awaits Paul in Jerusalem. Paul’s objective was not to avoid suffering but his people would hear the gospel of grace and be saved. His great love for Jews motivated him to face prison and even suffer death for the sake of their salvation. When Paul returned to the ship the entire believers came down to the shore with him, prayed and said farewell. Paul next went to Caesarea and stayed at the home of Philip the evangelist. He was one of the deacons of the Jerusalem church and the one who led the Ethiopian to Christ (Acts 8). His four daughters are referred to as “prophetesses “. They are the last ones mentioned in the Bible who had this gift. While Paul was there, a prophet named Agabus, prophesied that Paul would be delivered into the hands of the gentiles. Here also the believers pleaded with Paul not to go to Jerusalem. When it was clear that no one could persuade him, they said “Let the will of the Lord be done” (21:14). Paul understood that following Christ is not easy and it requires to count the cost and give up our own interests (Luke 14:28). If we believe that Christ died for us we should no longer live for ourselves but for Christ who died for us (2 Cor 5:15). Like Paul, our goal should not be to avoid suffering at all cost but to remain faithful to Christ. When we consider the great price Christ had paid to save us, no sacrifice we make is too much in comparison.
Paul’s Visit to Jerusalem: Acts 21:15-26.
When Paul and the team arrived at Jerusalem, believers welcomed them gladly. Next day they went to meet with James and the elders. Paul gave a detailed account of what God had accomplished among the gentiles through his ministry. Paul continued to struggle with the issue of forcing gentile believers to observe the law. Paul deals this issue throughout his letters, especially in Galatians and Romans. Paul preached the gospel of grace to the gentiles. The law gives knowledge of sin but has no power to save us. Paul was even willing to undergo the Jewish rituals of purification to remove the rumors against himself that he is against the law (21:26). The gentile believers were told that they should abstain from eating food offered to idols, from blood, the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. Paul was willing to become all things to all people for the sake of the gospel but never compromised the gospel in his ministry (1 Cor 9:22-23). This flexibility on nonessential should be maintained for the harmony among the believers. We should never compromise the message of the gospel or our identity in Christ.
Paul’s Arrest in the Temple: Acts 21:27-40.
The unbelieving Jews saw Paul in the temple and mistakenly concluded that he had brought Trophimus, a gentile inside the temple with him (21:29). They seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple. In the past Paul faced violent oppositions from the gentiles in his ministry in many places. Now he is facing similar persecution from Jews as well (21:30-31). Paul was rescued by the Roman guards. The crowd became so violent that the soldiers had to carry him on their shoulders to protect Paul. The crowd followed him shouting “Kill him, kill him”. Once Paul was rescued from the crowd he requested the opportunity to speak to them. Paul assured the tribune that he is a Jew and he had the right to enter the temple. He is from the city of Tarsus in Cilicia and he is a Roman citizen in order to receive fair treatment. Thus Paul was given the permission to address the crowd in their own Hebrew language (21:39-40). Paul was not discouraged by the violent opposition. He preached the gospel hoping that Jews would receive Jesus as their King and the Savior. No one can preach the gospel from hate because it is the message of God’s love towards mankind.
After saying farewell to the Ephesian elders, Paul and team sailed and reached Syria. Paul spent seven days with a group of believers while his ship unloaded its cargo. These believers warned Paul that he should not go to Jerusalem. The Holy Spirit made clear to them that suffering awaits Paul in Jerusalem. Paul’s objective was not to avoid suffering but his people would hear the gospel of grace and be saved. His great love for Jews motivated him to face prison and even suffer death for the sake of their salvation. When Paul returned to the ship the entire believers came down to the shore with him, prayed and said farewell. Paul next went to Caesarea and stayed at the home of Philip the evangelist. He was one of the deacons of the Jerusalem church and the one who led the Ethiopian to Christ (Acts 8). His four daughters are referred to as “prophetesses “. They are the last ones mentioned in the Bible who had this gift. While Paul was there, a prophet named Agabus, prophesied that Paul would be delivered into the hands of the gentiles. Here also the believers pleaded with Paul not to go to Jerusalem. When it was clear that no one could persuade him, they said “Let the will of the Lord be done” (21:14). Paul understood that following Christ is not easy and it requires to count the cost and give up our own interests (Luke 14:28). If we believe that Christ died for us we should no longer live for ourselves but for Christ who died for us (2 Cor 5:15). Like Paul, our goal should not be to avoid suffering at all cost but to remain faithful to Christ. When we consider the great price Christ had paid to save us, no sacrifice we make is too much in comparison.
Paul’s Visit to Jerusalem: Acts 21:15-26.
When Paul and the team arrived at Jerusalem, believers welcomed them gladly. Next day they went to meet with James and the elders. Paul gave a detailed account of what God had accomplished among the gentiles through his ministry. Paul continued to struggle with the issue of forcing gentile believers to observe the law. Paul deals this issue throughout his letters, especially in Galatians and Romans. Paul preached the gospel of grace to the gentiles. The law gives knowledge of sin but has no power to save us. Paul was even willing to undergo the Jewish rituals of purification to remove the rumors against himself that he is against the law (21:26). The gentile believers were told that they should abstain from eating food offered to idols, from blood, the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. Paul was willing to become all things to all people for the sake of the gospel but never compromised the gospel in his ministry (1 Cor 9:22-23). This flexibility on nonessential should be maintained for the harmony among the believers. We should never compromise the message of the gospel or our identity in Christ.
