Acts 20:17-38
Paul speaks to the Ephesian elders.
I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to my self, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus Christ, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
Pay more attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.
It is more blesses to given than to receive.
Paul's address to the elders from Ephesus is the only one in Acts which was given to Christians - and the only recorded address by Paul which Luke actually heard him give.
The apostle foresees so clearly the troubles the church will face, from inside and out. 'Be on your guard,' he warns.
Why?
Paul's speech is deeply personal. He is fully aware of the dangers ahead and does not expect to see these friends again. His words move them to tears as they put their arms around him in farewell.
Trial/hard times: There was serious troubles in Asia, quite apart from the riot at Ephesus.
To be an oversee, take care to ourselves and to all of the flock. This is the ministry received from the Lord.
To be a minster of church, do not be afraid, do the righteous things with love.
How?
Be on you guard, be a minister of the Lord, Jesus Christ. Be strong, with love and wisdom.
Saturday, May 31, 2014
Friday, May 30, 2014
Enthisiasm in Gods mission as Paul has
Acts 20:1-16
2 Corinthians fills in some of the details on Paul's return to Greece, so briefly covered in 20:1-6
The apostle is preoccupied with the collection for the poverty-stricken貧苦 Christian in Jerusalem (the men listed in verse 4 are delegates from the Gentile churches.) His mission to the Gentiles has been much criticized by the Jews. This is his great gesture- a practical expression of the unity of Jew and Gentile in the church of Christ. It is supremely important to him - hence his determination to get to Jerusalem.
Before he left Ephesus, Paul wrote 1 Corinthians. From Macedonia he wrote 2 Corinthians. From Corinth he wrote the letter to the Romans. It is likely he also visited present-day Albania and Yogoslavia at this time.
On the way back from Greece, Luke joins Paul at Philippi, where they begin their voyage to Jerusalem, picking up the party waiting for them at Troas.
It is not entirely clear weather the miracle is one of resurrection or of preservation. But Luke states that Eutychus was dead before Paul went down, and alive after Paul attended to him.
Why?
Paul was focus one preaching gospel to the Gentile, it is the mission from the Lord, and he has to avoid the attack from Jews. It is very hard and difficult mission trip.
Paul follow the word of Lord instead get the favor of people. Sacrifice him-self from the world.
When Paul hasn't time to there he write letter to them to encourage those churches.
How?
Enthusiasm in God's mission - preaching gospel is Paul's life. How about me?
2 Corinthians fills in some of the details on Paul's return to Greece, so briefly covered in 20:1-6
The apostle is preoccupied with the collection for the poverty-stricken貧苦 Christian in Jerusalem (the men listed in verse 4 are delegates from the Gentile churches.) His mission to the Gentiles has been much criticized by the Jews. This is his great gesture- a practical expression of the unity of Jew and Gentile in the church of Christ. It is supremely important to him - hence his determination to get to Jerusalem.
Before he left Ephesus, Paul wrote 1 Corinthians. From Macedonia he wrote 2 Corinthians. From Corinth he wrote the letter to the Romans. It is likely he also visited present-day Albania and Yogoslavia at this time.
On the way back from Greece, Luke joins Paul at Philippi, where they begin their voyage to Jerusalem, picking up the party waiting for them at Troas.
It is not entirely clear weather the miracle is one of resurrection or of preservation. But Luke states that Eutychus was dead before Paul went down, and alive after Paul attended to him.
Why?
Paul was focus one preaching gospel to the Gentile, it is the mission from the Lord, and he has to avoid the attack from Jews. It is very hard and difficult mission trip.
Paul follow the word of Lord instead get the favor of people. Sacrifice him-self from the world.
When Paul hasn't time to there he write letter to them to encourage those churches.
How?
Enthusiasm in God's mission - preaching gospel is Paul's life. How about me?
Thursday, May 29, 2014
God made with hands are no gods at all
Acts 19:14-41
Some Jews who went around driving spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon possessed. One day the evil spirit answered them, "Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?" then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding.
In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power at Ephesus.
Teaching and healing go together, and the news of a remarkable exorcism驅魔 spreads like wildfire through the city.
