Note the PDF can be downloaded for better printing/viewing here: Teachings on Acts PDF
acts of the holy spirit
The first century church empowered
This indument of power is promised to all believers of each
Succeeding century
Acts 1
1 The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, 2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: 3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: 4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. 5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. 6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. 9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; 11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye ave seen him go into heaven. 12 Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day’s journey. 13 And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. 14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. 15 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty, 16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus. 17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry. 18 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood. 20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. 21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. 23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, 25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. 26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
Acts 8 Samaria Receives the Gospel
IV – Chapter 7 closes with the death of Stephen by orders of the Jewish Council. This act triggered a vicious round of persecution against the Jerusalem Church, which by now numbered in the thousands:
- 3000 added on the day of Pentecost, chap. 2.
5000 more added at the healing of the lame man, chap.3,4
After the deaths of Ananias and Saphira, more were added, chap. 5:14
Jerusalem was filled with the Gospel of Jesus, 5:28.
This persecution by the Judean Jews was organized by the Jewish Council and implemented by Saul of Tarsus. Saul was a fanatical Pharasee, who came like a whirlwind in an attempt to stamp out this ‘heretical sect,’ however he erred on three counts;
(1) Jesus was the Messiah!
(2) The Gospel was TRUTH rather than heresy!
(3) Rather than terminating this fledgling Church, he merely dispersed it!
Acts 8:1-4
1 And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.
2 Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him.
3 But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison.
4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. (NIV)
About this time, Deacon Philip slipped out of Jerusalem and journeyed to Samaria with the powerful message of Jesus Christ. In this ‘Revival Meeting’, the Holy Spirit moved with great miracles and supernatural signs as Philip proclaimed Jesus Christ: crucified, buried, risen and now at the Father’s right hand! The city of Samaria was amazed as demons were cast out of tormented people, the lame were healed and the palsied were delivered. The city was ecstatic with joy! These new, born again believers were then baptized in water according to the commission of Jesus (Matt. 28:19,20) and command of Peter, Acts 2:38.
A very prominent person of Samaria known as Simon the Sorcerer, also became a believer after seeing these miracles. Not only did Simon believe, he also followed after Philip and was baptized in water.
As soon as the Apostles heard that Samaria had received the Gospel, they sent Peter and John to confer upon these believers the gift of the Holy Spirit. This occurred as the Apostles laid hands upon them with prayer. Read Acts 2:38 again.
As these believers were filled with the Holy Spirit, an unusual supernatural manifestation occurred, perhaps on the magnitude of that which occurred on the day of Pentecost! This is deduced from the actions of Simon the Sorcerer, who, having seen the miracles that accompanied Philip’s ministry, decided rather that he must have this ability, the ability to lay hands on believers that they might receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. He was even willing to buy this power! In the past he was thought to be some great power of God in the minds of the Samaritans, Now if he had the power to impart the to impart the gift of the Holy Spirit, he could once again be elevated to his former place of prominence, he reasoned.
But listen to Peter’s indictment:
- “May you and your money go to hell[1] for thinking that you can buy God’s Gift with money.” Today’s English Version.
No punches pulled; Peter thundered straight from the shoulder, “you take your money and go to hell with it!” This was not spoken in the slang of today, but in the words of startling reality!
- You have no part (among the believers) nor lot (spiritual portion or office) in this ministry! Your heart is not right in the sight of God! How many in the church today became believers, are baptized in water and yet their heart is not right with God? We need an old fashioned move of God that will change lives, and we need the gift of discerning of spirits to spot the destructive forces of Satan that try to move in on us!
- “Repent of your wickedness and pray if perhaps the Lord will forgive these evil thoughts in your heart.”
- “I perceive that you are in the gall of bitterness and chained to sin.”
Note this man:
He was a believer — He was baptized in water — He followed the work of the Lord– He desired a spiritual ministry — and he had money! He would be a credit to any church, and a great cover story for any religious publication, right? Wrong, dreadfully wrong! HIS HEART WAS NOT RIGHT WITH GOD! (All that glitters is not gold)
The Perdition of Hell
Acts 13: 6-12 Acts 16:16-19
The Conversion of the Ethiopian Eunich Acts 8:26-39
Acts 8: 26-39
26 But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip saying, “Arise and go south to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (This is a desert {road} )
27 And he arose and went; and behold, there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure; and he had come to Jerusalem to worship.
28 And he was returning and sitting in his chariot, and was reading the prophet Isaiah.
29 And the Spirit said to Philip, “Go up and join this chariot.”
30 And when Philip had run up, he heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and said, “Do you understand what you are reading?”
31 And he said, “Well, how could I, unless someone guides me?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.
32 Now the passage of Scripture which he was reading was this: “He was led as a sheep to slaughter; and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so He does not open His mouth.
33 “In humiliation His judgment was taken away; who shall relate His generation? For His life is removed from the earth.”
34 And the eunuch answered Philip and said, “Please {tell me} of whom does the prophet say this? Of himself, or of someone else?”
35 And Philip opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture he preached Jesus to him.
36 And as they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, “Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?”
37 [And Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”]
38 And he ordered the chariot to stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch; and he baptized him.
39 And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; and the eunuch saw him no more, but went on his way rejoicing. (NAS)
After effectively ministering in Samaria, Philip is approached by The Angel of the Lord and instructed, “Arise and go toward the south unto the way that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza, which is desert.”
Now it may seem strange to leave a fruitful ministry with sign, wonders and miracles and head off toward a bleak wilderness, but God directs according to His infinite wisdom. Philip was angel-dispatched to a ‘pearl of great price’ in the desert. Cf. Matt.13:45,46
Note:
The fantastic events that follow are a set of circumstances equal to Ripley’s Believe It or Not Column.
Philip went toward Gaza, (Gaza has the meaning of riches or treasure, this is derived from a Persian word of that meaning) and from this comes a tale.
It seems that Cambyses, King of Persia while waging war with the Egyptians stashed his treasures in this little desert town for safe keeping, thus giving it the name of Gaza. The word comes into the English language as ma-gaza, or magazine, a place where riches or stores are kept. A periodical (magazine) would purport to contain a wealth of information, etc..
TREASURE
Now back to Philip; as he was traveling toward this little wilderness town of ‘Treasure’, he heard in the distance the rumble of chariot wheels and suddenly around a bend in the road there appeared a magnificent chariot pulled along by a matched pair of spirited, well bred horses. At this point, the Holy Spirit whispered into Philip’s ear, “go near and join yourself to his chariot.” Philip had to run hard to catch these prancing beauties, but run he did, and as he drew near he heard a wonderful sound, a man reading aloud from the sacred scrolls (Bible). Puffing hard from this exertion, Philip managed to gasp out, “Do…. You…. Understand…. what…. you…. are…. reading…. sir?” “Whoa,” cried the man as he ordered this ornate chariot to stop, “No, I really don’t understand this at all, won’t you please join me?” As Philip seated himself in this beautiful chariot with a man who was the Treasurer of Ethiopia’s Queen Candace, he noted that this fellow was reading from the Book of Isaiah, chapter fifty three, verses seven and eight. What an opportunity; Philip taught, the Eunich believed and was born again as he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. Again the chariot was halted, this time beside a pool of water where the Eunich was baptized.