Paul’s Arrest in the Temple: Acts 21:27-40.
The unbelieving Jews saw Paul in the temple and mistakenly concluded that he had brought Trophimus, a gentile inside the temple with him (21:29). They seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple. In the past Paul faced violent oppositions from the gentiles in his ministry in many places. Now he is facing similar persecution from Jews as well (21:30-31). Paul was rescued by the Roman guards. The crowd became so violent that the soldiers had to carry him on their shoulders to protect Paul. The crowd followed him shouting “Kill him, kill him”. Once Paul was rescued from the crowd he requested the opportunity to speak to them. Paul assured the tribune that he is a Jew and he had the right to enter the temple. He is from the city of Tarsus in Cilicia and he is a Roman citizen in order to receive fair treatment. Thus Paul was given the permission to address the crowd in their own Hebrew language (21:39-40). Paul was not discouraged by the violent opposition. He preached the gospel hoping that Jews would receive Jesus as their King and the Savior. No one can preach the gospel from hate because it is the message of God’s love towards mankind.
Chapter 22
Paul’s Address to the Jewish crowd: Acts 22: 1-21.
Paul explained to the angry mob about his conversion on the Damascus road. He gave reference to his personal life and experiences. Paul explained his Jewish heritage and education under the outstanding Rabbi of that time, Gamaliel. Being a Pharisee, he had great zeal for the law and persecuted the church. Here the church is referred as the “Way of Christ”. Jesus revealed himself to Paul on the Damascus road and asked “Soul, Soul, why are you persecuting me”? Paul asked “Who are you Lord? He was told that “I am Jesus of Nazareth”. Paul was further instructed to go to Damascus where he would meet a devout man named Ananias. He told Paul that God had called him to be a witness of Christ to all men (22:6-15). Paul once hated Christians and he was in complete agreement in the murder of Stephen. But now he is a changed man. Lord said to him “Depart, I will send you far away to the gentiles” (22:21). Personal testimony is always powerful. God has sent us to proclaim the gospel to the whole world. Like Paul, we should be eager to share the gospel with others so that they may be rescued from eternal judgment.
Paul Reveals his Roman Citizenship: Acts 22:22-30.
As soon as Paul mentioned that God commissioned him to preach the gospel to gentiles, the Jews were offended and became violent. They wanted to murder him. Then the Roman commander ordered Paul to be brought into the barracks and be scourged. At this point Paul reminded them that it is unlawful to scourge a Roman citizen who had not been tried. So the commander asked Paul “Tell me, are you a Roman Citizen?”. He assumed that Paul obtained it with great sum of money. Paul replied, “I am a Roman citizen by birth”. He was a citizen by virtue of having been born in the free colony of Tarsus. The commander was frightened because he had bound Paul. He allowed Paul to appear before the council of the Jews to find out the reason why he was being accused. So Paul was released and brought before the Sanhedrin. Jews consider themselves as God’s own covenant people and it is difficult for them to see gentiles are included into it (Rom 11:17-24). But God’s grace reaches out to all. When we proclaim the gospel, we must be willing to endure suffering for the sake of the gospel and show God’s gracious love to those who who oppose it. Pray that God would help you to share the gospel with others in love.
Paul explained to the angry mob about his conversion on the Damascus road. He gave reference to his personal life and experiences. Paul explained his Jewish heritage and education under the outstanding Rabbi of that time, Gamaliel. Being a Pharisee, he had great zeal for the law and persecuted the church. Here the church is referred as the “Way of Christ”. Jesus revealed himself to Paul on the Damascus road and asked “Soul, Soul, why are you persecuting me”? Paul asked “Who are you Lord? He was told that “I am Jesus of Nazareth”. Paul was further instructed to go to Damascus where he would meet a devout man named Ananias. He told Paul that God had called him to be a witness of Christ to all men (22:6-15). Paul once hated Christians and he was in complete agreement in the murder of Stephen. But now he is a changed man. Lord said to him “Depart, I will send you far away to the gentiles” (22:21). Personal testimony is always powerful. God has sent us to proclaim the gospel to the whole world. Like Paul, we should be eager to share the gospel with others so that they may be rescued from eternal judgment.
Paul Reveals his Roman Citizenship: Acts 22:22-30.
As soon as Paul mentioned that God commissioned him to preach the gospel to gentiles, the Jews were offended and became violent. They wanted to murder him. Then the Roman commander ordered Paul to be brought into the barracks and be scourged. At this point Paul reminded them that it is unlawful to scourge a Roman citizen who had not been tried. So the commander asked Paul “Tell me, are you a Roman Citizen?”. He assumed that Paul obtained it with great sum of money. Paul replied, “I am a Roman citizen by birth”. He was a citizen by virtue of having been born in the free colony of Tarsus. The commander was frightened because he had bound Paul. He allowed Paul to appear before the council of the Jews to find out the reason why he was being accused. So Paul was released and brought before the Sanhedrin. Jews consider themselves as God’s own covenant people and it is difficult for them to see gentiles are included into it (Rom 11:17-24). But God’s grace reaches out to all. When we proclaim the gospel, we must be willing to endure suffering for the sake of the gospel and show God’s gracious love to those who who oppose it. Pray that God would help you to share the gospel with others in love.
Chapter 23
Paul’s Defense before the Sanhedrin: Acts 23:1-11.
