June 1, 2008

Acts 12:5 "Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him."

The persecution in the early church caused many of the disciples to end up in prison for preaching Jesus Christ. The government and religious leaders of the day had commanded the disciples to stop preaching in his name, but of course they could not and they didn't.

Peter was one of them who ended up in jail. When he was arrested, the church began to pray for him that God would deliver him. This verse said that "prayer was made without ceasing." They were so burdened, that they spent all night in prayer for their beloved Peter.

Isn't it so sad that we are not usually led to prayer with any seriousness or desperation, until something tragic happens? In the life of many Christians today, they literally go for days without praying except to pray over their food when they eat. Yet let something tragic happen in our lives, we want to get serious and we expect everyone else to do the same.

We are to be people of prayer. But yet it is one of the things we do the least and know very little about. This church crowd was so weak in faith, that later in the chapter, while they are praying for Peter, he is supernaturally released. But when he arrives at the door, the startled little girl runs to tell the church that Peter is at the door only to be rebuked. He can't be at the door, because we are praying for him in prison to be released. So much for faith.

We need to be people of prayer, but much more people of faith. We need to believe what God has promised and do what God has commanded. That is the secret to the Christian life!

June 2, 2008

Acts 13:2 "As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them."

The early church was experiencing a supernatural outpouring of souls being saved. Historians tell us that by the end of the first year, the early church could have had as many as 100,000 converts in Jerusalem alone.

Along with this growth, came persecution which drove many believers out of Jerusalem. There now many other churches starting all over the world. The church at Antioch sent out the Apostle Paul and Brother Barnabas on their first missionary journey. They traveled to places where churches had formed and were growing, as well as other places that were in need of a church.

Notice one very important thing about these men. They were called by the Holy Ghost. The calling of God is real. Many today downplay the calling of God. Some say those who preach are no more than just men who desire a "good vocation." But I, like so many others, did not look for this position. We were divinely set aside and appointed over this work.

Today, there needs to be a return to God-called, Spirit sent and Spirit filled preachers. Not man called, momma called, or man sent. But called, anointed and sent by the Holy Ghost.

That is the only way it will work and prosper. We don't need any more hirelings. We need some old fashioned men of God.

June 3, 2008

Acts 15:26 "Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

The early disciples were persecuted where ever they went. From being beaten, to being thrown into prison, the disciples paid a great price in the beginning of the church.

Today we know very little about suffering for the cause of Christ. Here these men "hazarded their lives." That meant they literally put their lives in jeopardy. They were willing to put themselves in harm's way, just to fulfill the work of the Gospel.

We are living in a day of comfortable Christianity. We want everything to be easy, cheap, and no expense or sacrifice to us. We like things to go smoothly, no one rocking the boat. But not the early disciples. They stirred up cities and incited anger from the religious and political leaders where ever they went.

If we are to take a stand in this day, we need to expect that we will also face opposition. This world is no friend of grace. They hate God, the Bible, the Church and every thing you stand for. They don't want to hear about sin, salvation, or conviction. They do not want to change their life styles. And don't insinuate to them that they may not be ready to meet God. You will have a fight on your hand.

But we should be willing if necessary, to put our lives on the line. What we have is worth keeping and worth dying for. May God help us to take a stand in these last days.

June 4, 2008

Acts 15:39-40a "And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; and Paul chose Silas,"

Contention between the brethren is as old as the church. There have always been occasions for Satan to divide the brethren so as to hinder the work of Christ.

Here, the problem was John Mark. Earlier in Acts, John Mark had decided to go home in the middle of a missionary journey. He turned back because he couldn’t handle being away from his comfort zone. For centuries, John Mark has always been identified with those who "turned back." Later on in the ministry of Paul, Barnabas, his partner, decided to take John Mark with him again and give him another chance. But it so angered Paul and divided these two brethren, that Paul ended up taking Silas, and Barnabas took John Mark.

This contention was heard thoughout the churches. It created uncertainty and division in the body of Christ.

It had lasting effects, because later it affected Barnabas in such a way, that he finally went back to his home, Cyprus, and you never hear of him again.

If at all possible, we should avoid contention. Maybe Paul was wrong, maybe he was right. But history records Paul's work continued and Barnabas’s ceased. Paul did later restore fellowship with John Mark, but he lost Barnabas.

Satan will do all he can to hinder the work of Christ. Be alert. Watch out for any place he can get in and refuse to let him divide the brethren and stop the work of the Church.

June 5, 2008

Acts 16:5 "And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily."

The disciples spent much of their time trying to strengthen the brethren and establish the churches in the faith. They went from town to town and taught the Word of God. Paul said later on in Acts that he taught the "whole counsel of God."

