Acts 25 "The Passion Of Paul"

“I am now standing before Caesar’s court, where I ought to be tried. I have not done any wrong to the Jews, as you yourself know very well. If however, I am guilty of doing anything deserving death, I do not refuse to die. But if the charges brought against me by these Jews are not true, no one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!” (v.10-11)

Acts 24 ended with Paul still in prison and a transition of the governorship from Antonius Felix to that of Porcius Festus. Felix was undoubtedly a bad man, but history tells us Festus was a basically good man. He governed well, despite all the problems left him by Felix. We can now see that Paul’s generous imprisonment in Caesarea was actually a providential provision of protective custody against the murderous intentions of the religious leaders. It was also a season of rest and replenishment after his years of hard missionary service, preparing him for the challenges in the years ahead.

Now here in chapter 25 we see that the case of Paul was still important to his accusers the religious leaders. They hoped to make Paul appear before them again in Jerusalem, knowing that Paul would be acquitted in any fair trial. Therefore, they requested Festus to summon Paul to Jerusalem. Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea: We don’t know if Festus knew the intentions of the Jewish leaders or not. Either way, he refused to grant their request for a change of venue, and this was another way that God protected Paul. Festus was willing to put Paul on trial again, to resolve the matter. Yet he insisted that it would happen in Caesarea, not in Jerusalem.

Though he was a good man, Festus also understood that it was important for him to have and keep a good relationship with the Jewish people of his province. Festus found it difficult to decide the case. Paul’s standing as a Roman citizen apparently prevented Festus from commanding the trial to be moved to Jerusalem, so he asked Paul, "Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and there be judged before me concerning these things?" So Paul said, “I stand at Caesar’s judgment seat, where I ought to be judged…I appeal to Caesar.”

Passion is a powerful thing. When you are passionate about something, you have no issue being bold to support it. Paul was passionate about spreading the Gospel, and his boldness is evident here where he is on trial and could be sentenced to death, but because he believes in his actions and his purpose, he speaks boldly.

Paul’s passion for spreading Jesus’ message made him willing to face anything — even death. This kind of passion for the Gospel can change our communities (and eventually the world), one soul at a time. All we need to do is, exercise it.

The Truth: “And for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” (Ephesians 6:19-20)

Acts 24 "We Shall Speak Again"

Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” (v.25)

Paul here in chapter 24, was taken before the Roman procurator Felix. False accusations were flowing against him from envious, bitter Jewish leaders that resented Christianity. It was during this time that the Roman judge gave an audience to Paul's accusers.

Felix, however, was not ignorant of who Christians were (v.24), and what they were teaching. Perhaps, he had heard around the city about Christ, or how Christianity had been sweeping the countryside. He had his opinions about Christianity, but he was wise enough not to hear both sides.

Paul, instead of cowering under the authority of the man that was managing the affairs for the Romans, took the opportunity to talk to the ruler about spiritual things. The preacher spoke of living a righteous life, not indulging in sin, and about the judgments God would bring.

Even though Paul’s judge, as history tells us, was known for his cruelty, murders, and even considered himself licensed to commit any crime he desired, Paul did not waiver or hold back on any of the truths from the Word of God. Felix could have easily given the word, and Paul’s life would have been snuffed out; but Paul boldly preached on.

Paul’s message did affect Felix. Verse 25 records that the man trembled at what he had heard. His fear did not guide him to repentance, however. He dismissed Paul, and promised that they might speak again. He had the opportunity to be saved, but he put it off. Felix missed a time he could have been saved.

Many are so many like Felix, they hear the convicting message from the Word of God, it cuts deeply into their heart, conviction of past sins and it floods their memories. They often have the opportunity right there and then to confess Jesus as their Savior and to get their sins forgiven, but they put it off. “Tomorrow,” “Later," “Some other time.”

For some, that “other time” never comes. All too often they miss the last opportunity they had for salvation, and die lost, without Christ, and spend their eternity in hell. They often get so close to salvation, but miss an eternity with Jesus.

Never say “No,” to God’s provoking of your heart about anything, especially salvation. You may never have tomorrow!