The born again Treasurer continued to Ethiopia while Philip caught a ride with the Spirit of God that far superseded that bumpy ride in the royal Ethiopian chariot, on the Gaza Road.
Philip reappeared in the Old Testament town of Ashdod, now called Azotus, where he continued preaching the Gospel. From Azotus, Philip preached throughout the old Philistine empire until he reached Caesarea, a seaport of great importance.
Synopsis:
Philip went down to Treasure (Gaza), met a Treasurer, who had in his hands a great literary Treasure (Bible), who soon found the doors opened to the greatest Treasure on this earth, (salvation of the soul) with the promise of a greater Treasure awaiting him, God’s Eternal Gaza in the heavens! Wow!
Acts 9
- The beginning of the ‘witnessing unto Christ’ into the uttermost parts of the earth.
Damascus 9: 1 – 25 Lydda, Joppa 9: 32 – 43 Caesarea 10: 1 – 48
Acts 9:1-18
1 Now Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest,
2 and asked for letters from him to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, both men and women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
3 And it came about that as he journeyed, he was approaching Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him;
4 and he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”
5 And he said, “Who art Thou, Lord?” And He {said,} “I am Jesus whom you are persecuting,
6 but rise, and enter the city, and it shall be told you what you must do. ”
7 And the men who traveled with him stood speechless, hearing the voice, but seeing no one.
8 And Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; and leading him by the hand, they brought him into Damascus.
9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and the Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Behold, {here am} I, Lord.”
11 And the Lord {said} to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying,
12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him, so that he might regain his sight.”
13 But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he did to Thy saints at Jerusalem;
14 and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call upon Thy name.”
15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel;
16 for I will show him how much he must suffer for My name’s sake.”
17 And Ananias departed and entered the house, and after laying his hands on him said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road by which you were coming, has sent me so that you may regain your sight, and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
18 And immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he regained his sight, and he arose and was baptized; (NAS)
Study questions for Chapter 9:
1 As Saul made havoc with the church through persecution, imprisonment and death, the Church was scattered. What did they do? Acts 8:4_______________________________
- Where was Saul going in Chapter nine? _______________________
- Why was he going there? __________________________________________________
- As he came near to his destination, a _________ from ___________ shined around him, and a voice thundered, “___________________________________________________________________________
This caused Saul to exclaim ____________________________________________________
And the Lord said, “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest”
- Saul was by then __________ and _________ and said, “Lord what will thou have me to do?” And the Lord said unto him, “__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________”
6 The men with Saul stood __________ hearing a ___________ but seeing no man.
- As Saul arose he was _________ and was led by the hand into _____________ .
- He was taken to the house of _____________ and was there _________ days, _________
nor _____________. Just waiting and praying.
- Who was the disciple whom God directed to go to Saul?_____________.
- Saul had a ______________ of this disciple coming to him and ____________________ ________________________________________ that he might receive his __________
11 Was Saul to be immune to suffering? _______________.
12 Saul was healed of his blindness. T ______ F ______.
- Continued… Acts 9:32-43
This is the beginning of another preaching tour by Peter, which is concluded in Chapter 12.
This journey takes him to established believers with the purpose of strengthening the Church. However the divine commission also allowed him the privilege of opening the door of Christianity to the gentiles, thus beginning a new phase of gospel outreach. This particular tour is our last recorded evangelization by Peter. He continued to preach of course, but the information which we have concerning his activities is very limited, outside of his epistles. After chapter twelve, the book of Acts is involved with missionaries ministering to the gentiles in Asia Minor and Europe with Paul the principle speaker.
When Peter arrived in Lydda, Aeneas was the first to feel the hand of God as he was healed from a crippling palsy. The news of this healing spread like wildfire through that region and all Lydda and Sharon responded to the Lord. Again the church multiplied dramatically. (There is nothing that will turn people to God as quickly as the free moving of the Holy Spirit in the church, accompanied with sign, wonders and miracles. )
About this time in Joppa, Dorcus, also known as Tabitha, died. She was a faithful servant of the Lord, loved by all, so this immediately prompted the brethren to send for Peter. After this summons, Peter hurriedly covered these ten miles to Joppa and found a most touching scene: weeping saints holding hand crafted garments that this gentle lady had made, he listened to the tales of her goodness and saw the grief in their faces.
Then Peter prayed, followed by these words of boldness, “Tabitha Arise!” Tabitha opened her eyes and sat up, alive from the dead! What a day of rejoicing came to these believers as tears of sorrow were exchanged for joy.
Acts 10 Peter ministering in Caesarea ; the gospel embraces the Gentiles
This chapter presents another turning point in Church History. Previously, nearly all Believers were Jewish, or Jewish proselites, but now these Roman gentiles without Jewish culture or custom were to be accepted into the body of Christ. They first heard the gospel, then believed, were filled with the Holy Spirit and finally were baptized in water. Needless to say, this caused quite a stir among the Judean believers… Peter was in trouble!
Acts 10:1-20
1 Now {there was} a certain man at Caesarea named Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian cohort,
2 a devout man, and one who feared God with all his household, and gave many alms to the {Jewish} people, and prayed to God continually.
3 About the ninth hour of the day he clearly saw in a vision an angel of God who had {just} come in to him, and said to him, “Cornelius!”
4 And fixing his gaze upon him and being much alarmed, he said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and alms have ascended as a memorial before God.
5 “And now dispatch {some} men to Joppa, and send for a man {named} Simon, who is also called Peter;
6 he is staying with a certain tanner {named} Simon, whose house is by the sea.”
7 And when the angel who was speaking to him had departed, he summoned two of his servants and a devout soldier of those who were in constant attendance upon him,
8 and after he had explained everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.
9 And on the next day, as they were on their way, and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray.
10 And he became hungry, and was desiring to eat; but while they were making preparations, he fell into a trance;
11 and he beheld the sky opened up, and a certain object like a great sheet coming down, lowered by four corners to the ground,
12 and there were in it all {kinds of} four-footed animals and crawling creatures of the earth and birds of the air.
13 And a voice came to him, “Arise, Peter, kill and eat!”
14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord, for I have never eaten anything unholy and unclean.”
15 And again a voice {came} to him a second time, “What God has cleansed, no {longer} consider unholy.”
16 And this happened three times; and immediately the object was taken up into the sky.
17 Now while Peter was greatly perplexed in mind as to what the vision which he had seen might be, behold, the men who had been sent by Cornelius, having asked directions for Simon’s house, appeared at the gate;
18 and calling out, they were asking whether Simon, who was also called Peter, was staying there.
19 And while Peter was reflecting on the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you.
20 “But arise, go downstairs, and accompany them without misgivings; for I have sent them Myself.”
(NAS)
Remember in Matt.16:19 when Jesus said to Peter, “…I will give to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven…”, well, Peter certainly unlocked the door that opened the Gospel to the Jews on the day of Pentecost. Now we find the same key opening the door for the Gospel to reach the Gentiles with another Pentecost! Peter had accomplished that what God had ordained. The unlocking of these two doors made it possible for the entire world to now receive Jesus Christ as its Savior!