Some folks fuss about doctrine. They want something shallow, easy to swallow. But what they need is doctrine. Doctrine establishes and grounds us in the faith.

There are so many who never get grounded in the truth, and they soon fall away. They follow every fly-by-night ministry that comes to town, and are not settled in what they believe.

This creates a lot of instability for the church. This also creates lots of confusion and doubt in the heart of the individual.

There is a reason God wanted us to "study to shew ourselves approved unto God." It is because he knows if we do not believe and stand for something, we will fall for anything.

Let's get grounded, settled, and established. Don't be wish-washy, floating around from church to church, looking for that "good feeling." Instead, build up yourselves in the faith, on the rock. That will be the only thing that stands in the storm.

June 6, 2008

And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us."

Here is a woman named Lydia who is a good example of what a Christian woman should be. Note some of her characteristics. She worshipped God. Her heart was opened, which testifies to her salvation experience. She was obedient as seen in her willingness to "attend unto the things Paul spoke of." She heard, listened, obeyed, and followed God. She was baptized, which speaks of her willingness to testify of her salvation and follow the Lord in believer's baptism. This too is an act of obedience. She was also faithful. She loved God's men and constrained them to abide with her.

She had all the godly characteristics that a saved women should have. She was not ashamed of her testimony of faith, she worshipped God, and she loved and followed God's man. That is what a Christian is suppose to do.

God wants us to be the kind of example before the world, that they will know that we have been with Jesus. True salvation should cause us to want to obey God. True salvation should cause us to want to serve God. True salvation should cause us to want to worship God. True salvation should cause us to want to be faithful to God. True salvation should cause us to love God's men, recognizing that they are a gift sent from God. Were it not for them, we would not have heard the gospel. The bottom line is, salvation does make a difference in the life of an individual and everyone around us will know it.

June 7, 2008

Acts 16:25 "And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them."

Like so many other times, Paul and Silas was in jail. They had been beaten with many stripes (v.23) and were cast into the inner prison and their feet fast in the stocks.(v.24). It is midnight. They are bleeding, bruised from the beatings, alone, weary, and no doubt very uncomfortable in that dark, cold, prison dungeon.

One probably cannot imagine the scene on that night. The damp, dirt, floor of the prison cell, dug down into the ground, with the only exit at the top of a bottle-neck ceiling. The prison dungeon held two of God's choice servants, guilty of preaching the Word of God in Jesus' name. Rats, human waste, no light, pillow, blanket, water or any creature comforts were available. No doubt, others there were crying, complaining, violent, cursing God and the guards. Yet Paul and Silas at midnight began to sing and praise God. Does that not blow your mind?

Speaking for myself, I would be complaining, crying, begging for mercy, calling CLA to get a team of lawyers, and I would certainly not be wanting to sing a couple verses of "Victory in Jesus."

Yet, these men praised God in the midst of their most difficult circumstances. This is grace in action. This is salvation at its best. This is Christianity 101 for young believers. This is what God expects of us when we suffer. He wants us to trust him instead of complaining. He wants us to praise Him instead of doubting. It is not easy, but is it right. God is in control and those prison doors will come open. Until they do, just praise God for his faithfulness, and let this trial run its course. God will bring you through. But be careful not to fail the test.

June 8, 2008

Acts 16:30 "And brought them out, and said Sirs, What must I do to be saved?"

The question of all questions was asked by the Jailor in Philippi. Paul and Silas were in prison for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. At midnight, while they sang praises, God sent an earthquake and the chains fell off the prisoners. In fear, the jailor ran in looking to see all the prisoners escaping. Instead, Paul told him to "do thyself no harm."

Had the prisoners escaped under his watch, he would surely had been put to death. Instead, the Apostle Paul comforted him in the fact that they were all still in prison. No one ran. Instead, Paul and Silas used this opportunity to testify to the power of God and his salvation.

This jailor asked the same question that millions have asked through the centuries. "What must I do to be saved?" Man has it in his mind that salvation is about "doing." But the opposite is true. Salvation is about what is already "done." Christ has paid our sin debt. There is nothing anyone can do to earn a place in God's kingdom. He has purchased our pardon and by his blood shed on Calvary, has forever settled the sin question. Faith in the finished work of Calvary forever satisfies the demands of God. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved", said Paul to the Jailor. The answer is believe on Christ. He is our salvation. He paid it all. Trust him today. He will save you. The work is done. Accept him by faith. That is all.

June 9, 2008

Acts 17:11 "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word, with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so."

The believers in Berea were characterized by their love for the word and their willingness to study and see if these things were so.

