Acts 28
You can’t top a good viper story. You can’t outdo a whole island cured of their diseases. You can’t surpass the story of a traveling man finally reaching his destination. And you can’t exceed the witness of a man in chains who’s still preaching the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. This concluding chapter in the book of Acts has it all.
Following such a perilous journey, you can’t help but picture Paul landing in Rome overflowing with gratitude and joy. Yes, he’s still a prisoner, but not of Rome. Paul’s a prisoner of the Lord and, as he wrote during this imprisonment to the church in Philippi, his chains really served to advance the gospel.
And like he wrote to Timothy, Paul knew God’s Word can never be chained. So he keeps enduring this suffering for the sake of the elect. He keeps proclaiming the very truth about Christ which landed him in trouble in the first place. He keeps witnessing for Christ among the Jews as the hope of Israel while taking the message of God’s salvation to the Gentiles.
Never forgetting where he came from. Never getting over God’s mercy and grace. Never tiring of telling his story. Never relying upon his own ability. Never backpedaling on the scandal of the cross. Never losing sight of the empty tomb. Never taking his eyes off Jesus. Never ashamed of the gospel.
No chains can hinder the bold preaching of the gospel.
Showing posts with label Acts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Acts. Show all posts
Friday, March 25, 2011
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Adventure on the High Seas
Acts 27
Paul could have written the line: “Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come; ‘Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.” Indeed, I imagine an ongoing conversation in heaven between the apostle and ex-slave ship captain John Newton concerning which man could give God the greater glory for His grace!
The grace of the Lord permeates this exciting adventure on the high seas. You may recall that the Lord appeared to Paul in a vision assuring him that he would testify about Him in Rome (Acts 23:11). This dramatic voyage probably wasn’t the way Paul envisioned his travel agent to lay out the itinerary, but it was God’s chosen route to Rome nonetheless. And God never shortchanges on the adventure.
By grace God sent an angel to encourage Paul. By grace God confirmed His plans for Paul to stand before Caesar in Rome. By grace God said He would spare the lives of all the men on board. By grace God granted Paul faith to believe His word. By grace God used Paul to encourage and strengthen his shipmates. By grace God caused the centurion and the soldiers to at last heed Paul’s words of wisdom. And by grace God fulfilled His promise in protecting the men’s lives, even though the ship was battered to pieces by the waves.
God’s grace is always sufficient. But who ever said being a witness for Christ to the ends of the earth would be easy?
Paul could have written the line: “Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come; ‘Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.” Indeed, I imagine an ongoing conversation in heaven between the apostle and ex-slave ship captain John Newton concerning which man could give God the greater glory for His grace!
The grace of the Lord permeates this exciting adventure on the high seas. You may recall that the Lord appeared to Paul in a vision assuring him that he would testify about Him in Rome (Acts 23:11). This dramatic voyage probably wasn’t the way Paul envisioned his travel agent to lay out the itinerary, but it was God’s chosen route to Rome nonetheless. And God never shortchanges on the adventure.
By grace God sent an angel to encourage Paul. By grace God confirmed His plans for Paul to stand before Caesar in Rome. By grace God said He would spare the lives of all the men on board. By grace God granted Paul faith to believe His word. By grace God used Paul to encourage and strengthen his shipmates. By grace God caused the centurion and the soldiers to at last heed Paul’s words of wisdom. And by grace God fulfilled His promise in protecting the men’s lives, even though the ship was battered to pieces by the waves.
God’s grace is always sufficient. But who ever said being a witness for Christ to the ends of the earth would be easy?
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Servants and Witnesses
Acts 26
As we near the end of the book of Acts, allow me to make some observations from this chapter.
One, the purpose statement from Acts 1:8 flows throughout the entire book. In the power received from the Holy Spirit, the followers of Christ witness for Him throughout the world. Paul had personally proclaimed the gospel of Jesus in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and beyond, and was now telling the message of Christ in Caesarea.
Two, Jesus’ resurrection from the dead makes all the difference in the world. It is the climax of the gospel. It’s the fulfillment of the prophets. It’s why Paul so boldly preaches, and why he’s now in chains. It’s the hope of every believer for eternal life. It’s the power and victory of God on display.
Three, Paul never lost sight of God’s mercy and grace, nor did he ever miss a chance to tell his story. He remembered what a wasted life he led before Christ saved him, and he recognized God’s overflowing patience, mercy and grace toward him.
Four, the Lord fulfilled His promise to Paul. Indeed, he was God’s chosen instrument to carry the name of Christ before “the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.”
Five, the call to repent and turn to God is still urgent. And the gospel is still the power of God to save all who believe.
As we near the end of the book of Acts, allow me to make some observations from this chapter.
One, the purpose statement from Acts 1:8 flows throughout the entire book. In the power received from the Holy Spirit, the followers of Christ witness for Him throughout the world. Paul had personally proclaimed the gospel of Jesus in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and beyond, and was now telling the message of Christ in Caesarea.
Two, Jesus’ resurrection from the dead makes all the difference in the world. It is the climax of the gospel. It’s the fulfillment of the prophets. It’s why Paul so boldly preaches, and why he’s now in chains. It’s the hope of every believer for eternal life. It’s the power and victory of God on display.
Three, Paul never lost sight of God’s mercy and grace, nor did he ever miss a chance to tell his story. He remembered what a wasted life he led before Christ saved him, and he recognized God’s overflowing patience, mercy and grace toward him.
