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Acts 28 - Final Word

I think an appropriate closing to this book is the following verse.

Acts 28:24 Some believed and some didn't.

Just like today, some believe and some don't. However, we are to continue to speak, and demonstrate the word.

Lord, may we be holy instruments of Yours, doing Your work and will. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Believe, Jan
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Acts 27 – Authority

Paul was clearly given favor with both God and men. Look at the how the Roman commander of the ship he was on responded to Paul – a prisoner. The sailors were trying to escape the ship on the lifeboat. God had told Paul that everyone needed to stay with the ship; so he spoke to the situation.

Acts 27:31-32 But Paul said to the commanding officer and the soldiers, "You will all die unless the sailors stay aboard." So the soldiers cut the ropes and let the boat fall off.

They obeyed him! What a testimony to the power God had given him.

Lord, may we likewise walk with You in a manner that men may see and know that we are Your ambassadors. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Live like God's men! Jan
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Acts 26 – Like Me

Paul, makes a great statement in this chapter.

Acts 26:28-29 Agrippa interrupted him. "Do you think you can make me a Christian so quickly?"

Paul replied, "Whether quickly or not, I pray to God that both you and everyone here in this audience might become the same as I am, except for these chains."

He wants everyone to become the same as him. Can I say likewise? Would I feel comfortable having people emulate me? Would you?

Heavenly Father, please help me to be someone that others can emulate without reservation. Help me to live life pleasing to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Be Holy as He is Holy. Jan
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Acts 25 – Rights

So often we, as Christians, believe that we have no right to defend ourselves in a court of law. However, that is clearly untrue. Look at Paul's example below.

Acts 25:11 If I have done something worthy of death, I don't refuse to die. But if I am innocent, neither you nor anyone else has a right to turn me over to these men to kill me. I appeal to Caesar!"

Paul refers to his rights, he does not hesitate to utilize the law of the land; nor should we if the situation warrants. However, this should not be done lightly. Paul also warns us that we should not go to court before unbelievers (1 Corinthians 6:1-7). If the person that claims to be a believer is not willing to abide by, or has demonstrated a contempt for, the church authorities, then the secular court remains the only option. After all, God did ordain all authorities.

Heavenly Father, may we be true Children of Yours and live like sons and daughters of the King. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Don't give up your God-given rights. Jan
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Acts 24 - Terrified

I have recently come to the conclusion that I don't live as though God was real. Let me explain. I know that Jesus died for my sins, I know that He is the Son of the Living God and I have accepted His substitutionary death on the cross on my behalf. Yet, when it comes to my day-to-day living, I do not live in fear of the Lord. I make choices, entertain thoughts, and commit actions or inactions that are clearly contrary to His will.

Just yesterday, returning from a men's retreat I committed an inaction that I know was displeasing to the Lord. An elderly woman was struggling with her carry-on luggage. It was just one bag. The Holy Spirit prompted me to go assist her. However, it was very late – about 1am – and I was tired and just wanted to get my bags and get home, so I passed her by. I sinned; I did not obey the voice of the Holy Spirit.

Look at what occurred when Paul was speaking under the influence of the Holy Spirit in his defense before Felix.

Acts 24:25 As he reasoned with them about righteousness and self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was terrified. "Go away for now," he replied. "When it is more convenient, I'll call for you again."

Felix was struck by the enormity of God and His holiness. He was aware of how far off the mark he was living. The result was terror. His response, however, was to ignore God, to move on. He was not willing to change the course of his life. Like me, he ignored the voice of God.

Praise God that one of the men that I was traveling with did not ignore God. He stopped, helped the elderly lady and as a result exhibited the nature of the God that he serves.

Heavenly Father, please forgive me for my sin. Help me to do better. Help me to not ignore Your voice. And thank You for my brother that listened. Bless him for it. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Listen and do, Jan
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Acts 23 - Loose Lips Sink Ships

The phrase "Loose Lips Sink Ships" was commonly used in the United States during World War II. What was meant by it was that you never knew if a stranger might be a German spy. Therefore, any information about the war effort should be kept confidential. Since all supplies were sent to Europe by ship, loose lips literally would sink ships.