The Truth: "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2) 

Acts 23 "Be Of Good Cheer"

“But on the night immediately following, the Lord stood at his side and said, ‘Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also.’” (v.11)

Back in chapter 22 Paul was giving a sermon to a large crowd in Jerusalem. He tells of his Jewish upbringing and background (v.3). He explained how he  persecuted Christians (v.4-5). Then he begins to explain the supernatural experience he had on his way to Damascus (vv.6-11), and his response to that experience (vv.12-15). 

However, when Paul told the crowd that Jesus had spoken to him while in prayerful trance to "leave Jerusalem for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me" (v.18), and "Depart, for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles" (v.21), the crowd raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!” Then, as they cried out and tore off their clothes and threw dust into the air and began rioting (vv.22-23).

Paul was then placed in a Roman jail (for his own protection from the crowd), and was once again a prisoner in chains where we see a hint that he felt like hope was fading. He would have been remembering those who had warned him "not to go up to Jerusalem" (Acts 21:12). He had gone, but his decision now seemed less sure, because going had led to confinement and isolation, which left little opportunity for him to speak of His Lord.

It was at this low point in his life that the Lord appeared and told him, “Be of good cheer; you must also witness at Rome.” Loose translation, Paul would not "rot" in that place but instead, would eventually be sent to the capitol of the Roman Empire and witness to Cesar.

This reminds us that the LORD has a plan for ALL his children who are in the difficult circumstances in this life. No matter WHAT happens “be of good cheer.” the Lord LOVES you and will never leave you, nor forsake you! And, He has a plan for your life.

The Truth: “The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge.” (Psalm 46:7)

Acts 22 "You Will Be His Witness"

“You will be His witness to all people of what you have seen and heard.” (v.15)

Here in chapter 22 we get the story of Paul’s conversion. While not all conversions are as dramatic as his (a great light from heaven shone around him, he heard a voice speaking to him, he had a conversation with Jesus, and he was given a directive from Jesus saying, ‘Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed for you to do' (vv.6-11), but all have the same effect, a changed life and a desire to tell others about it.

Every Christian has a story to tell. All of us have been rescued from a life of sin and disobedience, set free from the past to live a new life in Him. As such, we are not called to be a well-educated theologians but simply to be His witnesses - to tell others the story of our transformation and thus share the power of the gospel.

The Truth: “I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)

Acts 21 "Thy Will Be Done"

And as we stayed many days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. When he had come to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’” Now when we heard these things, both we and those from that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” So when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The will of the Lord be done.” (vv.10-14)

In the spirit of Old Testament prophets, Agabus acted out his message to Paul – that certain danger awaited him at Jerusalem. The prophecy of Agabus was true, and genuinely from the Holy Spirit. But to this true word, a human application was added (they pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem v.21). That additional word was not of the Lord, otherwise Paul would have been disobedient to go to Jerusalem. 

Paul’s insistence on going to Jerusalem despite the dangers predicted by the Holy Spirit was not a result of rebellion, but an obedient response to the command of the Holy Spirit in his heart. He was bound in the spirit to go to Jerusalem (Acts 19:21 and 20:22). The warnings from the Holy Spirit here were intended to prepare Paul for what he was in for, not to stop him. Paul companions – including Luke – came to the understanding that God’s will would be done. They came to trust that even if Paul was probably right, and even if he was wrong, God would use it.

This reminds me of how others can unwittingly discourage us from doing the very thing that the Lord has called us to do!  Others can be blinded by their fears over what they think may happen - even if the outcome is known, as in this case (v.11), and potentially pull us away from His will. Paul's answer to his friends concern was, “I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus" (v.13).

Paul’s stand here should be an encouragement for us in times when the LORD calls us to go in a direction that others don’t understand or agree with. In those times, we like Paul need the determination to move forward, even though others may not want us to. The vital test of God’s will for us is, agreement with Him, not others. 

Thy will be done.

The Truth: “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13) 

Acts 20 “Ministering For God’s Glory”

“I have coveted no man’s silver or gold or appears. And you yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men who were with me.” (v.34)

Paul WORKED for a living. He was a tentmaker (God gave him that trade), and he not only supported his own needs, but also contributed to the support of others. Here in our text Paul is communicating his heart for the ministry. He was not in it for himself but for God’s glory and the building up of His people. 