Paul began his defense by stating that he had always lived before God with a clear conscience. He knew that it is important to have a clear conscience to serve God and man. And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood near him to strike Paul. Then Paul said to the high priest “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall. What kind of judge are you to break the law yourself by ordering me struck like that?” People said to him “Do you dare to insult God’s high priest? Paul was facing threat and his life was literally at stake. Realizing the situation, Paul replied that he did not know that he was the high priest. Then Paul changed his tactic of defense and said “Brothers, I am a Pharisee, I am on trial because my hope is in the resurrection of the dead”. Sanhedrin was composed of both Pharisees and Sadducees. Pharisees believed in resurrections and angels. Sadducees denied resurrection and angels. Their difference was intense and there was a split in the council. So Paul was removed from there by the Roman commander. Pharisees agreed with Paul. Paul was returned to the barracks. That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said “Take courage Paul, just as you have been witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must testify me in Rome also” (23:11). Despite the challenges we face, the Lord would give us opportunities and strength to serve Him. Pray that we may adopt Paul’s attitude for the advancement of the gospel (20:24).
The Jewish Plan to Kill Paul: Acts 23:12-35.
The Jewish hostility towards Paul continued to grow but the Lord stood by him and encouraged him to continue the ministry. Paul had often desire to go to Rome but did not know when he would be able to do that. The Lord knew all along the timing and used his arrest in Jerusalem as an opportunity to get him there. God can overrule the most difficult circumstances in life to accomplish His purposes. There was a unified plot among Jews to kill Paul. Paul’s nephew learned of their ambush and warned Paul about it. This is the only reference in the New Testament of Paul’s family. The Roman officials were informed about the Jewish plot to kill Paul. So the Roman commander quickly transferred Paul to Caesarea under the protection of 470 soldiers. He also wrote a letter to Governor Felix, explaining why Paul was transferred to his authority. The next day they arrived in Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor. When he learned that Paul was from Cilicia and a citizen of Rome, the governor agreed to hear him. He ordered Paul to be guarded in Herod’s headquarter. Paul’s persecution unintentionally helped to spread the gospel throughout Rome. God works all things according to His eternal council (Ephesians 1:11). All attempts to stop the spread of the gospel will ultimately prove useless.
Paul began his defense by stating that he had always lived before God with a clear conscience. He knew that it is important to have a clear conscience to serve God and man. And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood near him to strike Paul. Then Paul said to the high priest “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall. What kind of judge are you to break the law yourself by ordering me struck like that?” People said to him “Do you dare to insult God’s high priest? Paul was facing threat and his life was literally at stake. Realizing the situation, Paul replied that he did not know that he was the high priest. Then Paul changed his tactic of defense and said “Brothers, I am a Pharisee, I am on trial because my hope is in the resurrection of the dead”. Sanhedrin was composed of both Pharisees and Sadducees. Pharisees believed in resurrections and angels. Sadducees denied resurrection and angels. Their difference was intense and there was a split in the council. So Paul was removed from there by the Roman commander. Pharisees agreed with Paul. Paul was returned to the barracks. That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said “Take courage Paul, just as you have been witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must testify me in Rome also” (23:11). Despite the challenges we face, the Lord would give us opportunities and strength to serve Him. Pray that we may adopt Paul’s attitude for the advancement of the gospel (20:24).
The Jewish Plan to Kill Paul: Acts 23:12-35.
The Jewish hostility towards Paul continued to grow but the Lord stood by him and encouraged him to continue the ministry. Paul had often desire to go to Rome but did not know when he would be able to do that. The Lord knew all along the timing and used his arrest in Jerusalem as an opportunity to get him there. God can overrule the most difficult circumstances in life to accomplish His purposes. There was a unified plot among Jews to kill Paul. Paul’s nephew learned of their ambush and warned Paul about it. This is the only reference in the New Testament of Paul’s family. The Roman officials were informed about the Jewish plot to kill Paul. So the Roman commander quickly transferred Paul to Caesarea under the protection of 470 soldiers. He also wrote a letter to Governor Felix, explaining why Paul was transferred to his authority. The next day they arrived in Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor. When he learned that Paul was from Cilicia and a citizen of Rome, the governor agreed to hear him. He ordered Paul to be guarded in Herod’s headquarter. Paul’s persecution unintentionally helped to spread the gospel throughout Rome. God works all things according to His eternal council (Ephesians 1:11). All attempts to stop the spread of the gospel will ultimately prove useless.
Chapter 24
Paul’s Defense before Felix: Acts 24:1-9.
Felix was the governor of Judea from A.D. 52-59. His governorship was marked by a period of unrest. Felix’s ruthless response alienated him from Jews. After Paul’s arrival in Caesarea, Ananias arrived there with Jewish elders and a prosecuting attorney by name Tertullus. He presented false charges against Paul before the governor. His flattering speech was in fact opposite of the truth. Paul was accused as a trouble maker constantly stirring riots among Jews everywhere. Paul was blamed as the ring leader of the sect of the Nazarene. They accused Paul that he tried to profane the temple. Other Jews also joined in supporting their charges against Paul. This is the only place in the New Testament the followers of Jesus are called “Nazarene”. When Christians are falsely accused, they should trust the Lord and remember that there is no condemnation to them who are in Christ (Rom 8:1). Ultimately our fate does not lie in the hands of human judges but in God. Paul waited until the governor asked him to speak. In his response Paul warned Jews of the consequences of rejecting Christ. Paul pointed out that he had been in Jerusalem only for twelve days and could not have started a riot. His accuser never found him arguing with anyone in the Temple. He worshiped the God and believed in the law and the prophets. He kept his conscience clear before God and man. Paul ended his defense by saying that “I am on trial before you today because I believe in the resurrection of the dead” (24:21).