Paul's nephew overheard just such loose lips.

Acts 23:16 But Paul's nephew heard of their plan and went to the fortress and told Paul.

He'd overheard a plot to kill Paul when he was to be brought before the council in the morning. So he went and told the Commander in charge of Paul. Commander Lysias wisely told him the following.

Acts 23:22 "Don't let a soul know you told me this," the commander warned the young man as he sent him away.

Loose Lips Sink Ships. If the plotters found out, they could alter their plans and still kill Paul. Or worse yet, they could kill the boy for spoiling their plans. Commander Lysias gave very wise counsel indeed.

Lord, may we be harmless as doves and wise as serpents. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Keep them floating. Jan
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Acts 22 - Lingua Franca

This phrase denotes any language that is widely used outside of its native country's borders or one that is used for a specific purpose. An example would be French formerly being called the language of Diplomacy, and English being called the language of Science and Aviation.

I grew up in a home where my parents spoke to my brother and me in the Czech language. Thus my brother and I became polyglot as a result. It was quite useful growing up. We could have conversations about someone right in their presence, assured that there was no way that they would ever understand us.

In 2001 I visited the Czech Republic. It was the strangest experience for me to hear my formerly secret code being used as the native language. My ears were hypertuned for several days to the unaccustomed yet familiar sounds. They were speaking my language!

The Lingua Franca of Paul's time was Koine Greek and Latin. They were spoken throughout the entire Roman empire. When conversing with the Centurion in the previous chapter, it was most likely in Koine Greek - the language of Paul's writings and a language in which he was obviously fluent. He would have been foolish to not speak a language that was clearly understood.

In this chapter Paul stands to make his defense before the mob that is bent on doing him bodily harm. However, he speaks in Hebrew - not the lingua franca.

Acts 22:2 When they heard him speaking in their own language, the silence was even greater.

The result was dramatic. Just like with me in the Czech Republic, the listeners recognized that the man speaking was using their language. And also like me, they responded by listening intently.

We would be wise to follow Paul's example. I've been accused, rightly so, by one of my brother's in Christ of using too many large words. I'll admit it, I love words. I love to find their origins, learn their meanings and nuances; and find a way to utilize them in my missives and orations. I believe the term is sesquipedalian, or unnecessary use of large words. It's and illness I think, pray for me. However, the point is very valid. We all must be aware of our audience and speak to the appropriate level in a way that will be clearly understood.

Lord, please guide my tongue and my fingers. May I never obfuscate Your word. Help me to be clear and focused. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Go native! Jan
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 Acts 21 - Submission

I'm not sure if Paul did actually obey all of the Jewish laws. However, when the leaders of the church at Jerusalem asked him to do something, he obeyed.

Acts 21:26 So Paul agreed to their request, and the next day he went through the purification ritual with the men and went to the Temple. Then he publicly announced the date when their vows would end and sacrifices would be offered for each of them.

I wonder if he knew what was coming next; beatings, imprisonment, cold, shipwreck and eventually death.

Lord, may we be will and obedient to Your word and to those that You have put in places of authority. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Blessings to you, Jan
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Acts 20 - Long Winded

Last night I heard Bobby Petricelli speak at a men's retreat. One of his comments reminded me of the following verse.

Acts 20:9 As Paul spoke on and on, a young man named Eutychus, sitting on the windowsill, became very drowsy. Finally, he sank into a deep sleep and fell three stories to his death below.

Bobby said, "Blessed are the brief, for they shall be invited back."

Of course if you raise someone from the dead Like Paul did, I suspect you'd get invited back whether you are long-winded or not. However, I think the general rule of "keep it short" is still best. So, good night.