Four, the Lord fulfilled His promise to Paul. Indeed, he was God’s chosen instrument to carry the name of Christ before “the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.”
Five, the call to repent and turn to God is still urgent. And the gospel is still the power of God to save all who believe.
Monday, March 7, 2011
God's Unfailing Purpose
Acts 25
As you navigate the twists and turns of life, it helps to know that God is sovereign over all. His purposes will not – nor cannot – fail! His wisdom is faultless and His counsel beyond scrutiny. His strength is perfect, His grace sufficient, and His power immeasurable. His love reaches to the heavens, his faithfulness to the clouds. His righteousness is like the mighty mountains and His justice like the great deep.
I’m sure Paul rehearsed these attributes of the Holy One over and over while serving as an ambassador in chains for Christ. While locked in prison, while awaiting trial, how many times, I wonder, did Paul recite the 23rd Psalm? How many times did he remember the promise of Proverbs 3:5-6? How many times did he draw strength from Isaiah 40?
And how often do you suppose he recalled the Lord’s message to him through Ananias: “…he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name” (Acts 9:15-16)?
Paul had long desired to go to Rome (Rom. 1:10). Somehow, someway. Now God was making the way. It probably wasn’t how Paul envisioned, but by appealing to Caesar, God granted his request. There was something about the story of this man named Jesus, who was dead, but now alive, that still needed to be told. And it still does.
As you navigate the twists and turns of life, it helps to know that God is sovereign over all. His purposes will not – nor cannot – fail! His wisdom is faultless and His counsel beyond scrutiny. His strength is perfect, His grace sufficient, and His power immeasurable. His love reaches to the heavens, his faithfulness to the clouds. His righteousness is like the mighty mountains and His justice like the great deep.
I’m sure Paul rehearsed these attributes of the Holy One over and over while serving as an ambassador in chains for Christ. While locked in prison, while awaiting trial, how many times, I wonder, did Paul recite the 23rd Psalm? How many times did he remember the promise of Proverbs 3:5-6? How many times did he draw strength from Isaiah 40?
And how often do you suppose he recalled the Lord’s message to him through Ananias: “…he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name” (Acts 9:15-16)?
Paul had long desired to go to Rome (Rom. 1:10). Somehow, someway. Now God was making the way. It probably wasn’t how Paul envisioned, but by appealing to Caesar, God granted his request. There was something about the story of this man named Jesus, who was dead, but now alive, that still needed to be told. And it still does.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Resurrection on Trial
Acts 24
Let’s get straight to the heart of the matter: Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. It’s a matter of life and death.
If Jesus did not rise from the grave then Christianity is the greatest sham the world has ever seen. Our so-called “faith” is worthless, and we are the sorriest, most misguided, hopeless and gullible people on the face of the planet. You may as well engrave a big “L” on our foreheads – Losers!
On the other hand, if Jesus Christ did rise from the grave, if He truly conquered sin and death forever, as the Bible declares, then the multitudes who reject Jesus are the real losers. The victorious ones are those who believe that Jesus died in their place on the cross, that He rose from the dead, and that by His grace through faith we’ll also live with Him forever!
So did He, or didn’t He? That’s the issue for which Paul stands on trial before Governor Felix. That’s the issue for which he was imprisoned, beaten, stoned, mocked and ultimately killed. That’s the issue for which Jesus’ disciples gave their own lives, as well. It makes all the difference in the world.
Despite far-fetched claims to the contrary, the resurrection of Jesus confirms Him as the Son of God and gives hope and joy and peace to all who trust Him for eternal salvation. “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live” (John 11:25).
Let’s get straight to the heart of the matter: Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. It’s a matter of life and death.
If Jesus did not rise from the grave then Christianity is the greatest sham the world has ever seen. Our so-called “faith” is worthless, and we are the sorriest, most misguided, hopeless and gullible people on the face of the planet. You may as well engrave a big “L” on our foreheads – Losers!
On the other hand, if Jesus Christ did rise from the grave, if He truly conquered sin and death forever, as the Bible declares, then the multitudes who reject Jesus are the real losers. The victorious ones are those who believe that Jesus died in their place on the cross, that He rose from the dead, and that by His grace through faith we’ll also live with Him forever!
So did He, or didn’t He? That’s the issue for which Paul stands on trial before Governor Felix. That’s the issue for which he was imprisoned, beaten, stoned, mocked and ultimately killed. That’s the issue for which Jesus’ disciples gave their own lives, as well. It makes all the difference in the world.
Despite far-fetched claims to the contrary, the resurrection of Jesus confirms Him as the Son of God and gives hope and joy and peace to all who trust Him for eternal salvation. “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live” (John 11:25).
Friday, February 25, 2011
Our Hero to the Rescue
Acts 23
The heat’s rising, but God’s not done with Paul yet. As in chapter 18, now again God speaks a timely word of encouragement to the battle-tested missionary. One can only imagine the sense of peace and power and presence Paul experienced as “the Lord stood by him” and spoke that night.
There’s an unsung hero in this story, as well. To fulfill His word to Paul, God brings a young man (Paul’s nephew) into the picture to save Paul’s life.
You have to understand the Jews were fuming by this time. They wanted Paul dead so desperately that they bound themselves with an oath to not eat or drink until they had killed him! Sure hope their last meal was a good one.