Notice several things that are said about these believers. First, they received the word. Our first responsibility is to receive the word. We are to allow the word, the seed, to be planted in our hearts so it can take root and grow. If we reject and resist, the word is made void in our lives.

Second, they had "readiness of mind." That means, they were willing to put into practice what they learned in the Scriptures. They were not going to be just "hearers," but they were indeed "doers" of the word.

Third, they searched the Scriptures daily. We should become students of the word on a daily basis. Like our "daily bread," we should take the word of God and fill our hearts with its truths.

Finally, they wanted to make sure that what they were being told was true. They compared the message to the Bible. So often, people take what "men" say at face value, trusting that because they are "preachers" or "teachers", that what they say must be true. Instead, you and I should not always be skeptical, but we should study so as not to be deceived. We should hide the word in our hearts. We should not be fooled by some false prophet. Like Berean Christians, we should become people of the Book. As we spend time in the Book, we will naturally fall in love with both the Book and the Author of the Book.

June 10, 2008

Acts 17:24 "God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;"

Paul stood at Mar's hill, looking at all the altars to various gods. At one altar, the inscription was to the "unknown god." Paul used this occasion to preach to these people who the true God was. He makes these statements that testify to the God we serve.

First, our God is the creator of the world. In a society that has literally tried to convince our children that we evolved over a process of time, it is our responsibility to testify to the God of creation. Every thing that is, was made by God. Nothing we enjoy just happened. There was no "big bang." No man came from a "lower life form." We were created in the image of God. Every creature was made by God. Every thing that exists, exists because of the creative handiwork of God Almighty.

Second, he is Lord of heaven and earth. One day, every knee will bow and confess to him that "he is Lord." He is in control of the affairs of man. He is not far removed like the god of the deists. Instead, he is involved in our lives. He sees us, hears us, and watches over us. He loves us and wants to be our Savior. He made us as Creator. He is Sovereign Lord over everything, but only through faith in him will he become our Lord and Savior.

Last of all, God cannot be contained in man made altars and temples of man. We build churches for man to worship God. We build buildings for man to come together and fellowship around the faith of Jesus Christ. But God is not in the grand palaces of man. He does not exist only in temples of stone and wood. Instead, he lives within the heart of those who believe in him and trust him. "Know ye not that ye are the temple of the Holy Ghost?" When we get saved, he comes to live in our bodies and we become his temple. Think about it. The God who cannot be contained in all of the universe, is living inside the heart of men. What a Savior! Oh how I love him!

June 11, 2008

Acts 17:28a "For in him we live, and move, and have our being;"

Our existence is totally dependent upon God. You would not be reading this except it be for God. You could not breathe if it were not for God. In Him you live. Your life and breath is a gift of God. God birthed you into this world. He created you in his image and desires you to come to know him personally when you receive him as Lord and Savior.

In him you move. Your decisions are yours to make because God made you a free moral agent. But always remember that God is involved in our actions. "The steps of a

good man are ordered by the Lord." God direct our steps and he guides us through ways we sometimes cannot fully understand. We may feel lonely, but rest assured you are never alone.

Last he says, in "him we have our being." Our existence, our being, our make up, who we are is because of him. Our being is our personality and our make up. We are created by God and we are unique. You are one of a kind. Like a snowflake, God made you different from anyone else. The vast unlimited power of God allows him to create you as a unique individual. Yet all of that is only possible because of God.

It all works and holds together because of him. How foolish for a man to go through this world never recognizing the hand of God in his life. God is involved in everything we do. Whether we recognize it or not is up to us. But rest assured, your denial of his presence does not change the fact that He is there! Look around at creation, and then look in the mirror. God is in the reflection of all that exists. We have our being in him!

June 12, 2008

Acts 17:31 "Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead."

One day, every lost man is going to be judged for the deeds he has done. He will give an account of every sin he has committed. But most of all, he will give an account of his rejection of Jesus Christ as Savior. The Bible promises that this judgment will be handled by none other than Jesus Christ himself.

The Scripture here identifies that man who will judge us as the "man who he hath ordained, ... and he hath raised from the dead." God raised Jesus from the dead to prove to mankind who he was. This same Jesus who provides for all men salvation, will one day judge all men who have rejected him.

Can you imagine how terrible it will be to face the one in judgment that you rejected and refused to follow? This loving, compassionate Savior will be your eternal Judge.

His resurrection testifies to the world his great power, but this world has never seen Jesus Christ in full power and glory. But friend, that day is coming. Judgment is coming and you best be ready. If you have not believed, you will face him and there will be no mercy or compassion here. This lovely Lamb will be replaced by the Lion of the Tribe of Judah who will judge those that would not repent.

June 13, 2008

Acts 19:15 "And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are ye?"