Lord, thank You for the blessing of Your word. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Peace, Jan
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Acts 19 – Viral Agent

This chapter has the intriguing reference to “we haven't even heard of such a thing as the Holy Spirit.” However, I'm not going there today. Suffice it to say that the infilling of the Holy Spirit appears to be subsequent to salvation. At salvation we receive the Holy Spirit, but he doesn't fill every nook and cranny of our lives. It is sort of like receiving faith; we receive a measure. Then it is up to us via our obedient submission to receive more.

Today I'm looking at how wonderfully God place Paul into Ephesus. This city was the center of commerce for the entire region. It boasted of having one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – The Temple of Artemis (or Diana). The city had an open air theater or arena so large that it could house 25,000 people at one time. In Paul's day, the city had a population of approximately 500,000 people. It was the largest city in Roman Asia. As such, people from the entire Roman world passed through this important metropolis.

What better way to spread and disperse the message of Jesus into the known world than to station Paul there, teaching, preaching, and doing miracles – proving what he said – to all that were in the city and were passing through. They would reveal and carry Christ to the entire world from this one port city.

Acts 19:10 And this continued for two years, so that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

All who dwelt... Yes, Paul was in the right place at the right time. And as was said in an earlier chapter, he and his fellow apostles were changing the world.

Acts 17:6b ...These who have turned the world upside down have come here too.

Led by the Holy Spirit, they spread the Good News like a plague of righteousness (as a friend of mine once said) throughout the known world.

Lord, let us be viral agents of change in our world. May we share with all we meet the germ of Christ. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Spread the germ Agape. Jan
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Acts 18 - Only By Faith

At the end of this chapter we learn of Apollos. This believer knew the scriptures - very well. He had been baptized by John, and was following after the teachings of the Messiah. Apparently though, he had never been taught about the power of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 18:24-25 Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.

Aquila and Pricilla heard him and realized that he needed to know the good news of Pentecost.

Acts 18:26 So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.

I love that wording, "explained to him the way of God more accurately." There was no condemnation, no judgment, merely revelation of hitherto unknown truth.

Acts 18:27-28 And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace; for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.

The thing that stands out to me in this section is the wording "who had believed through grace." The implication is "who had believed only through grace." I make that claim because of the next word, "for" or "because".

It is one thing to believe something because of an experience. However, if it can be proven by factual concrete evidence, then your faith in the truth cannot be shaken.

That is why Apollos greatly helped the believers, because he proved something that they believed; that Jesus is indeed the Messiah.

Heavenly Father, thank You that our faith is not based in mere belief. We have proof that Jesus is indeed Your chosen Messiah. In His name, Amen.

Not only by faith - also by evidence. Jan
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Acts 17 - Effective

Witnessing Method Number One:

"You have been deceived by that (insert false doctrine here). You are damned, going to hell, and you're too stupid to even realize it."

Witnessing Method Number Two:

"I can see that you are interested in spiritual things. Let me tell you what I know about the Creator and His amazing plan for you."

Which approach do you think someone would respond to? Which would be effective?

The apostle Paul encountered a group of people in Athens that he called "very religious". They worshipped pretty much everything and anything. Did he condemn their error or denigrate them?

Acts 17:22-23 So Paul, standing before the Council, addressed them as follows: "Men of Athens, I notice that you are very religious, for as I was walking along I saw your many altars. And one of them had this inscription on it — 'To an Unknown God.' You have been worshiping him without knowing who he is, and now I wish to tell you about him."

No, he latched onto something they understood and moved on from there to explain the truth.

The old axiom, "You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar." is quite true. Look at Paul's results.

Acts 17:33-34 That ended Paul's discussion with them, but some joined him and became believers. Among them were Dionysius, a member of the Council, a woman named Damaris, and others.

Heavenly Father, may we always be sensitive to our hearers. May our words be appropriate to the situation. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Be effective. Jan
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Acts 16 – Bipolar

Is it just me, or does Paul appear to be bipolar to you? In the previous chapter Paul received letters to bring to the new Gentile converts informing them that circumcision was unnecessary. Now I get to this chapter.