Felix’s Procrastination: Acts 24:22-27.
Paul had every right to request the dismissal of all the charges. When Paul’s defense was finished, Felix had more understanding of the Christian faith. He adjourned the hearing and ordered an officer to keep Paul in custody. A few days later Felix came back with his wife Drusilla who was Jewish. When Paul reasoned with them about righteousness, self control and the coming judgment, Felix became frightened. He said to Paul “Go away for now, when it is convenient, I will call for you” (24:25). Felix hoped that Paul would bribe him, so he sent for him often and talked with him. After two years Felix was recalled to Rome by the emperor and Festus succeeded him. He left Paul in prison to show favor to Jews and for Festus to decide Paul fate. Felix was convicted of his sin but did not repent. We do not read that he ever found forgive by turning to God. Fear itself will not save anyone. Paul did not respond hatred with hatred. Only love and compassion can draw sinners to Christ. "Love is the reflection of God’s radiance to the world in darkness". Paul believed that God is in total control of his life. God is able work all things together for the good of those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose (Rom 8:28). Do not fear the enemies of the gospel, for God himself will set everything straight one day. The conviction of sin should lead us into repentance and faith in Christ to be saved.
Felix was the governor of Judea from A.D. 52-59. His governorship was marked by a period of unrest. Felix’s ruthless response alienated him from Jews. After Paul’s arrival in Caesarea, Ananias arrived there with Jewish elders and a prosecuting attorney by name Tertullus. He presented false charges against Paul before the governor. His flattering speech was in fact opposite of the truth. Paul was accused as a trouble maker constantly stirring riots among Jews everywhere. Paul was blamed as the ring leader of the sect of the Nazarene. They accused Paul that he tried to profane the temple. Other Jews also joined in supporting their charges against Paul. This is the only place in the New Testament the followers of Jesus are called “Nazarene”. When Christians are falsely accused, they should trust the Lord and remember that there is no condemnation to them who are in Christ (Rom 8:1). Ultimately our fate does not lie in the hands of human judges but in God. Paul waited until the governor asked him to speak. In his response Paul warned Jews of the consequences of rejecting Christ. Paul pointed out that he had been in Jerusalem only for twelve days and could not have started a riot. His accuser never found him arguing with anyone in the Temple. He worshiped the God and believed in the law and the prophets. He kept his conscience clear before God and man. Paul ended his defense by saying that “I am on trial before you today because I believe in the resurrection of the dead” (24:21).
Felix’s Procrastination: Acts 24:22-27.
Paul had every right to request the dismissal of all the charges. When Paul’s defense was finished, Felix had more understanding of the Christian faith. He adjourned the hearing and ordered an officer to keep Paul in custody. A few days later Felix came back with his wife Drusilla who was Jewish. When Paul reasoned with them about righteousness, self control and the coming judgment, Felix became frightened. He said to Paul “Go away for now, when it is convenient, I will call for you” (24:25). Felix hoped that Paul would bribe him, so he sent for him often and talked with him. After two years Felix was recalled to Rome by the emperor and Festus succeeded him. He left Paul in prison to show favor to Jews and for Festus to decide Paul fate. Felix was convicted of his sin but did not repent. We do not read that he ever found forgive by turning to God. Fear itself will not save anyone. Paul did not respond hatred with hatred. Only love and compassion can draw sinners to Christ. "Love is the reflection of God’s radiance to the world in darkness". Paul believed that God is in total control of his life. God is able work all things together for the good of those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose (Rom 8:28). Do not fear the enemies of the gospel, for God himself will set everything straight one day. The conviction of sin should lead us into repentance and faith in Christ to be saved.
Chapter 25
Paul Appears before Festus: Acts 25:1-12.
Historians suggest that in A.D. 58 Felix was replaced by Festus. He was a more honorable governor than Felix. Three days after Festus had arrived in Caesarea, he went up to Jerusalem. Upon his arrival the chief priest and other leaders made their accusation against Paul before him. They asked Festus a favor to transfer Paul to Jerusalem. They planned to kill Paul on his way. But Festus replied that Paul was at Caesarea and he himself would be returning there soon. If there is anything wrong about Paul, you can bring your charges against Paul before the judgment seat there. Eight days later Festus went down to Caesarea. Jewish leaders made many false accusations against Paul before Festus. Paul denied them all and said that he is not guilty of any crime. When Festus asked “Are you willing to go to Jerusalem and stand trial before me there” Paul replied “No this is the Roman court, so I ought to be tried right here”. Paul was willing to accept the penalty of death if he had done anything worthy of death. Realizing the anger of Jews, Paul appealed to Caesar. Then Festus replied “To Caesar you have appealed, to Caesar you shall go” (25:12). God was in control of Paul’s life and ministry. Paul desired to take the gospel to Rome but God used this unfair legal battle to take him there. Paul was unfairly imprisoned in Caesarea for two years (19:21; 24:27). Paul exercised his right as a Roman citizen and seized the opportunity to appeal his case to Caesar. This guaranteed his journey to Rome. God knows exactly what he is doing with our lives. He does all things to accomplish His purposes and we can count on His wisdom and faithfulness.