Our real hero in this story, though, is God, who foiled their plans through the courageous actions of Paul’s nephew. It would have taken a supernatural courage for this young man to approach Paul with the news he’d overheard of the plot against him. And it would have taken even more bravery for him to go to the Roman commander to inform him! He literally risked his own life to save Paul’s!
Amazing, too, is that this commander listened to the boy and accepted his word as true, and then acted in response. But surely by now we know that our Hero does some amazing things to fulfill His word!
The heat’s rising, but God’s not done with Paul yet. As in chapter 18, now again God speaks a timely word of encouragement to the battle-tested missionary. One can only imagine the sense of peace and power and presence Paul experienced as “the Lord stood by him” and spoke that night.
There’s an unsung hero in this story, as well. To fulfill His word to Paul, God brings a young man (Paul’s nephew) into the picture to save Paul’s life.
You have to understand the Jews were fuming by this time. They wanted Paul dead so desperately that they bound themselves with an oath to not eat or drink until they had killed him! Sure hope their last meal was a good one.
Our real hero in this story, though, is God, who foiled their plans through the courageous actions of Paul’s nephew. It would have taken a supernatural courage for this young man to approach Paul with the news he’d overheard of the plot against him. And it would have taken even more bravery for him to go to the Roman commander to inform him! He literally risked his own life to save Paul’s!
Amazing, too, is that this commander listened to the boy and accepted his word as true, and then acted in response. But surely by now we know that our Hero does some amazing things to fulfill His word!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Who's Got a Testimony?
Acts 22
Paul never got over his salvation, and he never hesitated to tell people about it. We find Paul here in the midst of an angry mob that wants to kill him. Yet what’s on Paul’s mind? A chance to give his testimony!
He literally begs the Roman commander guarding him to let him speak to the crowd. And God, for His purposes, grants the request. Paul’s testimony provides a pretty good model for our own.
First he tells about his life before his encounter with Jesus, speaking of his upbringing, his misguided zeal for God and his persecution of those who followed the Way of Christ Jesus.
Then he describes his conversion experience. He explains how the risen Lord appeared to him, revealed Himself and led him into Damascus. He details the way Jesus sent Ananias to deliver God’s message and give Paul His mission. Paul says that he was baptized, that his sins were washed away and he called upon the name of Jesus for salvation.
Paul barely had a chance to begin telling them how the Lord was working in his life from that time forward before the crowds had heard enough and were ready to put him to death. Whatever the outcome, Paul never got over his salvation, and he never missed a chance to tell about what Jesus had done for him and what He could do for others.
Paul never got over his salvation, and he never hesitated to tell people about it. We find Paul here in the midst of an angry mob that wants to kill him. Yet what’s on Paul’s mind? A chance to give his testimony!
He literally begs the Roman commander guarding him to let him speak to the crowd. And God, for His purposes, grants the request. Paul’s testimony provides a pretty good model for our own.
First he tells about his life before his encounter with Jesus, speaking of his upbringing, his misguided zeal for God and his persecution of those who followed the Way of Christ Jesus.
Then he describes his conversion experience. He explains how the risen Lord appeared to him, revealed Himself and led him into Damascus. He details the way Jesus sent Ananias to deliver God’s message and give Paul His mission. Paul says that he was baptized, that his sins were washed away and he called upon the name of Jesus for salvation.
Paul barely had a chance to begin telling them how the Lord was working in his life from that time forward before the crowds had heard enough and were ready to put him to death. Whatever the outcome, Paul never got over his salvation, and he never missed a chance to tell about what Jesus had done for him and what He could do for others.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
The Ultimate Gain
Acts 21
As the journey unfolds, Paul’s conviction to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit grows stronger. Even though dangers await him in Jerusalem, and even though his own friends urge him not to go, he’s more surrendered to the will of God than ever. Such is the passion of those who deny themselves and take up their crosses daily to follow Jesus their Lord.
Here’s how Paul saw it: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me” (Gal. 2:20).
Again: “As it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:20-21).
All this from the heart of the man who counts believers as “more than conquerors through him who loved us,” and was convinced that nothing in all creation, neither life nor even death, “will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 8:38).
So then it’s not surprising to hear him say to his well-intentioned friends, “I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (v. 13). To Paul, dying for Christ would be the ultimate gain.
As the journey unfolds, Paul’s conviction to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit grows stronger. Even though dangers await him in Jerusalem, and even though his own friends urge him not to go, he’s more surrendered to the will of God than ever. Such is the passion of those who deny themselves and take up their crosses daily to follow Jesus their Lord.
Here’s how Paul saw it: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me” (Gal. 2:20).
Again: “As it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:20-21).
All this from the heart of the man who counts believers as “more than conquerors through him who loved us,” and was convinced that nothing in all creation, neither life nor even death, “will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 8:38).
So then it’s not surprising to hear him say to his well-intentioned friends, “I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (v. 13). To Paul, dying for Christ would be the ultimate gain.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Tears with the Territory
Acts 20
There have been a couple of times I’ve had to say tearful good-byes to dear friends. When my wife and I left Calvary Baptist Church in Rockford for seminary, while we rejoiced in the new direction the Lord set before us, we wept with those who had become so precious to us. It’s one of the hardest things in life to do.
This account of Paul’s final good-bye to the elders in Ephesus stirs up all those emotions afresh. Imagine the scene, as these beloved brothers in Christ with whom Paul had lived and ministered for three years gathered on the shore. They had formed a bond in the Lord, solidified through trials and tears. They had engaged together in the work of the gospel, proclaiming Jesus as Lord and establishing the local church.