Acts 16:2-3 Timothy was well thought of by the believers in Lystra and Iconium, so Paul wanted him to join them on their journey. In deference to the Jews of the area, he arranged for Timothy to be circumcised before they left, for everyone knew that his father was a Greek.

Excuse me? He had him circumcised because everyone knew his father was a Greek?! What a cop out!

Look at the very. next verse!!

Acts 16:4 Then they went from town to town, explaining the decision regarding the commandments that were to be obeyed, as decided by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem.

He has the audacity to take Timothy with him as he travels around telling everyone that the council in Jerusalem said that they don't need to be circumcised! How would you like to be Timothy? “I didn't have to have a piece of my thingy chopped off? Why am I just now finding out about this?”

Ok, so Paul backed down and mutilated – Paul's words, not mine – Timothy due to fear of the Jews.

Philippians 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation!

Later in the same chapter I see Paul standing up to the rulers of the city that had thrown him into prison. These people had the power have him executed.

Acts 16:37 But Paul replied, "They have publicly beaten us without trial and jailed us—and we are Roman citizens. So now they want us to leave secretly? Certainly not! Let them come themselves to release us!"

However, this same Paul caved to the Jewish rulers – and these guys weren't even in the area of Palestine! They had no political power there.

If you ask me, he seems bipolar.

Lord, please help us to be consistent men. May our actions publicly and privately match up. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Peace, Jan
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Acts 15 - Burdening Yoke

A woman who was obviously overjoyed about something, started to share with a perfect stranger on the bus.

She said, "I am so proud of my son. He called me today and told me that he is in Yale."

"That is impressive." replied the man next to her, trying to sound interested. "What is his name?"

The woman replied, "Yimmy."

The apostles had a problem, Gentiles were coming to know their God but they were not keeping the laws of Moses. Worse yet, they were not getting circumcised to show that they were now God's people! A council was called to determine God's will in the matter and to exercise discipline if needed.

An interesting thing happens here. We find that some of God's laws and customs, as handed down to Abraham and Moses, had run their course. They were no longer to be followed. In fact Peter is so bold as to say that the laws were a burdensome yoke that nobody was capable of wholly obeying.

Acts 15:10 Why are you now questioning God's way by burdening the Gentile believers with a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors were able to bear?

The Jews had 613 different laws that they'd extracted from Pentateuch. Can you imagine trying to keep up with all that? The council at Jerusalem boiled them down to this.

Acts 15:28-29 "For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay no greater burden on you than these requirements: You must abstain from eating food offered to idols, from consuming blood or eating the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. If you do this, you will do well. Farewell."

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom! Jesus' way is the way of relationship, not dogmatic rules.

Matthew 11:30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.

Yes, we are to obey God's laws, however it is done out of love and a desire to please the one that saved us. Not out of fear or to keep us out of Yale.

Lord, may we demonstrate our love for You by doing that which pleases You. May we seek to know what that is with all of our being. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Freedom! Jan
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Acts 14 - Running the Gauntlet

Reading today's chapter reminded me of a specific section from Pilgrim's Progress by Paul Bunyan. In this section two persons are speaking; one named Interpreter, the other named Christian.

(I've revised it a bit to make it easier to read for those who are unaccustomed to old English).

I saw also, that the Interpreter took him (Christian) again by the hand, and led him into a beautiful peaceful place, where was built a stately palace, beautiful to look at; when he saw it Christian was greatly delighted. He saw also upon the top of it people walking, who were clothed all in gold.

Then said Christian can we go in there?