So effective is Paul's ministry in communicating the message that 'god made with hands are no gods at all' that it cuts the takings of the silversmiths making images of the city's famous goddess, Artemis. They stir the whole place to uproar, dragging Paul's companions to the great theatre, and chanting slogans. After two hours of this , the town clerk manages to calm them down. Like Gallio at Corinth he declares the Christians innocent.
Why?
People don't know Jesus is the Lord and Paul is the servant of the Lord, but the spirits are know that Jesus and Paul. How foolish many people they are!
Traditional religious and business confronts with the true God for their business and their tradition customs.
Man-made God are no gods at all, it is evidence in conscious.
Teaching and healing go together make great power and remarkable exorcism spreads gospel like wildfire. It is powerful when God is with us.
How?
Speaking gospel with very easy words, lead more people understand it and accept Jesus through the Holy Spirit.
Some Jews who went around driving spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon possessed. One day the evil spirit answered them, "Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?" then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding.
In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power at Ephesus.
Teaching and healing go together, and the news of a remarkable exorcism驅魔 spreads like wildfire through the city.
So effective is Paul's ministry in communicating the message that 'god made with hands are no gods at all' that it cuts the takings of the silversmiths making images of the city's famous goddess, Artemis. They stir the whole place to uproar, dragging Paul's companions to the great theatre, and chanting slogans. After two hours of this , the town clerk manages to calm them down. Like Gallio at Corinth he declares the Christians innocent.
Why?
People don't know Jesus is the Lord and Paul is the servant of the Lord, but the spirits are know that Jesus and Paul. How foolish many people they are!
Traditional religious and business confronts with the true God for their business and their tradition customs.
Man-made God are no gods at all, it is evidence in conscious.
Teaching and healing go together make great power and remarkable exorcism spreads gospel like wildfire. It is powerful when God is with us.
How?
Speaking gospel with very easy words, lead more people understand it and accept Jesus through the Holy Spirit.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Church growing needs Christ is with us and His words be preached.
Acts 19:1-12
Paul told 12 disciples that "John's baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus." On hearing this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them.
Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refuse to believe and publicly maligned the Way.
Paul left them with the disciples and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannous. This went on for two years.
If Paul could win the people of Ephesus to the Christian faith the news would spread through the whole province of Asia.
These two years indicates that this is just what happened. It is likely that all seven churches mentioned in Revelation 1:11, as well as those at Colossae and Hierapolis, were founded during this period.
Why?
Believed in the name of the Lord Jesus, then it is baptised by the Holy Spirit.
When preaching gospel for a while, people became onstinate, and refuse to believe and publicly maligned the Way, leave them is the best way.
Two years lectures at Ephesus, Paul has strengthed many churches.
How?
Church growing needs Christ is with us and His words be preached. Paul is my good example.
Paul told 12 disciples that "John's baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus." On hearing this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them.
Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refuse to believe and publicly maligned the Way.
Paul left them with the disciples and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannous. This went on for two years.
If Paul could win the people of Ephesus to the Christian faith the news would spread through the whole province of Asia.
These two years indicates that this is just what happened. It is likely that all seven churches mentioned in Revelation 1:11, as well as those at Colossae and Hierapolis, were founded during this period.
Why?
Believed in the name of the Lord Jesus, then it is baptised by the Holy Spirit.
When preaching gospel for a while, people became onstinate, and refuse to believe and publicly maligned the Way, leave them is the best way.
Two years lectures at Ephesus, Paul has strengthed many churches.
How?
Church growing needs Christ is with us and His words be preached. Paul is my good example.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Encourage and support missionary to preaching gospel
Acts 18:18-28
Paul sailed for Cyria accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.
A Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.
Apollos vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.
A lot of travelling is packed into this short passage. Paul goes by sea from Corinth via Ephesus to Jerusalem and Antioch. He then returns to Ephesus by road through Phrygia and Galatia for a further missionary campaign.
Thanks to Aquila and Priscilla's instruction, the eloquent Apollos became a man of great influence in the Corinthian church.
Why?