Here we read about an encounter Paul had with certain "vagabon" Jews who tried to deal with "spirits" in the name of Jesus as the disciples of Christ had. They were seven sons of one man called Sceva, who called out to the spirits and the spirit answered them in what I consider somewhat humorous manner. They were using the name of Jesus as Paul did, but evidently they did not even know Christ. When they called out to the spirit in the name of Jesus and Paul, the spirit replied, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are ye?"

Now that may not be humorous to you, but it is to me. A "vagabond" trying to make merchandise of the things of God, encounters the real power of Satan, and is brought to shame and exposed.

So many false prophets and preachers so called today are using the name of Jesus in a merchandising way, some of which do not even know who Jesus is. Just because you invoke the name of Jesus, it does not give you special power. Jesus' name is not some magic power rock or lucky rabbit's foot. Instead to possess his power, you must know him personally.

I wonder how many spirits would speak today to many who go to church and pretend to be Christians the same words in this text? "Jesus I know, Paul I know, but who are you?" Do the demons in hell know who you are? Does the world around you know that you love Jesus? Do you have a believable report?

June 14, 2008

Acts 20:21 "Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ."

This is true salvation in the nutshell. This is the gospel and how God launched it to the world. First, the testimony of the gospel went to the Jews. At Pentecost and for months following, the gospel went first to the Jews. The early church was predominantly Jewish. Then as time passed, the gospel began to go to the Gentiles and the Greeks. Paul was the Apostle to the Gentiles. The unbelief and blindness of Israel as a whole, caused the light to "lighten the Gentiles."

Then beside the order of the Gospel, we have the order of salvation. It is repentance toward God. To repent means to turn around, to make a u-turn, to go in a different direction. Repentance is always in connection with sin and it is God whom we have sinned against. So in salvation, the sinner must repent of his sin. He must turn from sin to God and repent of his transgression of the law of God.

Next, it is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. One must not only confess his sin against God, but he must believe that Jesus is the answer for his sin. There is no other way a man can be saved but by Jesus Christ. For one to be saved, he must believe in the work of Christ on the cross, and that the cross paid the penalty for his sin. Trusting in Christ allows God to forgive the sin debt and impute unto us the righteousness of God.

That is salvation. That is the way I got it and that is the way you can have it. Repent and put your faith in Jesus Christ. There is no other way.

June 15, 2008

Acts 20:24 "But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God."

In the previous verse, the Holy Spirit had confirmed unto Paul that everyone he went, he would be persecuted. The Bible put it like this in verse 23: "bonds and afflictions abide me."

How frightening it must have been for Paul to know that everywhere he went, he could expect the authorities to be on the look out for him. Every word he spoke would be challenged. Every deed he did would be lied about. He would be accused of treason and every abomination imaginable.

Yet the Apostle Paul declared that "none of these things move me." Standing in the faith of God and not moved by fear. Is that the characteristic of a great man? Yes. But always remember what makes a man great. It is not his own strength or ability, but it is total dependence upon God.

Paul had counted his life total "waste" before he met Christ. Everything he had done amounted to nothing in light of the cross. Now, his life was lost in the life of Christ. And his determination was founded in the desire to "finish his course with joy." Paul did not want to be a quitter.

Many along the way will walk away from God. We cannot afford to get distracted by their failure to finish. Instead, we must purpose to finish the course God has given us and not be moved by the circumstances of life. There will be trials and tribulations, but our life is safe in his. We can trust that God will be there to see us through.

And beside all of this, Paul did not want to "just finish" his course, but he wanted to "finish it with joy." Not discouraged, defeated, and out of faith. But to finish with joy, victory, honor, and satisfaction, should be our desire. I want to stay true and keep on praising him throughout my journey. I don't want to be bitter, angry, and resentful for all the "troubles" along the way. I just want to thank him for his goodness and mercy. "Through many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come. ‘Tis grace has brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home."

June 16, 2008

Acts 20:28 "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood."

Paul had spent nearly three years with the saints at Ephesus. He was about to depart and he warns the saints to beware of "wolves" that could come in and disrupt and destroy the flock.

Paul gives instructions to the preachers and reminds them of their responsibilities to the church. It would be good today if someone would remind preachers of their responsibilities to the people of God. First, preachers need to remember that the Holy Ghost has made them "overseers". This is a reminder of the authority and accountability that preachers are given. It is a serious and very important office.

Then, preachers need to be reminded that they are to "feed the flock." The pulpits are not for personal agendas or political commentaries. Instead, they are to feed the sheep. They are to take the Word of God and break it like bread, and feed it to the sheep. It is said that many of God's people today are literally starving to death due to the lack of bread in the pulpits.