Paul’s farewell address leaves their hearts in agony, and with much weeping, sorrow and embracing, they wave good-bye for the last time. They know they’ll never see his face again.
For Paul, it’s been his new way of life. The Holy Spirit has compelled him to go to Jerusalem, where the only thing he’s sure of is that imprisonment and affliction await. But, O, for the resolve of Paul’s heart! The only thing that mattered to him was to finish the course. His own life he counted as nothing. His sole desire was to keep testifying to the gospel of the grace of God, by which he had been saved, and in which he stood. Sometimes tears come with the territory.
There have been a couple of times I’ve had to say tearful good-byes to dear friends. When my wife and I left Calvary Baptist Church in Rockford for seminary, while we rejoiced in the new direction the Lord set before us, we wept with those who had become so precious to us. It’s one of the hardest things in life to do.
This account of Paul’s final good-bye to the elders in Ephesus stirs up all those emotions afresh. Imagine the scene, as these beloved brothers in Christ with whom Paul had lived and ministered for three years gathered on the shore. They had formed a bond in the Lord, solidified through trials and tears. They had engaged together in the work of the gospel, proclaiming Jesus as Lord and establishing the local church.
Paul’s farewell address leaves their hearts in agony, and with much weeping, sorrow and embracing, they wave good-bye for the last time. They know they’ll never see his face again.
For Paul, it’s been his new way of life. The Holy Spirit has compelled him to go to Jerusalem, where the only thing he’s sure of is that imprisonment and affliction await. But, O, for the resolve of Paul’s heart! The only thing that mattered to him was to finish the course. His own life he counted as nothing. His sole desire was to keep testifying to the gospel of the grace of God, by which he had been saved, and in which he stood. Sometimes tears come with the territory.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Putting the Idol-Makers Out of Business
Acts 19
Where the word of God is preached, trouble’s not far behind. The pattern continues for Paul, yet he is unfazed. His mission is to preach the gospel, and neither stones nor lashes nor prison nor mocking nor rioting would dissuade him from the high call of the Lord Jesus to proclaim His salvation.
In Ephesus the root of the rioting was the love of money. That’s the root of all kinds of evil, Paul would later write to Timothy – the love of money. Here, as the word of the kingdom of God is preached, as the Holy Spirit falls upon the believers, as extraordinary miracles are being done in the name of Jesus, lo and behold, the idol craftsmen start to lose some business!
God speed the day when the liquor store owners, cigarette manufacturers, pornographers, casino operators and immoral media producers raise a riot in this land against Christians because the word of God is being preached, multitudes of people believe the gospel, and start turning away from all these wicked idols they’ve poured their money into!
Paul never set out to put these idol-makers out of business. He did not organize protests outside of their shops or petition the local government to enact zoning ordinances against them. That wasn’t his calling. Preaching the gospel was! That’s our calling, too, dear Christian. Preach the word! That’ll change this world, and may even raise a riot.
Where the word of God is preached, trouble’s not far behind. The pattern continues for Paul, yet he is unfazed. His mission is to preach the gospel, and neither stones nor lashes nor prison nor mocking nor rioting would dissuade him from the high call of the Lord Jesus to proclaim His salvation.
In Ephesus the root of the rioting was the love of money. That’s the root of all kinds of evil, Paul would later write to Timothy – the love of money. Here, as the word of the kingdom of God is preached, as the Holy Spirit falls upon the believers, as extraordinary miracles are being done in the name of Jesus, lo and behold, the idol craftsmen start to lose some business!
God speed the day when the liquor store owners, cigarette manufacturers, pornographers, casino operators and immoral media producers raise a riot in this land against Christians because the word of God is being preached, multitudes of people believe the gospel, and start turning away from all these wicked idols they’ve poured their money into!
Paul never set out to put these idol-makers out of business. He did not organize protests outside of their shops or petition the local government to enact zoning ordinances against them. That wasn’t his calling. Preaching the gospel was! That’s our calling, too, dear Christian. Preach the word! That’ll change this world, and may even raise a riot.
Friday, February 18, 2011
God's Encouragement to a Faithful Servant
Acts 18
Make no mistake about it: the way of the cross is hard. If it’s a life of comfort and convenience you want, then don’t try to follow after Christ. If your personal safety and ease are what you value most highly, the Christian life is not for you.
Sound harsh? Try explaining your version of Christianity to Paul. Everywhere he went he ran into opposition. Go back and reread Acts 9:16. This was Paul’s experience. And he rejoiced in it! For the sake of knowing Christ he endured all kinds of hardships and sufferings and persecutions. For the sake of the church he persevered so that others may too obtain salvation.
It was certainly no different in Corinth, as we see in this chapter. I love the description in v. 5 that says “Paul was occupied with the word.” He kept on carrying out the work God had given him to do, even though his witness for Christ brought more trouble. With all that Paul experienced, it would have been easy for him to give up. But God built him up!
The Lord introduced him to some new friends – Aquila and Priscilla. Silas and Timothy rejoined him. God kept giving him new converts. And the Lord himself spoke to Paul in a vision.
Maybe you’re following the Lord, denying yourself and taking up your cross, but you’re in a funk of discouragement. Hear this and take courage: “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you…” (vv. 9-10).