Paul’s before Agrippa: Acts 25:13-27.
Few days later King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Caesarea to greet Festus. During their stay, Festus discussed Paul’s case with king Agrippa. Festus explained how Paul had been left there by Felix. Upon hearing about Paul, Agrippa wanted to hear him. Festus replied “You will hear him tomorrow”. Agrippa controlled most part of Palestine and familiar with the Jewish law and customs. Because of the lack of understanding of Jewish matters, Festus had difficulty to explain to the emperor why he was sending Paul to him. He asked King Agrippa to hear the case so that he could understand the charges against Paul. So the next day Agrippa and Bernice arrived at the auditorium, accompanied by military officers and leaders of the city. Festus ordered Paul to be brought in. Festus and King Agrippa found nothing deserving death in Paul. However since he appealed to the emperor he decided to send Paul to Rome. For it makes no sense to send a prisoner to the emperor without indicating the charges against him. So Festus asked king Agrippa to hear the case so that he could write the charges against Paul. Often we do not understand why God allows difficulties in life? Because of Paul's imprisonment, he was able to share the gospel with Felix, Festus and king Agrippa. God does all things to fulfill His purpose in our lives. Pray that God would use your present situation for the furtherance of the gospel.
Historians suggest that in A.D. 58 Felix was replaced by Festus. He was a more honorable governor than Felix. Three days after Festus had arrived in Caesarea, he went up to Jerusalem. Upon his arrival the chief priest and other leaders made their accusation against Paul before him. They asked Festus a favor to transfer Paul to Jerusalem. They planned to kill Paul on his way. But Festus replied that Paul was at Caesarea and he himself would be returning there soon. If there is anything wrong about Paul, you can bring your charges against Paul before the judgment seat there. Eight days later Festus went down to Caesarea. Jewish leaders made many false accusations against Paul before Festus. Paul denied them all and said that he is not guilty of any crime. When Festus asked “Are you willing to go to Jerusalem and stand trial before me there” Paul replied “No this is the Roman court, so I ought to be tried right here”. Paul was willing to accept the penalty of death if he had done anything worthy of death. Realizing the anger of Jews, Paul appealed to Caesar. Then Festus replied “To Caesar you have appealed, to Caesar you shall go” (25:12). God was in control of Paul’s life and ministry. Paul desired to take the gospel to Rome but God used this unfair legal battle to take him there. Paul was unfairly imprisoned in Caesarea for two years (19:21; 24:27). Paul exercised his right as a Roman citizen and seized the opportunity to appeal his case to Caesar. This guaranteed his journey to Rome. God knows exactly what he is doing with our lives. He does all things to accomplish His purposes and we can count on His wisdom and faithfulness.
Paul’s before Agrippa: Acts 25:13-27.
Few days later King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Caesarea to greet Festus. During their stay, Festus discussed Paul’s case with king Agrippa. Festus explained how Paul had been left there by Felix. Upon hearing about Paul, Agrippa wanted to hear him. Festus replied “You will hear him tomorrow”. Agrippa controlled most part of Palestine and familiar with the Jewish law and customs. Because of the lack of understanding of Jewish matters, Festus had difficulty to explain to the emperor why he was sending Paul to him. He asked King Agrippa to hear the case so that he could understand the charges against Paul. So the next day Agrippa and Bernice arrived at the auditorium, accompanied by military officers and leaders of the city. Festus ordered Paul to be brought in. Festus and King Agrippa found nothing deserving death in Paul. However since he appealed to the emperor he decided to send Paul to Rome. For it makes no sense to send a prisoner to the emperor without indicating the charges against him. So Festus asked king Agrippa to hear the case so that he could write the charges against Paul. Often we do not understand why God allows difficulties in life? Because of Paul's imprisonment, he was able to share the gospel with Felix, Festus and king Agrippa. God does all things to fulfill His purpose in our lives. Pray that God would use your present situation for the furtherance of the gospel.
Chapter 26
Paul’s Defense: Acts 26:1-19.
Paul began his defense before King Agrippa by expressing gratitude because he was familiar with Jewish law and customs. Paul explained his upbringing as a Jew and said that he belonged to the strictest sect of Pharisees. Paul’s goal was to convince Agrippa that Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. Christ’s resurrection was the central theme of Paul’s message. He knew that the resurrection is the hope of the Old Testament saints (Heb 11:13). Paul went on to explain what he had done against Christians. He imprisoned and compelled the disciples to blaspheme against God. He locked up many saints in the prison after receiving authority from the chief priest. He cast his vote against Stephen. He even persecuted and chased Christians down in the foreign cities. Then Paul explained his Damascus vision in which Christ appeared to him. A light from heaven brighter than the sun shone down on him and his companions. They all fell down and Paul heard a voice saying to him in Hebrews “Soul, Soul why are you persecuting me? It is useless for you to fight against my will”. And Paul said “Who are you Lord?” And the Lord said “I am Jesus whom you are persecuting”. Paul was told that he was appointed to bear witness to gentiles that they may turn from their sin to God and receive forgiveness in the name of Jesus Christ. Paul ended his conversion story by saying, “So, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision”. Only God could bring this kind of transformation in Paul’s life. Salvation is a supernatural work of God. God brought life from nothing in creation, gave children to barren women and raised the dead (Gen 1:1; 21:1; 1 King 17:19-22). In the resurrection of Christ, God demonstrated his power to raise the dead. The same power is at work in our conversion. Pray that God would give you the boldness to share your testimony to others with grace and passion.