Acts 10:43-48
43 “Of Him all the prophets bear witness that through His name everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins.”
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening to the message.
45 And all the circumcised believers who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out upon the Gentiles also.
46 For they were hearing them speaking with tongues and exalting God. Then Peter answered,
47 “Surely no one can refuse the water for these to be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we {did,} can he?”
48 And he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to stay on for a few days.
(NAS)
ANOTHER PENTECOST, but this time upon the despised Romans! The Jewish believers who had traveled with Peter this far were absolutely amazed; how could God embrace these heathen gentiles? These dogs? How, indeed, could He? The answer is found in God’s Grace through the Cross. Note: John 3:16.
- Who was the Roman captain who worshipped God? ______________________________ 2. Where was he stationed?___________________
- How did God instruct this man? _____________ Could he do this today? _________
- Where was Peter at this time? _______________________________
- Where did Peter go to pray? _________________________________
- Peter became very hungry, but while he made ready, he fell into a ________________
- What did Peter see? _____________________________________________________
- What did the voice say? __________________________________________________
- What did Peter say? _____________________________________________________
10 Was it legally proper for a Jew to keep company with a gentile? ___________
- As Peter was preaching righteousness to them, what event exploded in their midst? _____
_______________________________________________________________________ 12. How did the Jews who accompanied Peter, react? ________________________________ - How did Peter know that they were filled with the Spirit? __________________________
- Peter commanded that they be allowed to be ___________________________________
Acts 11
When one steps out on a limb for God, he must give an account to the rest of those in authority, but this is how it should be; for if it is right, God will verify it, if wrong it can be corrected for the edifying of the body.
After Peter rehearsed this matter completely before the Jerusalem Church, he closed with this thought, “Who was I that I could withstand God?”
- After this, in what city did the Jewish believers first began preaching to the Greeks?_______
- Did the Greeks accept Jesus?
- The Church at Jerusalem sent ___________ to Antioch.
- Who did Barnabus bring from Tarsus to assist in this city? ____________
- In what city were the believers first called Christians? _________________
- Prophets came up from Jerusalem, name one _______________
- What was the content of his prophecy? ________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
- Do you think that this type of prophecy (predictive) is still for the Church? _____________
- Did the Christians in Antioch accept this prophecy? _____________
Acts 12 Persecution
Persecution returned again to the Church, this time through King Herod. Herod at this time was determined to destroy the leadership of the church. First he had James killed, then he imprisoned Peter, intending to kill him after the Passover Feast. It was a very dark day that now faced these new believers. What could they do? It appeared that they were boxed in by this evil king, and the church was about to be destroyed, so they gathered together and began to pray!
Peter was at this time in a most impossible break- out situation: Maximum security behind locked doors! He was bound with chains between two soldiers and prison keepers guarding the locked door without. Then there were two other prison wards to cross and finally a great iron gate at the street! What was Herod so fearful of? Was he afraid that the other believers might intervene? If that was the case he had reason to be apprehensive for the church at that moment was closing ranks for battle plan ‘P’, Prayer. This plan placed the church in a position of earnest, unceasing Prayer to God!
“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war in the flesh: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, BUT MIGHTY THROUGH GOD, TO THE PULLING DOWN OF STRONGHOLDS..” 2Cor. 10: 3,4, also read Eph. 6:10-18, and discover how the church fights!
Several came and went with no deliverance in sight. Finally the last night preceding the planned execution arrived, the last night of the condemned.. ‘BUT GOD’, how many times has that little phrase changed the course of events in human history? Come, let’s take a peek into this Roman ‘Alcatraz’. Prison activity has ceased for the day and darkness has closed in except for the flickering illumination from a couple of torches high in their brackets. All was quiet at last, but where is Peter? Oh! There he is, over there, chained between those two large, brawny soldiers.
They are all asleep, when suddenly God’s angel appears in a burst of light within that gloomy cell, “Wake up Peter, time to go,” he quietly said. At that moment the chains that bound Peter slipped loose and he was free. “Quickly now, fasten your sandals, put on your coat and follow me,” whispered this emissary from God. As Peter stumbled along half asleep, he was hardly aware of other sleeping prisoners, stupefied guards, immobile soldiers and doors automatically opening. When he awakened fully he was alone on a deserted street, FREE, ABSOLUTELY FREE! Thank God for His concern and delivering presence!
Now we can see Peter rapidly walking along those empty streets clutching his coat about him, for the night air is cold. Where is he going? Oh yes! We recognize the area now, we are approaching the home of John Mark’s mother, where believers often gathered for prayer. We can hear them now, just a soft hum of blended voices in unified prayer, Peter hears them too and his steps quicken as he approaches the house. Now he is knocking at the outer gate and asking admission. The doorkeeper, a flighty young lady by the name of Rhoda, in answering the summons, recognized Peter’s voice, but did not open the door for him in her excitement, but rather, ran back to the prayer meeting with this news, “PETER IS AT THE GATE.” This news electrified the group, but one quickly spoke up, “you’re crazy” and others immediately chimed in, “You are out of your mind, Peter is in prison and will be executed in the morning!” Yet others decided that it was Peter’s Angel, it just simple could not be Peter. This exchange produced a heated argument.
Rhoda, “ Peter is at the gate.”
Prayer group, “ No he is not!” “Yes he is,” “No it is not Peter,” “Yes,” “No,” “Yes,” “No,” and on it went. All this while Peter continued knocking, all alone in the darkness, except for a couple of suspicious mongrels, barking at all the commotion. Finally the door was slowly opened to settle the argument and there in the flesh was Peter, no ghost, no angel, no trick, just the impulsive fisherman hardly the worse for wear.
What conclusion or moral can you draw from this event?
Early in the morning, following the days of unleavened bread, Herod sent for Peter, only to find that he was missing! Missing, how could that be? Herod exploded with wrath, ordered an all out search for peter, interrogated the guards and ordered them put to death.
Still sulking, Herod left Jerusalem to nurse his frustrations in the summer palace overlooking the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Shortly after he arrived, the judgment of God caught up with him as the Angel of the Lord smote him with a most loathsome disease. Herod died a lingering, agonizing death as his body decomposed prior to his decease. Acts 12: 18-23.
Acts 13 The outreach of the Gospel of Christ moving toward the ends of the earth. Paul, Barnabus and John Mark
A/ The first missionary journey, from the gentile outreach church of Antioch of Syria.
From Antioch to Cyprus, a circuit in Asia Minor and return to Antioch.
Note: In the church at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers, of which Barnabus was one.
As these Christians ministered and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Separate me Barnabus and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.”
- “The Holy Spirit said,” These words indicate that instruction was given for Christian Service.
Of course the next question is, HOW did the Holy Spirit speak forth this command?
Possibilities: An audible voice? A prophecy? (prophets were there), By tongues and Interpretation? What do you think? Also note what was not said; the prophecy (assuming that it was a prophecy) was not given directing these men to a particular place. This command states, “Separate me (to me) Barnabus and Saul for the work that I have called them to.” The Holy Spirit asked that the Church send these two men into the ministry where He had previously directed them to go. The church then gave its blessing and sent them on their way. From time to time we come across people in the church saying, “God told me to tell you to go to China, or Africa, or Alaska, etc. and evangelize or teach, or preach.” What is wrong with this?