Make no mistake about it: the way of the cross is hard. If it’s a life of comfort and convenience you want, then don’t try to follow after Christ. If your personal safety and ease are what you value most highly, the Christian life is not for you.
Sound harsh? Try explaining your version of Christianity to Paul. Everywhere he went he ran into opposition. Go back and reread Acts 9:16. This was Paul’s experience. And he rejoiced in it! For the sake of knowing Christ he endured all kinds of hardships and sufferings and persecutions. For the sake of the church he persevered so that others may too obtain salvation.
It was certainly no different in Corinth, as we see in this chapter. I love the description in v. 5 that says “Paul was occupied with the word.” He kept on carrying out the work God had given him to do, even though his witness for Christ brought more trouble. With all that Paul experienced, it would have been easy for him to give up. But God built him up!
The Lord introduced him to some new friends – Aquila and Priscilla. Silas and Timothy rejoined him. God kept giving him new converts. And the Lord himself spoke to Paul in a vision.
Maybe you’re following the Lord, denying yourself and taking up your cross, but you’re in a funk of discouragement. Hear this and take courage: “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you…” (vv. 9-10).
Thursday, February 17, 2011
The Message of Salvation
Acts 17
The message of Christ Jesus never changes. The gospel of salvation in Christ is the same for every generation throughout the ages and for every nation under heaven. The good news is that Jesus died in our place on the cross to bear God’s wrath against our sin, that He was buried and rose from the dead on the third day, and now lives forevermore. And all who repent of sin and turn in faith to Christ will be saved from death and receive abundant and eternal life!
The method of communicating this message to the world, however, changes. Speaking in the synagogue with the Jews, Paul “reasoned with them from the Scriptures…” Jesus as the Christ. They would have understood and acknowledged the authority of Scripture. And many did, in fact, believe!
With the Greeks in the marketplace and before the philosophers, Paul tailored the method to their spiritual level. They were worshipping idols made of material things by human hands. Paul proclaimed what they worshiped as “unknown” the God of heaven, the Creator of all things, and His righteous judgment against the world through His Son whom He raised from the dead! And some believed!
These were “strange things” Paul was bringing to their ears! And not only did Paul simply present the information, he was persuading them to repent as God commands of all people everywhere. That’s still the message our world needs today.
The message of Christ Jesus never changes. The gospel of salvation in Christ is the same for every generation throughout the ages and for every nation under heaven. The good news is that Jesus died in our place on the cross to bear God’s wrath against our sin, that He was buried and rose from the dead on the third day, and now lives forevermore. And all who repent of sin and turn in faith to Christ will be saved from death and receive abundant and eternal life!
The method of communicating this message to the world, however, changes. Speaking in the synagogue with the Jews, Paul “reasoned with them from the Scriptures…” Jesus as the Christ. They would have understood and acknowledged the authority of Scripture. And many did, in fact, believe!
With the Greeks in the marketplace and before the philosophers, Paul tailored the method to their spiritual level. They were worshipping idols made of material things by human hands. Paul proclaimed what they worshiped as “unknown” the God of heaven, the Creator of all things, and His righteous judgment against the world through His Son whom He raised from the dead! And some believed!
These were “strange things” Paul was bringing to their ears! And not only did Paul simply present the information, he was persuading them to repent as God commands of all people everywhere. That’s still the message our world needs today.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
He Leadeth Me
Acts 16
There are times when I desperately wish God would write out His directions for me in the sky, or at least send a text message detailing what He wants me to do. I know His will is made clear in His word, but wouldn’t it be nice to get the specific directions once in a while?
If you feel that way, too, it may be encouraging to know that even the great apostle Paul and his protégé Timothy had to learn to follow the Spirit’s guidance. They had wanted to take the gospel east to Asia, but were forbidden by the Spirit. So they decided they’d go north to Bithynia, but again the Spirit closed the door.
The Bible doesn’t say exactly how the Spirit worked to prevent them from going where they thought they were needed. It’s not like their motives were wrong. Could it have been lack of transportation, weather-related issues, illness, or some prophetic word spoken to them? Did they not sense the peace of the Spirit as they prepared to go?
Whatever happened, God had other plans. He revealed His direction to Paul through a vision, and the missionary team obeyed immediately. There was a woman named Lydia who needed to hear the gospel in Macedonia. There was a slave girl who needed to be freed from an evil spirit. There was a Philippian jailer who needed to be saved. And as they followed, no doubt the song they sung was, “He Leadeth Me.”
There are times when I desperately wish God would write out His directions for me in the sky, or at least send a text message detailing what He wants me to do. I know His will is made clear in His word, but wouldn’t it be nice to get the specific directions once in a while?
If you feel that way, too, it may be encouraging to know that even the great apostle Paul and his protégé Timothy had to learn to follow the Spirit’s guidance. They had wanted to take the gospel east to Asia, but were forbidden by the Spirit. So they decided they’d go north to Bithynia, but again the Spirit closed the door.
The Bible doesn’t say exactly how the Spirit worked to prevent them from going where they thought they were needed. It’s not like their motives were wrong. Could it have been lack of transportation, weather-related issues, illness, or some prophetic word spoken to them? Did they not sense the peace of the Spirit as they prepared to go?
Whatever happened, God had other plans. He revealed His direction to Paul through a vision, and the missionary team obeyed immediately. There was a woman named Lydia who needed to hear the gospel in Macedonia. There was a slave girl who needed to be freed from an evil spirit. There was a Philippian jailer who needed to be saved. And as they followed, no doubt the song they sung was, “He Leadeth Me.”