Then the last thing, preachers need to be reminded that the church was purchased "by the blood of Jesus." It is not my church or some "group's" church. It is God's church. He bought it with his own blood.

Today, men fight over church issues, power struggles and personalities. They literally tear churches apart, divide congregations, and like divorced couples, divide the properties. But the church is the Lord's. It is not mine to do as I please. It belongs to God and I have been given the responsibility to protect it and provide for it until he returns. There will be many preachers in that day who will have to give an account of what they have done to God's church. God help us to understand how serious this is. This is a good reminder to church members also. You cannot afford to do anything that will disrupt the peace within the church. God will hold you accountable for any damage that you cause to his flock.

June 17, 2008

Acts 20:35b "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Paul had finished his work in Ephesus and was basically telling everyone goodbye. He was giving them some final instructions and warnings. Along with all these important things, Paul reminds them of the example he has given them in supporting the weak and also obeying the words of Jesus Christ in giving.

These words tell of a truth that Christians should learn to live by. It is more blessed to give than to receive.

President Kennedy said "Ask not what your country can do for you. But ask what you can do for your country." Even a politician got it right. In a day when people enter into jobs, churches, and all types of relationships, with their hands open, asking "what will you do for me?" this is refreshing.

Our society has become so selfish. We look for what others will do for us or what benefit it will be to us. When instead, the example of Christ is one of service, sacrifice, and surrender.

This same wicked philosophy has crept into the church house. People come into churches after careful examination of the available ministries and services the church offers. Instead of asking the Pastor, what can I do? or What needs to be done? We ask the Pastor what can the church do to help us. That is so sad.

Christianity has always been synonymous with giving and sacrifice. Today it is identified with greed and selfishness. God help us to be willing to lead a life of self-sacrifice and giving. Truly, it is more blessed to give than to receive. Look for opportunities to give of yourself, your time, and your talents. You will not regret it!

June 18, 2008

Acts 22: 14 "And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth."

Here, the Apostle Paul is giving his testimony before the multitude. He is recounting his conversion and testifying to the call of God on his life.

Paul was never ashamed to tell what happened to him. Whenever he was given an opportunity to speak, he always ended up at "Did I tell about what happened to me on the road to Damacus?" We as Christians, should always be ready to tell others about the good grace of God in our lives. We should not hesitate to testify to God's goodness and mercy bestowed upon us. Paul did this everywhere he went.

There are several things that I would like to mention in regards to this passage of Scripture. First, he was chosen by God. Everyone who is used in God's kingdom, must possess a call. There are some who seek a "vocation" in God's service. But I believe that there needs to be a "divine call" from God. Paul was chosen.

June 19, 2008

Acts 24:25 "And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee."

Paul was brought before Felix the governor. As he begins to share who he is, what he has experienced, and why they have brought him, he cannot help but share his great knowledge of the law and the Scriptures. He challenges the accusations against him and confronts the governor with all the eloquence of a very intelligent and powerful orator.

The wife of Felix was a Jewess named Drusilla. She became very interested in the faith of Paul, and sent for him. As Paul began to reason with her of Jesus Christ, righteousness and temperance, the Bible says that Felix "trembled" and told Paul to go on his way and he would call for him at a more convenient time. It appears that Felix was under conviction as Paul spoke and instead of dealing with truth, he put Paul off. So many today are brought to the point of confronting the truth, but they turn it away. They propose that some other time would be more convenient. So many excuses, so many reasons, that Satan uses to damn a man's soul. So close, yet so far away and lost forever.

You may think that you have more living to do, more pleasure in sin, more money to make, more places to go before you settle down and get serious about eternity. But the truth is, you may put God off until it is too late. Today is the day, now is the accepted time. Do not put off salvation. If you are lost, get saved today. While there is time and while he is calling. Don't turn him away.

June 20, 2008

Acts 26:8 "Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?"

Paul stands before Agrippa and is given the opportunity to testify on behalf of himself, what he believes, and give an answer to the accusations.

Paul was a Pharisee and a leader among the Jews. He was well versed and highly trained in the customs of the day. Now he is basically testifying for his life. Consider that most of the things he is accused of are connected with his faith and teachings.

Of course, Paul, whenever he is given the opportunity, is careful to teach and preach Jesus. For certain, he is the real issue here. It is Jesus, his teachings, his followers, and the danger his new found "church" poses to Rome. The political leaders of the day are afraid that these "Christians" will bring about an uprising. The religious leaders of the day, are angry at the teachings that challenge everything that Judaism believes. Christ is the fulfillment of the law and to believe in Christ is to accept the fact that Messiah has come and the Jews did not and would not believe that.