And, just like Paul, many who serve the church today have day jobs, not everyone is “on staff”. Many who are not, have their ministries in the evenings, and on weekends. Either way, ministry is a blessing from God, and is done for His glory not financial gain. 

As a tentmaker, Paul led many to Christ and so can you. One does not have to be on staff to be used by God. Therefore, work as unto the LORD where ever God has you, ministering to your needs and to the needs of others.

And as Paul reminds us, “It is more blessed to give than receive” (v.35).

The Truth: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-2)

Acts 19 "12 Ephesian Disciples Receive The Holy Spirit"

And he (Paul) said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?” So they said, “Into John’s baptism.” Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus." (vv.3-5)

Paul was last in Ephesus on his way back from Corinth on his second missionary journey. Now he came from the east, arriving in Ephesus from the region of Phrygia. He came back to Ephesus as he had promised in Acts 18:21. And finding some disciples he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” (v.2). Apparently there was something about these disciples that prompted this question from Paul. We don’t have any indication that it was his custom to ask people if they had received the Holy Spirit when they believed.

These Ephesian disciples had only a basic understanding of the Messiah Jesus and His ministry, only what could be gained through the message of John the Baptist. Paul points out that John’s baptism was one of repentance (John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance), not necessarily faith unto salvation. John’s message pointed to Jesus, but did not take men there itself. One can imagine that these Ephesian disciples heard about the coming of the Messiah through John’s message, and they heard their need to be ready through repentance to receive the Messiah. Yet they actually do not seem to have heard that the Messiah had in fact come, and had not heard of their need to trust in His specific person and work.

"When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" (v.5) Having been completely prepared by their response to the preaching of John the Baptist, they were ready to embrace Jesus fully, and were baptized in the name of Jesus. Then after they were baptized, Paul… laid hands on them, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit, and received His gifts. 

An often-debated question is, “Were these 12 Ephesian disciples actually Christians before this remarkable filling of the Holy Spirit, or not?” On the one hand, they were called disciples – and appeared to be part of the company of Christians in Ephesus, things that would not usually be said of them if they were not actually Christians. On the other hand, they knew so little about Jesus; and they were baptized in water again, this time in the name of Jesus. 

It is difficult to say with certainty if they were already Christians or not, but one can say with certainty that Paul perceived they lacked something of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

These Ephesian disciples sensed their need to get right with God, and knew the answer was in God’s Messiah – but they had gone no further than that. They need to go all the way, to trust in everything Jesus is and everything He had done, and to be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit.

If someone doesn’t seem to know if they have the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in their life, it’s fair to assume that they don’t have it. If you have it, you should know it. Concerning the Holy Spirit Spurgeon writes, “Give a man an electric shock, and I warrant you he will know it; but if he has the Holy Ghost, he will know it much more.”

The Truth: And Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:38)

Acts 18 “Search And Verify”

“They received the Word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so." (v.11)

Today's text tells us that the Bereans were students of the WORD who studied scriptures to verify the truth. "They received the Word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so." In other words, the Bereans didn't simply believe what someone else was telling them. They also verified it on their own-on a daily basis.

That's important for us to consider as well. Whether we receive our Bible teaching through church, Sunday school, radio, or TV-we need to test what we hear against God's inspired Word (2 Tim.3:16-17). We are to "be diligent to present [ourselves] approved to God, rightly dividing the Word of truth" (2:15). If we do this, we won't become prey to those who teach "a different gospel," and those who "want to pervert the gospel of Christ" (Gal. 1:6-7), false teachers who come as wolves in sheep's clothing (Matt. 7:15).

This simple principle can be used in any situation in life. Remember, knowing what's true, is the first step in knowing what's false. Search and investigate the truth. Do not be fooled by sound bites or words that sound correct. Search and verify for truth, in both scripture and life. 