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Better Than I Deserve
Acts 15
In response to the question, “How are you doing?” my Granddad would usually reply, “Better than I deserve.” He understood something of a grace given to him of which he was unworthy. God’s grace goes even further. Because of sin we’re all unworthy of His favor, yet He pours out His goodness and mercy upon us in Christ Jesus, even though what we really deserve is His wrath!
In this chapter there’s a hardcore group of Pharisees insisting that the Gentiles who come to faith in Christ must be circumcised according the custom of Moses. Paul and Barnabas had been preaching the gospel of God’s grace to the nations, and many had become disciples. But some objected and caused quite a dissension over the matter of circumcision.
The primary argument comes down to this: Is salvation a free gift of God’s grace available through faith? Or, must one also keep the law of Moses in order to be saved? Paul deals with this repeatedly in his letters to the churches in Rome, Galatia, Philippi and others. Emphatically, the answer comes down to God’s grace in Christ Jesus! As Peter addresses this pivotal Jewish Council in Acts 15, God’s own activity takes center stage. As you hear his speech (vv. 7-11), listen for the gospel of the grace of the Lord Jesus to break the chains of enslavement to the law. Then lift your heart in praise to the One who gave Himself on the cross to save you from sin and death. You’re doing much better than you deserve!
In response to the question, “How are you doing?” my Granddad would usually reply, “Better than I deserve.” He understood something of a grace given to him of which he was unworthy. God’s grace goes even further. Because of sin we’re all unworthy of His favor, yet He pours out His goodness and mercy upon us in Christ Jesus, even though what we really deserve is His wrath!
In this chapter there’s a hardcore group of Pharisees insisting that the Gentiles who come to faith in Christ must be circumcised according the custom of Moses. Paul and Barnabas had been preaching the gospel of God’s grace to the nations, and many had become disciples. But some objected and caused quite a dissension over the matter of circumcision.
The primary argument comes down to this: Is salvation a free gift of God’s grace available through faith? Or, must one also keep the law of Moses in order to be saved? Paul deals with this repeatedly in his letters to the churches in Rome, Galatia, Philippi and others. Emphatically, the answer comes down to God’s grace in Christ Jesus! As Peter addresses this pivotal Jewish Council in Acts 15, God’s own activity takes center stage. As you hear his speech (vv. 7-11), listen for the gospel of the grace of the Lord Jesus to break the chains of enslavement to the law. Then lift your heart in praise to the One who gave Himself on the cross to save you from sin and death. You’re doing much better than you deserve!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Through Many Tribulations
Acts 14
One of the things you see clearly in the book of Acts is that the message of the gospel divides. When the apostles preached Jesus, people weren’t usually neutral about it. Either they embraced it as if they had been waiting for this all their lives, or they got so angry they wanted to kill the messengers.
Of course, Jesus had warned His followers that they would be hated by the world on His account. Christians ought never to be surprised when suffering comes for the sake of His name.
Makes you wonder if we’re really preaching Christ the way He ought to be preached. I know there’s a growing tide of opposition to the gospel of Jesus in our day, but I don’t really see the message dividing people the way it divided the world in Paul’s day. Many believed, but the rest wanted to throw stones. Is our culture so less passionate about spiritual things, so “tolerant” of everyone’s views that they don’t really care? Or are we not “speaking in such a way” that draws a line?
Now more than ever we need the boldness of Paul and Barnabas to preach the uncompromising message of salvation in Christ Jesus alone. We need their courage in the face of mounting opposition. We need their perseverance in the midst of increasing persecution. We need the grace of God to strengthen us in the call to preach and make disciples of all nations, knowing that “through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.”
One of the things you see clearly in the book of Acts is that the message of the gospel divides. When the apostles preached Jesus, people weren’t usually neutral about it. Either they embraced it as if they had been waiting for this all their lives, or they got so angry they wanted to kill the messengers.
Of course, Jesus had warned His followers that they would be hated by the world on His account. Christians ought never to be surprised when suffering comes for the sake of His name.
Makes you wonder if we’re really preaching Christ the way He ought to be preached. I know there’s a growing tide of opposition to the gospel of Jesus in our day, but I don’t really see the message dividing people the way it divided the world in Paul’s day. Many believed, but the rest wanted to throw stones. Is our culture so less passionate about spiritual things, so “tolerant” of everyone’s views that they don’t really care? Or are we not “speaking in such a way” that draws a line?
Now more than ever we need the boldness of Paul and Barnabas to preach the uncompromising message of salvation in Christ Jesus alone. We need their courage in the face of mounting opposition. We need their perseverance in the midst of increasing persecution. We need the grace of God to strengthen us in the call to preach and make disciples of all nations, knowing that “through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.”
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Filled with the Spirit
Acts 13
Check out the activity of the Holy Spirit in this chapter. He speaks to the church in Antioch, instructing them to set apart for Him Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for the work to which He has called them (v. 2). By the Holy Spirit, the church sends them out (v. 4). In the power of the Spirit, they proclaim the Word of God. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Paul calls out Elymas with stronger words than I’ve ever even thought about saying to anyone (vv. 9-10). The Spirit is at work in a big way!