But Paul was careful to bring the issue to the forefront once again. And here, Paul brings up the most important point that proves that Christ is who he said he was. He reminds Agrippa that it should not be a strange thing to believe that God would raise the dead. It puts them on the spot and also puts Jesus forth as the Messiah. By doing this, Paul accomplishes several things.

First, he gives them the truth about Jesus and he is what all of this is really about. Second, he uses reasoning that they cannot deny. Raising someone from the dead is no problem for God, leaving open the door for Paul's defense. Last of all, by suggesting that resurrection of the dead is a possibility, he inserts doubt into the argument and thereby makes all the accusations against Paul, flawed. If resurrection is possible, then Paul is possibly not guilty of the things he is accused of.

May I just say here that truth always wins. No matter the circumstances, just stand on the truth. In the end, truth will always stand and win.

June 21, 2008

Acts 26:24 "And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad."

While standing before Fetus, Paul was accused of being "mad." No doubt, Christians who take a stand for God and freely testify to God's saving grace are considered by the world to be "mad."

Think about how you were before you were saved. Your desires were for the world and the flesh. You had no time for God and the things of God. Going to church, tithing, praying, and witnessing were all foolishness to you. Even the Bible says that the "preaching of the cross is foolishness to them which believe not."

We sing about heaven, the coming of Christ, the cross, and so many other good things that we enjoy as a Christian. Yet, to a lost man, it all seem foolish. Especially when the one in question is a real fanatic for Jesus. And that is what Paul was.

Paul had been with the elite of the Jewish religious. He was trained by the greatest of his day. He even was guilty of persecuting the church in the early days of the church. So for Paul to have been changed, set free from the bondage of Judiasm, and now to be used of Christ in the palaces to testify of his grace, would make anyone appear to be "mad."

Are you so sold out to Christ that the world thinks you are a little bit crazy? Do you make people that are unsaved, somewhat nervous when you are around? Are you quick to share your faith and testimony with those you meet? If any of these are true, get ready. Sooner or later, you will be accused of being mad or crazy. By the way, the Bible says we are "fools for Christ's sake."

June 22, 2008

Acts 26:28 "Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian."

Paul was very persuasive in his testimony. He was trained by the greatest teacher in his time and was able to communicate with the wise men of his day. Leaders had great respect for him for his reputation and intelligence.

Paul also knew how the system worked and he used this to the advantage of the Gospel. Some of the places that Paul ended up, could not have happened had he not known how to work the system, what to ask for and how to communicate with those in authority.

Here, Paul is standing and reasoning with King Agrippa. Like so many times before, he has given his testimony of how he met Christ. Now he asked Agrippa this question in verse 27: "believest thou the prophets?" He knew that Agrippa was versed in the Law. Paul had taken time to carefully explain how Christ was the fulfillment of all of the Old Testament prophecies. So this question was an obvious one. If the king believed the prophets, then he should not have a problem believing that Jesus was the one they were talking about.

But like so many, Agrippa came so close, yet so far away. We sing the song that was written with Agrippa in mind. "Almost persuaded, now to believe, Almost persuaded, Christ to receive."

Do you know someone that is so close, yet will not receive Christ? If so, don't give up. Maybe you are close yourself, but have not received him. If so, give in and believe. He is the answer to all of your problems. He is the Savior of the world. You cannot go to heaven apart from Christ.

To be close and almost persuaded is to go to hell. There is no "almost." Either you believe or you reject. You make the choice.

June 23, 2008

Acts 27:10-11 "And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.

Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul."

Paul was on his way to Rome to appear before Caesar. He boards the ship under the watchful eye of a centurion named Julius. Shortly into the journey, Paul admonished them that the journey was going to be a costly journey. He was no stranger to the seas. He understood the signs that were pointing toward trouble. He also was warned of God and he felt it necessary to inform the centurion.

Of course, the centurion believed the words of the master instead of trusting his prisoner, Paul. What would this "preacher" know about sailing? How could he possibly know what was going to happen? Surely it would be wiser to trust the master of the ship, for he knows these waters and he knows his ship.

How many times do people get into trouble by not heeding the words of the man of God? Preachers warn individuals about the impending danger that lies ahead, only to be mocked and laughed at. What does the preacher know? Surely I know more about my situation than the preacher does.

Just a word of warning here. If the man of God stands up and gives you instructions and warning about the direction you are heading, you should stop, and take notice. God may be trying to give you a message. For sure, do not disregard the words of the man of God. He is God's man and he just might know something that you don't!

June 24, 2008

Acts 27:20 "And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away."