INSET Prophets in the church.
The word, ‘prophet’ comes to us from the Greek as pro (before) and phanai (to speak); hence one who speaks before God, or for God or one who speaks by divine inspiration; also one who foretells or predicts future events, cf. 1Peter 1: 21. The Hebrew word has a similar meaning, ie., naw-be, one who speaks or sings by divine inspiration.
Before being called prophets, these people were called, ‘seers, 1Sam. 9:9. Literally ‘to see’ by visions, dreams, discernings, etc.
Discourse —- the message:
Vehicle Content or purpose
Plain speech Disclosure 2Sam. 12 (personal)
Song (David) Exhortation 1Kings 18: 21
Parable 2Sam. 12 Instruction Moses
Theatrical (Hosea) Warning Jonah 1: 2
Ultimatum Amos 4: 6-12
Comfort Isa. 40: 1 Psa. 23 ICor. 14: 3
Encourage Joel 2: 32
Promise Mal. 4: 2
Predictive prophecy:
Future History Daniel, Joel, Ezekiel, cf. Chaps. 37, 38, 39.
Future judgment Ezek. 33: 30-33.
Future conditional judgment Joel 2: 11-14
Conditional judgment Mal. 3: 8-10
Where does the Prophet minister?
Today the gift of prophecy is ministered where preaching and teaching have already penetrated and saints gather to worship. The gift is to edify, exhort and comfort the church, 1Cor. 14: 3,4.
When should the gift be used?
As a need arises or God wishes to speak to the church. A man or woman with this gift is inspired and anointed to speak under the unction of the Holy Spirit, words of edification (to build up) or exhorted (stirred up), or comforted. This gift is also used to convict men of their sin.
Remember however, ‘the gift of the prophet is subject to the prophet.’ This gift does not make one a robot, one does not have to jump and speak, he may wait until an opportune time and deliver God’s message with the most impact.
Why did God use prophets when He had already given the Law and the Priesthood?
God had in the past spoken to His people through a structure organized for the preservation of the Law, reading the law, and interpreting the law. This organized group came through the Tribe of Levi, (this tribe also furnished the priests, the singers, music, teaching, temple service, handling the sacrifices, dedications, offerings, conducted temple worship, synagogue study, etc..
However this organized group basically became corrupt through political involvement, immorality, financial greed, and selfish aggrandizement. Heavy burdens were placed upon the people of God and hundreds of priestly laws and rules were enacted to the advantage of the priesthood. Finally the priests took an elevated position of ‘Rabbim’ (lord, master) read,
Mt. 23: 7, 8 the full context is verses 1- 12.
So, God sent prophets to the people, men who were not of the present political structure or self perpetuating religious rulers. These men had a fresh anointing, a fresh message to the people. Thus the message was not presented by greed, pretentiousness nor position!
What ministry accompanied the prophet?
Many spoke the Word only. Others had their inspired speech accompanied by miracles, signs, wonders, healings, etc..
These men called down fire (1 Kings 18); raised the dead (1 Kings 17), stopped the rain (1 Kings 17), caused the rain to begin again (1Kings 18, healed bad water (2 Kings 2: 22, healed the sick (2 Kings 5: 1- 14.
The truth or deception of prophecy.
All who speak in the name of the Lord are not of the Lord! 2 Peter 2: 1, 2 1John 4: 1-3
Matt. 24: 11, 24 7: 15- 20 Mk. 13: 22.
False Test
Deut. 13: 1- 4 Deut. 18: 20- 22
1Kings 22; 6- 28 Mt. 7: 15- 20
Isa. 9: 13 -16
Jer. 23: 25 – 32.
The consequences that come through the words of the true prophet:
Repentance of sin, eternal life, love, comfort, spiritual growth, renewed vision, and a revival among the people to godly living.
The consequences that are produced by the false prophet’s words:
Sin, oppression, fear, bondage, destruction, misguidence, idolatry, immorality, and ultimately DEATH.
Some New Testament Prophets and their ministry.
Acts 11:27-28 A famine was predicted in order that help might be prepared and sent to those in need when it came. And it did come to pass, history records the veracity of this Word of God.
Note: Some prophets traveled from Jerusalem to Antioch, one by the name of Agabus.
Acts 20:17 Paul had stopped off at Ephesus on his way to Jerusalem, having been compelled by the Spirit to make this journey. The Elders listened as he related how the Spirit warned of prison and hardship which awaited him there. Paul now knows that he will never see these men again and this disclosure brings about a touching farewell.
Acts 21:4 At the city of Tyre certain disciples said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go to Jerusalem! This verse has been a puzzlement to readers for centuries, i.e.., how could the Spirit bind Paul to go to Jerusalem, and then say, “Don’t go to Jerusalem?” If this was a direct order from the Holy Spirit, Paul would have been guilty of gross disobedience to continue his journey! However this does not appear to be the case as the Lord continues to bless, anoint and instruct Paul. Perhaps the implication might be, “Don’t go to Jerusalem unless you are prepared to suffer…” Or perhaps, “If you go to Jerusalem you will be persecuted, etc.”
Acts 21: 8-14 Still journeying toward Jerusalem, the group is welcomed at the house of Philip the evangelist, where another prophet, Agabus, removed Paul’s sash and bound his own hands and feet with it, then prophesied, “So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this sash, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.” At this word, the believers all began to clamor for Paul not to continue this journey. But when he reaffirmed his intentions, they acquiesed with, “The will of the Lord be done.”
Note, Philip had 4 daughters who were prophetesses, also note how common and open this gift and ministry was among the believers. This narration also refutes the idea that prophecy is preaching. Now while it is possible for the preacher to prophecy and the prophet to preach, we must not confuse the two, nor relegate prophecy (anointed utterance that proceeds supernaturally from the Holy Spirit) to the deliverance of a lecture! Not that all sermons are mere lectures, but many of them are, and that’s the rub! We also must acknowledge however that many preachers are anointed by God when they deliver His Message to the people.
The First Missionary Journey AD 48 – 49
- 1. Antioch Acts 13: 1. Paul, Barnabus and John Mark left Antioch with the blessing of the Church. Their calling was to take the Gospel message to those who were ignorant of the true and living God. The message that was to be preached was salvation through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Their first step was to go to:
- Seleucia Acts 13: 4 Seleucia was a seaport where passage was sought to take this group to the large island of Cyprus.
- Cyprus Acts 13: 4 When they reached Cyprus, they began touring the island and preaching the Gospel to all who would hear it.
- Salamis (SAL-a-mis) 13: 5. As they reached the first city, they immediately went into a synagogue and preached the ‘Good News’ of salvation through Jesus Christ. From this seaport they journeyed across the island from east to west, speaking of Jesus the Messiah as opportunity afforded. Eventually they arrived in the island city of Paphos..