Paul’s Post-Conversion Ministry: Acts 26:20-32.
Paul was obedient to his divine call and preached the gospel everywhere. Repentance was a vital part of Paul’s evangelistic message. Paul based his hope on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was the reason why Jews wanted to kill him. But God protected Paul from death and enabled him to preach Christ. He taught that the Messiah would suffer first and be the first to rise from the dead (26:23). Suddenly, Festus shouted “Paul, you are insane. Too much study has made you mad”. Paul said “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, I am sober minded and I am speaking the truth”. He said King Agrippa knew about it because these things were not done in a corner. Paul asked Agrippa, “Do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe”. Agrippa said to Paul “Do you think you can persuade me to become a Christian so quickly?" Paul replied “Whether quickly or not, I pray to God that both you and everyone hear me this day might become the same as I am, except for these chains”. After dismissing Paul, Agrippa said to Festus “Paul could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar”. Thus Paul’s innocence was verified by Roman officials. Paul's testimony was warm, straightforward and captivating. He found confidence in the promises of God. The resurrection of Christ gave him the courage and motivation to preach the gospel. Paul knew that without Christ life is hopeless and useless. Only Christ can bring meaning and purpose in life. Pray that God would fill your heart with confidence in his grace so that you will have power to live in the newness of life.
Paul began his defense before King Agrippa by expressing gratitude because he was familiar with Jewish law and customs. Paul explained his upbringing as a Jew and said that he belonged to the strictest sect of Pharisees. Paul’s goal was to convince Agrippa that Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. Christ’s resurrection was the central theme of Paul’s message. He knew that the resurrection is the hope of the Old Testament saints (Heb 11:13). Paul went on to explain what he had done against Christians. He imprisoned and compelled the disciples to blaspheme against God. He locked up many saints in the prison after receiving authority from the chief priest. He cast his vote against Stephen. He even persecuted and chased Christians down in the foreign cities. Then Paul explained his Damascus vision in which Christ appeared to him. A light from heaven brighter than the sun shone down on him and his companions. They all fell down and Paul heard a voice saying to him in Hebrews “Soul, Soul why are you persecuting me? It is useless for you to fight against my will”. And Paul said “Who are you Lord?” And the Lord said “I am Jesus whom you are persecuting”. Paul was told that he was appointed to bear witness to gentiles that they may turn from their sin to God and receive forgiveness in the name of Jesus Christ. Paul ended his conversion story by saying, “So, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision”. Only God could bring this kind of transformation in Paul’s life. Salvation is a supernatural work of God. God brought life from nothing in creation, gave children to barren women and raised the dead (Gen 1:1; 21:1; 1 King 17:19-22). In the resurrection of Christ, God demonstrated his power to raise the dead. The same power is at work in our conversion. Pray that God would give you the boldness to share your testimony to others with grace and passion.
Paul’s Post-Conversion Ministry: Acts 26:20-32.
Paul was obedient to his divine call and preached the gospel everywhere. Repentance was a vital part of Paul’s evangelistic message. Paul based his hope on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was the reason why Jews wanted to kill him. But God protected Paul from death and enabled him to preach Christ. He taught that the Messiah would suffer first and be the first to rise from the dead (26:23). Suddenly, Festus shouted “Paul, you are insane. Too much study has made you mad”. Paul said “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, I am sober minded and I am speaking the truth”. He said King Agrippa knew about it because these things were not done in a corner. Paul asked Agrippa, “Do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe”. Agrippa said to Paul “Do you think you can persuade me to become a Christian so quickly?" Paul replied “Whether quickly or not, I pray to God that both you and everyone hear me this day might become the same as I am, except for these chains”. After dismissing Paul, Agrippa said to Festus “Paul could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar”. Thus Paul’s innocence was verified by Roman officials. Paul's testimony was warm, straightforward and captivating. He found confidence in the promises of God. The resurrection of Christ gave him the courage and motivation to preach the gospel. Paul knew that without Christ life is hopeless and useless. Only Christ can bring meaning and purpose in life. Pray that God would fill your heart with confidence in his grace so that you will have power to live in the newness of life.
Chapter 27
Paul Sails for Rome: Acts 27:1-26.
Having testified to King Agrippa, Paul and several other prisoners sailed to Rome. Paul was accompanied by Luke and Aristarchus (Acts 27:1; Col 4:10). They were placed in the custody of a Roman Centurion named Julius. It was a difficult journey and scheduled to make several stops. As the voyage progressed, the ship encountered strong headwind that made it difficult to keep the ship on course. Paul advised the centurion not to attempt the voyage under such dangerous circumstances. But the centurion trusted the ship’s captain and the owner more than Paul the prisoner. Since the Fair Havens port was not a good place to spend the winter, they sailed to Phoenix. But the weather changed suddenly and a storm struck the ship. The sailor couldn’t turn the ship into the wind. They were force to lighten the ship by throwing the cargo overboard. The storm continued for many days and the sailors lost all hope of navigation because they could not see the stars. They had not eaten for several days. Then Paul stood up and rebuked the sailors for not trusting him. Paul asked them to take courage and said "None of them will lose their life but only the ship. The angel of the God had appeared to me and assured that I will be brought before Caesar" (27:24). God has granted safety to everyone sailing with him. Paul said “I believe God; it will be just as he said” (27:22-25). Here Luke gives great detail about the storm at the sea to show that God can be trusted. God is faithful to fulfill his promises. God not only called Paul but also protected him every step of his way. Paul assured the fellow sailors that they all will reach Rome despite the shipwreck. When we go through personal dangers and sufferings, we can have the confidence that God is with us (Heb 13:5).