Then the Interpreter took him, and led him up towards the door of the palace; and he saw, at the door stood a large crowd of men, wanting to go in, but not attempting to do so. There also sat a man a little distance from the door, at a table-side, with a book and his pen in front of him, to take the names of them that should enter the palace; he saw also that in the doorway stood many men in armor to defend it, being determined to do to the men that desired to enter, whatever hurt and abuse they were able. Christian was surprised. At last, when every man had retreated in fear of the armed men, Christian saw a man with a very resolute expression on his face come up to the man that sat at the table, and said to him, “Write down my name, sir;” once that was done, he saw the man draw his sword, and put a helmet on his head, and rush towards the door at the armed men, who attacked him with deadly force; but the man, not at all discouraged, began cutting and hacking most fiercely. So after he had received and given many wounds to those that attempted to keep him out, he cut his way through them all, and forced his way into the palace; immediately there was a pleasant voice heard coming from those that were inside the palace, and from those that walked upon the top of the palace, saying,

“Come in, come in, Eternal glory you will win.”

When I first read this story it cleared up the mystery of the following verse for me.

Matthew 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.

It is only through trial, testing and much energy being exerted by us that we will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. It isn't that God doesn't want us there - He does. However we must pass through the gauntlet of the world to enter.

In case you were wondering what a gauntlet is, here is the definition.

Gauntlet

• A form of punishment or torture in which people armed with sticks or other weapons arrange themselves in two lines facing each other and beat the person forced to run between them.
• An onslaught or attack from all sides.
• A severe trial; an ordeal.

Then today I see the following verse.

Acts 14:22 They strengthened the believers and encouraged them to remain true to the faith. We must pass through many troubles to enter the Kingdom of God, they taught.

The word MUST sort of jumped out at me. I don't like pain. I don't like suffering, I don't like discomfort. But, I must be willing and prepared. So must you. It is clear that nobody gets to enter the Kingdom of Heaven without passing through many troubles - without running the gauntlet.

Heavenly Father, grant us perseverance. May we be resolute, our faces set like a flint on our goal - bringing You glory. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Run well. Jan
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Acts 13 - Calvin and Jan

Just when I'm up on my anti-Calvinist high-horse, something comes along and knocks me down.

Acts 13:48 Now when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord. And as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed.

Hmm... "as many as had been appointed." Sure sounds like a form of predestination to me. However this seems to contradict verses like the following.

Matthew 18:11-14 For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

John 6:40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.

There are many more verses like these in the bible. So is our place in Heaven pre-determined or is it our free will?

Personally I feel that the verses that sound like predestination are actually poor word choices by us mere mortals as we grapple with describing the workings of temporal mechanics. In other words, we are creatures bound by linear time and therefore find it nearly impossible to comprehend what being outside of time is like. But, God is outside of time and He knows all before it ever happens to us in our linear existence.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of eternal life. May I share it with others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Shalom, Jan
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Acts 12 – Which James?

I found what seemed, at first glance, to be an interesting contradiction. However, like most things that don't quite make sense in the Bible, a little research cleared things up.

Acts 12:1-2 About that time King Herod Agrippa began to persecute some believers in the church. He had the apostle James (John's brother) killed with a sword.

Ok, James is dead, and in the next few verses I see that Peter in thrown into prison. The next step would be a mock trial and death. However, God sent an angel who freed Peter. He goes to the home of a disciple, where a prayer meeting was in progress. When they finally let him in, the following happens.

Acts 12:17 He motioned for them to quiet down and told them what had happened and how the Lord had led him out of jail. "Tell James and the other brothers what happened," he said. And then he went to another place.

Um, isn't James dead? Yes, and no. You see there are over 40 references to the name James in the New Testament, and they could refer to any one of seven different individuals named James.

The first James is clearly identified by Luke as the brother of John. The second James that Peter mentions is the leader of the church of Jerusalem, James the brother of Jesus.

Thank You Father that if we just let Your Word speak to us we can understand even the seemingly confusing things. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Peace, Jan
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Acts 11 – Labels

Many interesting things happened in this chapter, but my attention was drawn to the following verses.