- Paphos 13:6 Here in this lovely city built on an island in a harbor on the western edge of Cyprus, a most notable spiritual battle was fought. The Deputy of Cyprus had a desire to hear these men of God, but the devil immediately had one of his servants on the spot to thwart this Gospel message. However Paul through the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit spoke judgment, and Elymus (the false prophet) was instantly made blind! This act of power so amazed the Deputy, Sergius Paulis, that he accepted Jesus Christ as his Saviour. There was one thing that these people understood, POWER! This deputy was to see in a most graphic way that the God of Paul and Barnabus was much greater than the god of this sorcerer.
Sorcery is the rage in England and America today. People are consulting witches, mediums, seers and prophets/prophetesses on every issue. And this is not just limited to the ignorant, it has caught on with government leaders, socialites, business leaders and professionals of nearly every level. The props are crystal balls, tea leaves the palm of the hand, stars, planets, etc. In order to predict future events.
BIBLE– Man is able to communicate with ungodly spirits, BUT he is absolutely forbidden to do so!
Lev. 19: 31 ‘Do not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out to be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God. (NAS)
Deut 18:9-15 “When you enter the land which the LORD your God gives you, you shall not learn to imitate the detestable things of those nations.
10 “There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, one who uses divination, one who practices witchcraft, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer,
11 or one who casts a spell, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead.
12 “For whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD; and because of these detestable things the LORD your God will drive them out before you.
13 “You shall be blameless before the LORD your God.
14 “For those nations, which you shall dispossess, listen to those who practice witchcraft and to diviners, but as for you, the LORD your God has not allowed you {to do} so.
15 “The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your countrymen, you shall listen to him. ( NAS)
1 Chron.10: 13,14 So Saul died for his trespass which he committed against the LORD, because of the word of the LORD which he did not keep; and also because he asked counsel of a medium, making inquiry {of it}
14 and did not inquire of the LORD. Therefore He killed him, and turned the kingdom to David the son of Jesse. (NAS)
Isa. 8: 19 And when they say to you, “Consult the mediums and the spiritists who whisper and mutter,” should not a people consult their God? {Should they} {consult} the dead on behalf of the living? (NAS)
Sorcery is the natural outgrowth of idolatry, first one worships something or someone in the place of GOD, then seeks to communicate and find direction from a source other than GOD! This is so deadly that God destroyed 7 nations because of it. Acts 13:19.
God abandoned the rebellious Israelites in the wilderness because of this Acts 7:39-43
Saul died because of it, see above 1Chron. 10:13,14
The second objection to it is, the medium is seeking information from the dead rather than the living, from a part of creation rather than the Creator!
But what if the information given is (1) information that is not known to others and (2) it is true? Well back to Acts 16… Knowledge produced which is true, but from the wrong source will cause the general populous to accept the wrong source (Satan). If the people of Philippi accepted these men of God upon the endorsement of this demon possessed woman, the people would naturally assume that they were one and the same source and that cannot be allowed. There is no fellowship between Christ and Belial!
Those who are involved in this business, (and a money-making business it is, involving millions of dollars annually) either do so by speaking and writing in such generalities that it can be interpreted many ways, or by the use of meticulous research and clever manipulation, or they receive and disseminate knowledge which is given to them through spirits of Satan. In the Bible these are called ‘familiar spirits’. The children of God were given explicit orders from the Lord to completely abstain from any of this activity!
Sorcery is demonic activity and leads to demon control , not only of the individual medium, but also the ones who patronize these people!
We are admonished to be aware of Satan and his methods, i.e.., how he operates, remember that idolatry is demon worship! 1 Cor. 10:20 The demons know about us and study our weaknesses. They know what we did yesterday or last year. They may reveal things that have some truth, but also what they reveal will contain lies! Demons do not know your future and speaking of the future, only God knows the truth about coming events. Demons do know things concerning future revealed by the Sacred Text, the same as what we may know.
Further reading:
“Demon Possession” by missionary John Nevius.
“Satan, Satanism and Witchcraft” by Richard DeHaan.
- Now it is time for them to board a ship and direct a course for the mainland of what is now Asia Minor or Turkey. Acts 13:13. As they reached the city of Perga, nothing is recorded except the fact that John Mark left Paul and Barnabus and went back to Jerusalem, (this was to cause a division between Paul and Barnabus later on), cf. Acts 15:38.
- 5. Antioch of Pisidia Acts 13: 14 – 52.
Here we have a detailed account of how Paul loved to preach the Gospel, i.e.., to the Jew first and then to the Gentiles. Evangelism began as the entered the Synagogue on the Sabbath Day and sat with the Jewish worshippers. Then when invited to speak, Paul seized the opportunity and proclaimed Christ (Messiah) as having come in the person of Jesus of Nazareth according to the Scriptures. Paul then shows the errors of Jewish leaders in Jerusalem, i.e., the rejection, the trial, and the crucifixion. After laying down this introduction, Paul preached the Resurrection and the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus along with His teaching concerning eternal life. Jesus gave Scriptural proofs from the Word, such as: Psa. 2:7 Isa. 55:3 Psa. 16:10.
The warning; Hab.1:5 Cf., Acts 13:41
“Behold, you scoffers, and marvel, and perish; for I am accomplishing a work in your days, a work which you will never believe, though someone should describe it to you.” NAS
Paul’s argument concerning the death and resurrection is very similar to Peter’s message on the Day of Pentecost seventeen years before.
The conclusion of this message exhorts the Jewish people to accept this gospel , because of its positive value and benefit, i.e., forgiveness of sin, or accept it because the negative position of rejection – is God’s wrath!
When the Jewish leaders saw the crowd that came to hear Paul and Barnabus the following Sabbath, they became jealous and rejected all that these men declared. This rejection caused the Gospel to be open and free to the Gentiles (Romans, Greeks, Barbarians, etc.). This caused great rejoicing among the Gentiles, but I must add, great persecution from the Jews.
CHAPTER 14
- Where did Paul and Barnabus journey to after being expelled from Antioch of Pisidia?
2 Why did they go to the synagogue to preach?
- Did any accept Christ as Messiah?
Again we find the unbelieving Jews stirring up opposition to the ministry of Christ, until persecution forced Paul and Barnabus to move on, but they left behind a great contingent of born-again believers in Iconium as a testimony of God’s saving grace.
Note: The Gospel of Christ left the city divided, and thus it has always been; some yield to God, accepting Jesus as Savior with the joy of eternal peace and hope. Others resist God, blaspheme the Son, persecute the Church and in so doing face a destiny of everlasting damnation!
- After leaving Iconium, where did these missionaries go?
- It was in the city of Lystra that a most remarkable event occurred. A man lame from birth responded to the gospel with faith to be healed. Paul noted this, and instantly he was healed by the power of God, a miracle of miracles among these people of Lycaonia. However in their superstitious minds they thought that two of their deities, Jupiter and Mercury were in their midst. As soon as possible the heathen priests made preparation for worship with sacrifices. As the worship began, Paul and Barnabus rushed out to stop this activity, but even with many words and much persuasion, they could scarce restrain these people.
Mercury was supposed to be very eloquent with a powerful voice, while Jupiter was the father image of all their gods, their supreme god. Perhaps this might allow us to have some insight into the ministry of these two men of God.
