Analysis of Acts

This commentary is a verse-by-verse bible expository in order to provide believers with another resource for their personal study of the word of God! This will be a "work-in-progress" so that friends can study incrementally as I am able to add on! From time to time, I will inject audio clips as which will be indicated as such.

Directions: This particular page will be an all inclusive chapter-by-chapter breakout so just click on the link of interest as they become available!

It is my hope and prayer that believers will be enlightened, encouraged and edified as they learn about God's word rightly divided!

Who wrote Acts, and who was it to? Written by Luke “To Theophilus” who further continues his gospel account of the person, work and ministry of Jesus Christ in the very beginning, but immediately transitions into what should accurately be described as the fall of Israel. It was dually written “to” kingdom saints and “for” grace believers to serve as a

transition book from “law” to “grace” (please see “What is this book about”?)

When was Acts written? The events of Acts span between 33 A.D. through 62 A.D. and the book itself was penned by Luke around 62 A.D. It should be noted that Luke was one of the few followers of Christ who were exposed to God’s dispensing of law and grace (after it was revealed to Paul)! While not being one of the twelve apostles, Luke wrote the Gospel of Luke and continued his account in Acts beginning at the ascension of Jesus Christ and concluding at Paul’s statement concerning his distinctive ministry to the Gentiles.

What is this book about? It was dually written “to” kingdom saints and “for” grace believers to serve as a transition book to show:

§ The origination of the conclusion of God’s dispensing of law and soon “shelving” of His program to Israel (Romans 9 through 11) as demonstrated by:

† Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven after His glorious resurrection and revealing to the masses of people concerning His victory over death itself.

† Christ’s specific instruction to the apostles to continue His ministry in Jerusalem and Judea and then to the uttermost parts of the world.

† The stoning of Stephen even after his sermon to the leadership of Israel as a nation in Acts 7. Please remember that Stephen’s sermon was on the heals of Peter’s message to that same faction of religious rulers as recorded in Acts 2 and 3. Both messages were rejected culminating in the death of Stephen (who was filled with the Holy Ghost while accusing Israel of rejecting The Third Member of the Godhead as well).

† Three Strikes and Your Out! Department: In summary, Israel had rejected the warning of each member of the Godhead:

3. The rejection of God The Holy Spirit at the stoning death of Stephen (after he provided a “Readers Digest” version of the nation of Israel and its rebellion against God!

ü Take special note that after the stoning of Stephen, before he died he saw Jesus Christ standing at the right hand of God. Jesus standing was not to give Stephen an ovation but was instead a picture of Him coming ready to judge the planet, to usher in the Great Tribulation for on the prophetic calendar this was next! The Greek word “histemi” for “standing” in Acts 7 depicts one who stands for a cause, one who stands for authority or for one who stands ready or prepared. The risen Christ is The One who fits all of these including several Old Testament verses that show God ready to defend or judge when “standing”.

§ Psalms 82:1 - God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods.

§ Psalms 109:26 Let mine adversaries be clothed with shame, and let them cover themselves with their own confusion, as with a mantle. I will greatly praise the LORD with my mouth; yea, I will praise him among the multitude. For he shall stand at the right hand of the poor, to save him from those that condemn his soul.

† The “Nations” or Gentiles had repeatedly rejected God (Romans 1 through 3) and were strangers and aliens to the commonwealth of Israel “That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world” – Ephesians 2:12

† The Gentile “estrangement” started back in Genesis 11, while being of one language, the nations collaborated to build a tower unto to God to reach Him. God wanted them scattered abroad but they did not want to be scattered abroad! Because of this continued disobedience, God judged the Gentiles through the confounding or confusion of their language. Please note that the catastrophic events of the judgment of the flood were only several generations old but the Gentiles had still rebelled again. In fact, they had fallen into grave idolatry in response to God’s desires for them (Joshua 24:2). God knew that “nothing would be restrained from them” so He scattered them and closed the chapter on them! At the end of Genesis 11 and beginning in Genesis 12 Abram, a Gentile, would now be the father of Israel. He then received His calling from God which signified a change in His dealings, house rules or dispensings with man.

† In Peter’s dissertation in Acts 2, the apostle quoted Joel 2:28-30 when he described events leading up to the coming judgment of Messiah. 28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: 29 And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. 30 And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. 31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the LORD come. Peter expected judgment to come shortly!

In summary, the purpose of Acts has erroneously been taught in many Christian circles as the birth of the church, The Body of Christ. In fact, the book of Acts’ primary focus is about the failure of God’s chosen nation and not about the growth of the church (don’t be mislead by the mention of new converts in early Acts chapters as many pastors are today concerning the growth of their ministries)! The Book of Acts serves as a “transition” from law to grace without definitively being to kingdom saints or to grace age believers since its message to some degree speaks to both factions! The most significant part for saints today under God’s marvelous dispensing of grace is the conversion of Saul of Tarsus in chapter 9. Up until that point Saul, who would become Paul, The Apostle to the Gentiles, was as wretched and murderous as Adolph Hitler! But after receiving the first of several revelations of the risen, glorified Jesus Christ he became our loving ambassador of grace of whom the Holy Spirit says that ‘we should follow as he follows Christ’!

Acts 1

I. The Instruction of Jesus Christ

Acts 1:1-4 - 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.

§ Greek UEV – man: truly, certainly, surely, indeed

§ Greek PROTOS – former: first in time, rank or place

§ Greek LOGOS - treatise of speech a word, uttered by a living voice, embodies a conception or idea, the sayings of God, decree, mandate or order, of the moral precepts given by God, doctrine, instruction or teaching

§ In verses 1 through 3, Luke insists that through a certainty, he received the personal “treatise” (or word of God - logos) of the ministry of Jesus Christ. In its context, we also know by historical fact (Gospel of Luke) that Luke walked with Christ during His earthly ministry which validates verse 1 here. “Theophilus” was a friend of Luke’s and a friend of God according to the meaning of his name. Upon reading the Gospel of Luke in chapter 1, Acts chapter 1 has the same manner of familiarity and again mentions Theophilus as the second, direct, recorded dialog that he has had with this beloved saint.

§ Luke testifies about his witness of Jesus Christ as he also describes the operation of the Holy Spirit and the commandments that were given to the chosen apostles (11 at that time and after the death of Judas):

† To not depart from Jerusalem and to wait for the promise of the Father which they had heard of before.

† To recall Jesus Christ’s resurrection and life with them in that he showed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs! John 21:24-25 testifies that had the events in Christ’s life all been recorded, there would not have been enough books to capture them.

Ω 24 This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true. 25 And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.

† To remind the apostles that for forty days Jesus spoke to them pertaining to the things of the kingdom of God.

It is interesting to note that Christ’s resurrection was not that He just simply rose from the dead in secret. In fact as He died on the cross, the bible records in Matthew that many saints that had “slept” in Christ, arose from the dead and appeared to people throughout the city! Friends, could you imagine that? God even at that time began paving the way for the resurrected Christ to show Himself victor over death!

Acts 1:5-9 - 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.

Starting in verse 5 we read that John for a certainty baptized with water; but now, the disciples are being told that they shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. God had not used this reference to the operation of the Holy Spirit in this way before, and truthfully I am not convicted that the apostles themselves were even sure what Christ meant!

Testifying of this theory (verse 6) was the fact that “the 11” didn’t even ask Jesus what he meant by this but instead, asked about the status and timing of the kingdom and whether or not it would be restored. But our Lord countered (verse 7) and pointed back to the operation of the Holy Spirit when He said that it was not for them to know the times or the seasons of the Father’s game plan.

§ Greek CHRONOS – times: long or short, where we get the word “chronology” from

§ Greek PROTOS – former: first in time, rank or place

Our Lord continued His instruction to “the 11” as He described the power of the Holy Ghost that would soon come upon them. One of the most misunderstood concepts across “Christendom” is the operation of God The Holy Spirit. Many believe that He is some “amped up” power source causing people to fall backward uncontrollably, “slain in the spirit”. Others do not distinguish His part in God’s overall plan for mankind.

Several years back I had a “spirited” discussion with another person on the difference between the concept of God The Holy Spirit coming upon a believer and God The Holy Spirit indwelling a believer. In verse 8 from above, the Greek word epi after careful study means the following:

1. upon, on, at, by, before

2. of position, on, at, by, over, against

3. to, over, on, at, across, against

Nowhere does this word even imply an “indwelling” of a believer. It is no different than not understanding the distinction between riding on top of an automobile versus riding inside an automobile. However, it is clear in the context of this verse, that Jesus told His disciples that The Holy Ghost would indeed come upon them and do so for a special purpose! Take note that this is not the first time that Christ told the apostles about the coming ministry of The Holy Spirit. In the Gospel of John in chapters 15 and 16, Jesus spoke of soon coming The Comforter and His operation!

In the rest of verse 8, Jesus told “the 11” that they would be witnesses to Him not only in Jerusalem but also in all Judea, Samaria and then into the uttermost parts of the world. At the end of His earthly ministry, Luke records His departure as Christ being taken up in a cloud while speaking to them and eventually vanishing from before them. After some careful study of the account these verses, some things came to mind:

§ Jesus specifically told His disciples that they were on a “need to know” basis concerning the establishment of the kingdom.

§ The 11 apostles (that is what they were before Matthias was chosen) were instructed to remain in Jerusalem and from a historical and legal perspective preach the gospel (good news) of the kingdom as Jesus did.

§ Christ’s disciples did not know they wouldn’t make it out of Jerusalem alive. Jesus did not want them to know that Israel as a nation would ultimately reject their Messiah and that all of the apostles (except John) would eventually be martyred for their faith as a result.

§ Although Jesus prophesized of Peter’s death (John 21:18), it is unclear when Peter would eventually come to grips with that fact.

§ His disciples “beheld” him as He left planet earth to ascend into the heavens. In other words, they saw (Greek - ophthalmos) His physical body leave from among them up to the heavens eventually being overtaken by a cloud.

II. The Intimacy of The Little Flock

Acts 1:10-12 - 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 have 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.

The bible tells us in verse 10 that “the 11” looked earnestly, steadfastly or fixed their eyes upon, a particular event. That event being Jesus Christ rising before them out of their site! They were so transfixed by this that two men in brilliant, angelic clothing stood by them and asked them why they stood gazing in amazement. The two men encouraged the disciples by telling them that Jesus in the same way will return to the earth in the same fashion you saw Him depart (verse 11). Verse 12 tells us that Jesus Christ departed from Mt. Olivet which is a significant landmark in scripture to Israel and not to His Body, The Church. Unfortunately, many fundamental teachers confuse this section of scripture by associating it with “the rapture”. This is not a rapture verse:

§ Zechariah 4:14 - And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south.

Please take note of the fact that in this section of scripture, we are in the book of Acts, chapter 1, verses 1 through 10. The law is still firmly dispensed to Israel as stewards to God and He has not yet shelved this program! It is true that grace and truth did indeed come from Jesus Christ (John 1:17) but Christ had not yet revealed grace and peace!

Acts 1:13-14 - 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.

Along with key women who supported the ministry of Jesus Christ, Mary, His mother, His brothers and the 11 apostles met together in an upper room. How scared and isolated they must have felt with the “Little Flock” (Luke 12:32) being but 120 strong and Christ already ascended into heaven. They all persevered in one mind and one passion and were devoted to His ministry. They sought direction and counsel through prayer to and from God collectively.

Acts 1:15-16 - 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.

The Greek word for “stood up” (anistemi) describes someone who arises from the dead or from lying down. As the one who distinctively denied Christ three times, Peter now boldly asserts himself amidst the 120 followers who were assembled. The words describing “names” in verse 15 indicate that those who were present were people who were known by others and had a rank or authority about them. I am convinced that The Holy Spirit wanted this fact to be known to assure its readers that there wasn’t a last minute “collection of bodies” to validate the ascension of Jesus Christ as well as the account of His instructions to His followers.

The scripture fulfilled in verse 16 comes from Psalm 41:9. David speaking from his heart about the treachery of his enemies, unknowingly prophecies about the treachery that would await Christ on His way to the cross.

Psalm 41 ¹ Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. ² The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. ³ The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness. ⁴ I said, LORD, be merciful unto me: heal my soul; for I have sinned against thee. ⁵ Mine enemies speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his name perish? ⁶ And if he come to see me, he speaketh vanity: his heart gathereth iniquity to itself; when he goeth abroad, he telleth it. ⁷ All that hate me whisper together against me: against me do they devise my hurt. ⁸ An evil disease, say they, cleaveth fast unto him: and now that he lieth he shall rise up no more. ⁹ Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me. ¹⁰ But thou, O LORD, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them. ¹¹ By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me. ¹² And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever. ¹³ Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen.

III. The Indignation of Peter

Acts 1:17 - 17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.

The term indignation (in also being a good “I” word…J) accurately fits what the 11 may have felt about “the one” who was numbered with them. All 12 apostles were guilty of forsaking Christ and fleeing (Matthew 26:50-56). But only Judas fled, orchestrated his own revolt, and not only turned over Christ to the authorities to be put to death, but put the lives and the families of Christ’s followers at risk as well!

Acts 1:18-20 - 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.

Starting in verse 18 Peter describes how “this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity” and gruesomely discusses the detail of his death.

§ While many question the method of Judas’ suicide since in the gospel accounts the bible tells us that he hung himself, reconciliation to the description of his demise is possible.

§ Many scholars have concluded that Judas hung himself over a cliff and that after some time the rope broke and he fell headlong into a rocky canyon.

§ Scripture tells us that he hung himself and whether he fell dead or alive is inconsequential as long as scripture is not compromised.

Again, the Book of Psalms prophecies of the one who would betray Messiah in Psalm 109 and specifically calls for “another to take his office” in verse 8. In Zechariah 11 the details of the financial transaction are discussed plainly.

Zechariah 11:12,13 - ¹² And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. ¹³ And the LORD said unto me, Cast it unto the potter: a goodly price that I was prised at of them. And I took the thirty pieces of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the LORD.

Also, starting in Genesis 37 the story of Joseph “typifies” many future events of Christ’s life in this outstanding story. Specifically, Joseph’s brother Judah sells him into slavery for 20 pieces of silver as an example.

Acts 1:21-22 - 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.

Peter’s description of the qualifications of an apostle must not be overlooked. He specifically points to two milestones as the boundaries; The Baptism of John and The Departure of Jesus Christ. The qualifying candidate must have had to have been present during the ministry of Jesus Christ. Of more importance “must one be ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection”.

Acts 1:23-26 - 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.

Scholars and teachers alike dispute how Peter and the apostles chose Judas’ replacement. They argue since the apostles use lots, their methodology is like gambling and could not have been from God. But in verse 24, the bible tells us that they prayed and asked direction from the Lord. Lots were often pebbles, bits of wood or potshard pieces placed in a jar and cast onto the ground. The piece that came out of the jar first belonged to the one that was chosen. In this case the lot fell and Matthias was numbered with the 11. No more recorded information is written about him beyond this point.

Acts 2

I. The Direction of The Holy Spirit

Acts 2:1-4 - ¹ And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. ² And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. ³ And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. ⁴ And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

§ With Jesus Christ recently ascended into heaven and after choosing Matthias as the 12^th apostle and replacement for Judas, there had been no recorded changes in how God was dealing with mankind (no dispensation change; The Law was still in operation). Although the gateway to grace was provided by the loving kindness of Jesus Christ and his redemptive work, His special dispensing and instruction on how He would deal with man was not yet revealed!

§ In verses 1 through 4, Israel is still in the forefront and the 12 had already received the instruction from Christ to preach the gospel of the kingdom and specifically where to preach it as well as what order.

§ The Kingdom Gospel is its uniqueness is a “good news” message that:

† Proclaims Jesus Christ as The Son of God (God Himself); which must be believed to be saved.

† Jesus Christ The Messiah is offering the Kingdom to Israel and will establish it on planet earth (Christ often quoted “the kingdom is at hand”)

† Jesus Christ will rule and reign on the earth forever along with those who take Him at His word:

1. His nation Israel and members of that nation based on lineage, faith and its resulting expression of faith under the Law of God!

2. Gentiles who would realize their position and come through Israel to be reconciled to God.

† This promise of the Kingdom is two-fold in nature:

1. The fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham concerning the land for Israel (And he told Abraham to walk its borders...).

2. The fulfillment of the kingdom and its establishment that God promised to David.

Friends, none of these promises pertain to the Body of Christ and they are distinctly to Israel! None of these promises are for any other religious system, sect, organization, government or church!

SEASONAL FESTIVALS

Beginning in verse 1, Luke spoke of one of the three annual festivals following each season of the year. These festivals were important occasions for commemorating God’s power as well as His provision for Israel. These three festivals were prescribed in Exodus 23:14-17 and Deuteronomy 16:16 and consisted of:

(1) Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread

(2) The Feast of Weeks (Pentecost)

(3) The Festival of Booths (Tabernacles, Shelters).

For these festivals, all the males of Israel were commanded to make the pilgrimage to the sanctuary for the celebration (Exodus 12:14).

All believers of the Gospel of the Kingdom were of one mind and together in one place and in verses 2 through 4, God moved in a very distinct way! The Holy Spirit that was promised by Jesus Christ appeared to them in the form of cloven tongues of fire.

The Greek word for “cloven” actually describes the “divided or distributed” appearance of “fire”` upon each person who sat in the house. I believe this event showed that God wanted to specifically demonstrate the power of The Holy Spirit as well as a transition in the operation of God as evidenced by:

† A sound like a rushing, mighty wind was heard from heaven that resembled the roar of waves and all in the house were well aware (fulfilled) of God’s presence in this fashion.

† A fiery appearance of God above each person present in the house called a “tongue” to signify that the languages would again be a part of His plan. Please note that to this day, the issue of tongues is still regarded as a major “choke” point across churches.

† They were all together fulfilled or filled with the Holy Spirit. Please note this filling of God’s Holy Spirit greatly differs from how Paul would later describe the operation of the indwelling Holy Spirit as it pertains to believers in the dispensation of grace.

† The Spirit sat or rested upon each of them.

† And they began to speak as the Holy Spirit gave them utterance (GK –apophtheggomai; belonging to an elevated dignified discourse).