Acts 11:25-26 Then Barnabas went on to Tarsus to find Saul. When he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. Both of them stayed there with the church for a full year, teaching great numbers of people. (It was there at Antioch that the believers were first called Christians.)

Specifically I was drawn to “the believers were first called Christians”. I've heard that the term “Christian” was actually a pejorative term. The ones calling them that were essentially saying to them, “Who do you little copies of Jesus think you are?” However, in looking at one of the Greek words, another nuance comes to light.

The word “called” is the Greek word Chrematizo. One of the meanings of this word is; to assume or take to one's self a name from one's public business. Let that sink in for a minute - their public business. What a remarkable statement of what we are supposed to be engaging in as followers of Jesus. Yet how many of us would be hard pressed to find people in our public business that even know that we go to church? Is there anything about our public behavior, manner of life, or speech that would earn us a label? And if so, what label would it be?

Heavenly Father, may my public label be one that says “Paid for in full - Property of Heaven.” Let me live my life in such a way that it is clear to all. In Jesus' name, Amen.

What is your label? Jan
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Acts 10 – Evidence

This is about the conversion and salvation of Cornelius and his family. I had read this account many times in the past but had never noticed one detail until today. Note whom Cornelius has gathered in his home.

Acts 10:24 They arrived in Caesarea the following day. Cornelius was waiting for him and had called together his relatives and close friends to meet Peter.

The people there were his relatives and close friends. Stay with me, this becomes important in a moment. Then Peter comes in and explains, to these devout followers of God, that Jesus is the Messiah that they have been waiting for. The moment they get it; the moment they comprehend what Peter is saying, the Holy Spirit descends upon everyone in Cornelius' home. How do we know? Because there was evidence - speaking in tongues.

Acts 10:46-47 And there could be no doubt about it, for they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. Then Peter asked, "Can anyone object to their being baptized, now that they have received the Holy Spirit just as we did?"

They received the Holy Spirit “just as” Peter and his companions had. How did Peter know that? Because they were speaking in tongues! I refer back to when this happened to Peter and the 120 in the upper room.

Acts 2:4 And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.

Here comes the part that I've never noticed before. Get ready... In this instance, there was no reason for them to be speaking in tongues! Everyone gathered there was either invited by Cornelius' or brought by Peter. They all spoke and understood a common language. Yet there they were speaking in tongues.

I won't go as far as to say that speaking in tongues is the one and only evidence of the infilling of the Holy Spirit, but clearly it is a very unmistakable evidence.

Lord, may we not reject the gifts that You want for us just because they seem weird. May we be open and willing to receive from You whatever You have for us or want us to do. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Blessings to you, Jan
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Acts 9 - The Way

In this chapter is a name for the early church that I find particularly compelling.

Acts 9:2 He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains.

Believers in Jesus were called "followers of the Way."

This word has many meanings, but I think just these following few will adequately convey the thought being expressed by Luke.

Way - habitual manner, method, means, a direction of life, and a course leading from one place to another.

Doesn't our new life in Jesus embody all of these definitions of the word?

John 14:6 Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."

Heavenly Father, thank You that You provided The Way for us to be saved. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Follow the Way. Jan
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Acts 8 - Therefore

I see this word - therefore - repeated twice in this chapter. Both times it is an indicator of a significant truth that is coming as a result of something preceding it.

Acts 8:4 Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.

What was the "therefore" in this instance? It was the wide-spread officially sanctioned persecution of the church.

Through natural eyes this would seem like a defeat, a retreat. However, God had plans for those that He'd empowered with His Holy Spirit. Therefore when viewed through spiritual eyes it takes on entirely new significance.

A natural consequence of the believers being scattered was that like seed scattered in a fertile field, the Christians were dispersed into the fertile fields of the world. Therefore a harvest was soon to come.

If the Christians had remained in their holy huddle in Jerusalem awaiting the Messiah's return, Christianity would have died with them a few short years later when Rome annihilated everyone in that city. Therefore God had them dispersed so that you and I could be saved.