I have to laugh a little in verse 15. Paul and Barnabas are in attendance at the synagogue when the rulers ask them if they have any word of encouragement for the people. If? I only wonder if these rulers had any idea what they were asking for!
Needless to say, Paul accepts the invitation and preaches a bold Spirit-filled message of God’s plan of redemption through the nation of Israel culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His death and resurrection. This is the “good news” of God’s promises now fulfilled, and, yes, a word of encouragement to the people!
Paul then warns them of the danger of rejecting this message and the incredible work that God is doing in their midst. They beg him to come back next week, which he does, much to the displeasure of some of the Jews. Even though the crowds are incited against them, they leave the city filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. O Lord, fill us today with Your Spirit!
Check out the activity of the Holy Spirit in this chapter. He speaks to the church in Antioch, instructing them to set apart for Him Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for the work to which He has called them (v. 2). By the Holy Spirit, the church sends them out (v. 4). In the power of the Spirit, they proclaim the Word of God. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Paul calls out Elymas with stronger words than I’ve ever even thought about saying to anyone (vv. 9-10). The Spirit is at work in a big way!
I have to laugh a little in verse 15. Paul and Barnabas are in attendance at the synagogue when the rulers ask them if they have any word of encouragement for the people. If? I only wonder if these rulers had any idea what they were asking for!
Needless to say, Paul accepts the invitation and preaches a bold Spirit-filled message of God’s plan of redemption through the nation of Israel culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His death and resurrection. This is the “good news” of God’s promises now fulfilled, and, yes, a word of encouragement to the people!
Paul then warns them of the danger of rejecting this message and the incredible work that God is doing in their midst. They beg him to come back next week, which he does, much to the displeasure of some of the Jews. Even though the crowds are incited against them, they leave the city filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. O Lord, fill us today with Your Spirit!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
To God Be the Glory
Acts 12
There’s a lot of emotion wrapped up in this chapter. You feel the weight of sorrow as Herod’s hatred for the church intensifies, and he puts James to death by the sword. And you feel the anger of injustice as the Bible records that this action “pleased the Jews.”
But you also feel the anticipation of God’s power. Herod arrested Peter and kept him in prison, “but earnest prayer was made for him to God by the church.” I love that statement! Even before you read what happens next, you get the sense that God’s going to come through in a mighty way in response to the earnest prayers of His people! And He does!
The account of Peter’s rescue is awe-inspiring, and at the same time, somewhat humorous. The angel has to poke Peter in the side to wake him up, like trying to rouse a six-year-old boy to get up for school. Of course, Peter thinks he’s seeing a vision. The chains simply fall off his hands. He follows the angel out of the prison in a daze. They pass the first and second guards completely undetected. The iron gates opens on its own. Peter’s half-way down the street before he realizes this is no dream at all, but God’s deliverance!
You also have to smile at the scene where Peter knocks on the door of the house where the church is praying for him, yet they don’t realize God’s already answered their prayers! Bottom line, as Herod’s death shows: To God be the glory!
There’s a lot of emotion wrapped up in this chapter. You feel the weight of sorrow as Herod’s hatred for the church intensifies, and he puts James to death by the sword. And you feel the anger of injustice as the Bible records that this action “pleased the Jews.”
But you also feel the anticipation of God’s power. Herod arrested Peter and kept him in prison, “but earnest prayer was made for him to God by the church.” I love that statement! Even before you read what happens next, you get the sense that God’s going to come through in a mighty way in response to the earnest prayers of His people! And He does!
The account of Peter’s rescue is awe-inspiring, and at the same time, somewhat humorous. The angel has to poke Peter in the side to wake him up, like trying to rouse a six-year-old boy to get up for school. Of course, Peter thinks he’s seeing a vision. The chains simply fall off his hands. He follows the angel out of the prison in a daze. They pass the first and second guards completely undetected. The iron gates opens on its own. Peter’s half-way down the street before he realizes this is no dream at all, but God’s deliverance!
You also have to smile at the scene where Peter knocks on the door of the house where the church is praying for him, yet they don’t realize God’s already answered their prayers! Bottom line, as Herod’s death shows: To God be the glory!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone
Acts 11
I’ll admit that I enjoy comfort. Things that are safe, secure, familiar, predictable. The house I live in is comfortable. My community is comfortable. My job is comfortable. The only thing is – I’ve yet to read in the Bible where God calls us to a comfortable life.
The thought of the Gentiles receiving salvation and the gift of the Holy Spirit was a foreign concept to these card-carrying Jews. In fact they criticized Peter and his friends for taking these despised Gentiles out to lunch at Applebee’s. The Jewish nation knew they were special in God’s eyes, but going to the Gentiles was way out of their comfort zone.
But when they heard how God was at work to bring “repentance that leads to life” even to these outsider nations, well, they had nothing else to say except to glorify God. Their comfort zone was just about to explode.
As Peter and the rest learned, and as we must learn, we had better not stand in God’s way when He wants so much to bring repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus to the nations. That must become our heart’s desire, as well. It’s what we’re commanded to do. It’s what we’re empowered to do. It’s what we ought to want to do, even though it will mean getting out of our comfort zones and getting into the real world where people are hurting, messy, broken, proud, self-sufficient, lost and lonely – all needing hope and peace and joy and salvation.
I’ll admit that I enjoy comfort. Things that are safe, secure, familiar, predictable. The house I live in is comfortable. My community is comfortable. My job is comfortable. The only thing is – I’ve yet to read in the Bible where God calls us to a comfortable life.