Acts 2:5-12 - ⁵ And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. ⁶ Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. ⁷ And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? ⁸ And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? ⁹ Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, ¹⁰ Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, ¹¹ Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. ¹² And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?

I find it interesting how Luke used the words “confounded” and “language” so close together bringing to remembrance how God scattered the nations in Genesis 11.

Genesis 11:1-9 - ¹ And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech. ² And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there. ³ And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them thoroughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter. ⁴ And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth. ⁵ And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. ⁶ And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. ⁷ Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. ⁸ So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. ⁹ Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.

§ At The Tower of Babel, God wanted man to scatter across the earth and testify of the One, True and Living God.

§ Man in his rebellion built the tower to reach God by his own merits. The tower in fact typified man’s first organized religion and could have at that time assumed any denominational name on its building façade!

§ In the Acts 2:6, God was bringing to remembrance the judgment He had meted out before concerning the languages, almost appearing to return to the pre-Babel state where all could understand each other.

§ As this event was “noised abroad”, two groups of people outside the “Little Flock” and the apostles observed and concluded it was either from God or from man as described in verse 13.

II. The Discourse of Peter

¹³ Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. ¹⁴ But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: ¹⁵ For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. ¹⁶ But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; ¹⁷ And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: ¹⁸ And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: ¹⁹ And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: ²⁰ The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come: ²¹ And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Starting in verses 13 through 15, we read of "others" who mocked the 12 apostles. the Greek word for "others" is heteros meaning "those that oppose" or are "those who are not of the same nature". It is clear that the opposition to the ministry of Jesus Christ would not cease. These accusers mocked, jeered and derided (to laugh at, ridicule or make fun of) the work of God and told the people that the 12 were drunken fools.

Peter and the 11 then counter to those from Judea and of Jewish lineage as well as those that reside in Jerusalem itself. They stand (histemi) in defense of the faith and against the Sanhedrin, judges and religious leaders who rejected God and His Messiah. But Peter lifted up his voice to encourage the gainsayers to listen to his words (rhema) concerning the matter:

§ He testified that they were not drunk since it was 9:00 in the morning!

§ Peter appealed to their knowledge of scripture in that he pointed to the book of Joel in verses 16 through 21!

§ As this event was “noised abroad”, two groups of people outside the “Little Flock” and the apostles observed and concluded it was either from God or from man as described in verse 13.

¹⁶ But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; ¹⁷ And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: ¹⁸ And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: ¹⁹ And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: ²⁰ The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come: ²¹ And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

As far as Peter was concerned, the events of time and the “last days” that were unfolding to all, displayed the soon judgment of God according to what the profit Joel had to say in chapter 2:28 through 32 in his prophecy! Please note that the phrase “last days” can differ in context. In other words, Peter’s last days are vastly different to Noah’s last days or Paul’s last days as each are marked by their distinct, end time, events via the permissive will of God! As far as Peter was concerned, judgment was now coming!

To re-iterate and as previously described above (bookmark) the Gentiles were already written off in unbelief as nothing more than idolaters. In addition, God’s chosen nation Israel has fully rejected God’s witness; His very own Son - Jesus Christ the Messiah. With the movement of the Holy Spirit now in place as prophesied by Christ in His earthly ministry, Peter himself empowered by the Holy Spirit speaks candidly:

û ²² Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:

û ²³ Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:

û ²⁴ Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

û ²⁵ For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: ²⁶ Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: ²⁷ Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. ²⁸ Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.

û ²⁹ Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. ³⁰ Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; ³¹ He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.

û ³² This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. ³³ Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

û ³⁴ For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, ³⁵ Until I make thy foes thy footstool.

û ³⁶ Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

Friends, since I am teaching in an expository fashion, I thought is necessary to single each set of verses to get the full impact of what Peter was trying to say!!! Let me see if I can break this out for our edification….

In verses 22 and 23, Peter appeals to their reason as he does nothing more than re-account history and bring to remembrance the events of the life of Jesus Christ which cannot be disputed! Like a lawyer, Peter builds his case as the very acts and deeds of a prophet of God involve miracles, wonders and signs. All were well of aware of the healing power of Jesus Christ and his good works were further testified of John in chapter 21:24-25. Peter further mentions that God did this work in the midst of them and that they all knew about it! Folks, he is not providing them an inch of “wiggle room”. The facts here point to man as he must exercise his free-will (while given more revelation) and decide whether or not if he will take God at His word!

Peter makes it clear that Jesus was delivered “by the determinate counsel” (Israel’s leaders); turned over to those that would kill him (the governing nation of Rome). In a biblical account typifying the life of Christ and in a similar fashion, Joseph’s brothers also turned him over hoping someone would kill him and relinquish them of their bothersome yet convicting younger brother.

Those religious leaders that stood behind the Law of Moses to justify their wicked deeds actually violated God’s commandments by crucifying Christ without proof or blame. The Greek word for “foreknowledge” is prognosis as God knew all along the desperate and depraved hidden motivation, also in verse 23. The Son of God was turned over to Israel from a religious standpoint whose leaders promptly turned him over to Rome from a government standpoint!

The Greek word anaireo for the word “slain” is a more complete meaning for the harm that was brought to Jesus Christ. Not only did they kill him but they wanted total control and responsibility to abolish Him as well as His ordinances and doctrine. Instead these leaders wanted to raise themselves up! Friends, in a similar fashion, Paul’s gospel of grace is rejected in most fundamental Christian circles so that pastor’s, leaders and teachers can promote their own self-appointed views.

Verse 24 brings to light something for consideration. God revealed a much different plan as His Son would be raised up on high!

† God The Father would not only loosen the physical bondage of Christ from the tonnage of the stone and bounded grave clothes, but He would loosen man from the weight of the law and the shackles of sin through the resurrection of Jesus Christ!

† This resurrection was not only the blissful hope and joy for lost man, but a blessed reunion of the tri-unity of God. There was no longer a separation as the “plan of plans” came to a glorious conclusion at the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Death has no hold or power over God beloved, for what He offered up He gave of his own free will for the love of man and Christ’s victory over the grave was proof positive of that fact!

Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec. – Hebrews 5:7-10

But in verses 25 through 28, Peter cleverly points back to scripture when referring to David pointing out that he (David) through the Holy Spirit prophesied of Christ! This fact was something that those that were in attendance knew about as the apostle quoted Psalm 16:

1 Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust. 2 O my soul, thou hast said unto the LORD, Thou art my Lord: my goodness extendeth not to thee; 3 But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight. 4 Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god: their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips. 5 The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot. 6 The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage. 7 I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons. 8 I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. 10 For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. – Psalms 16:1-11

Peter filled with the Spirit speaks with boldness and assurance (starting in verse 29) to the men and brethren of the audience. He describes (verses 30 to 36) how David the patriarch (in the lineage of Jacob, forefather) is dead, buried and that his sepulcher is with us unto this very day. Peter’s point is that he could not have been talking about himself since his body (David’s) did see corruption; it’s still in the tomb!

û ³⁰ Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; ³¹ He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.

û ³⁴ For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, ³⁵ Until I make thy foes thy footstool.

û ³⁶ Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

As a prophet, God had revealed to David that through his loins, the Messiah would come and establish His throne. This is one of the few verses in the bible that speak distinctly of Christ’s glorious resurrection! Peter exhorted that it is this same Jesus that we are all witnesses to:

û Greek – witnesses: martus

û In a legal sense

û In a historical sense

û As actual spectators

Peter concludes with the sober truth of it all that “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.”

³⁷ Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

Through his message, Peter had brought these men to a crossroad with a decision they needed to all make individually. Being convicted or pricked in the heart they each had a decision to make!

³⁸ Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. ³⁹ For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the LORD our God shall call. 40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. 41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. 44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. 46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

Let's go back one verse and examine verse 37 and forward:

³⁷ Now when they heard (akouo {ak-oo'-o}) this, they were pricked (katanusso {kat-an-oos'-so}) in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

The word used to describe “heard” implies more than just an audible meaning. They not only heard Peter, but they were required to understand, to perceive what he had to say and to consider!

The people present that could hear Peter’s words were pierced in their heart and mind. They were agitated vehemently; pained in the mind over this matter and those that would eventually change their mind would be sorrowful over what had been done to the Lord of Glory!

The bible tells us that they were pricked in the heart (kardia {kar-dee'-ah}) which impacted the very core of what they believed, was the centre and seat of spiritual life as well as the fountain of their desires, passions, affections and purpose of life. They were bothered to the point where they asked one another what they should do!

With what had transpired up through this time, many people were at a crossroads concerning what to do with Jesus Christ. Please remember that Peter now cleverly presented that Christ was indeed the Messiah through the Psalms and they knew there was no denying the truth! Here the requirements for salvation were clearly presented to them on what they had to do:

§ They needed to repent (metanoeo) or to change their mind and thinking from where they were before.

§ Believers of this kingdom program must be baptized (according to John’s baptism) in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ; unto what they knew of Him and His ministry.

§ This was a requirement in which one would receive remission of sins (aphesis {af'-es-is} release from bondage or imprisonment, forgiveness or pardon of sins and its penalty as if they have never been committed).

§ Also notable was the fact that Peter said this promise is unto you (Israel), to their children and to all that are afar off (Gentiles) as many as God should call. Gentiles can be saved through Israel and many were!

My friends and brothers and sisters in Christ, please meditate a moment and think about the requirements of salvation for these saints as compared to what we believe today under the dispensation of the grace God committed to Paul as he received it from the risen, glorified Lord Jesus Christ!

⁴⁰ And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. ⁴¹ Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. ⁴² And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Peter warned those that listened to save themselves from this untoward generation in verse 40. This is a generation that has been physically exposed to the manifestation of God through the person and work of Jesus Christ, yet they did not believe. Therefore Peter called them perverse, crooked, unfair and wicked (untoward). Of particular interest is the word "unfair" since these are the people who unjustly condemned the Lord of Glory and those that followed Him!

As an outward manifestation of an inward change, they that gladly received Peter's gospel of the kingdom testified of his words by being water baptized. This was an edict from God as a requirement (once someone believed) in order to physically identify them from unbelievers.

In verses 41 and 42 we read that growth of the "Church of the Little Flock" expanded to 3,000 that day. They continued steadfastly (proskartereo {pros-kar-ter-eh'-o} - devoted, attentive, courageous and in constant rediness) in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, breaking of bread and prayer. Please note that the apostle's doctrine was nothing more that the continuation of Jesus Christ's earthly ministry. It is worth reviewing these requirements again to assure we understand their distinctiveness of how we believe today! For more details please click the March / April 2005 edition of The Lightstreet Journal under "What is this thing called The Mystery?".

§ The Kingdom Gospel in its uniqueness is a “good news” message that:

† Proclaims Jesus Christ as The Son of God (God Himself); which must be believed to be saved.

† Jesus Christ The Messiah is offering the Kingdom to Israel and will establish it on planet earth (Christ often quoted “the kingdom is at hand”)

† Jesus Christ will rule and reign on the earth forever along with those who take Him at His word:

1. His nation Israel and members of that nation based on lineage, faith and its resulting expressions of faith (such as water baptism) under the Law of God!

2. Gentiles who would realize their position and come through Israel to be reconciled to God.

† This promise of the Kingdom is two-fold in nature:

1. The fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham concerning the land for Israel (And he told Abraham to walk its borders...).

2. The fulfillment of the kingdom and its establishment that God promised to David.

Friends, none of these promises pertain to the Body of Christ and they are distinctly to Israel! None of these promises are for any other religious system, sect, organization, government or church!

§ The Gospel of The Grace of God

† The preaching of the cross as compared to prophetic scriptures concerning the crucifixion were not preached until Paul. (see I Corinthians 1:17-18.)

† God's Gentile program (which is now in the forefront during Israel's blindness) was unknown prior to Paul's teachings. (see Romans 11:25 and compare the scripture with Mark 7:26,27.) PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT to be confused with the Gentiles (or the nations) coming through Israel as prophesied and revealed plainly in the OT.

† The distinctive operation of God The Holy Spirit is unique in this dispensing of grace in that He permanently indwells believers (Ephesians 1:13,14).

† The catching away (also known as "the rapture") of the Body of Christ. (see 1 Corinthians 15:51 as well as "our blessed hope" in Titus 2:13).

† The union of Christ and the Church in one Body. This concept was never introduced in any dispensing of God’s prior administrations.
(Ephesians 5:31)

† The equality of Jew and Gentile alike in the Body of Christ. (Ephesians 2:11-16)

⁴³ And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. ⁴⁴ And all that believed were together, and had all things common; ⁴⁵ And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. ⁴⁶ And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, ⁴⁷ Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

Starting in verse 43 we read how that fear (Greek -phobos) came upon every soul and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. The fear that came upon people was that of reverence as testified by the works of God. In addition to the miracles and healings performed by Jesus Christ, many wonders and signs were done by Peter and the apostles in plain sight for all to see so that man would be without excuse. These miracles and wonders are authenticated by men who are sent from God who plead on His behalf for simple faith!

In verses 45 through 47 Dr. Luke describes the unity of the church despite the persecution and unbelief that currently exists. Since the kingdom saints were anxiously awaiting for the return of Jesus Christ and hoping that He would set up His dominion of the earth, they sold their possessions (as Christ instructed all His followers) since the Lord of Glory would provide for all. They continued worshipping in one accord (one mind, one passion) in the temple and having communion from house to house. They ate and had fellowship as the Lord added daily to their number of converts. It is interesting how those saints had less material possessions 2,000 years ago then we have today in The Body of Christ, had more contentment and less divisions and schisms.....

1 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; 3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. 4 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. 5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. 6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. 7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God: 10 And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him.

§ Peter and John went together into the customary place of worship; the temple. They went the "9th hour" of the day or what would be 3:00 PM in the afternoon as we know it today.

§ A certain man whose name was not given was lame (deprived of a foot, maimed) from his mother's womb (he never walked). Since he was carried about it was obvious that his condition was serious enough that his ankles (verse 7) prohibited him from walking at all.

§ This man was laid daily at the gate of the temple and he begged for pity, mercy and for some type of monetary offering.

§ He saw both Peter and John and asked alms of them. Peter gazed intently on him and asked the man to look at him (you wonder if Peter turned the inside of his pockets out to him) when he said that he did not have any silver of gold but something of more value to the man!

In continuing with the ministry of Jesus Christ the apostle told the man to rise up and walk. This miracle along with many more to follow were in alignment with what Christ told his apostles to do on His behalf as noted in Mark 16:

15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. 19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. 20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. - Mark 16:15-20

In verses 7 through 10 we read that the man was led up on his feet and immediately and he leaped up, walked into the temple past the people that saw him there all the time and began leaping and praising God!

The common denominator between the miracle that we just read about and today's prosperity gospels

(who's leaders' claim to heal people) is money. However, the major difference here is that Peter and John did not have any silver or gold to give the lame man and expected nothing in return as they healed him!

11 And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering. 12 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?

A porch or portico, was a covered colonnade where people can stand or walk protected from the weather and the heat of the sun The portico built by Solomon in the eastern part of the temple (which in the temple's destruction by the Babylonians was left uninjured, and remained down to the time of King Agrippa, to whom the care of the temple was entrusted by the emperor Claudius, and who on account of its antiquity dare not demolish it and build anew).

As a reminder this miracle was done in plain site, in the middle of town and at the epicenter of activity; The Temple! There are no questions or doubts as to this man's prior condition as he was was lame from birth and many people knew of the family.

When Peter perceived that the people thought the miracles came from him (as the children of Israel thought the same of Moses conserving the origination of miracles), he challenged them. He asked them why they looked so steadfastly upon him and John as if they did this by their own power. Rather than simply claim the miracle was "in Jesus name" while heaping praise upon himself, Peter brought to light not only the events of the past, but starting from Abraham spoke of the One True and Living God of Israel!

13 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. 14 But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; 15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. 16 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. 17 And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers. 18 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.

§ Peter cut to the chase in verses 13 through 18 when he specifically mentioned "The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob....The God of our fathers (which included his audience). God glorified His Son Jesus Christ:

Peter called them brothers (adelphos) and told them that he knew these actions against God were done in ignorance (lack of knowledge or moral blindness). But now the truth has been revealed to them and they were required to exercise their free-will for "God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled (verse 18)!

19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.

21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.

Peter told them that they were to therefore repent (metanoeo - {met-an-o-eh'-o} to change one's mind) and other important facts:

Let's take a step back and meditate on what we just read, ponder these salvation requirements and compare them to what we have today under God's marvelous, current dispensing of grace. Remember, this grace which was not made known to man until Jesus Christ revealed it to Paul was made available due to the all sufficient and completed work of Christ at Calgary. We need to be as the noble Bereans and search the scriptures to prove all things sure!

As Peter continued addressing the kingdom saints in identifying Jesus Christ as The Messiah here in Acts 3, he spoke of Moses one of the most renowned men of the bible and all of the prophets....

22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.

The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken; - Deuteronomy 18:15

24 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. 25 Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. 26 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

1 And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and (but) the Sadducees, came upon them, 2 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 3 And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide. 4 Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.

In verses 1 through 3, still in or near the temple, Peter and John spoke to their audience which included:

However, yet another group came upon them for the purpose of doing evil; The Sadducees.

These man were displeased, offended and pained at the discussion they heard concerning Jesus Christ. More specifically they were pained at the fact that Peter and John taught (instructed, instill doctrine, expound and explain) the resurrection of the dead through Christ who they believed to be nothing more than a teacher, prophet or common person. They now took them by force and put them in a watch area where prisoners are kept because it was now evening.

Interestingly enough, 5,000 men (verse 4) who heard the words of Peter and John believed!

5 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes, 6 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. 7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?

It was now obvious that their teachings had quickly risen up to the higher authorities and the two were now being examined. Please not that these events are coming off the heals of the trial, conviction and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The two had caused quite a stir and the next day they now stood in the midst of the temple confines before officials including:

8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: 9 But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God. 10 And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven. 11 And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: 12 For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say. - Luke 12:8-12

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, 9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; 10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

As The Lord Jesus Christ had promised, The Holy Spirit filled Peter as he spoke to the magistrates and high ranking officials. Peter does no mince words, he identifies his audience and its leadership and recounts what had happened earlier with the impotent man.

He is bold in his proclaiming of Jesus Christ as the one who is responsible for healing the man. But Peter does not stop there quoting Psalm 118:22 in his defense of the gospel of the kingdom!

"Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."

13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. 14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it. 15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, 16 Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. 17 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. 18 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.

After reading and meditating on verses 13 through 18, some points of interest came to mind while considering the blackness of man’s heart and intentions:

The Council (rulers of the people and elders of Israel) realized the boldness of Peter and John and understood that they were unlearned, ignorant or illiterate (agrammatos) in the school of Judaism. Yet these leaders marveled and were well aware that Peter and John had been with Jesus Christ!

Boldness - parrhesia {par-rhay-see'-ah}

freedom in speaking, unreservedness in speech

openly, frankly, i.e without concealment

without ambiguity or circumlocution

without the use of figures and comparisons

free and fearless confidence, cheerful courage, boldness, assurance

the deportment by which one becomes conspicuous or secures publicity

Ignorant - idiotes {id-ee-o'-tace}

a private person as opposed to a magistrate, ruler, king

a common soldier, as opposed to a military officer

a writer of prose as opposed to a poet

in the NT, an unlearned, illiterate, man as opposed to the learned and educated: one who is unskilled in any art

In addition to what they knew of Peter and John, the leadership of Israel also beheld the man who was standing (completely healed and able to walk) with them and they could say nothing to the contrary!
Despite the physical evidence of the miracles of God, and the realization that Peter and John had been with Christ based on their words, they still commanded them to go outside while the council conferred among themselves as to what to do next.
Unable to escape the obvious (verses 16 through 18) and obviously in confusion, they decided to threaten the apostles to assure that no more discussions of Jesus would take place.

19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. 21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done. 22 For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.

Peter and John were not intimidated and boldly informed them that whether or not they thought God was at work mattered little to them; you be the judge!

IV. The Release and Ministry of Peter and John

23 And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests (GK: archiereus {ar-khee-er-yuce'}) and elders (GK: presbuteros {pres-boo'-ter-os}) had said unto them. 24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is: 25 Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? 26 The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ. 27 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, 28 For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.

After further threatenings and with no reason to hold Peter and John, the political and religious leaders of Israel released the men. The two apostles returned to their own company and reported all that had happened to them.

When the little flock heard all that occurred, they lifted up to God with one voice, one heart and one passion quoting Psalm 2;

Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed,....

In Psalm 2, the text calls out an insurgence against Jehovah and the anointed of a future time even though man's rebellion towards God has always existed. But the passages here in Acts also describe Christ as Messiah and the events of recent past that everyone was well aware of.

But despite all of the treachery, God is still in control (verse 28)! Continuing in once voice and in one accord they went on:

29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, 30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

Starting in verse 29 their prayer to God was to recall the threatenings that had occurred (since it was very real and very painful to them) and to ask Him for boldness during these difficult times. The word "grant" describes a desire for gifts, supplies, furnishings or anything that would provide an advantage.

During this continuation of Jesus Christ's earthy ministry, they asked for the power to heal and that signs and wonders would be done in the name of Jesus Christ.

Friends, without understanding the bible dispensationally, you can see how easy it is to read ourselves into

areas of the bible not meant for us. A classic example of this error is found in the passages we are studying now! Many, many ministries erroneously believe that God is in the healing business today when in fact He has trusted that particular stewardship to us. In other words, we must go to the doctor and take care of this awesome God-built machine: the human body!

You may ask me why I believe that God cannot heal. That is certainly not that issue friends. God can heal, but it is a matter of how He said He would deal with us today and His direct intervention ceased as Jesus Christ instructed Paul! Please read the following passages as it pertains to this issue.

1 It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) 4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. 5 Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities. 6 For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me. 7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. - 2 Corinthians 12:1-10

Without straying far off course in this wonderful book it is important to understand that prior to God's revelation of grace that He gave to Paul, Christ healed and gave His apostles the power to heal. Those signs, wonders and healings have gone away as we received the written word (ref. 1 Corinthians 13)!

31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

When we read the bible, it is important to first understand who the audience is, how God is dealing with man at the time and lastly, the context of the scripture! If we deploy these same principles in examining verse 31, we will notice significant findings. The bible tells us that the kingdom saints were praying so fervently that the place where they assembled together was shaken. We also know that they were filled with the Holy Ghost.

Friends, I would like you to consider a few questions as we study scripture "rightly divided":

32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. 33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. 34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35 And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. 36 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, 37 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

In verses 32 through 37 and under the ministry of the 12 apostles led by the boldness of Peter and John, these kingdom saints demonstrated unity! They had one heart, one soul and even believed that their very possessions were to be jointly utilized. The conviction of Jesus Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit and the leadership of the apostles provoked the saints to do the will of God as great grace was upon all!

Please note that just because "great grace" was upon all, this did not indicate that God had changed His dealings with mankind. The Lord was dealing with mankind under The Law and salvation was still to come through believing Israel. Israel as a nation had not accepted Jesus Christ as their King and Messiah. The "little flock" as named by Jesus was growing in numbers despite the increased persecutions. The apostle Paul had not yet received his revelations from Christ concerning the establishment of a new set of instructions to be be dispensed to mankind also known as The Gospel of the Grace of God, The Mystery and The Dispensation of Grace!

In the closing of this chapter, this was certainly a high time for the kingdom saints as they awaited the return of Jesus Christ.

In the beginning of this chapter we see the church unified in one faith, one heart and one soul. These kingdom saints have now pooled their resources so that no one lacked (destitute) anything. The price received for lands and goods were laid at the apostles feet. This was to show that the apostles had the responsibility to distribute the goods to needy kingdom saints.

¹But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, ²And kept back (embezzle, withdraw covertly and appropriate to one's own use) part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

In short, these two thieves stole money that they had originally agreed to distribute to needy saints. The bible tells us that although it may have been Ananias's idea, his wife was conscience of his actions and thus became a willing accomplice!

Since it was their money to begin with, one may ask why such a big deal was made about this issue. Let's see what Peter has to say about this.....

³But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? ⁴Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

The issue here was that Ananias was lying to God the Holy Ghost! As good steward's of God's Word lets take a moment to consider some relevant facts:

⁵And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. ⁶And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. ⁷And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.

⁸And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. ⁹Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. ¹⁰Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. ¹¹And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.

In like fashion, Sapphira experienced the same fate as her husband just three hours earlier! The bible tells us that the phrase "fell she down" comes from the Greek "pipto" and means the following:

In the matter of hours two people were killed by God. In the beginning of verse 1 of this chapter, the bible does not tell us that Ananias or Saphira had any particular noteworthy testimony. In fact Ananias is referred to "as a certain man" as opposed to a well-know saint or a just man. One could make a case as to whether or not either of these people were saved but only God knows the heart of a man.

However, these two people did not demonstrate the expression of faith required of God by kingdom saints under the law because of their desire to make merchandise of fellow saints! Furthermore, both Ananias and Saphira had conspired this plan during a time of heavy persecution of believers.

17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. 18 Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. 19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. - 1 John 2:17-19

16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. 17 All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death. 18 We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. 19 And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness. 20 And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. 21 Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen. - 1 John 5:16-21

Before we move on we need to review how God is dealing with mankind at this juncture. This is of extreme importance especially after reading what happened to Ananias and Saphira. The teaching of God calling believers home pre-maturely flies in the face of Paul's teaching of the riches of God's grace. Who did Paul receive that instruction from? The risen glorified Jesus Christ!

9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. 11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. - 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11

Thinking that God will call us home due to any type of sin only instills fear in believers. This belief attempts to undermine the power of the cross as well as the teaching of God's abundant grace. Some pastors may choose to motivate their congregation in this fashion which is legalistic at best and treacherous at worst.

Most importantly it is false doctrine based upon one's inability to rightly divide the word of God and to correctly understand what is our "to" mail and our "cc" (reference only) mail.

¹²And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon’s porch. ¹³And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them. ¹⁴And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) ¹⁵Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. ¹⁶ There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.

As we further examine and validate where we are dispensationally in Acts 5 (how God is dealing with man at this point), the bible has given us a map or reference point with the mentioning of signs, wonders and healings!

Starting in verse 12 and continuing through verse 16 we see that God was demonstrating His power with a clear, practical, and visual method. No one could doubt what was going on even though the religious and governmental leaders tried to hide and discredit these miracles! Furthermore, people were coming from all across the country to be healed which only magnified the power of God and His dealings with Israel across the region.

Friends, how is it today that with all of the ministries, pastors, teachers and religious rulers abounding in "signs and wonders" that no miracles that we hear of are coming from Jerusalem? More specifically, there is not a God-based miracle center (physical or spiritual) originating from Jerusalem as we read in the verses of Acts 5. My point is this: If God were still in the healing business, His healing network and infrastructure would resemble that of Acts chapter 5. There would be no doubt, no disappointments, or no confusion as to whether or not God was healing because all would be healed, and all would know exactly where to go!

Our conclusion is that God is not in the healing business today friends. We are under a different set of "house-rules" administration, economy or dispensation called GRACE. The text that we have been reading in Acts so far show us the God evident signs of what true signs and wonders are about under the LAW. We know God was dealing in Acts 5 under the LAW because of the outward signs that were manifested. We know He had not yet changed His dealings with mankind until Saul of Tarsus became our apostle of grace and taught the message he received from Jesus Christ!

For believers of the grace of God that Jesus Christ revealed to Paul for our doctrine and instruction today during the last 2,000 years, we know that God deals with us through His completed cannon (see 1 Corinthians 13) exclusively!

¹⁷Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, ¹⁸And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. ¹⁹But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, ²⁰Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. ²¹And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

²²But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told, ²³Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within. ²⁴Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow. ²⁵Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.

The high priest and all that were with him, the council and the senate of the children of Israel sent the apostles to prison despite the fact that they demonstrated the healing power and miracles of the Holy Spirit.

As The Adversary incensed unbelievers to act in accordance to their sinful ways, God increased His intervention to assure that His plan of communicating the Kingdom Gospel would be taught as planned! God has now taken away every and any excuse for lost man to reject His council. As noted in the testimonies of God's ambassador's something wonderful and miraculous was occurring. The apostles had healed the man at the "Beautiful Gate" continued to cast out demons and perform wonderful works and these actions were not enough to persuade the children of Israel, its religious council or civic leaders.

In verses 19 through 25 God was now taking direct action and intervening using His angelic host to physically remove the apostles from harm and restriction into the epicenter of teaching; the temple itself! His plan to carry out the message of the Gospel of The Kingdom would carry on and in the process man would be cornered into believing God or trusting in himself for what had now occurred was undeniable!

²⁶Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned. ²⁷And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, ²⁸Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us. ²⁹Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

In verses 26 through 29 we now see Peter pointing back to God completing the circle of proof (from man demonstrating miracles to God Himself intervening) as to who was responsible for the miracle of their release. Peter simply stated that he and the apostles did what the council should be doing when answering them: "We ought to obey God rather than men".

As the one who denied Jesus Christ three times, Peter boldly communicates to the religious sector by bringing to remembrance who they crucified. Further he testifies that it was God The Father (the same God that we all believed on prior to Christ) who raised up Jesus and exalted Him with His right hand to be Prince and Saviour for the purpose of giving repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins:

³⁰The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. ³¹Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

1 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, 3 Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. 4 He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the LORD shall have them in derision. 5 Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure. 6 Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. 7 I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. 8 - Psalm 2: 1-8

8 I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. 10 For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. - Psalm 16: 8-11

1 The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 2 The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. - Psalm 110: 1,2

6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. - Isaiah 9: 6

³²And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. ³³When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.

Peter in verse 32 delivers a stinging conclusion to the fact that the apostles have been eyewitnesses to the power of God and that the religious council is again being disproved as well as angered! It is amazing to me that despite the facts presented before them and in addition to the miracles, signs and healings the council was determined to kill all those that taught about Jesus Christ. The truth of what they had heard "cut to the heart" and rather than reasoning through the scriptures these magistrates (from the city council and synagogues) were bloodthirsty murderers that destroyed the prophets of God before them!

29 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, 30 And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. 31 Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. - Matthew 23:29-31

³⁴Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space; ³⁵And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. ³⁶For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought. ³⁷After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. ³⁸And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: ³⁹But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.

Who is this man that had a calming effect on this otherwise fantastical mob? Why does he seem to speak words that these people would now listen too?

Gamaliel the Elder, or Rabbi Gamaliel I, was the grandson of the great Jewish teacher Hillel the Elder who is referred to as authority in the Jewish Mishna.

Starting in verse 34 he carefully lists the previous political insurrections that had occurred prior to this latest uprising. To Gamaliel, this was nothing more than business as usual! We know through these verses that he was a doctor of the law and was received and respected by his peers.

He warned the leaders to take caution in dealing with the Peter, John and the apostles since they may be attempting to undermine the work of God. The fact of the matter is that not only were the religious leaders in disobedience to God but Gamaliel was too since there is no evidence to suggest that he had believed that Jesus Christ was the Messiah of Israel!

Gamaliel urged the religious and civic leaders to act in a civilized manner and to lead them out of harms way. He instructed them to leave these men alone for a short time to lead them out since he himself was convinced that this would amount to nothing.

⁴⁰And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. ⁴¹And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. ⁴²And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

In verses 40 through 42 the religious leaders agreed to let the men go and did so after beating them and commanding that they teach nothing concerning Jesus Christ. The bible tell us that the apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy of God to suffer for His sake. After, they continued to teach in the temple and ceased not to teach and preach Christ!

What were the apostles teaching? "the teachings of Jesus Christ's earthly ministry" (see verse 42 and Jesus' words in Act 1:1-12 before His ascension.

How was God dealing with mankind now? Mankind was still under the Dispensing of Law. Salvation was still through Israel as God was demonstrating His power through the Holy Spirit and signs , miracles and healings.

Had mankind or Israel as a whole embraced Jesus Christ as Messiah? No, they have not! (as indicated by the persecutions placed on those who would teach the words of Jesus Christ.)

Starting in this chapter, the bible introduces us to a bold man of God prior to the arrival of Paul. It could be said that this was the last opportunity for Israel to respond to God. In fact, they did not respond and with 2 strikes against them (by their rejection of God The Father and God The Son) time was running out....

1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. 3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. 4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

As men were embracing the teachings of Jesus Christ and disciples multiplied across the region there arose a secret dispute among the saints between the Grecian saints and Hebrew saints. The Grecian widows were not being provided for and the 12 needed to set aside certain faithful men to administer the practical, life-needs of these women.

Please remember that these saints were also awaiting for the return of Jesus Christ and their provisioning was beginning to run out. The daily work involved to assure their well-being could not be administered by the 12 and they could not leave the word to serve tables (prepare food, collect and distribute charitable giving).

Today the administration of deacons in churches is founded upon the principles recorded in Acts 6.

If I base my service doctrine on chapters 6 and 7 of Acts is there a potential for conflict or contradiction? Most certainly! While these kingdom saints could still rely on miracles, healings and signs to minister, believers with those principles are in direct conflict with what Paul tells us today: Under the law and specifically here in this chapter, the congregation or church has joint responsibility to care for the needs of the widow. Let's compare that to what Paul says to saints under the dispensation of grace:

Honour widows that are widows indeed. 4 But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. 5 Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. - 1 Timothy 5:4,5

If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed - 1 Timothy 5:16

5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: 6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. 7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. 8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.

It is here where we are formally introduced to a man named Stephen. His name was significant amidst the group chosen as he was mentioned first.

Verses 7 and 8 tell us that as distinct ministries were established, the word of God increased and the

number of disciples in Jerusalem multiplied greatly. Even a great company of priests were obedient to the faith. Continuing with what would be expected to occur under the dispensing of the law, Stephen who was full of faith and power (Greek - dunamis) did great wonders and miracles among the people!

9 Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. 10 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.

Stephen was the antithesis of many church administrators who are appointed today beloved. My experience has been that typically, those "ordained" to take care of church business have the least to do with studying God's word. I find it amazing that people will vote in church leaders who are one-sided in their experiences: excellent business knowledge but little doctrinal knowledge....

This is not the case with Stephen as the bible tells us that although certain arose from various synagogues across the region the man "full of faith and power" was able to shut them down where they stood!

Libertines: one who has been liberated from slavery, a freed man, or the son of a freed man

Cyrenians: One of a school of philosophers, established at Cyrene (in Africa) by Aristippus, a disciple of Socrates. Their doctrines were nearly the same as those of the Epicureans (devotee to sensuous and luxurious living).

Alexandrians: These individuals were from Egypt and studied Hellenism: (come one, come all) a belief of "spontaneity," and for "things as they really are". Other philosophies of this belief include: Stoicism, Epicureanism, Cynicism and many many more!

Cilicia: A maritime province in the southeast of Asia Minor, boarding on Pamphylia in the west, Lycaonia and Cappadocia in the north and Syria in the east. Its capital, Tarsus, was the birth place of Paul.

Asia: Asia proper or Asia embracing Mysia, Lydia, Phrygia, and Caria, corresponding closely to Turkey today.

11 Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God. 12 And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council, 13 And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law: 14 For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us. 15 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

The leaders of the aforementioned regions and cities suborned or bribed men to say that they heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and God. This was their response to the truths that Stephen had just given them. Rather than being cut to the heart with conviction these ambassadors of Satan used deceitful tactics in order to stir up (excite or cause a commotion) the people.

In verse 14 they used a past truth spoken by Jesus and turned it into a current lie for others to hear. During His earthly ministry it was Jesus Christ who stated that if the religious, unbelieving Jews destroyed the temple (referring to His Body) He (Christ) would raise it up again in three days. There is nothing recorded in scripture that indicates Stephen ever repeated the words of Jesus in regards to this fact. Furthermore, it wouldn't make much sense to re-state that claim since Christ had already gloriously resurrected. It was obvious that these men were going to great lengths to attempt to discredit Stephen and his "end of dispensation" message.

18 Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? 19 Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. 20 Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? 21 But he spake of the temple of his body. 22 When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said. - John 2:18-22

15 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

Although this chosen man of God had the glow and power of The Holy Spirit upon his countenance, these leaders will soon believe that they saw the devil in the flesh when Stephen is through with them! Acts chapter 7 is an outstanding "Reader's Digest" version of Israel's baseline showing their existence and subsequent unbelief.

1 Then said the high priest, Are these things so? 2 And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, 3 And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee. 4 Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell. 5 And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child. 6 And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years. 7 And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place. 8 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.