The Truth: "Examine everything carefully, hold fast to that which is good." (1 Thessalonians 5:21)

Acts 17 "Seek Me"

"God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. Nor is He worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things. And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’ Therefore, since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising." (vv.24-29)

In today’s passage, Paul is giving a speech in Athens, a city filled with idols (v.16). He got the attention of some local philosophers–Epicureans and Stoics, and stressed to them the distinction between being religious and knowing the true God. Paul recognized that these philosophers had to change their ideas about God. They had to move from their own personal opinions to an understanding of who God is according to what He tells us about Himself in the Bible. He detailed how the “Unknown God," which they built an altar too, was the one true God who created the heavens and the earth (vv. 23-24).

Paul told them we are all descended from Adam through Noah, and that there is one God who created us all and to whom we all are obligated. Since God created us all, we should seek the Lord… though He is not far from each one of us. Why? Because in Him we live and move and have our being…For we are also His offspring: These two quotations Paul used from Greek poets are attributed respectively to Epimenides the Cretan [600 B.C.] (who Paul quotes again in Titus 1:12) and Aratus [310 B.C.]. Paul did not quote these men because they were prophets or because all their teaching was of God. He quoted them because these specific words reflected a Biblical truth, and by using them he could build a bridge to his pagan audience.

This God, he continued, is not “served by human hands” (v.25). In other words, God does not need us in order to survive. He made us and made the world—what could He need? Yet, in this passage, Paul revealed what God desires. God made all of this “so that men would seek him” (v.27). God loves us but He does not manipulate our minds and hearts. He made us with the capacity of choice, and it is His desire that we would want to know Him, to find Him, and to have a relationship with Him of our own free will. 

Our heritage, from the beginning, is directly linked to the divine Creator. It is natural, then, that since we are God’s offspring, we will want to find our image in Him. Only in God, not in our own accomplishments, can we find the source of our true identity. For we are His children, His handiwork, His poem. “For in him we live and move and have our being” (v. 28). And, Since we are His offspring, we are responsible to have right ideas about God, and therefore must reject the wrong idea that gold or silver or stone could represent God (v.29). 

In building an alter to the unknown God, the Athenians were acknowledging their ignorance to God, and Paul here has been giving them evidence of their ignorance, and now he declares (in the next few verses) such ignorance to be culpable, and boldly confronted them with the reality of coming judgment and the resurrection (vv.30-31). 

As you can probably imagine the reaction was mixed, some mocked, while others said, “We will hear you again on this matter.” This is His desire that man would hear more of Him, and truly seek Him. For the cure for all mans troubles is found in His desire, "Seek Me."

The Truth: “The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there are any who understand, who seek God.” (Psalm 14:2) 

Acts 16 “Salvation Is Simple”

“Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (v.30a)

The Philippian jailer asked one of the most significant questions in Scripture: “What must I do to be saved?” And Paul and Silas gave one of the most significant replies: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (vv. 30-31). It’s that simple!

The Truth: “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10: 9-13)

Acts 15 “Resolve Contentions”

Then after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing.” Now Barnabas was determined to take with them John called Mark. But Paul insisted that they should not take with them the one who had departed from them in Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work.Then the contention became so sharp that they parted from one another. And so Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus; but Paul chose Silas and departed, being commended by the brethren to the grace of God. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches. (vv.36-41).

In our passage today, we read about a disagreement that has lived on in history. This one was between two missionaries: Paul and Barnabas (Acts 15). Barnabas wanted to take Mark with them on a trip to check on some churches they had helped previously (v.37). But Paul did not trust Mark because of an earlier incident (v.38). Now Paul and Barnabas disagreed so sharply on this that we read, they parted from one another (v.39).

Sadly, this kind of thing happens way too often in the church, and in many cases is never resolved (Proverbs 18:19), but thank God in this case it didn't leave permanent relationship scars. For Paul later came to minister with John Mark and to value his contributions to the work of God (Colossians 4:10; Philemon 4:24; 2 Timothy 4:11). 

We don’t know if it was Mark who changed or Paul who changed. More than likely, God had a work to do in both of their hearts. But the point is, the contention was resolved. And not just outwardly, or on some superficial level, they ministered together later in life with the same heart and for the same purpose.

Arguments happen, and pride can get in our way. But let's make sure they are resolved. Grudges are a burden too heavy to carry and we can labor under them for years. Therefore, put them down at the feet of Jesus and allow Him to carry the weight.  