After the heathen priests begrudgingly led their oxen away, we note another view of human nature. Because of the antagonistic Jews, Paul was dragged without the city walls, stoned and left for dead! But these brand new babes in Christ gathered around Paul, crying out to God in fervent prayer until He answered and Paul arose to his feet and went back into the city as a testimony to God’s grace and power. A young teenager may have been one of those believers who gathered around Paul that day, at least we know him as a young man of faith who became very important in the ministry of Christ later on (Timothy of Lystra).
Derbe- Our missionaries next journeyed to Derbe with the gospel of Christ. After ministering in Derbe, Paul and Barnabus began the return journey through the new churches that they had previously planted. The churches were strengthened, Elders appointed and believers encouraged in the faith. Back to Lystra, Iconium, Antioch of Pisidia, Perga, Attalia and home to Antioch of Syria.
A CHRONOLOGICAL ACCOUNT OF THE BOOK OF ACTS
And Other New Testament Books
Note: All dates are approximate. Most scholars disagree as to exact dates of that era. So use them as tentative times, Ellis.
4 B.C. Jesus born High Priest – Gov.- Emperor Paul born Kng. Herod the Great 37 – 4 BC
26 AD Ministry of Jesus begins Emp. Augustus 31 BC – 14 AD
30 AD Crucifixion King Archelaus 4 BC – 6 AD
32 AD Paul Converted H.P. Annas (office) 6 AD – 15 AD
H.P. Caiaphas 18 AD -36 AD
Gov. Pilate 26 AD – 36 AD
Emp. Caligua 37 AD – 41 AD
Kng Herod Agrippi 41 AD – 44 AD
48, 49 AD 1st Miss.Jr. Written Book Emp. Claudius 41 AD – 54 AD
49, 52 AD 2nd “ From Gov. Felix 52 AD – 58 AD
52-56 AD 3rd “ Corinth 1 Thess. 52 Gov. Festus 58 AD – 60 AD
Corinth 2 Thess. 53 Emp. Nero 54 AD – 68 AD
Corinth Gal. 52-57
Ephesus 1Cor. 57
Macedonia 2Cor. 67
Corinth Rom. 58
60-62 AD Paul at Judea or Rome James 61-62
Rome in prison Rome Phil. 62
Rome Col. 62
Rome Philemon 62
Heb.? 63
Greece Acts 63-64
Greece Luke 63-64
Babylon or Rome 1Peter 63-67
Antioch Matt. 64
Rome Mark 64
Rome 2Peter 64-68
Jude 65
67 – Paul’s death Macedonia 1Tim 67
In Rome Macedonia Titus 67
Rome Eph.. 67
Rome 2Tim. 68
67-71 Jewish War Asia Minor John 68 Emp. Galba 68-69 AD
71-72 Jerusalem Destroyed 1,2,3 Jn 80-90 “ Otho 69
Patmos Rev. 96 “ Vitellius 69
“ Vespasian 69-79
“ Titus 79-81
“ Domition 81-96
“ Nerva 96-98
“ Trajan 98-117
In AD 63 Paul is acquitted. He travels to Macedonia, then to Asia Minor. If he ever went to Spain, it probably occurred at this time, 64-65 AD. In the summer of 66 he is found in Asia Minor again (Ephesus) and a year later in Macedonia, from whence he writes the first epistle to Timothy from Ephesus The same year, Autumn of 67, he writes his epistle to Titus from Ephesus. The Winter is spent in Nicopolis. In the Spring, he is a prisoner in Rome again where he writes his second epistle to Timothy. He is executed shortly after this, AD 68.
The Reference Passage Bible, New Testament
CHAPTER 15
Chapter 15 opens with the first purely doctrinal crisis to ignite within the Church. Previous conflicts were from those opposed to Christ and His Salvation and came in the form of persecution from without the Church.
This contention, however, is by far the most serious and has far reaching ramifications. The outcome of this crisis will determine whether the Gospel is indeed freely bestowed upon all nations, or whether it will remain in the form of a Jewish sect.
These Pharisees, although ‘born again’ had a penchant for going by ancient tradition, these traditions had been added up over and over with the Law of Moses thrown in for good measure. The Pharisees could only see Christianity coming through Jewish law and worship (this still comes through today by different sects, i.e.., Seventh Day Adventists, Judeao- Christian groups, etc.) Paul and Barnabus, on the other hand, viewed God’s Grace going beyond a strictly Jewish nationality into all nations and races on the merit of CHRIST ALONE!
The position of these Pharisees:
“You cannot be saved unless you also keep the Law and are circumcised according to Moses.” Circumcision reached back in Jewish history to the Abramic Covenant with its attending sign of circumcision, Gen. Chapter 17. Specifically all males in Abraham’s household and all descendants to follow must comply with this requirement in order that God’s blessing might rest upon the nation, viz., the land of Canaan for a possession and Jehovah’s blessing upon them as their God, (circumcision was a sign of separation, separation from other nations and dedicated to the true and living God)! An uncircumcised Jewish male was cut off from this inheritance.
The Mosaic Covenant (LAW) with its attending sign, Sabbath(s) was given to Moses on Mt. Sinai Ex.20:1-26 31:12-17. Any Israelite profaning this sign came under the sentence of death!.
Now then we have two covenants between God and Israel before us with all their mandatory regulations and penalties. The Judaizers (Christians who obligated all other Christians to Jewish Law and customs) arrived at an erroneous belief, ie., All Christians must accept and obey Jehovah’s plans for the Jewish people, which began with His covenant to Abraham ( signified by circumcision), then progressing to His covenant to Moses (Initiating by the giving of the Law to the circumcised Jewish adherent).
The New Covenant, New Testament. However God’s covenant now reached out to all the world at Golgotha with the death of His Son, Jesus Christ! This covenant also had certain requirements, viz., acceptance of Christ as Savior, Repentance of sin and the attending sign or rite of water baptism.
Since the Pharisees saw salvation as a continuous flow from Jehovah, they mandated (1) sacrifices, (2) the rite of circumcision, (3) the keeping of the Law, (4) the acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and (5) water baptism,
Had this view prevailed, the great commission would have been changed to, “Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature, teaching them to conform to the content of the Jewiah Law and its customs, requiring them to be circumcised, to keep the Sabbaths and be baptized in water. In other words, a “Jew/Christian.
As the council convened in Jerusalem, Acts 15: 5-29, the Holy Spirit prevailed and the Gospel of Jesus Christ was declared to be free from these encumbrances. Salvation for the Gentiles would continue to be by GOD’S GRACE, through FAITH! Read also Rom.7 and Gal.3, etc.
Four abstaiances given by the Council however, were particularly needed for these new Gentile Christians coming out of a heathen temple society!
- ‘Meats offered to idols’ It is contrary to Christ’s communion and the True Worship of God to be involved in demon activity, cf. ICor. 10:14-21. The people of that day presented their food to the idol they worshipped, then on to the market place for a quick sale. Christians had no way of knowing if some of this food had been offered to idols, but if this information was relayed to them, they were to reject the food; if no information was available, they were free to eat since the idol was of no consequence to the Christian 1Cor. 10:23-33
- ‘Fornication” This word in the Greek, oorneias ( (porneias) has the meaning of sexual immorality and refers to all manner of such immorality! It was, and still is forbidden for the children of God to engage in these practices! Since God desires for His children a stable home and a loving family relationship, this ban is a blessing rather than harassment. A family with God’s blessing upon it cannot be, if the home has for its foundation, immorality. The heathen temples revolved around such gross immorality.