The last opportunity for Israel to respond was finally here. With religious rulers within Jerusalem present and rulers from surrounding synagogues in attendance Stephen would preach the message of a lifetime and it would eventually cost him his life! The high priest asked Stephen "if these things were so" and the man of God, chosen to administer to the needful Grecian widows gave them all more truth then they could bare.

Stephen attempted to share common ground by taking these religious leaders back to Genesis Chapter 12. He inclusively referred to Abraham as "our" father while clearly and concisely recounting the events of the glorious past of his countrymen. It is interesting to note that in Genesis 11, that would be the last time we would hear of the gentiles....here again Stephen takes us right to the "genesis" of Israel as a nation.

Now friends, let's look at this from Abraham's perspective. Imagine right now where you are, dropping everything and leaving. Your family (although sometimes that could be a real blessing.... : ) ), your job.....your very livelihood; clubs, committees, Little League...left behind! This was what Abram was asked to do! Further, the bible tells us that although God promised Abraham significant land and possessions, this man of God received no inheritance or land possessions as verses 5 and 6 would indicate. Also, Hebrews 11 tells us:

Abraham - 8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. 9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: 10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. 11 Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. 12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. 13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. 15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. 16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. - Hebrews 11:8-16

In a great testimony of faith, Abram took God at His word when he "went out, not knowing whither he went". In Genesis 12:1, we read how God called Abram (later to be called Abraham):

Abram was the ninth from Shem, who was the son of Noah. Even after the flood and after the judgment of the nations at the Tower of Babel mankind still worshipped and served other gods and Abram's house was no different.

And Joshua said unto all the people, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Your fathers dwelt on the other side of the flood in old time, even Terah, the father of Abraham, and the father of Nachor: and they served other gods. - Joshua 24:2

Again in Hebrews 11:8, the bible tells us that by faith, Abram was called out by God to receive an inheritance from Him without having any idea where he was going! In doing this, Abram left the comfort and security of his father's house. As a member of the Hall of Faith, this is the first mention of Abram amidst several passages in this chapter that describe his unwavering faith while living among idolaters including his own family (Joshua 24:2,3). The Holy Spirit uses an interesting phrase here when we are told that Abram actually "sojourned" in the land of promise but was still a stranger. It's no different then you and I deciding to build a house and then walking through the framework. We know it is eventually going to be the place where we live, but it is not yet ready. This is the type of faith Abram had friends. The big difference in the house example is that he did not have a physical framework but instead had the framework of the word of God as his promise! And during the time of his life he wondered about dwelling in tabernacles (portable houses) with his family as he received instruction from God.

In this grace-centric ministry, let's look at the relevancy of Abram or Abraham and his faith in regards to what the apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 3 and Romans 4:

Galatians 3:6-9 - Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

Romans 4:1-6 - What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

To re-cap in Hebrews 11, although we read about the foundations of faith, each saint (prior to God's Dispensing of Grace) was required to demonstrate obeisance to Him by an action or an outward manifestation of an inward change.

However, Paul using Abraham as a model for justification through faith alone also drives home in the above verses doctrine that pertains to this concept. In doing this, he points out the Galatians and Romans passages above, showing that Abraham (while he was still Abram) did nothing but believe God and take Him at His word and therefore righteousness without works was imputed to him (Genesis 15:6). Scripture also says that those who are of faith are also blessed with Abraham! However, this does not imply that we (His Body) are awaiting the same faith!

Remember that Abraham's "faith" (as the father of Israel) under the Dispensing of The Promise was that while he looked forward to receiving the land, he took actions to demonstrate his faith to unbelievers and through his example of a pleasing testimony to God, he demonstrated great trust which qualified him as a member of the Hall of Faith (ref. Hebrews 11).

Again using the model of faith, Paul uses Abraham's faithfulness as the basis for the doctrine of justification through faith without works! Erroneously, many teachers miss this fundamental fact and read The Body of Christ into the blessings of the land promised only to Israel. This is also known as "covenant theology". This belief teaches that God is through with Israel and that He has raised up another church or group of believers in their place.

Today, there are many orthodox churches and other religious institutions that quietly embrace this falsity. But friends, even

more deceiving than the seemingly apparent, traditional, religious organizations lie the fundamental, bible-believing churches who under the banner of grace wrangle scripture while wreaking havoc across Christ's Body. The result of this chaos have believers doubting their salvation (since it is always tied to a ritual or rite....like water baptism) or having to prove their faith by the actions of their conduct. This is why so many believers are judging one another rather than trusting in the sufficiency of Christ's redemptive work for their eternal position! Only through "rightly dividing" scripture and understanding Paul's distinctive message of grace (vastly different from Peter and the apostles to be clear) can believers free themselves from the shackles of what ultimately amounts to a form of covenant theology.

"But friends, even more deceiving than the seemingly apparent, traditional, religious organizations lie the fundamental, bible-believing churches who under the banner of grace wrangle scripture while wreaking havoc across Christ's Body.".....

Abram, at this point and in Hebrews 11 "looked for a city which had foundations whose builder and maker was God." The word "looked" actually means that he expected this city from God, taking Him at His word and acting upon it! In Genesis 12, Abram (a Gentile at this point) took God at His word and left (when he was told to leave) the safety, sanctity and stability of where he resided! It was this expression of faith and succeeding actions that made Abram an inductee of the Hall of Faith.

Hebrews 11:14-16 - These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that [country] from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

Romans 1:21-32 clearly depicts the world as it was back in the time of Abram (and the way it stands today apart from Jesus Christ). But as God ushered in a new dispensation or dealing with mankind, Abram would be the instrument God would use in accomplishing His great plan. In Genesis 12:1, God called Abram out from idolatry when he told him to get out of his country, leave his kindred and father's house....

I find it of special interest that Stephen does not simply mention a few things about Abraham but instead mentions those specific items that had to do with taking God at His word! The fact of the matter is this.....these men who claim to be decedents of Abraham had more light and truth shed upon them then Abraham had beloved.

Friends, I really can't say it any better than this.. "Abraham looked for a city whose builder and maker was God"! Although he stumbled,

he waited on God. It is no accident that Stephen referred to these events. In regards to the inheritance that God promised him from a national perspective, Abraham, although childless, believed God and God accounted that to him for righteousness (Genesis 15:6)!

The teeth and fists of those who had given ear to Stephen were beginning to tighten. But like a tenacious prize-fighter Stephen would deliver body blows and head blows to this contender!

Please note: In reflection, do not make the error of thinking that Stephen knew what Paul would teach us later. Stephen only new what God had revealed to him about Abraham and he shared that knowledge with the rebellious, religious leaders of Israel.

7 And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place. 8 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs. 9 And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him, 10 And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house. 11 Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance. 12 But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first. 13 And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh. 14 Then sent Joseph, and called his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, threescore and fifteen souls. 15 So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he, and our fathers, 16 And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem. 17 But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt, 18 Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph. 19 The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live.

Up until this point no one had charged Stephen. He spoke correctly and accurately about Father Abraham. Stephen cleverly continued to speak of the covenant of circumcision, of Isaac, Jacob and the 12 patriarchs.....men of God that they all knew of......men of God that were members of the Hebrews 11 Hall of Faith!

Stephen hovered over the story of Joseph with anticipated detail. Joseph is a wonderful story recorded in Genesis 37 through 50! His life typified the Lord Jesus Christ. God's ambassador did a wonderful job in tying the death of Jacob to Abraham's purchased burial place. After all, if they agreed with Stephen through Abraham's account and can now tie the truths of Joseph's life into their philosophy, there should not

be any disagreements.....one would think.

Friends, God is so awesome...I know that is such an understatement. How can you describe or testify of His love for man? You can't; so just say thank you to Him! He wants us to understand Him so much. In similar fashion, He wanted Israel to take Him at His word so like a mime he laid out old testament stories to prophecy of what would come to pas through His Son. God used this model through many of His prophets; most notably Ezekiel.

Both were special objects of a father's love Genesis 37:3; Matthew 3:17; John 3:35; 5:20.

Genesis 37:3 - Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours

John 3:35 - The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.

John 5:20 - For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel.

Joseph was despised by his brothers because they believed that their father loved him more than he loved them. They were jealous of Joseph and the dreams that God had given him. Also, if they were to believe his dreams, they would also have to believe that someday Joseph would rule over them and they despised him for this.

When Jesus came to Israel, they rejected him over the same basic reasoning. Christ clearly declared to them that he was the Messiah (John 8). The scriptures said that the messiah would rule over them:

In John 1:11 the scripture says that he came unto his own and his own received him not. The Jews rejected Jesus because they did not want him to rule over them. The idea was absurd to them. Who did he think he was? see?

In both cases, the money they received was the price of a slave in their day....

Judah was the one who sold Joseph for 20 pieces of silver. It was Judas who sold Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. The interesting thing here is that Judas is the New Testament name for Judah! The name is one and the same and in the Old Testament it is pronounced Judah while in the New Testament it is pronounced Judas.

Gen. 37:17-20 - And the man said, They are departed hence; for I heard them say, Let us go to Dothan. And Joseph went after his brethren, and found them in Dothan. And when they saw him afar off, even before he came near unto them, they conspired against him to slay him. And they said one to another, Behold, this dreamer cometh. Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him into some pit, and we will say, Some evil beast hath devoured him: and we shall see what will become of his dreams.

John 7:1 - After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him.

John 11:53 - Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death.

Joseph was sold to the Ishmaelites who in turn sold him into Egypt. His brothers had delivered him into the hands of the Gentiles. Jesus was betrayed and sold by Judas to the Jewish leaders who delivered him into the hands of the Romans who were Gentiles.

Genesis 37:23, 24 - And it came to pass, when Joseph was come unto his brethren, that they stript Joseph out of his coat, his coat of many colours that was on him; And they took him, and cast him into a pit: and the pit was empty, there was no water in it.

Psalms 28:1 - Unto thee will I cry, O LORD my rock; be not silent to me: lest, if thou be silent to me, I become like them that go down into the pit.

Psalms 30:3 - O LORD, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit.

Genesis 37:28 - Then there passed by Midianites merchantmen; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt.

John 20:27-29 - Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.

In addition, there are many, many more analogies of Joseph's life typifying that of Jesus Christ including those items below that are more highly recognized. Some have claimed to have nearly 100 analogies and you may have seen others not on this page. However, the message is clear that God wanted mankind to know that his Son would come to earth through the Old testament scriptures by various "types".

It is interesting to note that Stephen speaks more of Moses as compared to Abraham and Joseph in this particular chapter. As a matter of fact, we can clean finer details of Moses' life when compared to The Pentateuch and Hebrews chapter 11 so that the reader walks away with a pretty good idea of the life of Moses as well as the doctrine presented.

20 In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three months: 21 And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son. 22 And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.

23 And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel. 24 And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian: 25 For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not. 26 And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another? 27 But he that did his neighbour wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us? 28 Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday? 29 Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons.

Every forty years appeared to be incremental milestones in the life of Moses! At forty years of age his heart was moved at what was happening to his brethren of Israel. As to whether or not his standing and or heritage was revealed is unclear because what caused him to flee was the fact that he killed an Egyptian (over the life of a Hebrew slave) and Pharaoh now wanted Moses slain.

Exodus 2:11-15 - 11 And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens: and he spied an Egyptian smiting an Hebrew, one of his brethren. 12 And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand. 13 And when he went out the second day, behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that did the wrong, Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow? 14 And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known. 15 Now when Pharaoh heard this thing, he sought to slay Moses. But Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and dwelt in the land of Midian: and he sat down by a well.

30 And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush. 31 When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the LORD came unto him, 32 Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold. 33 Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground. 34 I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send thee into Egypt.

Stephen begins to turn up the heat to the rulers and leaders as the unbelief of Israel in prior times was indeed still the root of the issue! Starting in verse 37 Stephen now factually and subtly introduces Messiah into the equation as being the same One who they would eventually crucify.

35 This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush. 36 He brought them out, after that he had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years. 37 This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.

38 This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us: 39 To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt, 40 Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. 41 And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands. 42 Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness? 43 Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.

Friends, Stephen continues to add logs to the fire on the religious rulers! As agreeing and factual as he was while describing the life and testimonies of Abraham and Joseph he continued with Moses but with different results. He accused the religious rulers of being exactly like their forefathers....and they were!

Some things of note as we scroll through scripture starting in verse 38 of Acts chapter 7:

§ Stephen referred to the children of Israel as “the church” in the wilderness. Here, he could not be referring to the “church” The Body of Christ” since God was dealing with mankind through Israel under the Dispensing of the Law. When the word “church” is used (Greek – ekklēsia) it can translate to several meanings including those called out or those gathered together to worship Christ. Historically speaking then, Stephen could not have been talking about the latter since Jesus Christ had not yet left heaven to take the form of a man way back in Exodus friends! Since the church can also refer to several meanings, this verse is an excellent example of understanding words in their context and should be a reminder to us to “rightly divide scripture” while understanding that words can indeed have different meaning based upon the context used. Are their not doctrinal differences between “the church of the children of Israel” and the church The Body of Christ? Rhetorically, are there not differences between the dispensing of law (which God gave to Moses to give to Israel) and the dispensing of grace (which God gave to Paul to give to Gentiles)?

§ This “he” Moses, was in the “church in the wilderness” of which the angel (the pre-incarnate Christ) spoke to. Stephen goes on to say that the lively (powerful, efficacious) oracles (utterances from God) were given to us (Israel) to whom the fathers would NOT obey. How do we know this? Because the fathers of Israel turned their head back again to Egypt and had Aaron (their Priest) make gods to go before them since they were sure Moses was dead. They therefore rejoiced "in the thing" (the golden calf) that they made with their own hands. God allowed them to continue in idolatry by giving them up and they responded not with repentance from their evil ways but instead worshipped the host of heaven (the demonic, fallen angels) which progressed to self-destruction and murder as noted in verse 43:

§ 43 Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.

Molech = "king"

The name of the idol god of the Ammonites, to which human victims, particularly young children were offered in sacrifice. Its image was a hollow brazen figure, with the head of an ox, and outstretched human arms. It was heated red hot by a fire from within, and the little ones placed in its arms to be slowly burned, while to prevent the parents from hearing the dying cries, the sacrificing priests beat drums

Remphan = "the shrunken (as lifeless)"

The name of an idol worshipped secretly by the Israelites in the wilderness

44 Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen. 45 Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David; 46 Who found favour before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob. 47 But Solomon built him an house. 48 Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, 49 Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest? 50 Hath not my hand made all these things?

Stephen further testified of the fact that the forefathers of Israel had the "witness" of the tabernacle set before them by God who spoke to Moses. God had instructed Moses "according to the fashion that he had seen". Verse 45 although specifically mentioning Jesus is in fact referring to "Joshua" Moses' successor. The point here is that God used holy men and prophets who were receptive to His instruction to drive out the unbelieving nations. God dealt with Israel in this fashion "unto the days of David"; the king himself (who found favor before God) wanting to build a dwelling place for Him.

But in fact it was Solomon who would build God the house. However, in verses 48 through 50 Stephen reaffirms that "the Most High" does not dwell in temples made by hands....and that heaven is His throne with the earth being His footstool! Rhetorically speaking; What could be built for God?? Stephen was reminding these self-righteous rulers who God was!

51 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. 52 Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: 53 Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. 54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. 55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, 56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. 57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, 58 And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. 59 And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. 60 And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

"Apparently it became evident that the rulers would reject any appeal Stephen had hoped to make, and he sensed that they would not listen much longer, for suddenly the tone of his message changes. Rather than an appeal, there is a stinging indictment. He seems to disown them as he changes his repeated "our fathers" to "your fathers" and charges them with resisting the Holy Spirit, betraying and murdering Christ and despising Moses and the law which they pretended to uphold. In his indictment Stephen went backward from their sin against the Spirit, to that against Christ, to that against Moses and the law for the effect it would have upon them. Actually their sin against the Spirit was that which sealed their doom." - C.R. Stam; ACTS Dispensationally Considered, Volume I & II

Pulling no punches Stephen completes his sermon, his accusation his final words against a rebellious people. Dispensationally speaking (or how God is dealing with mankind) a major change was about to occur. Israel already divorces from God back in the book of Hosea would now be put on a shelf, their program put on hold. They would no longer be any national distinction as far as God was concerned.

† Three Strikes and Your Out! Department: Looking back, Israel had rejected the warning of each member of the Godhead:

2. The rejection of God The Son through Jesus Christ’s death on the cross.

3. The rejection of God The Holy Spirit at the stoning death of Stephen (after he provided a “Readers Digest” version of the nation of Israel and its rebellion against God!

ü Take special note that after the stoning of Stephen, before he died he saw Jesus Christ standing at the right hand of God. Jesus standing was not to give Stephen an ovation but was instead a picture of Him coming ready to judge the planet, to usher in the Great Tribulation for on the prophetic calendar this was next! The Greek word “histemi” for “standing” in Acts 7 depicts one who stands for a cause, one who stands for authority or for one who stands ready or prepared. The risen Christ is The One who fits all of these including several Old Testament verses that show God ready to defend or judge when “standing”.

§ Psalms 82:1 - God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods.

As we conclude chapter 7 were are introduced to a young man named Saul whose feet clothes were laid upon at the brutal stoning of God's dear saint Stephen. With Israel's complete rejection of God The Father, God The Son and God The Holy Spirit and her testimony a miserable failure, God's future dealings with the once favored nation would change significantly.

1 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. 3 As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison. 4 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.

Who is this man named Saul and what do we know about him so far? In the closing of chapter 7 we know that after the religious leadership that represented Israel stoned Stephen they laid his bloody clothes at the feet of Saul. In verse 1 of this chapter the bible tells us through Luke's account that Saul consented (was pleased with; agreed with others concerning Stephen's death) unto the death of Stephen.

We also know from the first verse that "great persecution" was levied against the kingdom church which the bible tells us was at Jerusalem. What do we know about this "great persecution"?