The Truth: "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)

Acts 14 "Misguided Worship Rejected"

"And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, 'The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.' And Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. Then the priest of Zeus, whose temple was in front of their city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates, intending to sacrifice with the multitudes." (vv.11-13)

Paul and Barnabas performed one miracle (the healing of a man lame from birth), and the people are calling them gods. In Greek mythology, it was common for the gods to come to earth in human form, though they did not always do so for the good of man. The people of Lystra had a legend that once Zeus and Hermes visited their land disguised as mortals, and no one gave them any hospitality except for one older couple. In their anger at the people, Zeus and Hermes wiped out the whole population, except for the old couple. This may help explain why the Lystrians were so quick to honor Paul and Barnabas.

We also see in the later portion of our text (v.13) those same people went so far as to attempt a sacrifice to Paul and Barnabas. Yet, when Christ, the Son of God, appeared in the likeness of man, and did many miracles, men were far from wanting to sacrifice to Him. On the contrary, they made Him a sacrifice, claiming His miracles were done by the power of Satan.

The god of this world (satan) is the author of confusion and can so close the carnal mind of man to be blinded to the truth, but be willing to accept a lie. While some servants of God might have easily obtain these undue honors, Paul and Barnabas did not. They were more concerned with God's honor than their own. When the people spoke of worshiping them they could not bear it; "they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out, Sirs, why do you these things" (v.15), rebuking the people for their misguided worship.

The longer I live, the more evidence I see of how satan is the author of confusion. One only has to watch the evening news to see that. The lines of right and wrong have become so blurred that they fad into the policies of humanism with no absolutes. Simply “doing what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6, 21:25), and believing a lie rather than the truth because it benefits them.  

But be of good cheer, for with God all things are possible. He is the answer to all that troubles us if we would recognize our sin, repent from it, and turn to Him as King to heal our land.   

The Truth: But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26) 

Acts 13 “Blessing And Conflict”

“For so the LORD has commanded us: “I have set you to be a light to the Gentiles, that you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.” (v.47)

Here Paul is reminding the Jews in Antioch of their responsibility to the gentiles. Quoting from the book of Isaiah, Paul declares, “God made you a light to the gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” This immediately causes both blessing and conflict.

For those who believed in God, this clearly defined their destiny. When they embraced that destiny, “the word of the LORD spread throughout the entire region” (v.49). However, some Jews were stirred up at this same word. They raised up persecution against Paul and Barnabas and expelled them from their region (v.50).

Today we see these same divisions when it comes to sharing the gospel. Those who receive it are glad and those who reject it are stirred up. However, knowing our responsibility as believers, may we look for those appointments to speak the truth in love. The destiny of many people depends on it!

The Truth: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matt. 5:16)

Acts 12 “A Miraculous Deliverance”

“Constant prayer was offered to God for [Peter] by the church. (v.5) 

Chapter 12 describes a situation in which Peter's odds of survival were slim and none. He was, "bound with two chains between two soldiers" while others guarded the door of a prison (v.6). King Herod had already executed James, one of Jesus' closest followers, and he had the same fate in mind for Peter (v.1-3). Yet God's plan for Peter included a miraculous deliverance, one that even those who were interceding for him found hard to believe (v.11-13)

God can and does operate outside of human understanding. How? Through His omnipotent power. The One who loves us and gave Himself for us is in charge of our lives. In both ordinary circumstances and impossible situations, God can reveal His power. Whether we are showered with success or sustained in sorrow, He is with us. 

I’ve seen the miraculous power of prayer both in my life and the lives of others. Therefore, when we pray, let us be confident that God "is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think" (Eph. 3:20) and give the glory to God when it occurs.

The Truth: "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." (James 5:16)

Acts 11 "The Church in Antioch Grows"

“Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord." (vv.19-21)

At first, Christians scattered over the Roman Empire preached only to Jews. But they eventually began to preach Jesus Christ to Gentiles as well. 

Here in our text we read of some unnamed spiritual pioneers (v.20). These unnamed disciples from Cyprus and Cyrene began the first mentioned “mission to the Gentiles” (here called Hellenists) in Antioch.