The thought of the Gentiles receiving salvation and the gift of the Holy Spirit was a foreign concept to these card-carrying Jews. In fact they criticized Peter and his friends for taking these despised Gentiles out to lunch at Applebee’s. The Jewish nation knew they were special in God’s eyes, but going to the Gentiles was way out of their comfort zone.
But when they heard how God was at work to bring “repentance that leads to life” even to these outsider nations, well, they had nothing else to say except to glorify God. Their comfort zone was just about to explode.
As Peter and the rest learned, and as we must learn, we had better not stand in God’s way when He wants so much to bring repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus to the nations. That must become our heart’s desire, as well. It’s what we’re commanded to do. It’s what we’re empowered to do. It’s what we ought to want to do, even though it will mean getting out of our comfort zones and getting into the real world where people are hurting, messy, broken, proud, self-sufficient, lost and lonely – all needing hope and peace and joy and salvation.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
God's Missionary Heart
Acts 10
Perhaps you remember when the Berlin Wall came tumbling down in 1989. For many years the wall stood as a barricade cutting off West Berlin from surrounding East Germany and East Berlin. Following a series of political changes in the Eastern Bloc, the weakening pro-Soviet governments in nearby Poland and Hungary, and weeks of civil unrest, the East German government finally allowed its citizens to cross into the West. As people climbed the wall and began chipping away at it, the fall of the Berlin Wall symbolically paved the way for the reunification of Germany, and, interestingly too, for the advancement of the gospel into the Iron Curtain.
Even more significant was the tumbling down of the barricade that separated Gentiles from Jews. The Jews saw the Gentiles as common, or unclean. They would not even associate with them, lest they be defiled by being in their very presence.
But God was about to knock the wall down. Through divine visions given to Cornelius and Peter, God was fulfilling His plan to bring about the reconciliation of all men to Himself through Jesus Christ. Peter learned that God shows no partiality, but will accept anyone from any nation who comes to Him through faith in Jesus. “Everyone who believes in [Jesus] receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
The wall came down, and so did the Holy Spirit. And the road was paved to preach the gospel to the world.
Perhaps you remember when the Berlin Wall came tumbling down in 1989. For many years the wall stood as a barricade cutting off West Berlin from surrounding East Germany and East Berlin. Following a series of political changes in the Eastern Bloc, the weakening pro-Soviet governments in nearby Poland and Hungary, and weeks of civil unrest, the East German government finally allowed its citizens to cross into the West. As people climbed the wall and began chipping away at it, the fall of the Berlin Wall symbolically paved the way for the reunification of Germany, and, interestingly too, for the advancement of the gospel into the Iron Curtain.
Even more significant was the tumbling down of the barricade that separated Gentiles from Jews. The Jews saw the Gentiles as common, or unclean. They would not even associate with them, lest they be defiled by being in their very presence.
But God was about to knock the wall down. Through divine visions given to Cornelius and Peter, God was fulfilling His plan to bring about the reconciliation of all men to Himself through Jesus Christ. Peter learned that God shows no partiality, but will accept anyone from any nation who comes to Him through faith in Jesus. “Everyone who believes in [Jesus] receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
The wall came down, and so did the Holy Spirit. And the road was paved to preach the gospel to the world.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
God's Chosen Instrument
Acts 9
It’s impossible to overstate what happened to Saul on the way to Damascus. This was such a dramatic event not only in his own life but in the entire course of church and world history.
The man who came to destroy the church ended up doing more to build up the church than anyone apart from Jesus Himself. The man who hated the followers of Christ with a passion found himself passionately loving them instead. The man who was living full of self-righteousness died with Christ and received new life in Him.
Saul got saved! His life took a 180 when Jesus encountered him on that road. He left the old behind and embraced the new. As zealous as he had been to bring the church down, he was now a thousand times more zealous to lift her up.
God had a plan for Saul all along. He would be the Lord’s chosen instrument to carry His name before the world. And has anyone ever preached the name of Jesus more boldly? Has anyone ever suffered as much for the sake of His name?
We’ll see much more of Saul, who became Paul, in the chapters ahead. For now think about this: Has your life changed because of your own encounter with Jesus? Maybe not so dramatically, but has it been made new? If not, receive Him by grace through faith today! If so, then know you’re also His chosen instrument to carry His name into the world!
It’s impossible to overstate what happened to Saul on the way to Damascus. This was such a dramatic event not only in his own life but in the entire course of church and world history.
The man who came to destroy the church ended up doing more to build up the church than anyone apart from Jesus Himself. The man who hated the followers of Christ with a passion found himself passionately loving them instead. The man who was living full of self-righteousness died with Christ and received new life in Him.
Saul got saved! His life took a 180 when Jesus encountered him on that road. He left the old behind and embraced the new. As zealous as he had been to bring the church down, he was now a thousand times more zealous to lift her up.
God had a plan for Saul all along. He would be the Lord’s chosen instrument to carry His name before the world. And has anyone ever preached the name of Jesus more boldly? Has anyone ever suffered as much for the sake of His name?
We’ll see much more of Saul, who became Paul, in the chapters ahead. For now think about this: Has your life changed because of your own encounter with Jesus? Maybe not so dramatically, but has it been made new? If not, receive Him by grace through faith today! If so, then know you’re also His chosen instrument to carry His name into the world!
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