1) great

    a) of the external form or sensible appearance of things (or of persons)

        1) in particular, of space and its dimensions, as respects

                a) mass and weight: great

    b) compass and extent: large, spacious

    c) measure and height: long

    d) stature and age: great, old

                b) of number and quantity: numerous, large, abundant

                c) of age: the elder

                d) used of intensity and its degrees: with great effort, of the affections and emotions of the mind, of natural events powerfully
                     affecting the senses: violent, mighty, strong
2) predicated of rank, as belonging to

    a) persons, eminent for ability, virtue, authority, power

    b) things esteemed highly for their importance: of great moment, of great weight, importance

This persecution was no minor thing beloved! In fact, Saul made havoc of the church:

The very name of Saul brought fear to the kingdom church. He and his ambassadors of death would enter into every house of the saints and either kill them or send them to prison; both men and women alike! He would literally drag them to the judges and magistrates and either punish them or imprison them.

Saints were driven from their homes and dispersed across the region which allowed the hope of the kingdom gospel and the person and work of Jesus Christ to be spread throughout. But the apostles stayed in Jerusalem....

5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. 6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city.

The bible tells us that Phillip preached Christ unto them. What did he specifically preach to the Samaritans and does it matter friends? Is it really necessary to understand the distinction between the word "gospel"? Studying the bible by simply drudging out the Strong's Concordance will not get you there! You need to rightly divide or read the bible AND the concordance in its context with how God is dealing with mankind.

Words like church, gospel, salvation and gentiles can take on different meanings depending on how they are used! All the cults and "isms" are conceived because man has not obeyed God and correctly partitioned the bible against how HE said man should approach HIM. Today we can approach God The Father through His Son AS JESUS CHRIST TOLD PAUL, no more no less. A quick example of this is by asking the question as to whether a person is saved or not by believing that Jesus Christ is God. Although that is an important component of one's faith, more is required under grace although the "more" is what Paul (not yet called to the ministry at this point...Rick) calls the "simplicity that is in Christ because all you have to do is believe on Christ's merits at Calvary beloved.

How was God dealing with mankind friends? One way to find out is to ponder how people were saved at this point? Philip was preaching the gospel...but what gospel....does it matter? YES!

Although God had "shelved" Israel, he did not reveal any changes to mankind and we know this by:

In similar fashion as in the healings of Peter and John towards the man at the Beautiful gate, signs, wonders and healings were all post marks of how God was dealing with mankind!

§ The Kingdom Gospel in its uniqueness is a “good news” message that:

† Proclaims Jesus Christ as The Son of God (God Himself); which must be believed to be saved.

† Jesus Christ The Messiah is offering the Kingdom to Israel and will establish it on planet earth (Christ often quoted “the kingdom is at hand”)

† Jesus Christ will rule and reign on the earth forever along with those who take Him at His word:

1. His nation Israel and members of that nation based on lineage, faith and its resulting expression of faith under the Law of God!

2. Gentiles who would realize their position and come through Israel to be reconciled to God.

† This promise of the Kingdom is two-fold in nature:

1. The fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham concerning the land for Israel (And he told Abraham to walk its borders...).

2. The fulfillment of the kingdom and its establishment that God promised to David.

With this in mind then and starting in verse 6 we can now understand what administration or dispensing God had in force as Phillip preached Christ. Reading again.....

6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city.

Applying our principles and doctrine we know that The Law is still in force because:

After reading verses 6 through 8, the information and outward signs described tell us how God is operating with mankind. Please note that up until this point we stand talking of miracles, healings and signs in Acts chapter 8, SIX FULL CHAPTERS after Pentecost in Acts chapter 2; the so-called birth of today's church which is what fundamental, bible-believing churches embrace....

Then that logic (if I believed as they do..) would have it that TODAY, I should be able to cast out demons, heal the sick and perform miracles from God on a pretty regular basis since I certainly believe in God (if I believed as they do..)!

Friends, something does not seem to add up....something must have changed if I cannot perform as Phillip and the 12 apostles have performed! Please read on because something has changed in how God is dealing with mankind!

Read on and examine the scriptures because as grace believers, we know that something has indeed changed in how God is dealing with mankind since Phillips account!

Simon is an interesting individual described in the bible and through his account as grace believers we can help defend "the faith" since his testimony is quite unique. This section titled "The Faith of Simon" has as much to do with his actual faith as chronicled in verses 9 through 13 and his lack of faith in verses 14 through 24!

9 But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: 10 To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. 11 And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. 12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

Although there was now great joy in the city of Samaria, they were not far from the influence of a man called Simon which in time past had bewitched people through sorcery (mä-gyü'-ō GK - to be a magician, to practice magical arts). He astonished the people of his native city into wonderment and amazement and was able to convince them that he had great words (legos) of wisdom likely similar to a false prophet.

The bible tells us that they all (the inhabitants of Samaria) gave heed to what this Simon had to say and personally I do not think it is any different then what goes on today friends. Believers need to "search the scriptures to see if those things be so" but I am afraid that as long as pastors, priests and leaders preach things that make their followers feel good, everybody will be happy....people go home feeling good about themselves and the numbers in the church grow at the expense of sound biblical, doctrinal, dispensational teaching.

14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: 15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. 18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, 19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. 20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. 21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. 23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. 24 Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the LORD for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.

During the earthly ministry of Christ, there was contact with a group of people known as the Samaritans. The Samaritans were a group of people who lived in Samaria – an area north of Jerusalem. They were half-Jews and half-Gentiles. When Assyria captured the northern kingdom of Israel in 721 B.C. some were taken in captivity while others left behind. The ones left behind intermarried with the Assyrians. Thus these people were neither fully Hebrews nor fully Gentiles. The Samaritans had their own unique copy of the first five books of Scripture as well as their own unique system of worship. At the time of Jesus the Jews and the Samaritans did not deal with one another. Jesus, however, ministered to the people of Samaria preaching the good news to them.

Starting in verse 14 the bible tells us that The 12 had heard of Phillip's preaching at Samaria and they sent Peter and John unto them. The two men prayed for the citizens of Samaria; that they might receive the Holy Ghost. Peter and John then laid their hands on all those who believed the message of Phillip since until then the only kingdom believers (re-read verse 12) that had the Holy Ghost fall on them were the ones water baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Friends please understand and take note that water baptism was associated with outward signs and manifestations of God as mentioned above. In addition, the Holy Spirit was operating in a different manner as noted in verses 15 through 17. As an example, today under the dispensing of grace (that Christ committed to Paul to give to us) The Spirit of God indwells believers permanently those who have trusted the merits of Christ for their salvation. Therefore, the operation of God's Spirit is different today then what we are reading now in Act 8 and understanding this distinction is important.

Please note that Simon soon discovered a way to merchandise man for his own personal gain! Taking a play from our Adversary's playbook, Simon thought that if he could control the dispensing of the Holy Spirit he would be able offer it to people and possible charge them for it as he said: Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. As a matter of fact, he offered the apostles money for it! Simon had something in mind that had little to do with what God would want. The interesting thing here is that if you recall, this man believed and was baptized as noted in verse 13! However, as I read and digested through these verses some thoughts come to mind:

Simon's testimony is unique and under the dispensing of the law could not generate the required "fruit" or expression of faith as required. Whereas their was no scripture that recorded the baptism of Ananias and Sapphira, the bible tells us plainly that Simon was baptized.

What was Simon's response you may ask? He said; "Peter, you are right, forgive me, and pray with me to God as I ask for His forgiveness on this issue...." No...his actual response was a bit different as noted in verse 24:

24 Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the LORD for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.

Friends, my point is this; if Simon stays in this state, according to what Peter just told him.....he cannot be saved! There is no repentant response recorded by him and we don't hear from this man again. He may have been attracted to the allure of money or maybe even had a different motivation to be saved in the first place but he is in spiritual trouble when we leave him. If I do not "rightly divide the word of truth" and read myself into these passages describing Simon's walk, I will erroneously wrestle with eternal security which we do have under our current dispensing of grace! Simon who is still under the law was saved under a differing set of marching orders as dispensed by God and Kingdom Saints had eternal security only if they held in obedience of the law...this man did not demonstrate a testimony pleasing to God (Hebrews 11) but yet was saved and baptized. Thankfully, we can look back while under this amazing dispensing of grace and today blow it worse than Simon did but be eternally secure in Jesus Christ and his sufficiency!

25 And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

The bible tells us starting in verse 25 that when the saints had truly testified (of the things of God). They returned to home-base, the epicenter or Jerusalem. They attested to, affirmed earnestly and solemnly preached and taught the gospel in many villages of Samaria. Here again, “gospel” or good news was dispensed to a specific group or persons.

The wonderful account that we read about concerning Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch testifies as to how God was dealing with mankind. We can know this for a certainty by studying and considering the dialog that took place as well as the questions asked by both parties. Let’s investigate further….

26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.

One way we know that God has changed his dealings with mankind since the above account has to do with His direct intervention on the affairs of man. Friends, when was the last time an angel of the Lord spoke to you? I am not talking about a leading, a feeling, a thought or another human saying they were lead to tell you they were sent from God. I am

talking about knowing for sure; audibly receiving instruction from God to go somewhere. I pray that your answer is never because that is the only correct answer! Anything other than “never” would be indicative of the fact that you are being led away by your own emotions or will and are not being led by the sound doctrine of God. In his teachings, Pastor Curt Crist from Welcome to Grace Ministries tells people about taking God at His word using the model of the DIWE train: Doctrine, (as the engine) Intellect, Will, Emotion (as the caboose). It has been my experience to witness that most people and most denominations use the opposite of this model whereas the caboose (Emotion) drives the train which only causes confusion in The Body of Christ. This error leads believers right into the hands of our Adversary!

However, Philip obediently did as he was told and rightly so I might add. He believed how God was dealing with him, acted accordingly and went down to the desert of Gaza.

Philip the Evangelist appears several times in the Acts of the Apostles but should not be confused with Philip the Apostle. He was one of the Seven Deacons chosen to care for the poor of the Christian community in Jerusalem (Acts 6). He preached and performed miracles in Samaria, converted Simon Magus, and met and baptised the Ethiopian eunuch in Gaza, traditionally marking the start of the Ethiopian Church (Acts 8). Later, he lived in Caesarea Maritima with his four preaching daughters, where he was visited by Paul (Acts 21), though the some believe this account may refer to Philip the Apostle.

27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, 28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.

God’s kingdom gospel ambassador went forth. Behold a man of Ethiopia was there and he was a man of great authority (a prince, a potentate, a courtier, high officer, royal minister of great authority). He must have been a trusted man by nature of the type of authority given to him:

Ethiopia - country of burnt faces; the Greek word by

which the Hebrew Cush is rendered (Gen. 2:13; 2 Kings 19:9; Esther 1:1; Job 28:19; Ps. 68:31; 87:4), a country which lay to the south of Egypt, beginning at Syene on the First Cataract (Ezek. 29:10; 30:6), and extending to beyond the confluence of the White and Blue Nile. It corresponds generally with what is now known as the Sudan (i.e., the land of the blacks). This country was known to the Hebrews, and is described in Isa. 18:1; Zeph. 3:10. They carried on some commercial intercourse with it (Isa. 45:14). Its inhabitants were descendants of Ham (Gen. 10:6; Jer. 13:23; Isa. 18:2, "scattered and peeled," A.V.; but in R.V., "tall and smooth"). Herodotus, the Greek historian, describes them as "the tallest and handsomest of men." They are frequently represented on Egyptian monuments, and they are all of the type of the true negro. As might be expected, the history of this country is interwoven with that of Egypt. Ethiopia is spoken of in prophecy (Ps. 68:31; 87:4; Isa. 45:14; Ezek. 30:4-9; Dan. 11:43; Nah. 3:8-10; Hab. 3:7; Zeph. 2:12).

The Ethiopian royal minister was returning back home but yet had come to Jerusalem to worship. This man was a believer of the God of Israel friends. Further, this man is sitting there with a copy of Isaiah in his lap at the most opportune time!

29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. 30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?

31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. 32 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: 33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. 34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.

Isaiah 53

1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? 2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. 3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. 5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. 8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken. 9 And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. 11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Some interesting things come to mind as I read about this wonderful conversion account:

36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? 37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. 38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. 39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing. 40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.

Friends, I have to tell you that this is such a sweet and beautiful and story. Philip was not concerned about the color of his guest and the Ethiopian eunuch was not repulsed by the belief of Philip or by his appearance and dress. The had one thing in common: Jesus Christ!

After their remote bible study of the person of Jesus Christ, they came unto a body of water where the eunuch inquired about being baptized (verse 36). Read Philip's requirement to this new convert's question as well as the anser given: And Philip said, "If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest." And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Please do not gloss over the response of the eunuch because there is significant difference for the requirements of salvation under the kingdom program (in these verses) and what we believe today under the dispensation of the grace of God! All that was required of the eunuch to believe was what came from his mouth in the latter part of verse 37: And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Many people saved and unsaved, new converts or babes in the word erroneously think that by simply believing in God means that you are a Christian. There was a time where believing in God may have implied "Jesus Christ" and by believing in Jesus Christ that implied that one trusted in His death, burial and resurrection for their sins in order to have full assurance of heaven when they died. But I am afraid that it no longer the case. Today, when someone says they believe in God I would have to ask which one since:

Notice I didn't even get into Satanism, mention false religions, clubs, etc.... for we are much too smart for that; why....we can see that coming like a freight train.

But in this sweet story friends; when the Ethiopian eunuch said he believed that Jesus Christ was the Son of God he met the requirements of salvation that were in force at that time under God's Kingdom program where kingdom saints who were waiting and hoping for the return of Christ were still the stewards! Peter who was the leader of the 12 apostles, John, Philip and other members of the "little flock" (ref. Luke 12:32) hoped Israel would repent (change their minds) as Peter preached earlier in Acts 2. They did not know that God had written Israel off, that they would soon be martyred, die naturally waiting for Jesus (or on the run from persecution) or that God was about to institute a major change in mankind's history through the dispensing of grace!

Damascus - Shortly after the glorious resurrection and ascension into heaven of the glorified Christ, God sent His Holy Spirit to empower and strengthen believers amidst a time of great and fierce persecution. At that time, a modern day Adolph Hitler, Saul of Tarsus, whose

name struck fear into the hearts of kingdom saints, was wreaking havoc to all who would believe Jesus Christ was the Son of God and Messiah of Israel! Saul of Tarsus was consenting to the deaths of many saints while imprisoning others. He most recently consented to the death of Stephen (Acts 7) as zealous followers laid the bloodied clothes of the stoned saint at his feet!

Then, an event occurred that changed how man would view God and his relationship with Him until this very writing and onward until He calls us home through death or the catching away of His saints otherwise known as the rapture! Follow along as we investigate how God would move again in the course of man's history and change His dealings with mankind using a figure in history least expected......

1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, 2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

In verses 1 and 2 Saul increased (yet) the threatening and murder in opposition of the disciples of Jesus Christ. The word "breathing" used here describes that Saul's purpose in life, the reason he took his breath was to exterminate those referred to as "The Way". Friends, we cannot mince words on the persecution that Saul caused to those beloved kingdom saints (saints who waited for the return of Jesus and the establishment of the kingdom on earth - RICK). In Acts 8:2 the bible tells us that Saul "wreaked havoc" or in other words he:

In addition, he took with him letters from the Jewish High Priest to send to religious rulers at Damascus in order to persecute those saints who lived (what Paul later referred to as "strange cites") in cities beyond even Jerusalem. It was also Saul's intention to bring these saints back to Jerusalem so that if he found any of "this way" he would bring them back bound; man or woman! Read Paul's own account below:

And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. 5 As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished. - Acts 22: 4,5

It is of special interest to note that more information is available to bible students in addition to what we read in Acts 9 about Saul's conversion. Acts 22 and Acts 26 give us an inside slant on more events that occurred that are awesome and insightful indeed!

3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: 4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

At around noon (ref. Acts 22:6) EDT (Eastern Desert Time) a light shined round about him from heaven. It was a great light, a light that shined...

5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. 6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. 7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. 8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.

A stunned, Saul asked; "Who art thou Lord"". I can only imagine the astonishment in Saul when he heard that it was The One of whom he had indeed been persecuting that was speaking to him! Further, Christ identifies Himself as Jesus of Nazareth (Acts 22:8) and tells Saul it is hard to kick against a pricks (Greek kentron - a sting; of bees, scorpions, or locusts) or hard to kick against something that hurts or injured.

I often thought about whether Christ was implying that Saul was beginning to be convicted of the harm he was doing to the kingdom saints. But in fact other definitions of this word (an iron goad, for urging on oxen, horses and other beasts of burden) show us that Our Lord was telling Saul that "this painful and ruinous resistance" is in vain! (Please note: The distinction I am referring to when talking about kingdom saints is purely intentional. These saints were waiting for Christ to establish the kingdom as He promised to Israel and part of that program. Today under God's dispensing of grace, we wait for Christ to call us into the air or by through the veil o death. - RICK)

The bible tells us that the men who were with Saul stood speechless but in verse 9 of Acts 22 Paul recounts his conversion on the steps of a Jerusalem castle. He tells the people that when Christ appeared to him, the men heard a voice and were afraid. Those men heard "a voice" but did not hear what Jesus Christ was saying to Saul in the middle of the desert (Re-read Acts 9:7 and Acts 22:9).

Saul (soon to be Paul) arose (verse 8) from the earth but when he opened his eyes he saw no man and was in fact blinded as those with him took him by the hand into Damascus.

10 And I said, What shall I do, LORD? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do. 11 And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus. - Acts 22:10,11

Many bible teachers make the error in believing that Paul received ALL of the revelation of Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus based on Acts 22:10. What the Lord said unto Saul was to arise, go into Damascus and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed to do. What Christ meant here is that Saul would be instructed as to what to do next...and the man to do that was Ananias!

12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, 13 Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. 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. 15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. 16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. - Acts 22:12-16

9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink. 10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord.

Paul was without sight for three days and did not eat OR drink as he awaited for a certain disciple that the Lord had already prepared for such an occasion.

Notice, Ananias did not freak out here and warmly answered the Lord knowing fully that God was dealing with man audibly and through miracles. It is also interesting to note that we do not read about the testimony of Ananias until Paul later describes him in Acts 22:

And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, - Acts 22:12

As we read verses 11 through 14 Ananias was not too excited about the thought of confronting this madman.

11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, 12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. 13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: 14 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.

The Lord's first instructions were for Ananias to arise and go to Straight Avenue and enquire in the house of Judas about Saul who would be in prayer. During his prayer, Saul will see a vision from God concerning Ananias....this man would put his hands upon him.