Antioch was about 300 miles (480 kilometers) north of Jerusalem and about 20 miles (32 kilometers) inland from the Mediterranean Sea. So not exactly a short walk. Many considered Syrian Antioch the third greatest city in the Roman Empire, behind Rome and Alexandria. Antioch was known for its business and commerce, for its sophistication and culture, but also for its immorality. And it was here that these unnamed disciples began their mission.

Our text tells us that, "the hand of the LORD was with them." And because God was with these guys, their ministry was blessed and multiplied, resulting in a great number believing and turning to the Lord. 

This phrase, “believed and turned to the Lord” is a good description of the work of both faith and repentance. So much so that the news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem (some 300 miles away), and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch (v.22). 

At the church in Antioch, when Barnabas saw the grace of God (Gentiles turning to the LORD), he was glad. And, there was something in the work and atmosphere among the followers of Jesus in Antioch that made Barnabas able to see “the grace of God” present there.

Oh, that others would  be able to see the grace of God at work among us wherever we gather. That others would not see an emphasis on self, on man-made rules, on human performance – but on the glorious grace of God. 

The Truth: "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 3:7) 

Acts 10 “LORD Of All”

"There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment, a devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always." (v.1-2)

Cornelius was a first-century Roman military official. He was assigned the task of maintaining order in the turbulent area of Judea. Most Romans of that time believed in many gods but, not Cornelius. He feared the one true God, gave generously to the needy, and prayed regularly (v.2). Even though the Jewish people didn't accept him as one of their own, God recognized him as one of His.

Because of Cornelius' faith, God chose him for a special assignment and sent an angel to tell him what to do. The angel didn't explain why, and he didn't say what the outcome would be, but Cornelius followed the instructions. Because he obeyed, he and his household became the first Gentile believers to receive the Holy Spirit (v.45). 

The example of Cornelius shows us that God has no partiality (v.34), He is not just the God of the Jews, but of the gentiles as well. His promises of salvation and the gift of the Holy Spirit are for all who believe. 

He truly is “The LORD of all.” (v.36)

The Truth: “Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:12-13)

Acts 9 "Saul's Conversion"

As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” So he, trembling and astonished, said, “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.” (vv.3-6)

Somewhere outside of Damascus this (a light shone around him from heaven), suddenly happened to Saul. This spectacular event must be regarded as unusual. God does not normally confront sinners with a heavenly light and an audible voice from heaven. In Acts 22:6 Paul revealed that this happened at mid-day, when the sun shines at its brightest. Yet Paul said that this light was brighter than the sun (Acts 26:13). Saul’s reaction was simply to fall to the ground. This wasn’t because of honor or reverence for God, it was simply a reaction of survival – he was terrified at the heavenly light.

Then he heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" When God repeats a name twice, it is to display deep emotion, but not necessarily anger (as in the Martha, Martha of Luke 10:41 and the Jerusalem, Jerusalem of Matthew 23:37). As the heavenly light overwhelmed him, Saul was confronted by the true nature of his crime: He persecuted God, not man. You see, Saul thought that he was serving God in viciously attacking Christians, but now discovered he was fighting God. Then Saul responded to the voice with two of the most important questions anyone can (and must) ask God. Who are You, Lord?… Lord, what do You want me to do? Wow! 

So now we see Saul, the most zealous persecutor of the church; about to be converted, baptized, filled with the Holy Spirit, and immediately begin preaching Christ in the synagogues. How did this happen? Somewhere along the 150-mile road between Jerusalem and Damascus, the one who was going to stamp out “the Way” was instead, stamped forever by the Lord Jesus. It was here on the road where Our LORD; called Saul, instructed him to go to Damascus, struck him with blindness (v.8), and brought Ananias to him there (vv.10-12).

Then Ananias, through instruction and encouragement by God (v.15-16) would; heal Saul’s blindness (v.18), see him filled with the Holy Spirit (v.17), baptize him (v.18), feed him (v.19) and watch as he immediately began to preach in the synagogues (v.20). Now that’s a conversion!