- & 4. ‘Blood and things strangled’. This again went to the heart of the heathen worship and demon activity. The heathen imagined ‘blood’ as the food of demons and drank it in order to communicate with them. They also drank the blood of their enemies, sometimes from their skulls. This practice is abhorrent to all Christendom. ‘Things strangled’ also refers to the heathen worship, this time, from the practice of strangling their victims.
These four particular commands led the believers to sever all ties with the old life of idolatry. Remember, the community of that day centered all activities around these temples, so it meant for the Christians to cut many activities involving even friends and relatives.
We must remember, however, that obeying bans does not produce salvation! Christ alone has provided that! But as a result of Salvation; blood will not be drunk, immorality will be forsaken and the old heathen temple detoured. Also read, Gal.5: 19-21; 1Cor. 6:9-11, etc.
Some study questions from Acts 13, 14, 15
- When was Saul’s name changed to Paul?
- Who said, “Separate Me Barnabus and Saul?”
- To what Island did they first go with the Gospel?
- What happened at Paphos?
- Chap. 13:38; Through Jesus is ______________ _____ _________.
- Did the Jews accept this message?
- Did the Gentiles accept this message?
THE SECOND MISSIONARY JOURNEY
Acts 15:36 to 18:22 Paul, Silas, Timothy, Luke.
Itinerary – See. General Outline, page 2.
- Missionary labors in Asia Minor. Acts 16:1-9
- Derbe, Antioch, Lystra and Iconium. Paul and Barnabus established churches here on their first missionary journey.
Timothy became a member of the Missionary party along with Paul, Silas and perhaps Luke. Timothy seems to have been an outstanding young man, though physically weak and by temperament, timid. He accepted Christ at the preaching of Paul in Lystra. Paul refers to him as his son, cf. 1Tim.1:2. The second Epistle to Timothy was written by Paul from Rome between 65-67 AD. That Epistle was the last letter of Paul. Timothy was in Ephesus at this time and was the Bishop of the church.
As Paul traveled through this area of previous ministry, he preached the Gospel, delivered decrees from the Apostles and established each church in the faith. We assume that the pattern of this journey was much like the first, although few details are given.
After traveling and ministering in Galatia, they arrived in Troas, (the ancient city of Troy) in the province of Mysia on the west coast of what is now Turkey. They were forbidden by the Spirit to preach the Word in Asia at this time, (Proconsular Asia consisted of: Lydia, Caria and Mysia) Later during the Third Missionary Journey, Paul ministered here with very positive results. They were not to preach in Bithynia, again the leading of the Spirit was sovereign. Europe was now ready for the Gospel and the Holy Spirit was pressing this little party onward!
TROAS: Acts 16:6-13
This missionary group had already reached many hungry hearts in the regions of Cilicia, Lycaonia, Phrygia and Galatia, but now Paul, the leader, was in a dilemma. “Where are we to go? We have been forbidden by the Spirit of God on the right hand, directed away from the left, completed our task with those behind us and there is nothing before us but the open sea!”
That night the answer came from God as a man from Macedonia appeared before Paul in a vision. “Come over into Macedonia and help us,” the man prayed. This incident should make every Believer aware of the fact that God has directions for Spirit-led Christians to follow! Knowing the Will of God produces in one a positive attitude toward one’s own destiny! The continuous leading of the Spirit directs him into that harmonious relationship with the Lord that bears eternal fruit. Cf. John 15. The leading of the Spirit is always correct and timely, and since it is eternal in scope, it supersedes our near-sighted ephemeral plans and aspirations. Check with booklet, NEW LIFE IN GOD’S WILL, by Ellis.
Ques. If God does provide guidance for my life, do I have a choice in the proceedings?
Ans. YES! God does not want nor need robots or mechanical people; He desires obedient Children to serve Him in love!
Examples:
Queen Esther; Esther 4:14
Isaiah; God’s call, man’s answer, Isa. 6:8
Jonah; Although Jonah at first rejected this call of God and fled in the opposite direction, God met and delivered him the moment he repented in the belly of that great fish. Circumstances now made him more that willing to obey!
Guidance from God is absolutely necessary because the individual with direction from God exhibits a positive attitude in serving the Lord. “God said to go, so here I am!” Persecution will not deter, nor does it take encouraging words to remain. And since he is obeying God, he does not even have to see results in order to continue. Anyhow, numerical and financial results alone are a fallacy of modern day mechanics! Jim Jones had a large following and prospered financially, but events in Guyana proved him far from God and His will. However I must point out that there will be results both tangible and spiritual following a believer’s ministry in the Spirit. Mk. 16:17,18.
As we read in the book of Hebrews chapter 11, we note that most of those who accepted and followed God’s Call… Suffered! Some were imprisoned, many were killed, others destitute. Yet they were not only the Children of God, but they were lifted up as examples for us to follow! Whoever said that being in the Will of God guaranteed financial gain and a life of ease? Not the Apostle Paul, for in his letter to Timothy (1Tim. 5:3-6), he noted this very teaching in the Church and contradicted it with this spiritual maxim, “Godliness with contentment is (your) great gain.” Certainly not John in his greeting to his beloved Gaius 3John 1, 2. This greeting was a prayer for a gentle man of truth (who aided itinerant Christian ministers) to continue in his labor of love and to remain healthy and prosperous in his service unto Christ. This is a warm prayer of encouragement and should be prayed by Christians today for one another, but it does not establish the doctrine, “If you are spiritual, you will be healthy and wealthy” any more than a prayer for a quiet and a peaceable life establishes the doctrine that a Christian is above persecution, harassment and trouble.
These words mean exactly what they indicate, a sincere desire for the Child of God to be strong and healthy… To… Prosper… And to be able to live a quiet, peaceable life! Amen! This is our prayer for each of you today!
Back to God’s will and leading for a moment — since we are human, it is possible for us to err and mistake God’s will at times. It is also possible to misread His daily leading. However, if error comes, the humble child of God will be gently led by the Spirit back into God’s divine guidance.
God will guide and direct His children! He wouldn’t be a Father if He didn’t!
God leads or directs by:
- The Bible, 2 Tim.3:16
- An anointed message or sermon, Acts 2:37,41 Acts 14:8,9.
- A definite impression or burden, Acts 15:36, 19:21, 20:22,23.
- A supernatural utterance (Charismatic expression of the Holy Spirit) such as prophecy, tongues/interpretation, word of knowledge, word of wisdom, etc. 1Cor. Ch. 12 and 14, Acts 13:1,2 Acts 21:11
- A supernatural revelation (dreams, visions, angelic appearances, etc.) Acts 16:9,10,
Acts 27:21-25, Acts 18:9,10.