Understandably so, Ananias told the Lord that he had 'heard by many' the havoc Saul was wreaking across the region and how much evil (Greek: kakos - of a bad nature, of a mode of thinking, feeling, acting, troublesome, injurious, pernicious, destructive, baneful) he had done to the saints at Jerusalem. In addition, Ananias did not want to be one of those bound and sent to prison by Saul or the chief priests. The Lord did not hit Ananias with dumbness as he had done earlier with Zacharias and as recorded in Luke 1 being merciful and understanding of his aprehension given Saul's destructive ways. Also, Ananias would be used by God to witness to Saul and validate what had been revealed to him in the desert.

15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: 16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.

Notice that Ananias does not comment on how Christ switched around the order of "to whom" He would be revealed: the Gentiles, kings and the children of Israel. Instead, Ananias had heard what he needed to hear and went on his way.

17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

Saul received a double-witness to what had recently occurred in his life. Just moments earlier, his life's purpose was to do harm to those that preached Christ. Up until his encounter with The Risen Lord Jesus Christ, Saul of Tarsus had letters in his hands and was ready to take them to the chief priests in order to wreak further havoc to the kingdom saints beyond even Jerusalem!

Now Ananias put his hands on Saul. How Ananias did this is also significant as noted in the Greek word for "hands" which is cheir:

God is quite involved here in the ordainment of the chief of sinners as the laying on of hands here is by the agency of His work! As inspired by God, Ananias calls Saul brother (adelphos - as a brother in Christ) and confirms what had just happened to him letting him know that the Lord....yes Lord Jesus Christ.....the same One that appeared to you came to me so that you would receive your sight AND be filled with The Holy Spirit. Friends, Saul was quickly getting an indoctrination of the Tri-Unity of God!

18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. 19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. 20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

The bible tells us in verse 18 that immediately there fell from Saul's eyes scales; after of which he received sight, arose and was baptized. While in the previous chapter it is clear that the Ethiopian eunuch was water baptized since water was spoken of, scholars differ on what baptism Saul received here. Since no body of water was mentioned one could argue that this baptism was that of The Holy Spirit.

However, since Saul was saved under the dispensing of the law and ministered to by Ananias (a devout man according to the law Acts 22:12) water baptism was required in adherence with this program. Friends it should be noted that since water was likely scarce in these regions it is not probable that Judas had a baptismal in his house so that Saul could be immersed. The fact is, Saul was baptized by Ananias in accordance with John's baptism and Peter's exhortation (Acts 2:38) of water baptism for the remission of sins.

15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. 16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. - Acts 22:15

Saul was doused, sprinkled or poured on but probably not immersed.....and by the way, how Saul was baptized is nothing really to wrestle over but I am sure there are believers and denominations who would think otherwise.

Verse 19 explains that Saul received food (meat) and was strengthened. He spent time with un-named disciples who were at Damascus and who were probably petrified I might add (see verse 26). But in verse 20 Saul preached Christ in the synagogues; that He is the Son of God! Notice that Saul does not immediately preach Jesus Christ's death, burial and resurrection and His imputed justification for all who would simply believe. Why, because this had not yet been revealed to him! This fact also testifies against those that would teach that Saul had received everything from Jesus Christ...all in one sitting; this is not so. What Saul did preach was that Jesus Christ is (present tense) the Son of God and they thought he was crazy I am sure!

Imagine, Saul telling them that Jesus Christ spoke to him after he was ready to imprison or kill anyone who even mentioned His name!

21 But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? 22 But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.

In verse 21 the bible tells us that all who heard Saul were now amazed (existēmi: displaced, amazed, astonished, throw into wonderment, astounded). Other words to describe how these people felt include being out of their mind, beside one's self and even insane! Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? But despite the chaos, Saul increased in strength (endynamoō - to receive strength, be strengthened, increase in strength) and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus; likely the ones he would have fraternized with prior to his miraculous conversion! The bible tells us that Saul 'proved to them' that this Jesus IS the Messiah , the very Son of God!

23 And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: 24 But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. 25 Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. 26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.

Starting in verse 23, the bible tells us that after many days the Jews took counsel to kill him. The amount of days were divinely ordered as implied in the Greek meaning of 'many'. Those that took counsel to kill Saul met corporately to devise ways to exterminate him. Their laying await was known of Saul but how he knew is not written of. It could be he was divinely warned or had an inside person like a nephew (ref. Acts 23:16). The disciples took Saul during the night and lowered him down the wall of the city structure since the Jews watched the gates night and day, looking for his escape.

When Saul arrived at Jerusalem he wanted to be tested, tried and 'put to proof ' in order to join himself to the disciples but they were all afraid of him.

Friends, I must stop here to make a comment about verse 26. In the Greek, the bible tells us that Saul wanted to join himself with the disciples. He wanted to first prove himself and then cleave unto, fasten together, cement together with the brothers in Jerusalem. I couldn't imagine what was going through his mind at this point for he had seen the risen, glorified Christ who had revealed special news to him. But he knew that people were scared to death of him.

Some 2,000 years later, I do not think much has changed. People are still scared to death of Paul, doubting his credibility as well as his God-ordained message. Those that embrace the gospel of the grace of God as dispensed through Paul know full well that most Christians do not want to be joined together with them either. These Christians politely smile and passively reject the distinctive message of grace, it's doctrine and the resulting liberty and rest its message proclaims. Other Christians proclaim you a heretic while remaining fearful of the message of grace having attained in their minds all of the counsel of God:

1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. - 2 Timothy 3:1-5

27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.

God bless Barnabas friends, for he took him right to the apostles and acted as Saul's defense lawyer testifying of the change he personally witnessed in Saul!

29 And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. 30 Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. 31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.

32 And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. 33 And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. 34 And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. 35 And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.

As Paul grew in the grace of God, Peter passed through the region and visited the saints at Lydda which is a town about 9 miles from Joppa and is the first town on the northernmost of the two roads between that place and Jerusalem. Once there he found a man which was sick with palsy for the last eight years.

Here, Peter healed the man in the presence of all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron and because of this they turned to the Lord. Kingdom saints such as Peter were still healing and carrying on the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ while Saul had already been converted.

Interestingly, Peter went to Joppa and continued demonstrating his ability to heal as he visited a saint named Tabitha. Also known by interpretation as Dorcas, this woman was full of good works and gave to the poor. In this case however, her sickness lead to her eventual death....until Peter came on the scene!

36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. 37 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. 38 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.

The disciples who were there at Joppa sent two men after Peter and asked him to come at once....

39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. 42 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. 43 And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.

In this chapter we read about how God makes an inroad of salvation to the Italians! But as we study this event, we must keep in mind the distinctiveness of the ministries of Peter and Paul.

1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. 3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: 6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.

Caesarea of Philippi was situated at the foot of Lebanon near the sources of the Jordan in Gaulanitis, and formerly called Paneas; but afterward being rebuilt by Philip the tetrarch, it was called by him Caesarea, in honour of Tiberias Caesar; subsequently called Neronias by Agrippa II, in honour of Nero.

Caesarea of Palestine was built near the Mediterranean by Herod the Great on the site of Strabo's Tower, between Joppa and Dora. It was provided with a magnificent harbour and had conferred upon it the name of Caesarea, in honour of Augustus. It was the residence of Roman procurators, and the majority of its inhabitants were Greeks.

The bible tells us that Cornelius was an officer of the Roman army who was a devout man who along with his household, feared God. He gave to the poor and prayed to God always. At around 3:00 PM (the ninth hour) and angel sent from God spoke to him and told him that his prayers AND the benefit of his giving spirit had been remembered. Cornelius was told to send men to Joppa and call for Simon Peter who was staying at the shore house of Simon Tanner...

7 And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; 8 And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.

It is my belief that Cornelius' testimony before his servants was such that it was attractive to the point where no one questioned his story! These men, one who was a devout soldier and likely a believer, were ready to go find a man by the name of Simon Peter.

9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: 10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,....

As God was preparing the hearts of each man, Peter went on the housetop to pray around noon (the sixth hour). As the people prepared the food below, he fell into what the bible calls a "trance".

11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending upon him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: 12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. 14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. 15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. 16 This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.

It is obvious here that in two separate instances, God is directly intervening into the affairs of man. With Cornelius, God spoke and sent an angel. With Peter, God again used the audio-video approach by talking with him and showing him a peculiar vision. These times present a unique circumstance in that while Saul is preaching as a newly saved convert in the synagogues, Peter is still getting visions from the Lord. Ironically, Peter did not quite understand the whole "three times" reminder (ref. verse 17) example as God would now bring salvation to the Gentiles! Please note that this is not to be confused with the special grace-dispensing Christ instructed Saul / Paul to teach exclusively first to the Gentiles without going through Israel. Here, Peter is still teaching salvation through believing Israel as the channel of blessing to God.

Many of our fundamental, grace-rejecting friends may think a Gentile is a Gentile is a Gentile, but there is a difference. Same word, different dispensing of God's instruction and dealing with mankind! How do we tell the difference? Let's investigate....

Please choose "never" or see a doctor immediately....or better yet, if you can heal come see me because I am losing my hair and my eyesight isn't what it used to be.

Under this marvelous dispensing of grace, God will only talk to you through His word....the bible as Jesus Christ revealed new instructions to us of which Paul is the officer of (Romans through Philemon). Yes, all of scripture if for us, but not all of scripture is to us.......

As Peter digested this heavenly vision after telling God that “I have never in all my life eaten anything forbidden by our Jewish laws.", he doubted in himself what this all meant! And just at that moment the men arrived from the household of Cornelius. And while Simon Peter was on the rooftop doubting, the men were downstairs introducing themselves to Simon Tanner.

17 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, 18 And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. 19 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold (or attend to what I am saying), three men seek thee. 20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.

While Simon Peter thought about what he saw and what it should mean, the Spirit said "oy vey" Peter, get downstairs, doubt nothing for I have sent them!

As the Third member of the Godhead The Holy Spirit is no less deity than God The Father and God The Son. Verse 19 is an excellent example of direct involvement and intervention in the form of verbal communication with man. In this case the Holy Spirit told Peter (as Peter thought in his mind)

21 Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come? 22 And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.

It is interesting to note that it is here where we see that Cornelius was actually warned of God. Being warned of God in this fashion (Greek - chrēmatizō) occurs three other times in the New Testament:

In like fashion, Cornelius had to respond to the warning of God by taking the action that he eventually did...

23 Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and he had called together his kinsmen and near friends. 25 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. 26 But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. 27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. 28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. 29 Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me? 30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. 33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.

In verses 23 through 26 the bible tells us about the initial encounter of Peter and Cornelius. Cornelius waited for them and called together relative and close friends. These people were believers of the God of Israel since there was no record of any disputation against what Peter had to say. However, this was a message that Cornelius and those with him had to hear and believe....

In verses 26 through 33 Cornelius' first reaction was to fall and worship Peter. I honestly believe that there are people today

including leaders and religious clergy who would enjoy that. For starters, how about high-ranking Orthodox church officials? In this current age are there not rings kissed? Do people NOT bow down to mere images of church leaders in the place of God? This is idolatry plain and simple and in this example, Peter would have none of it! It is interesting to note that while large Orthodox churches hold Peter as the founding father of the church, and we see Peter rushing to get Cornelius back on his feet stating: "Stand up; I myself also am a man", that more leaders of these denominations do not heed Peter's example of whom they say they follow (...in all reality and truth, they should be following the words of the apostle Paul.)

Cornelius then gives an account of what had happened to him before telling Peter that they were are all present and ready to hear those things commanded by God!

34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

In verses 34 through 43 Peter explains in great detail the events of recent history. He now understood that God was doing something different as a result of the vision that he received. Peter noted that God was NOT a respecter of persons but instead every nation (Greek - ethnos) that fears (to reverence, venerate, to treat with deference or reverential obedience) Him AND works righteousness is accepted of Him! During Peter's time the "work" of righteousness that he spoke of is an expression of faith and adherence to law of the One True and Living God of Israel.

The word which God sent unto the children of Israel was as follows (Cornelius knew this part) :

39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: 40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. 43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

The word which God sent unto the 12 apostles were as follows (I believe it was this part that Cornelius needed to know):

44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

In the last verses of this wonderful chapter, the work and operation of The Holy Spirit is evident as Peter spoke words that Cornelius and his family were NOT aware of. The Holy Ghost now fell on all that heard the word as His gift was poured out on the Gentiles! Those circumcised believers were astonished at what was going on as they heard the Gentiles speak with tongues and magnify God.

While the law was still in place Peter asked a rhetorical question of whether or not any man should forbid "these" to be baptized who received the Holy Ghost! He commanded them (Gentiles) to be water baptized in the name of the Lord. Then these new Gentile converts prayed for Peter to stay certain (some) days.

1And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. 2 And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, 3 Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.

The book of Acts is a transition book from law to grace and from God dealing with Israel as a nation to dealing with Gentiles on an equal

basis. Let's look at the differing factions as we digest scripture....

In verse 1 we have the apostles of Jesus Christ (since in verse 4, Peter is speaking) and the brothers that were in Judea who had heard about how the Gentiles received the word. I think it is safe to say we have clear, kingdom believers so far; members of what I call the Church of The Little Flock. In the next few verses Peter turns his attention to a different audience as well as a different location. Let's not lose sight of the fact that at this point God has already written off Israel and lowered her to that of Gentile status making both Jew and Gentile equal. Let's make the determination on their faith, based on how they respond to what is revealed to them by God through Peter's account....(see verse 18)

With the above in mind Peter contended (Greek - diakrinō: to doubt to contend, to waver) with those of the circumcision. They fired back at Peter because he had gone in to men uncircumcised (and ate with them)!

1) to separate, make a distinction, discriminate, to prefer

2) to learn by discrimination, to try, decide

a) to determine, give judgment, decide a dispute

3) to withdraw from one, desert

4) to separate one's self in a hostile spirit, to oppose, strive with dispute, contend

5) to be at variance with one's self, hesitate, doubt

4 But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, 5 I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: 6 Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 7 And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat. 8 But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth. 9 But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. 10 And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.

In verses 4 through 8, what Peter is implying here is that he felt the same way they did! He questioned the Lord and told Him that he has obeyed the dietary restrictions all his life in that nothing common or unclean in this regard has ever entered into his mouth. Are you sure about this Lord???....you really have to love Peter and understand we all have a little bit of him in each of us.

11 And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me. 12 And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house: 13 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; 14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved. 15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.

In verses 11 through 15, Peter now testified that physically and as a result of his vision, there appeared three men; men already in the house! Now he tells the audience at Jerusalem that God The Holy Spirit directed him, commanded him, spoke to him (bade) to go with these men....doubting nothing. When Peter went out, there were three more men outside and the six ambassadors of Cornelius took Peter and returned to their leader's home.

He heard directly from Cornelius (verses 13, 14) who described his own account. Notice how Peter then told the Jerusalem circumcision that as he began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.

16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. 17 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? 18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

Peter concluded his defense starting in verse 16. He remembered the word of the Lord and how He said that John indeed baptized with water and also recalled how the Holy Ghost would also baptize. In verse 17 Peter notes how God gave them the gift of the Holy Ghost as He had done unto them due to their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

My close brother in Christ, Bruce Watson, brought up an excellent point in regards to the concept of Holy Spirit baptism and the pervading fundamentalist confusion point of water baptism. Verse 16 above introduces believers to the operation of God through Holy Spirit baptism, free from water!

Peter then asked his audience rhetorically: "What was I that I could withstand God?" When they heard these things, they held their peace and glorified God in His work towards the Gentiles.

Peter spoke of how God gave Cornelius and his family and friends the "gift" of the Holy Ghost. It is important to comprehend the operation of God The Spirit in these verses in comparison to how He operates today. The gifts that Peter described were outward manifestations of the power of God including but not limited to: healing, performing miracles, speaking in tongues and receiving supernatural knowledge from God. These gifts testified of the new found faith of converts during the kingdom age with the belief that Christ would still return to set up His reign as king.

These gifts differ today from the fruit of the Holy Spirit as well as our ability under grace to heal, perform miracles, speak in tongues and acquire supernatural knowledge from God.....

19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. 20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the LORD Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.

As we digest verses 19 through 30 it is important to discuss a few words that will help us differentiate between Kingdom Saints and Body of Christ Saints that will carry through the next few chapters. This understanding is of special importance because most bible-believing Christians will erroneously mix in, ignore or refute what we are about to cover.

Who specifically are "they" in verse 19? They which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen traveled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. Stephen was stoned to death in Act 7 and these believers were indeed Kingdom saints awaiting for Jesus Christ to return and set up His Millennial Reign on the earth. This event also occurred before Saul's conversion in Acts 9.

In his book Acts-Dispensationally Considered, C.R. Stam asserts that there is a distinction between the words Grecians and Greeks. Grecians (Greek - Hellenistes) he described, were Jews living or having lived outside of Palestine among the Gentiles, where the Greek language was spoken and its culture prevailed. Thus (he continued), these Jews became "Grecianized" but were Jews nonetheless! The Greeks on the other hand were Gentiles.

Stam also believes along with scholars Barnes, Kitto and Vincent that the word "Grecians" in verse 19 should be rendered "Greek" and that those scattered abroad witnessed to predominantly Gentile grace believers who had heard the message of grace through disciples of Paul and Barnabas. Although I disagree with that notion, Stam and I do concur that the church at Antioch eventually became a grace-embracing church.

Personally and simply, I believe that those that were scattered abroad through the persecution of Stephen would logically preach the Kingdom gospel to saints at Antioch since that was what they understood. I don't think we can be too dogmatic or assume anything except what we read and what was preached by whom since it is obvious that both the Kingdom or Prophetic Program (now on the decline) and the Grace or Mystery Program (now on the incline) co-existed (ref. Galatians 2)!

The bible tells us in verse 20 that some of these scattered disciples came as far as Cyrene (Egypt) and Cyprus which was an island just off of Antioch. It's safe to assume that since they were forced to flee (upon the persecution that arose about Stephen) that they were carrying out "The Great Commission" as Jesus Christ and the 12 had instructed them to do.

I believe verse 21 is another key verse to indicate that this was a kingdom message at first (again reading) but more would be revealed that pertains to the grace of God:

21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.