Paul now finds himself on board a ship that is in the midst of a terrible storm. This could have been the storm of a life time. Great fear gripped the hearts of those on board. Some were unloading cargo to lighten the ship. All the sailors were using all of their experience and their strength to keep this ship from being destroyed.

With no ability to see the sun or stars, it became impossible for the captain to be able to focus on where they were. He could get no bearing or direction. And this was not just for a day or so. The Bible says it was for "many days."

Imagine going for days, on board a ship, in the midst of the sea, with a mighty storm raging, cargo flying overboard, mighty sailors filled with fear, and for days, no sign of relief. Hiding in the lower decks, fear and depression sets in with thoughts of never seeing family or friends and possibly dying at sea.

The only thing a man can have at a time like this is hope. Hope that the storm will let up. Hope that the ship will survive the storm. Hope that all will turn out well. But this story tells us that even "their hope was taken away."

Sometimes life's situation can become a never ending storm that takes away our very hope of ever getting through this nightmare. It may be the storm of physical affliction. Doctor after doctor, treatment after treatment, but the nightmare never ends. It may be family. The situation gets worse and the hope of any relief is far, far away.

What is one to do when it seems all hope is taken away? We have to learn to lean on the promises of God. God told us in his Word to never say "there is no hope." With God, there is always hope. A little nugget for you to cling to is this: In the Word of God, there are 365 "fear nots." That is one for every day of the year. God tells us not to fear. Whatever the challenge is, God is Able! Don't Worry! Just Trust God! And do like this text tells us: just stay with the ship. If you abandon ship, you will abandon hope. Stay with God. He is your only hope in the midst of the storm. He will not fail you. You are safe with him.

Acts 27:25 "Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me."

Paul was in the midst the storm of a lifetime. Fear had gripped those on board. Paul decided to do what every Christian should do in the time of trouble. He got away by himself and sought the face of God.

After being gone for a long while, Paul returned and gave the men some words of comfort if they would receive them. Up to this point, they had rejected the words of the man of God. Had they listened to him in the beginning, they would not be in this mess. But nevertheless, they are here and they need help.

Paul tells them that they should not have loosed from Crete to start with. He reminds them of their disobedience. From time to time, a man of God just wants to tell the crowd that is in trouble, that they should have listened in the first place. Many problems could be prevented if only we would listen.

Paul also tells them that an angel of God had appeared to him in his time of prayer. The message he delivered ,was that all the men on board would be saved, but there was one requirement. They must stay on board ship.

Too many times, when the storm begins to rage, the flesh wants to abandon ship. God has assured us our safety is on board the ship. The church, the old ship of Zion, is sailing through rough waters. We are facing some storms greater than we have ever faced. We are tempted to abandon ship and seek some other place of refuge. But we must stay with the ship. Don't ever consider leaving. On board, you have hope that you will make it through. Jump ship, and you are on your own. I have made up my mind that I will stay with that old ship of Zion. She is sailing toward home and will dock in the home port in just a few days. Be of good cheer! The captain is on board!

June 26, 2008

Acts 27:31 "Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved."

Paul had warned these sailors since before they left port. All through the voyage, their lives were in danger due to the mighty storm they faced. Never before had fear gripped these men’s hearts like it did on this journey. Cargo had been thrown overboard. Men were frightened and some who had never prayed were no doubt considering it as an option.

Paul had spent time in prayer and God had sent a messenger, an angel to give them good news. The message was that no life would be lost. All of those who sailed with Paul would be saved. But there was one requirement. They had to abide with the ship. As long as they stayed on board, and rode out the storm, they would be saved. If they considered abandoning ship, they would suffer loss.

Often times in the midst of our storms, we consider jumping ship. We think that we save ourselves by changing churches and getting away from the "storm." We consider moving far away from our troubles. We want to pull up stake and relocate. And in our worst of times, with anger and fear and uncertainty controlling us, we determine that we could do better if we just left church. Besides, we never had this much problems until we came to this church (or at least that is what Satan tells us). So we quit church, jump into our made man life boat, and we feel safe.

But in the storm, the worst place to be is out of the ship. The ship is used to the storms. The sailors and captain have been through storms before. The ship is made to ride the waves and on board is the safest place. Those little rafts and life boats cannot ride to the heights of those big waves. They will overturn. They cannot survive the constant pulling of the waves and the beating of the wind. But the ship is built to survive.

Like that old ship, the church is the safest place to be in the storms. I have seen many "drown" only because they jumped ship. My word to you is, stay with the ship. Yes, we are in a storm. Yes, it looks bad. But, this old ship is built to take the storms. And we have the Captain on board who has sailed these waters many times. He knows what to do and he has assured us safe passage to the other side. I think I will just stay with the ship!

June 27, 2008

Acts 28:3-5 "And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.