The Shipwreck and God’s great Deliverance: Acts 27:27-44.
On the fourteenth night of the storm the sailors sensed that the land was near. As the water became shallow, they cast four anchors to secure the ship from shifting to the rocky shore. The sailors tried to abandon the ship and wanted to escape in the lifeboats. Then Paul said to the centurion “Unless these men stay in the ship, they will die”. Then he took some bread, gave thanks to God and urged them to eat. There were 276 people on board. They lightened the ship further by throwing the cargo into the sea. At daybreak they attempted to run the ship to the shore but ran the ship to ground. The soldiers planned to kill the prisoners to make sure they did not escape. But the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard and get to land. The rest floated on planks of the ship and escaped safely to shore. This incident reveals Paul’s faith in God and his concern for others. We all will go through the storms of life but God is our present help in troubles (Psalms 46:1). Are we concerned about the perishing souls? God will accomplish all his purposes for the sake of the gospel and for his glory.
Having testified to King Agrippa, Paul and several other prisoners sailed to Rome. Paul was accompanied by Luke and Aristarchus (Acts 27:1; Col 4:10). They were placed in the custody of a Roman Centurion named Julius. It was a difficult journey and scheduled to make several stops. As the voyage progressed, the ship encountered strong headwind that made it difficult to keep the ship on course. Paul advised the centurion not to attempt the voyage under such dangerous circumstances. But the centurion trusted the ship’s captain and the owner more than Paul the prisoner. Since the Fair Havens port was not a good place to spend the winter, they sailed to Phoenix. But the weather changed suddenly and a storm struck the ship. The sailor couldn’t turn the ship into the wind. They were force to lighten the ship by throwing the cargo overboard. The storm continued for many days and the sailors lost all hope of navigation because they could not see the stars. They had not eaten for several days. Then Paul stood up and rebuked the sailors for not trusting him. Paul asked them to take courage and said "None of them will lose their life but only the ship. The angel of the God had appeared to me and assured that I will be brought before Caesar" (27:24). God has granted safety to everyone sailing with him. Paul said “I believe God; it will be just as he said” (27:22-25). Here Luke gives great detail about the storm at the sea to show that God can be trusted. God is faithful to fulfill his promises. God not only called Paul but also protected him every step of his way. Paul assured the fellow sailors that they all will reach Rome despite the shipwreck. When we go through personal dangers and sufferings, we can have the confidence that God is with us (Heb 13:5).
The Shipwreck and God’s great Deliverance: Acts 27:27-44.
On the fourteenth night of the storm the sailors sensed that the land was near. As the water became shallow, they cast four anchors to secure the ship from shifting to the rocky shore. The sailors tried to abandon the ship and wanted to escape in the lifeboats. Then Paul said to the centurion “Unless these men stay in the ship, they will die”. Then he took some bread, gave thanks to God and urged them to eat. There were 276 people on board. They lightened the ship further by throwing the cargo into the sea. At daybreak they attempted to run the ship to the shore but ran the ship to ground. The soldiers planned to kill the prisoners to make sure they did not escape. But the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard and get to land. The rest floated on planks of the ship and escaped safely to shore. This incident reveals Paul’s faith in God and his concern for others. We all will go through the storms of life but God is our present help in troubles (Psalms 46:1). Are we concerned about the perishing souls? God will accomplish all his purposes for the sake of the gospel and for his glory.
Chapter 28
Paul in the Island of Malta: Acts 28:1-10.
Paul and rest of the people who escaped the shipwreck, landed on the island of Malta. Historians suggest that one time Malta was a part of the territory of Carthage. The term "barbarous" does not refer to primitive culture but simply means they spoke unintelligible language. The people of the island were very kind to them. They had shown kindness by building fire to welcome Paul and others. While Paul putting stick to the fire, a viper fastened on his hand. The native people said to each other “No doubt this man is a murderer, though he escaped the sea, justice will not permit him to live”. This was a common concept among those people. However Paul shook of the snake into the fire and suffered no harm. Then they changed their mind and said that he was a god. As a result the chief of the island, whose name was Publius, treated them kindly for three days. His father was ill with fever and dysentery. Paul prayed and healed him. Then all the other sick people on the island came and were healed. As a result Islanders supplied them with everything needed for their trip. Christians are saved to serve others (Ephesians 2:10). Pray that God would give you a heart of compassion towards people who are hurting. This is one of the effective ways to witness Christ.
Paul Arrives at Rome: Acts 28:11-16.
In spite of difficulties and trials, Paul was determined to spread the gospel and nothing could stop him from his mission. After three month they sailed on another ship and reached Syracuse and then to Puteoli. There they found some believers, who invited them to spend a week with them. By this time Christians believers could be found everywhere in the Roman Empire. Finally Paul reached Rome. When the believers at Rome had heard that Paul was coming, they came to meet him. When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and thanked God for them. Luke was a faithful companion to Paul throughout this journey and imprisonment in Rome (Col 4:14). When Paul reached Rome, he was allowed to stay in a house by himself with soldiers who guarded him. During the two year imprisonment period, Paul was allowed to receive visitors (28:30). Paul was ready to serve Christ always. He looked for opportunity to preach gospel at all time.