The second therefore comes as a result of sin, not righteousness. Yet, it is one of hope.

Acts 8:22 Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you.

Therefore as a result of this man's actions, the church named the sin of paying for position or power "simony".

According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, "Under the influence of Peter's rebuke Simon begged the Apostles to pray for him (Acts 8:9-29). However, according to the unanimous report of the authorities of the second century, he persisted in his false views. The ecclesiastical writers of the early Church universally represent him as the first heretic, the 'Father of Heresies'."

Unfortunately for Simon his pride was not crucified; he had not truly converted. Therefore he was not sincere in the repentance that was offered to him.

Which 'therefore' do you want? One which leads to an abundant harvest, or one which leads to ignominy? The choice is yours.

Acts 17:30 Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent.

Heavenly Father, may we therefore serve You with all of our hearts in whatever You ask us to do; wherever it may be so that men may learn and repent. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Therefore... Jan
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Acts 7 - Heathen at heart

I wonder how many of us are guilty of Stephen's accusation?

Acts 7:51 "You stubborn people! You are heathen at heart and deaf to the truth. Must you forever resist the Holy Spirit? But your ancestors did, and so do you!

I wonder how many times in a day the subway of my soul dredges something up from the depths of my depravity to the surface of my consciousness that shows just how fallen of a wretch that I truly am?

I hope that in those times I am not deaf to the truth; the one expressed by the Apostle Paul in the following verse.

1 Timothy 1:15 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.

Yes, I am a sinner, but Christ is my savior. May I desire with all of my being to be like my elder brother Jesus. May you too.

Heavenly Father, please give us renewed hearts and sensitive ears. May we obey You with gladness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Be transformed. Jan
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Acts 6 - Variation on a theme

Sometimes there are things that seem to be repeated, but in a slightly different manner. Today I see the topic of obedience and faith coming up again, but in a slightly different manner.

Acts 6:7 The word of God continued to spread; the number of the disciples increased greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.

In relation to what I've been hearing and studying for the past twelve weeks, this verse is amazing! The priests were obedient to the faith.

Strong's Dictionary defines this faith in several different ways. However, when "relating to Christ" it defines it in the following manner.

1. a strong and welcome conviction or belief that Jesus is the Messiah, through whom we obtain eternal salvation in the kingdom of God

Therefore, I see this as saying that the word faith, in this instance, is synonymous with the Messiah. Therefore the priests were obedient of Jesus the Messiah.

Heavenly Father please forgive me for the times that I'm not obedient to the faith. Help me love You better so that I am. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Become obedient to the faith. Jan
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Acts 5 - Obedience

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Proverbs 25:11

A friend of mine emailed the above scripture to me just a few days ago. It means that the right words spoken at the right time are priceless.

In my men's group we are studying the book Under Cover, by John Bevere. In the final chapter he writes about what it means to have increasing faith. He makes a very persuasive argument for the fact that faith is increased by the Holy Spirit in our lives in direct proportion to the level that our "walking in obedience" increases. I see that very same thing described in the following verse.

Acts 5:32 We are witnesses of these things and so is the Holy Spirit, who is given by God to those who obey him.

God gives His Holy Spirit to those that obey Him - not those that merely acknowledge Him. May I learn to walk humbly before my God in submission.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your words of truth. Help me to live a life pleasing to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Are you doing His will? Jan
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Acts 4 - Unselfish

What does it mean to be selfish? The dictionary defines it as the following.

Selfish - devoted to or caring only for oneself; concerned primarily with one's own interests, benefits, welfare, etc., regardless of others.

Now compare that definition with the following statement by the Apostle Peter.

Acts 4:20 We cannot stop telling about the wonderful things we have seen and heard.

He is expressing true unselfishness. In fact it is love. For he has something that he wants to share with everyone.