- Circumstances (opened and closed doors, etc.) 1Cor.16:8,9 2Cor.2:12 Col. 4:3 Rv.3:8
- An audible voice, rare, yet common if one refers to the still small voice within Acts 9:1-7.
The morning following the Macedonian vision, passage was quickly secured to cross the Aegean Sea. The ship spread her sails and cleared the harbor in order to anchor at the island of Samothracia that night. The following day they arrived at Neapolis of Macedonia and from this seaport they traveled overland to the chief city of Philippi. This city will always be remembered as the place of the first foothold of Christianity in Europe.
Two events took place soon after their arrival that laid the groundwork for Christ’s kingdom in Europe and both involve women.
First – Lydia, a successful business woman who had been sent to Philippi from Thyatira as a representative of the woolen and dye industry. She appeared to be wealthy, deeply religious and charitable. She, along with other women found a place of prayer along a riverbank each Sabbath, and that is the spot where her path crossed the path of the Apostle Paul and Silas. She listened attentively to the words of Paul and immediately accepted Christ as her Savior, was baptized along with her entire family, then opened her home to these Godly men as a gospel command post.
Second – The fortune teller. The second woman was just the opposite of Lydia, she was poor, demon possessed and a slave, a tool of cruel men who exploited her for their profit. Yet it was she who provided the opportunity for the gospel to reach the entire city! This girl was possessed with a spirit of divination (Greek: Python). This heathen god was represented by a huge serpent, who was supposed to put within selected followers an ability to see the future, tell fortunes, make prognostications, etc. This is remarkably similar in these modern days of an experience related by Jeanne Dixon. In her first vision, July 14, 1952, she said that a huge serpent approached her bed and slowly entwined itself around her body. As she looked into the eyes of the creature, she saw that they were full of love, goodness and knowledge, and a deep sense of peace flowed through her. Later she reversed herself on the interpretation and concluded that it was a symbol of Satan! Read Isa.47:11-15 2Cor.11: 13-15 Deut. 18:10-12 and Jer. 10:2.
This slave girl followed these men of God about the city, all the while crying out, “These men are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of salvation.” This young lady was a complete stranger to Paul and Silas, yet she knew about them and their ministry, and the statement she shouted was absolutely true in every respect! This happened not once or twice, but over and over, day after day, throughout the city.
Can you see the picture? Paul and Silas moving slowly through the dusty, crowded streets and following along close behind, walked a woman gifted by some mysterious force crying out periodically her message, Naturally this captured the attention of the city. Soon huge crowds began to follow and listened as these men spoke of one ‘Jesus,’ The Savior of mankind who died, but is now resurrected from the dead, and is seated at the right hand of Almighty God. Yet all the while these haunting cries continue. Suddenly in the midst of this immense crowd, Paul turned and said to the spirit, “I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her!” Immediately the spirit departed and she was free!
- What was the real reason that Paul and Silas were brought before the magistrates in Philippi?
- But what did their accusers tell the rulers?
Note: The Romans were very jealous of their rules and customs and took any offense against them personally.
- But since this is Macedonia and far from Rome, why should such an issue arise here?
- What penalty was meted out?
- Where were they taken?
- Who was charged with their security?
7 Paul complained bitterly and threatened the jailor. T____ F_____.
- What did Paul and Silas do that night in prison?
- Were they heard?
- What caused the prison doors to open and the shackles to fall off?
- What happened when the jailor saw the open prison doors?
- The jailor immediately locked them up again. T____ F____
- What question did the jailor ask Paul and Silas?
- What did the jailor do for them?
- What did Paul and Silas do for the jailor and his family?
Question – Why did Paul cast the spirit of Python out of the oracle? Wasn’t she helping them out with this free publicity, etc.?
- The first answer pertains to the Jews. Paul always appealed to these people first with the gospel. But they were commanded in the Law and the Prophets to have nothing to do with diviners, charmers, mediums, etc. Cf. Deut. 18:10-12. Had Paul and Silas tolerated the testimony of this heathen fortune teller (even though true) would have put them in league with heathen practices, in the Jewish mind and cut them off from the gospel.
- Had they continued preaching Jesus Christ to the Romans, heralded by this prophetess, the colony would assume, and rightly so, that they were in league together. This might have brought a quick response among the superstitious heathen, but then Jesus the Lord would be seen as just another facet in the worship of Apollo.
- The Kingdom of God is not compatible with the Kingdom of Darkness! “You cannot serve God and mammon…” Mt. 6:24. There is not now, and can never be fellowship between the two! Cf. 1Cor. 11.
The very same Holy Spirit was now upon Paul as was upon Jesus in Luke 4:18,19. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He hath annointed me to preach the Gospel to the poor; He hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives…” Sooner or later the confrontation must come, the captives freed and Satan routed!” Cf. Lk.10:17-20.
THE SECOND MISSIONARY JOURNEY CONTINUED… Acts chapter 17
Amphipolis, Apollonia, Thessalonica
But first , just a word on Greek etymology:
‘Polis’ is Greek for ‘City’; ‘nea’, or ‘neo’, their word for ‘new’, hence Neapolis in Acts 16:11 has the meaning of, ‘New City’.
Amphipolis– Amphi meaning ‘both’, so a city of or with ‘both’; both what? It was a city built on an island in the middle of the River Strymon. There was river on both sides of the city. ‘Amphi’ is found in ‘amphibian’, ambidextrous, etc.
Today, ‘polis’ survives in metropolis (mater, mother) polis (city), or cosmopolitan a person who is at home anywhere in the cosmos (world), the world is his city. Police- those involved in the protection of the city, enforcing city regulations, etc…
Bidding farewell to the new Christians of Philippi, Paul and Silas journeyed westward until they arrived in Thessalonica. As was Paul’s custom they first went into the Jewish synagogue with the message that the promised Messiah had come, fulfilling all prophecies about Him in the inspired writings.
This exciting news was gladly received by many, both Jews and Gentiles, but opposition soon arose from envious Jews, and shortly the city was in an uproar. The new converts whisked Paul and Silas from the clutches of these violent Jews and after dark sent them on to Berea, about 50 miles southwest of Thessalonica.
I don’t believe that Paul ever found a more studious group of worshippers anywhere. Immediately they began searching the Scrolls, testing Paul’s word with the ‘Word’. When they discovered that he accurately proclaimed Messiah’s presence according to God’s inspired revelation they were electrified. A great number accepted Jesus as Saviour.
Soon jealous Jews from Thessalonica arrived in Berea looking to make trouble and searching for Paul in particular. Again the new converts came to the rescue by slipping Paul onboard a ship going to Athens. Silas and Timothy were to follow later. This is the first mention of Timothy ministering with them, however we know that he had journeyed in the group since Lystra, Acts 16:1-3.
- [1] Perdition; Gr. Apolea, utter destruction, everlasting destruction as punishment for the wicked, cf. Mt. 7:13 Rv.7:13 Rv. 17:8,11 1. 1. Perdition Gr. Apolea, utter destruction, everlasting destruction as punishment for the wicked, cf. Mt. 7:13 Rev.17:8, 11 Heb.10:39 Phil. 3:19.
- Those destined for hell are called the son’s of apolea, Jn. 17:12; also the Antichrist, 2Thess.2:3