Paul’s Ministry at Rome: Acts 28:17-31.
Paul spent two years in a rented house and received visitors. During this time Paul wrote the letters of Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon and Philippians. Three days after his arrival, he called the local Jewish leaders and explained his encounter with Jews back in Jerusalem. He had done nothing against his people. When the Romans tried and found Paul innocent they wanted to set him free but Jews objected it. So he was compelled to appeal to Caesar. They said to Paul “We have received no letter from Judea about you and none spoke evil against you. We want to hear what you believe for the only thing we know about this movement is that it is denounced everywhere". When they came to hear Paul, he testified of the kingdom of God from morning to evening and tried to persuade them from the scripture that Jesus is the Messiah. Some believed and other did not. After arguing among themselves they left. They were dull of hearing the Word of God (28:25-28). Paul reaffirmed his mission to preach the gospel to gentiles. During the two years of waiting for the trial, Paul continued to preach Christ without hindrance (28:31). God’s purpose will always prevail in the end.
Conclusion:
Luke ends the book of Acts with an unfinished mission. Paul intended to travel beyond Rome even to Spain (Rom 15:24). His entire life was revolved around the grace of God and the gospel. Jesus is building his church and he is inviting our participation in spreading his message of forgiveness to all people. Paul's epistles reveal Paul’s burden for the churches and his suffering for the gospel (2 Cor 11:23-29). Tradition says that his martyrdom happened in A.D. 68. The resurrection of Jesus is the main subject of the entire book of Acts. Its message is salvation through Jesus Christ. The message of the gospel began to reach the end of the earth and that mission still continues. Let us not be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus is building his church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. This gives us confidence to continue in our mission to reach the lost world with the gospel until Christ returns. Pray that nothing would stop you from sharing the life giving message of the gospel to the lost and dying world. Hallelujah!
Paul and rest of the people who escaped the shipwreck, landed on the island of Malta. Historians suggest that one time Malta was a part of the territory of Carthage. The term "barbarous" does not refer to primitive culture but simply means they spoke unintelligible language. The people of the island were very kind to them. They had shown kindness by building fire to welcome Paul and others. While Paul putting stick to the fire, a viper fastened on his hand. The native people said to each other “No doubt this man is a murderer, though he escaped the sea, justice will not permit him to live”. This was a common concept among those people. However Paul shook of the snake into the fire and suffered no harm. Then they changed their mind and said that he was a god. As a result the chief of the island, whose name was Publius, treated them kindly for three days. His father was ill with fever and dysentery. Paul prayed and healed him. Then all the other sick people on the island came and were healed. As a result Islanders supplied them with everything needed for their trip. Christians are saved to serve others (Ephesians 2:10). Pray that God would give you a heart of compassion towards people who are hurting. This is one of the effective ways to witness Christ.
Paul Arrives at Rome: Acts 28:11-16.
In spite of difficulties and trials, Paul was determined to spread the gospel and nothing could stop him from his mission. After three month they sailed on another ship and reached Syracuse and then to Puteoli. There they found some believers, who invited them to spend a week with them. By this time Christians believers could be found everywhere in the Roman Empire. Finally Paul reached Rome. When the believers at Rome had heard that Paul was coming, they came to meet him. When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and thanked God for them. Luke was a faithful companion to Paul throughout this journey and imprisonment in Rome (Col 4:14). When Paul reached Rome, he was allowed to stay in a house by himself with soldiers who guarded him. During the two year imprisonment period, Paul was allowed to receive visitors (28:30). Paul was ready to serve Christ always. He looked for opportunity to preach gospel at all time.
Paul’s Ministry at Rome: Acts 28:17-31.
Paul spent two years in a rented house and received visitors. During this time Paul wrote the letters of Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon and Philippians. Three days after his arrival, he called the local Jewish leaders and explained his encounter with Jews back in Jerusalem. He had done nothing against his people. When the Romans tried and found Paul innocent they wanted to set him free but Jews objected it. So he was compelled to appeal to Caesar. They said to Paul “We have received no letter from Judea about you and none spoke evil against you. We want to hear what you believe for the only thing we know about this movement is that it is denounced everywhere". When they came to hear Paul, he testified of the kingdom of God from morning to evening and tried to persuade them from the scripture that Jesus is the Messiah. Some believed and other did not. After arguing among themselves they left. They were dull of hearing the Word of God (28:25-28). Paul reaffirmed his mission to preach the gospel to gentiles. During the two years of waiting for the trial, Paul continued to preach Christ without hindrance (28:31). God’s purpose will always prevail in the end.
Conclusion:
Luke ends the book of Acts with an unfinished mission. Paul intended to travel beyond Rome even to Spain (Rom 15:24). His entire life was revolved around the grace of God and the gospel. Jesus is building his church and he is inviting our participation in spreading his message of forgiveness to all people. Paul's epistles reveal Paul’s burden for the churches and his suffering for the gospel (2 Cor 11:23-29). Tradition says that his martyrdom happened in A.D. 68. The resurrection of Jesus is the main subject of the entire book of Acts. Its message is salvation through Jesus Christ. The message of the gospel began to reach the end of the earth and that mission still continues. Let us not be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus is building his church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. This gives us confidence to continue in our mission to reach the lost world with the gospel until Christ returns. Pray that nothing would stop you from sharing the life giving message of the gospel to the lost and dying world. Hallelujah!