Lord, may we be unselfish and share Your Love too. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Share. Jan
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Acts 3 - Author - Author

After a particularly good play, musical, or even movie, people have been known to shout, "Author, Author!" so that they may heap praise where it is due. I see Peter directing praise at The Author in this passage.

Acts 3:15You killed the author of life, but God raised him to life. And we are witnesses of this fact!

What an awesome statement - author of life! And they are witnesses.

Heavenly Father, thank You that Jesus, The Author of Life demonstrated His power over life in resurrecting Himself from the dead. Thank You that we are promised that we will share in His resurrection too. In Jesus' name, Amen.

He is risen - Praise Him! Jan
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Acts 2 - Did I miss it?

Peter, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, makes a bold statement regarding speaking in tongues and other manifestations of the gifts of the Spirit.

Acts 2:14-22, 33, 38-39 Then Peter stepped forward with the eleven other apostles and shouted to the crowd, "Listen carefully, all of you, fellow Jews and residents of Jerusalem! Make no mistake about this. Some of you are saying these people are drunk. It isn't true! It's much too early for that. People don't get drunk by nine o'clock in the morning. No, what you see this morning was predicted centuries ago by the prophet Joel:

'In the last days, God said,
I will pour out my Spirit upon all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your young men will see visions,
and your old men will dream dreams.

In those days I will pour out my Spirit
upon all my servants, men and women alike,
and they will prophesy.

And I will cause wonders in the heavens above
and signs on the earth below—
blood and fire and clouds of smoke.

The sun will be turned into darkness,
and the moon will turn blood red,
before that great and glorious day of the Lord arrives.

And anyone who calls on the name of the Lord
will be saved.'

People of Israel, listen! God publicly endorsed Jesus of Nazareth by doing wonderful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know..."

...Now he sits on the throne of highest honor in heaven, at God's right hand. And the Father, as he had promised, gave him the Holy Spirit to pour out upon us, just as you see and hear today.

...Peter replied, "Each of you must turn from your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you and to your children, and even to the Gentiles - all who have been called by the Lord our God."

So these signs signal that the last days have begun. Peter clearly said that they were the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy. He further stated that this same gift of the Holy Spirit is promised to all that are called by God.

I have a question. Are we now in the post-last-days time period? Have I somehow missed "the last days" and either Jesus has returned or there is something after the last days?

If indeed we are still in the last days as the majority of Christianity states, then these signs are for us. Why don't we see them more often? Because we don't believe in them and don't desire them. God will not force us to accept a gift.

Heavenly Father, may we be willing to accept all that You lovingly want to give us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

What time is it? Jan
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Acts 1 - Theophilus ben Ananus

I was drawn to this interesting name - Theophilus, or God lover. Who was this person to whom this book is addressed?

Acts 1:1-2 Dear Theophilus: In my first book I told you about everything Jesus began to do and teach until the day he ascended to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions from the Holy Spirit.

Apparently it was a rather common name in the first century AD and there are several traditions regarding the name. However, I personally think that Theophilus ben Ananus is the intented recipient.

Theophilus was a Sadducee and the High Priest of the temple in Jerusalem from 37 AD to 42 AD. He was the son of Annas and the brother-in-law of Caiaphas before whom Jesus appeared. He was a member of one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the region.

He is believed to be the intended recipient of Luke's letters is for the following reasons.

• Luke's gospel begins with the account of Zechariah the priest in the Temple.
• Next we see Mary's purification, and Jesus' consecration in the Temple.
• Moving on, we see Jesus' teaching in the Temple at the age of 12.
• No mention is made in Luke's gospel of Caiaphas' role in Jesus' death.
• Finally, Luke is clearly making a persuasive argument for the reality of the resurrection of the dead, in which the Sadducees did not believe.

I wonder if he understood and accepted Jesus as his Messiah?

Heavenly Father, thank You that we do have the benefit of Luke's and many other's testimonies. It is because of them, and the gift of Your Son that I have the right to call You Father. In His name, Amen.

May you also be a Theophilus! Jan
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