22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.

Notice how then in verse 22 that the news of this assembly at Antioch had come back unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem. They did not send Peter, John or James but Barnabas! They sent Barnabas because this would be in line with Christ's command in Acts 1 in that Jerusalem, all Judea and Samaria still had needed to hear:

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. - Acts 1:8

In my opinion, its a much shorter putt to believe that with Jerusalem still the epicenter, that Barnabas would have communicated to "the ears" of the Jerusalem church what he had heard from Paul and his instructions to the Gentiles (as he had received it from Christ). Therefore, it is not hard to imagine believers, both Jew and Gentile, hearing that Jesus Christ was the Messiah but desirous to hear more from Barnabas as they turned to the Lord (at the end of verse 21 ). In verse 23, because Barnabas came and saw the grace of God, we cannot assume that it meant the completed version of the doctrine of the grace of God since that had not been all revealed as of yet. Again friends this is just my opinion after digesting these passages while trying to understand what was actually going through the minds of the grace-age saints....

**Please note that C.R. Stams books are outstanding resources and can be purchased at www.bereanbiblesociety.org

25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

Starting in verse 25, we now are back to common ground as Barnabas went to Tarsus to find Saul. He brought him back to Antioch and the two spent an entire year there! Friends, can you imagine the excitement? And by the way, what a resort that must have been because Antioch was close to the water! The bible tells us that many people were taught there and that disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. How wonderful it must have been to refer to someone as "Christian" and know that they are someone who has embraced the gospel of Jesus Christ according to the revelation of the mystery. Unfortunately in 2008, when you label someone a Christian you have no idea what faith system you have tapped into.... It is my prayer that today in 2008, as ambassadors of Christ, in small numbers we can change that notion...somehow....but I know better, because I know that in Paul's letter in 2 Timothy nearly 2,000 years ago, things were already deteriorating.......

27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. 28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea: 30 Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

In verses 27 through 30, the bible introduces us to Agabus (Hagab in the Hebrew; meaning "locust" in the Greek) who came on the scene. The fact that there would be a great dearth (scarcity of harvest or famine) was "signified" by the Holy Spirit as prophesied by Agabus. I believe the Holy Spirit was warning both Kingdom and Grace Age saints about this dearth; especially those who were awaiting the return of Jesus Christ and had already sold all to follow the Messiah!

The disciples sent relief to the saints at Judea, to the elders through the hands of Barnabas and Saul. The pattern of the Gentile churches helping their Jewish brethren was a continuing pattern of love and hospitality.

1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. 2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. 3 And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem. - 1 Corinthians 16:1-3

Here again, Paul encouraged the saints at Corinth to acknowledge the generosity of the churches at Macedonia.

1 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; 2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. 3 For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; 4 Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. 6 Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also. 7 Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. - 2 Corinthians 8:1-8

I think the New Living Translation does a nice job at communicating the point of benevolence in the second book of Corinthians:

1 I really don’t need to write to you about this gift for the Christians in Jerusalem.* 2 For I know how eager you are to help, and I have been boasting to our friends in Macedonia that you Christians in Greece* were ready to send an offering a year ago. In fact, it was your enthusiasm that stirred up many of them to begin helping. 3 But I am sending these brothers just to be sure that you really are ready, as I told them you would be, with your money all collected. I don’t want it to turn out that I was wrong in my boasting about you. 4 I would be humiliated—and so would you—if some Macedonian Christians came with me, only to find that you still weren’t ready after all I had told them! 5 So I thought I should send these brothers ahead of me to make sure the gift you promised is ready. But I want it to be a willing gift, not one given under pressure. 6 Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each make up your own mind as to how much you should give. Don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves the person who gives cheerfully. 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 9 As the Scriptures say, “Godly people give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will never be forgotten.”* 10 For God is the one who gives seed to the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will give you many opportunities to do good, and he will produce a great harvest of generosity* in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched so that you can give even more generously. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will break out in thanksgiving to God. 12 So two good things will happen—the needs of the Christians in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanksgiving to God. 13 You will be glorifying God through your generous gifts. For your generosity to them will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. 14 And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the wonderful grace of God shown through you. 15 Thank God for his Son—a gift too wonderful for words!* - 2 Corinthians 9

1 Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. 2 And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. 3 And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) 4 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.

To add further to the craziness, Peter was now taken and put into prison while being watched by 16 soldiers. Using the hatred and rejection of God in the person of His Son, the Adversary was busy adding fuel to the fire in the hearts of men.

It is also interesting to note that Herod's persecution of the direct disciples of Jesus Christ is by no means a coincidence. In the Greek word for "time"(kairos), Herod waited for the right opportunity or the precise season to vex the saints! As the "gospel of the kingdom" was being preached in Jerusalem and the "gospel of grace" was preached throughout the the land to the Gentiles, this regal ambassador of Satan seized upon, imprisoned, afflicted, maltreated and harmed the saints as waves rushing into a ship. He instructed not only those men that served him but turned others against God's ambassadors.

5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. 6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. 7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. 8 And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. 9 And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. 10 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. 11 And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the LORD hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

Starting in verse 5, we see how God is still directly intervening into the affairs of men. While Peter was singled out, under heavy guard and chained with soldiers sleeping on either side of him while locked in prison, and angel of the Lord smote him on the side!

The angel actually raises a sleepy Peter to his feet in verse 7 while telling him to move quickly and to get dressed appropriately. Peter did not even know if what was happening was true as he thought that it was another one of those visions.... But by verse 11, the bible tells us that Peter came to himself and realized he had just experienced a supernatural rescue! Let's re-examine the facts of Peter's capture:

All this was done by the power of God without incident or commotion so it is easy to understand Peter saying: 11 And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the LORD hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. 13 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. 14 And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. 15 And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. 16 But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. 17 But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.

Now you have to imagine what is going on here friends. While Peter is left for dead and locked in prison, the saints are praying. Peter comes to the door and knocks on the house of Mary who is the mother of John Mark (which we will read about later). Although she knew it was Peter by his voice she did not open the door but instead ran back in to basically tell them she had seen a ghost! The believers told her she was mad in verse 15 but I notice that no one is jumping for the door yet. As they all spent more time trying to decide WHO it was rather than get up and find out, Peter continued knocking....

When they opened the door they were amazed, astonished, beside themselves. But Peter as he came in signaled with his hand to hold their peace so that he could explain to them how God had delivered him!

You may be asking about James! Which "James" was Peter referring to at the conclusion of verse 17? What was the significance in showing James anything since Peter was the leader of the "little flock" as noted early on in the book of Acts. Further, Jesus Christ told Peter that He (Jesus) would give unto him (Peter) the keys of the kingdom of heaven:

13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. - Matthew 16:13-16

It would appear that Peter is giving away his apostolical authority to this "unidentified" James but it should also be understood that this is in perfect alignment with the plan of God!

10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, 11 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; 12 And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: 13 On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. 14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. - Revelation 21:10 -14

18 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter. 19 And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode. 20 And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country. 21 And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them. 22 And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man. 23 And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost. 24 But the word of God grew and multiplied. 25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark.

Starting in verse 18, news had spread throughout the soldiers what had occurred the previous night. Herod looked for Peter but could not find him. Further, Herod examined, interrogated and questioned the keepers and commanded that they should be put to death.

While traveling to Caesarea from Judaea the bible tells us that King Herod was highly displeased (carry on with war, very angry with or exasperated with), at the inhabitants of Tyre and Sidon. However, the inhabitants of these cities literally were in harmony with him through a man by the name of Blastus who was the king's chamberlain. In essence since they became friendly with Blastus, they made inroads with the king! Further, those of Tyre and Sidon were supported by the king's administration .

The last we hear about King Herod was that on a set day, he sat dressed in royal apparel upon his throne and gave a speech unto them. While being full of himself because of those that referred to him as some "god" in the flesh, he was smitten by an angel of the Lord because he did not give God the glory of his success. Many scholars believe that the Lord had used a pre-existing condition to smite the evil ruler. The "Life Application Bible" notes that Herod died a horrible death with intense pain as he was literally eaten alive from the inside out by maggots and worms which was considered to be a very disgraceful way to die.!

Friends, I have to believe that Herod spent his entire life not giving God the glory while being directly responsible for the stewardship of Israel as its leader. On his watch, Israel had not embraced Jesus Christ as Messiah and in fact was probably worse off in a state of unbelief under his jurisdiction!

As we close out this chapter, the most important thing to focus on is the fact that in verse 25 Barnabas and Saul were continuing the ministry of grace and had now recruited John Mark in the process...

1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 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. 3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. 4 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

In verse 1, Luke gives us a brief roster review of those at the church at Antioch. If you recall in Acts 11:21, we covered in detail the message that was communicated to the believers in that coastal city. Remember that it was at Antioch that believers were first called "Christians" and what was initially taught was the person and work of Jesus Christ until Saul arrived with Barnabas to expound on what he had received (thus far) from the risen glorified Christ as concerning the message of grace! In fact, the bible tells us that Barnabas and Saul stayed a whole year at Antioch 'and taught much people' (Acts 11:25). It should be of no great surprise then that in addition to John Mark, his uncle Barnabas and Saul, that other prophets and teachers arose such as Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, (the foster brother of Herod the tetrarch who beheaded John The Baptist). These men ministered (served) the assembly at Antioch so diligently that food did not even get in the way of

their work, study of the word and prayer (verse 3). Here, prayer and fasting according to the dispensation of grace is relevant as described and not used to obtain "additional" blessings from God as many might teach. Lastly in verses 2 through 4, Barnabas and Saul were sent via direct command of the Holy Spirit. They headed South to Seleucia before sailing out to Cyprus.

5 And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister. 6 And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus: 7 Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.

While in Salamis (the east end of Cyprus), Barnabas, Saul and John Mark preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. When they passed through the isle of Paphos they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet who was also a Jew by the name of Barjesus.

Please note that is is important to understand the dynamics of the populations that these men were preaching to:

Later in the book of Romans we understand why Paul witnessed to the Jews of the above faction:

Romans 11:13 - For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:
Romans 11:14 - If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.

8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith. 9 Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him. 10 And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? 11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. 12 Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

Starting in verses 7 and 8 this false prophet, whose name by interpretation was Elymas, withstood the witness of the three ambassadors of grace. Worse yet, he had interfered with the witness of these saints in an attempt to turn away Sergius Paulus, a prudent deputy of that country!

In verse 9 we read that the bible refers to Saul as "Paul" for the first time. Filled with the Holy Ghost the apostle of the Gentiles blasted the sorcerer by calling him a child of the devil and an enemy of all righteousness. In verse 10, Paul seemed to imply that this man seemed to make a habit of trying to turn away people from the Lord (...will thou not cease to pervert or make opposite the right ways of the Lord?). Paul then tells him (in verses 11 and 12) that the hand of the Lord is upon him and that he will not be able to see for a season (a limited time). In a supernatural fashion, a mist and a darkness fell on Elymas and he went about seeking for someone to lead him by the hand. When Deputy Paulus saw what was done, he believed while being astonished at the doctrine he was hearing!

Friends, how many Sorcerers of Satan are out there? These are men like Elymas who are perverting the message of the Lord Jesus Christ TODAY. Men who pervert the doctrine of God 'make opposite' His instructions for mankind much the same way Paul warned about in Galatians 1:7. The opposite of "grace" is law. Legalism is taught by many false prophets in an attempt to gain more righteousness from God than we already have in Christ Jesus; these verses and this experience is so especially applicable today.

13 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem. 14 But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down. 15 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.

In verses 13 through 15, there is actually more here than meets the eye. It was here that John Mark left Barnabas and Paul which would be a point of contention later on in their ministry. John Mark would indeed prove to be a faithful ambassador of grace later. Traveling to Antioch of Pisidia which was about 300 miles due west of coastal Antioch of Syria, Paul and Barnabas seized the opportunity to preach the gospel of grace as noted in the following verses below. While attending synagogue on the Sabbath, and after the reading of the law and the prophets, Paul and Barnabas were encouraged to speak...and they did!

Paul's account in Acts 13 along with Stephen's Acts 7 sermon are excellent 'readers digest' versions of Israel's history and subsequent failure.....

16 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience. 17 The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.

18 And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness. 19 And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot. 20 And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.

21 And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years. 22 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave their testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.

It is interesting to note Paul's systematic approach (verses 16 through 22) in describing Israel's history starting from the book of Exodus, to Judges, to describing events from the prophet (and books of ) Samuel, including King Saul's reign as well as 1st and 2nd Kings....

Much like Stephen in Acts 7, Paul gave a historical overview but continued through to the prophecy of Christ's resurrection as recorded in Psalms (verses 23 through 32).

23 Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus: 24 When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. 25 And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I am not he. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.

Starting in verse 23 and as Paul reveals God's plan according to the scriptures, it is also important to note that not only is the word of God validated, but the apostle mentions the significance of water baptism (a dividing doctrine across Christendom these days...) as it pertains to Israel!

26 Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent. 27 For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day, they have fulfilled them in condemning him. 28 And though they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain. 29 And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre. 30 But God raised him from the dead: 31 And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.

After re-reading verses 26 through 31, please take note of Paul describing how scripture proves itself through the person and work of Jesus Christ:

32 And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, 33 God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. 34 And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David. 35 Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 36 For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption: 37 But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption.

Paul who was trained at the feet of Gamaliel displays his knowledge of the Old Testament in his ministry to those in Antioch of Pisidia!

38 Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: 39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. 40 Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets; 41 Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.

In verses 38 and 39, Paul now reveals to his audience a message not heard of up until this point:

Paul concludes with a scathing warning telling them to 'beware lest that come upon you which was spoken of by the prophets'; behold you that despise the word of God, you wonder and perish because a work is done in your days, right in front of your eyes and you still will not believe.

42 And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath. 43 Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

Verses 42 and 43 may seem a bit redundant but this is not so. I believe the bible is telling us that while on their way out of the synagogue those Gentiles among the congregation (in earshot of the Jews) begged, encouraged or exhorted (besought) Paul and Barnabas to preach to them the next Sabbath. Whereas when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and Gentiles who were less comfortable from perceptions, persuaded the two ambassadors of Christ to continue in this doctrine of grace. Starting in verse 44, you will see why.

Please notice how the bible now lists Paul in front of Barnabas which is in harmony with Paul's distinct office as the "apostle of the Gentiles".

44 And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God. 45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.

46 Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. 47 For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth. 48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.

49 And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region. 50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts. 51 But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost.

As we close out this wonderful chapter, you will notice that shortly after the 'whole city' came to hear the word of God that the Jews became envious when they realized the multitudes of people this message was reaching. Isn't the same thing true today friends. Sound doctrine will not get in the way of large church buildings, programs or plans from man. It did not take long for Paul and Barnabas to be spoken against with contradiction and blasphemy. After the two men weer expelled from their coasts, they shook off the dust of their feet against them and went to Iconium...

Having the completed canon of scripture before us we can understand more clearly refer how Paul in Acts 22 (although frustrated) would later describe to the men and brothers at Jerusalem of Jesus Christ's instruction to move on to the Gentiles:

1 And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. 3 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

Continuing from chapter 13, our heroes were last seen in Antioch of Pisidia. Paul and Barnabas were now in Iconium in the synagogue of the Jews. The bible tells us that a great multitude of Jews and Greeks believed but there was a faction of unbelieving Jews that stirred up the Gentiles (Greeks) so that their minds became evil affected against the brethren.

Friends, our Adversary The Diablos incites people to do the same thing today and he does it through mind control. If he can get believers to embrace some doctrine the de-emphasizes the riches of God’s grace, he will do so. In like fashion, these unbelieving Jews used the same “mind” tactic to embitter the Gentiles against the teachings of Paul And Barnabas. In verse 3 we read how both saints abode (spent time) to give testimony (Greek – martureo) unto the word of His grace! Interestingly, the Lord allowed Paul and Barnabas to grant signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

If signs and wonders demonstrate how God is dealing with mankind under the law, why under grace do we still see them in place? The fact that signs and wonders do occur under the Dispensing of Grace has confounded many. But this fact flows perfectly into God’s plan! Please remember that Paul is still recently saved and his fearful testimony as the “killer of Christians” is still fresh on the minds of many. In order to establish that Paul and Barnabas were used of God, miracles, signs, wonders, and baptisms were still in place. Paul would later tell us that “But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. As God completed His revelation of the mystery of His grace to Paul, only then would we begin to see the cessation of outward manifestations such as signs and miracles as He deals with mankind.

4 But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles. 5 And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them, 6 They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about: 7 And there they preached the gospel.

Verse 4 explains to us that despite outward signs and miracles the city was still divided! Half of the people, despite the signs and wonders Paul and Barnabas performed, were still not persuaded. If you fast forward to through today, despite the greatest miracle of all: The accomplishments of Jesus Christ at Calvary…..many will still be divided. Rhetorically then, do signs and wonders really work to persuade men beloved? This demonstrates amidst the rest of the Old Testament miracles that man’s heart is dull and we can begin to understand why Jesus Christ revealed something greater than miracles to win the hearts of mankind…the riches of His grace as he told Paul to tell us!

In verse 5, we read about how a hostile movement was made by both the Gentiles and the Jews against Paul and Barnabas. These unbelievers wanted to act in an insolent, wanton and outrageous way to cause bodily harm to these men through the act of stoning. Thankfully, Paul and Barnabas were aware of these plans and fled to Lystra, Derbe and Lycaonia and there preached the gospel of grace (verses 6 and 7).

8 And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked: 9 The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, 10 Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked. 11 And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. 12 And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker.

There was a man in Lystra (verse 8) who had no strength in his feet for it was impossible for him to move as a normal, functional man. This man was in fact a cripple meaning that his foot was either maimed or deformed and he had been this way since birth. This man heard the teachings of Paul and also wanted to be healed. The man heard what Paul said and embraced what Paul taught! This was evidenced by verse 9 where we read that the apostle of the Gentiles “perceived” that the cripple man had the faith to be healed. After imprisoning and killing saints it must have been wonderful for Paul to actually heal someone friends and I am sure he must have been thrilled. Paul spoke with a loud voice and told the crippled man to stand; not only did he stand on his feet but he leaped and walked! The bible record again shows Paul (the dispenser of grace) using special powers in order to "heal" which seems to conflict with how God is dealing with mankind. However, in addition to what I described above, there was another reason for The Holy Spirit to permit healings and miracles as illustrated in the following verses:

13 Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people. 14 Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out, 15 And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein: 16 Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. 17 Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.