Saul’s conversion reminds us that God finds some who, by all appearance, are not looking for Him at all. Seeing how God reached Saul encourages us to believe that God can reach the people in our life that we think are very far from Him. We often give up on some people and think they will never come to Jesus; but the example of Saul shows God can reach anyone.

Therefore, continue to pray for those around you who are lost, for there is hope!

The Truth: “Then came the Word of the LORD to Jeremiah, saying, “I Am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there anything too difficult for Me?” (Jeremiah 32:26-27)

Acts 8 "The Church Is Scattered"

 "Those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the Word." (v.4)

Saul hated Christians. He did all he could to hurt the cause of Christ when he launched his intense persecution of the early followers of Jesus. But when they fled Jerusalem to escape persecution, they proclaimed the gospel everywhere they went. This caused the church to grow more rapidly, the opposite of what Saul intended.

The statement that they preached the word is misleading; the Greek expression does not necessarily mean more than shared the good news. We shouldn’t think then that those who left Jerusalem left as formal preachers. Most were “accidental missionaries” who talked about Jesus wherever they went. 

Therefore, we can be just like these early Christians. We can share the good news of what Jesus has done in our lives. Most people don’t come to Jesus through a professional preacher or an evangelist; they come to Jesus through people just like us. C.S. Spurgeon wrote, “In every church where there is really the power of the Spirit of God, the Lord will cause it to be spread abroad, more or less. He never means that a church should be like a nut shut up in a shell; nor like ointment enclosed in a box. The precious perfume of the gospel must be poured forth to sweeten the air.” 

For centuries, Christians have been hated and viciously opposed in many nations. But persecution has not destroyed Christianity. Even under the most dire circumstances it has not only survived but continues to grow, and forces of hell itself has not nor will not overcome it!

The Truth: "I also say to you that you are Peter, "And upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of hell will not prevail against it." (Matthew 16:18)

Acts 7 "Stephen's Death A Great Witness"

"Then they cried out with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord; and they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul." (vv.57-58) 

When Stephen declared that he saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God (v.56), it was too much. The Sanhedrin reacted quickly, violently, and together. For Stephen to suggest that the crucified Jesus stood in a position of authority at the right hand of God must have ranked as blasphemy in the thinking of those who knew that a crucified man died under the divine curse ("cursed is he who hangs on a tree"). Interestingly enough, Jesus stood before this same body of men and declared that He would sit at the right hand of God - they had the same reaction and sealed His death as a blasphemer (Matthew 26:64-66).

The reaction of the Sanhedrin seems extreme (they cried out with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord, ran at him, cast him out and stoned him), but is typical of those who reject God and are lost in spiritual insanity. They wailed in agony and covered their ears at the revelation of God, which they regarded as blasphemy. This out-of-control mob rushed at Stephen in order to kill him, which was done without regard for Roman law, but was performed according to traditional Jewish custom. 

Now Saul stood there as the supervisor of the operation. As a member of the Sanhedrin, he had also approved of Stephen’s execution. Saul fervently believed that Christians presented a menace and a threat to the religion which he had been trained in so thoroughly. This rabbi desired to prove his dedication to the traditions of his Jewish faith by becoming the chief persecutor of Christians. Yet God will eventually call Saul to become a powerful leader in the Christian faith. 

Stephen’s life ended in the same way it had been lived: In complete trust in God, believing that Jesus would take care of him in the life to come. Steven's last words, "Lord, do not charge them with this sin" (v.60) were used to touch the heart of a man who energetically agreed with his stoning – even though the man didn’t know the prayer would be later answered. 

Both in life and death people around us will be watching to see how we as Christians handle our faith. Saul, who is specifically mentioned in attendance to Stephen’s death, became a living testimony to the effectiveness of prayer through his later conversion (9:17; 22:3-21). And Stephen, peacefully "fell asleep" while being stoned to death for speaking truth (v.60), demonstrating the Spirit's presence in his life, which left a lasting impression on Saul.

Stephen is truly a model of great faith. Willing to testify of Christ and courageous to face persecution for the truth. When we get to heaven, we should thank Stephen for every blessing brought through the ministry of Saul of Tarsus. 

May our lives reflect the same courage to stand in the face of persecution when it comes.

The Truth: “Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” (2 Timothy 3:12)