And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.

And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm."

Just as Paul had promised, the storm ended and there was no loss of life. All of those on board had escaped to the island of Melita. This was an island of barbarous people who were not very friendly to their stranded guests.

It was still raining and it was very cold, so Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks to place on the fire. As he was about to put the sticks on the fire, a viper came out of the fire and fastened to his hand. Immediately, all those present assumed that Paul must be a murderer that was receiving his due reward. Though he had survived the storm, now he would suffer at the hand of a serpent.

As they looked on, Paul shook off the viper. They watched and waited to see Paul fall over in pain, or even worse, began to go into convulsions and shortly there after, die.

But as they watched, nothing happened. No pain, no swelling, no sickness. Paul had survived the snake bite. Now these onlookers change their minds and said surely he was a god.

How easily the world is swayed by circumstances. Their opinions are based on variables. But even what we see cannot be trusted.

Paul was God's man and he had not been believed since the beginning of the voyage. Now, his words had come true, but God still wanted to vindicate Paul, not just before those he sailed with, but these barbarous people.

We should learn to use our circumstances of life to be a witness for God. We don't have to appear weak, or intimidated, but we can prove God to a lost world and present him as a faithful, loving God that he is. God is faithful and will not let you experience more than you are able to bear.

June 28,2008

Acts 28:26-27 "Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive;

For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and near with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them."

The prophet Isaiah had prophesied that there would come a day, when the hearts of men were become indifferent to the message and the messenger. The Apostle Paul being a Jew, has such a burden for his people, that at one point in his writings, he asked God to let him suffer the curse and judgment, if only his people Israel, would be saved.

Now in Rome, God turns Paul’s attention toward the Gentiles. He sees the hearts and minds of his people turning away from the truth. The gospel has gone to the Jew first, but they have for the most part, rejected. Hearing, they don't hear, and seeing they don't see. They are indifferent to the gospel. So God gives his servant a call to take this gospel to the Gentiles.

In verse 28, he tells Paul that "the salvation of God is sent to the Gentiles, and that they will hear it."

We should thank God everyday that he sent the gospel to us. We were aliens, separated from God and the promises of God. Because his people, Israel, hardened their hearts and stopped up their ears to the message of the gospel, God sent it to us. We are here by the grace of God and because of the blindness of Israel. Thank God for the grace of God. We don't deserve to be here, but thank God we are!

June 29, 2008

Galatians 4:6 "And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father."

When we were saved, we became a son of God. We are literally in the family of God. We are there first by birth. God tells us in John 3, that we are "born again." We are born the first time in the flesh. That which is born of flesh is flesh.

We have earthly parents that brought us into the world. We bare their name, their image, and their characteristics. So is the child of God. We are given a new name, and we possess the characteristics of our heavenly Father. We resemble him and bear his image.

We are also a child of God by adoption. God absolutely saw something in us and purchased us and bought us off of the slave market of sin, and adopted us into his family. As an adopted child, we are given all the rights of inheritance. We are legally a member of the family forever. A natural born child can be cut out of the inheritance, but not so of the adopted child. Under no circumstances can the adopted child ever lose his place in the family. He is joint heir with Christ and that will never change.

Also, as a child born to the family, and also adopted, we hold a special position. Here, God says we can call him "Abba, Father." That is a "pet" name, a name of affection. Just as a child would have some sweet, pet name he would use to refer to the close relationship he has with his earthly father, so is it with the child of God. We can call him "Daddy." He is our heavenly Father. We were born of his spirit, as well as picked out for adoption. Twice born, hand picked, and in love with Jesus. It don't get any better than that!

June 30, 2008

I Chronicles 28:20 "And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it; fear not, nor be dismayed; for the Lord God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord."

Solomon was just a young man when his father, David, told him he was going to be king and beside that, he would be responsible for building the temple. At the age of possibly only 18, Solomon was given a job that would be big for anyone, especially for someone who is just a teenager.

No doubt, Solomon must have been afraid. But David gives him some words of comfort and instruction. He wanted Solomon to know that no matter how overwhelming this task may seem, he could rest in the fact that the Lord would never leave him.

You and I need to rest in the fact that no matter what we face, God is with us. We need not fear, or be dismayed. We can be courageous and confident. The job may be large, and it may seem that we do not have the ability to get it done. But if God has given us the call to do it, then he will enable us to get it done.

No preacher ever feels that he has the ability to do what God has asked. No missionary on the field ever feels qualified to stand up to the challenge. But we know we have God with us. And because of that, we can take courage and fear not. And the good thing is that God will see us through until the job is complete. So cheer up! The challenge may be great, but our God is greater. I can do all things through Christ!

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