God graciously and gradually would use Paul and Barnabas to testify of the One, True and Living God, Jesus Christ! The priests of Jupiter (the Roman version of Zeus) along with the people of the city had just referred to Barnabas and Paul as "gods" that had come down in the likeness of men (verses 11 and 12).

Seeing such idolatry, the men of God tore at their clothes in frustration and ran in among the people of the city crying out and questioning their motives.

Specifically in verse 15, the men asked the idolaters rhetorically why they were doing these things. "These things" included the sacrificing of animals

and ritualistic rites in order to gain gain favor from a false god. Barnabas and Paul told the people of the city that they were "men of like passions" in that they had the same struggles, feelings and affections as they did.

The men of God preached (Greek - euaggelizō: good news) a gospel that described God as The Creator of heaven and earth as well as the sea and all things therein! In verse 16, they continued to elaborate on the longsuffering of God who in times past permitted men to do as they wished in all vanity allowing them to walk in their own ways while still providing rain and fruitful seasons filling the hearts of men with gladness and prosperity.

18 And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them. 19 And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he

had been dead. 20 Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

Interestingly, the people of the city were barely restrained from sacrificing to these men of God and were easily influenced by Jews from Antioch and Iconium who had entered in. Friends, isn't this so true of people?....one minute they can be your best friend and the next minute you can be despised. In this case, Paul went from being worshipped to being stoned! He would have been better off allowing the men of the city to worship him than the fate of being stoned. It is commonly believed that it was this incident that Paul referred to when he was stoned to death as noted in 2 Corinthians 12.

In verse 20, the bible tells us that the disciples stood around the body of Paul thinking he was dead. But Paul rose up (anistemi) and came back into the city. It didn't take long for him to depart with Barnabas to Derbe (east). This act of stoning reminds me of the death of Stephen, an act that Saul (now Paul) consented to my friends. But ironically both men, met their death in preaching the good news of Jesus Christ. Stephen was stoned to death by the Jews and Paul was stoned to death by Gentiles. In both cases, mankind had rejected the word of God and would now be turned over to their own devises. Thankfully, Paul would continue his ministry to the Gentiles according to the revelation of the mystery whereas Stephens' death signified the cessation of Israel's program.

21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, 22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. 23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed. 24 And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. 25 And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia: 26 And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled. 27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. 28 And there they abode long time with the disciples.

Starting in verses 21 and 22 the bible tells us that Paul and Barnabas preached the gospel in that city (Derbe) and had taught "many" in doing so! They moved west to the city of Lystra and zigzagged northeast and then northwest to the cities of Iconium and Antioch respectively. After our heroes strengthened believers and encouraged them to continue in "the faith" they also were honest in telling them that they would have to endure much tribulations along the way. Please note that the specific mention of the "kingdom of God" in no way implies that these believers were to preach the earthly kingdom of God gospel. Paul in his other letters referred to the "kingdom of God" or "kingdom" fourteen different times with no offer of the "earthly kingdom" (as Jesus Christ and the 12 did....) as he preached the gospel of the grace of God. As good bible students we must define words like "Gentile", "gospel", "church" or "kingdom" by their context.

In verse 23, Paul and Barnabas ordained elders in every church. This ordainment was actually a vote, a confirmation or agreement of the elders (The NT uses the term bishop, elders, and presbyters interchangeably - Rick) that were selected. I think it could be best described that Paul and Barnabas oversaw the selection of elders....and recommended those men according to the qualifications we read in 1 Timothy 3 or in Titus. Nonetheless, the elders were entrusted to the work of the Lord (commended). Paul and Barnabas prayed and fasted on this issue believing that it was important enough to abstain from food.

Verses 25 through 28 - Moving south, Paul and Barnabas passed through Pisidia which was a region in Asia Minor bounded by Pamphylia, and the Pamphylian Sea, Phrygia, and Lycaonia. The tandem preached the word of God in Perga a town in Pamphylia, on the river Cestius, (about 7 miles from its mouth), also famous in ancient times for the worship of Diana. They moved southwest to Attalia and sailed back to Antioch (Syria) where they had originally been recommended to preach the grace of God (which they had fulfilled)! After, they gathered the church together and discussed all that God had done with them and how the door of faith was opened to the Gentiles.

1 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. 2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. 3 And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

While Paul and Barnabas dwelled at Antioch of Syria, men from Judea arrived and began to teach Christians: "unless you keep the ancient Jewish custom of circumcision taught by Moses, you cannot be saved." It is my opinion that the men from Judea were "snooting around" Antioch of Syria on a reconnaissance mission to thwart the gospel of grace. I believe this effort had its roots in several incidents that we have already read about (Acts 13 and Acts 14:1-3). In those references, Paul's distinctive message of grace was taking root and I am sure in the process agitated many "religious" rulers who found a new purpose in life in assuring that this doctrine of reconciliation and forgiveness would be stopped! We read in verse 2 that Paul and

Barnabas, disagreeing with them, argued forcefully and at length. Please understand that this dissension was no "let's agree to disagree and move on". This was "a hill to die on" or an issue "to wrestle to the mat over"; an issue that challenged the very doctrine of the grace of God!

The Greek word for dissension is stasis. In the definition of stasis you'll find the word insurrection to help expand and understand the landscape of what the environment was in what is commonly known as The Jerusalem Council.

Insurrection is however used with such latitude as to comprehend either sedition or rebellion.

Finally, Paul and Barnabas were sent to Jerusalem, accompanied by some local believers, to talk to the apostles and elders about this question. The church sent the delegates to Jerusalem, and they stopped along the way in Phoenicia and Samaria to visit the believers. They told them (much to everyone's joy) that the Gentiles, too, were being converted. When they arrived in Jerusalem, Paul and Barnabas were welcomed by the whole church, including the apostles and elders. They reported on what God had been doing through their ministry of grace.

4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.

I think its very important to understand the landscape of the environment being discussed in Acts 15. Its needful to understand not only the "who's who" aspect but to also understand words in their context....especially starting in verse 4, let me explain..... Paul and Barnabas came to Jerusalem

5 But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. 6 And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.

As discussed in the notes of Acts 13 it is important to understand the dynamics of the populations that these men were preaching to:

In verse 5, I think it is safe to assume that if the apostles and elders came together on this matter (verse 6) that they were NOT counseling on a matter of "unbelief" since scripture tells us that these Pharisees "believed". The issue at hand was the thought process of "this sect" (of Pharisees) believed that the new Gentile converts needed to be circumcised in accordance with the law of Moses! Let's read what transpires.....

7 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.

8 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;

9 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

10 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?

11 But we believe that through the grace of the LORD Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.

Interestingly and starting in verse 7, we read how the apostle Peter rises up and speaks his mind on the matter! Peter recounts how God chose him to share the "good news" to the Gentiles so that they would believe. It is my belief that Peter is referring to the vision that he received while praying on the rooftop prior to his encounter with Cornelius in Acts 10! It is here where The LORD instructed Peter in a special vision to eat from what The Law had deemed common or unclean. From Peter's perspective all believers Jew or Gentile are saved by faith (taking God at His word) and exhorted the Pharisees to acknowledge the same without yoking or bonding these new Gentile converts to a burden the forefathers of Israel and those Jews present could not bear! Peter believed what has always been true across the counsel of God that He saves by grace through faith.

Kingdom Saints	Grace Saints
The kingdom saints in these passages in Acts trusted in Christ to simply believe upon Him as God. In Acts 3:19 notice how these sins were "blotted out" during that time. Although the same Greek word for "blotting out" is used, the results are different when used in the context of doctrine . Under the kingdom program, sins were atoned for, covered up, whitewashed, or blotted out awaiting for something better (Hebrews 11:40).	Today under grace we do indeed need to repent or change our mind after given the facts of our sin state and separation from God. However, under grace, sins are "blotted out", taken away, nailed to the cross never to be heard form again as we read in Colossians 2:13,14. Friends, there is nothing left to happen, no better plan....for Christ has made a show of this openly and His work is complete for the taking of all who would just simply believe!
13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; 14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; 15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. - Colossians 2:13-15
Although the same Greek word for "blotting out" is used, the results are different when used in the context of doctrine. The riches of God's grace as well as the accomplishments of the cross had not yet been revealed until the risen Christ gave this message to Paul.
Peter tells these kingdom saints to repent and be converted. Their "change in mind" must translate to an expression of faith amidst a God hating, idol-worshipping world. Water baptism according to John's direction and communication of the coming of Christ to earth along with healing powers and miracles, were all in accordance with what would be accepted as traits of a kingdom saint!	Paul amidst a God hating, idol worshipping world tells us that we are to believe in Jesus Christ's death , burial and resurrection and its resulting, glorious justification. Under this marvelous plan, Jesus Christ and His work is our "expression of faith". All actions of love and Godly conduct should be demonstrated as a result of this new nature but in many, many instances is not....just ask the Corinthian church!
Peter tells these saints that they must repent and be converted; to be restored to a state of harmony with God of what used to be.	Paul does not use the word "converted" in any of his letters to grace saints. When I performed a word search in the bible, "converted" did not come up in any of Paul's epistles! This is significant since under grace, we are not returning to a state of harmony that we once had with God but instead through Christ Jesus, we have greatly and infinitely exceeded our position, standing and relationship with the Father!

Acts 1	Acts 2	Acts 3	Acts 4
Acts 5	Acts 6	Acts 7	Acts 8
Acts 9	Acts 10	Acts 11	Acts 12
Acts 13	Acts 14	Acts 15	Acts 16
Acts 17	Acts 18	Acts 19	Acts 20
Acts 21	Acts 22	Acts 23	Acts 24
Acts 25	Acts 26	Acts 27	Acts 28

§ The origination of the conclusion of God’s dispensing of law and soon “shelving” of His program to Israel (Romans 9 through 11) as demonstrated by:

† Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven after His glorious resurrection and revealing to the masses of people concerning His victory over death itself.

Acts 1

I. The Instruction of Jesus Christ

§ Greek UEV – man: truly, certainly, surely, indeed

§ Greek PROTOS – former: first in time, rank or place

§ Greek LOGOS - treatise of speech a word, uttered by a living voice, embodies a conception or idea, the sayings of God, decree, mandate or order, of the moral precepts given by God, doctrine, instruction or teaching

§ Luke testifies about his witness of Jesus Christ as he also describes the operation of the Holy Spirit and the commandments that were given to the chosen apostles (11 at that time and after the death of Judas):

† To not depart from Jerusalem and to wait for the promise of the Father which they had heard of before.

† To recall Jesus Christ’s resurrection and life with them in that he showed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs! John 21:24-25 testifies that had the events in Christ’s life all been recorded, there would not have been enough books to capture them.

† To remind the apostles that for forty days Jesus spoke to them pertaining to the things of the kingdom of God.

§ Greek CHRONOS – times: long or short, where we get the word “chronology” from

§ Greek PROTOS – former: first in time, rank or place

§ Greek LOGOS - treatise of speech a word, uttered by a living voice, embodies a conception or idea, the sayings of God, decree, mandate or order, of the moral precepts given by God, doctrine, instruction or teaching

Several years back I had a “spirited” discussion with another person on the difference between the concept of God The Holy Spirit coming upon a believer and God The Holy Spirit indwelling a believer. In verse 8 from above, the Greek word epi after careful study means the following:

1. upon, on, at, by, before

2. of position, on, at, by, over, against

3. to, over, on, at, across, against

§ Jesus specifically told His disciples that they were on a “need to know” basis concerning the establishment of the kingdom.

§ The 11 apostles (that is what they were before Matthias was chosen) were instructed to remain in Jerusalem and from a historical and legal perspective preach the gospel (good news) of the kingdom as Jesus did.

§ Christ’s disciples did not know they wouldn’t make it out of Jerusalem alive. Jesus did not want them to know that Israel as a nation would ultimately reject their Messiah and that all of the apostles (except John) would eventually be martyred for their faith as a result.

§ Although Jesus prophesized of Peter’s death (John 21:18), it is unclear when Peter would eventually come to grips with that fact.

§ His disciples “beheld” him as He left planet earth to ascend into the heavens. In other words, they saw (Greek - ophthalmos) His physical body leave from among them up to the heavens eventually being overtaken by a cloud.

II. The Intimacy of The Little Flock

The scripture fulfilled in verse 16 comes from Psalm 41:9. David speaking from his heart about the treachery of his enemies, unknowingly prophecies about the treachery that would await Christ on His way to the cross.

III. The Indignation of Peter

Acts 1:17 - 17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.

Starting in verse 18 Peter describes how “this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity” and gruesomely discusses the detail of his death.

§ While many question the method of Judas’ suicide since in the gospel accounts the bible tells us that he hung himself, reconciliation to the description of his demise is possible.

§ Many scholars have concluded that Judas hung himself over a cliff and that after some time the rope broke and he fell headlong into a rocky canyon.

§ Scripture tells us that he hung himself and whether he fell dead or alive is inconsequential as long as scripture is not compromised.

Again, the Book of Psalms prophecies of the one who would betray Messiah in Psalm 109 and specifically calls for “another to take his office” in verse 8. In Zechariah 11 the details of the financial transaction are discussed plainly.

Also, starting in Genesis 37 the story of Joseph “typifies” many future events of Christ’s life in this outstanding story. Specifically, Joseph’s brother Judah sells him into slavery for 20 pieces of silver as an example.

Acts 1:21-22 - 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.

Acts 2

I. The Direction of The Holy Spirit

§ In verses 1 through 4, Israel is still in the forefront and the 12 had already received the instruction from Christ to preach the gospel of the kingdom and specifically where to preach it as well as what order.

§ The Kingdom Gospel is its uniqueness is a “good news” message that:

† Proclaims Jesus Christ as The Son of God (God Himself); which must be believed to be saved.

† Jesus Christ The Messiah is offering the Kingdom to Israel and will establish it on planet earth (Christ often quoted “the kingdom is at hand”)

† Jesus Christ will rule and reign on the earth forever along with those who take Him at His word:

1. His nation Israel and members of that nation based on lineage, faith and its resulting expression of faith under the Law of God!

2. Gentiles who would realize their position and come through Israel to be reconciled to God.

† This promise of the Kingdom is two-fold in nature:

1. The fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham concerning the land for Israel (And he told Abraham to walk its borders...).

2. The fulfillment of the kingdom and its establishment that God promised to David.

Friends, none of these promises pertain to the Body of Christ and they are distinctly to Israel! None of these promises are for any other religious system, sect, organization, government or church!

SEASONAL FESTIVALS

(1) Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread

(2) The Feast of Weeks (Pentecost)

(3) The Festival of Booths (Tabernacles, Shelters).

For these festivals, all the males of Israel were commanded to make the pilgrimage to the sanctuary for the celebration (Exodus 12:14).

All believers of the Gospel of the Kingdom were of one mind and together in one place and in verses 2 through 4, God moved in a very distinct way! The Holy Spirit that was promised by Jesus Christ appeared to them in the form of cloven tongues of fire.

† A sound like a rushing, mighty wind was heard from heaven that resembled the roar of waves and all in the house were well aware (fulfilled) of God’s presence in this fashion.

† A fiery appearance of God above each person present in the house called a “tongue” to signify that the languages would again be a part of His plan. Please note that to this day, the issue of tongues is still regarded as a major “choke” point across churches.

† They were all together fulfilled or filled with the Holy Spirit. Please note this filling of God’s Holy Spirit greatly differs from how Paul would later describe the operation of the indwelling Holy Spirit as it pertains to believers in the dispensation of grace.

† The Spirit sat or rested upon each of them.

† And they began to speak as the Holy Spirit gave them utterance (GK –apophtheggomai; belonging to an elevated dignified discourse).

I find it interesting how Luke used the words “confounded” and “language” so close together bringing to remembrance how God scattered the nations in Genesis 11.

§ At The Tower of Babel, God wanted man to scatter across the earth and testify of the One, True and Living God.

§ Man in his rebellion built the tower to reach God by his own merits. The tower in fact typified man’s first organized religion and could have at that time assumed any denominational name on its building façade!

§ In the Acts 2:6, God was bringing to remembrance the judgment He had meted out before concerning the languages, almost appearing to return to the pre-Babel state where all could understand each other.

§ As this event was “noised abroad”, two groups of people outside the “Little Flock” and the apostles observed and concluded it was either from God or from man as described in verse 13.

II. The Discourse of Peter

§ He testified that they were not drunk since it was 9:00 in the morning!

§ Peter appealed to their knowledge of scripture in that he pointed to the book of Joel in verses 16 through 21!

§ In the Acts 2:6, God was bringing to remembrance the judgment He had meted out before concerning the languages, almost appearing to return to the pre-Babel state where all could understand each other.

§ As this event was “noised abroad”, two groups of people outside the “Little Flock” and the apostles observed and concluded it was either from God or from man as described in verse 13.

û 22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:

û 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:

û 24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

û 32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. 33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

û 34 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool.

û 36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

But in verses 25 through 28, Peter cleverly points back to scripture when referring to David pointing out that he (David) through the Holy Spirit prophesied of Christ! This fact was something that those that were in attendance knew about as the apostle quoted Psalm 16:

û 32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. 33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

û 34 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool.

û 36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

As a prophet, God had revealed to David that through his loins, the Messiah would come and establish His throne. This is one of the few verses in the bible that speak distinctly of Christ’s glorious resurrection! Peter exhorted that it is this same Jesus that we are all witnesses to:

û Greek – witnesses: martus

û ²² Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:

û ²³ Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:

û ²⁴ Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

û ³² This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. ³³ Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

û ³⁴ For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, ³⁵ Until I make thy foes thy footstool.

û ³⁶ Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

û ³² This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. ³³ Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

û ³⁴ For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, ³⁵ Until I make thy foes thy footstool.

û ³⁶ Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

³⁷ Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

³⁷ Now when they heard (akouo {ak-oo'-o}) this, they were pricked (katanusso {kat-an-oos'-so}) in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

† The union of Christ and the Church in one Body. This concept was never introduced in any dispensing of God’s prior administrations.
(Ephesians 5:31)