Priscilla and Aquila are good helper to Paul and to Apollos. They invited Apollos to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. They encourage a learned man to be a man of great influence in Corinthian.
Even I might not a good missionary but we may help or support the missionary to preach gospel.
How?
Do our part that God has given us to encourage and support missionaries to preach gospel.
Paul sailed for Cyria accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.
A Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.
Apollos vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.
A lot of travelling is packed into this short passage. Paul goes by sea from Corinth via Ephesus to Jerusalem and Antioch. He then returns to Ephesus by road through Phrygia and Galatia for a further missionary campaign.
Thanks to Aquila and Priscilla's instruction, the eloquent Apollos became a man of great influence in the Corinthian church.
Why?
Priscilla and Aquila are good helper to Paul and to Apollos. They invited Apollos to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. They encourage a learned man to be a man of great influence in Corinthian.
Even I might not a good missionary but we may help or support the missionary to preach gospel.
How?
Do our part that God has given us to encourage and support missionaries to preach gospel.
Monday, May 26, 2014
Devoted ourselves exclusively to preaching that Jesus is the Lord
Acts 18:1-17
In Corinth, every Sabbath Paul reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks. When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ.
But when the Jews opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them "Your blood be on your own heads I am clear of my responsibility. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."
One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision:"Do not be afraid; keep on speaking , do not be silent. For I am be with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city."
Most of the Jews oppose the new teaching, though the president of the synagogue is convinced and Paul continues teaching for 18 months. When angry Jews take him to court, proconsul Gallio is swift to judge that Paul has committed no crime, and hustles them away. His decision is an important one for the Christian faith.
Aquila and Priscilla: Tent-makers or leather-worker. They became staunch 堅定friends of Paul. Everywhere, this hospitable pair were a great support to the young churches.
Why?
When Silas and Timothy came, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, for he felt he was not along.
The vision from the Lord encourage Paul keep in speaking to the Gentiles.
Many Jew opposed Paul, but there were many friends of Gentile they believed in Jesus Christ and support Paul's mission. Work for the Lord there is supported from the Lord.
How?
This society in Taiwan and Unite States has many suffering, they need the love from Jesus Christ, let preach good news of the Lord to them!
In Corinth, every Sabbath Paul reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks. When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ.
But when the Jews opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them "Your blood be on your own heads I am clear of my responsibility. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."
One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision:"Do not be afraid; keep on speaking , do not be silent. For I am be with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city."
Most of the Jews oppose the new teaching, though the president of the synagogue is convinced and Paul continues teaching for 18 months. When angry Jews take him to court, proconsul Gallio is swift to judge that Paul has committed no crime, and hustles them away. His decision is an important one for the Christian faith.
Aquila and Priscilla: Tent-makers or leather-worker. They became staunch 堅定friends of Paul. Everywhere, this hospitable pair were a great support to the young churches.
Why?
When Silas and Timothy came, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, for he felt he was not along.
The vision from the Lord encourage Paul keep in speaking to the Gentiles.
Many Jew opposed Paul, but there were many friends of Gentile they believed in Jesus Christ and support Paul's mission. Work for the Lord there is supported from the Lord.
How?
This society in Taiwan and Unite States has many suffering, they need the love from Jesus Christ, let preach good news of the Lord to them!
Sunday, May 25, 2014
We are God's offspring
Acts 17:16-34
Paul was greatly distressed to see that the city in Athens was full of idols.
Paul found an altar with this inscription: To Unknown God. He was explain they unknown God Jesus Christ to them.
When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, "We want to hear you again on this subject." A few men became followers of Paul and believed.
Therefore since we are God's offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone.
Paul was a strategist. He campaigned in the great cities of the Roman world. He selected centres on trade-routes, sea-ports, places where there was much coming and going. From these centres the message would run like fire far and wide. He started with Roman Asia, moved on to Greece, then set his sights on Rome, and Spain beyond.
So he comes to Athens, a city with 1000 years of history, glorying in past greatness.
In the synagogues Paul argues his case from the Jewish scriptures. Addressing the Greek philosophers in Athens he takes his cue fro a local inscription and quotes from their own writers. The message, that they must repent and believe in Jesus, whom God has raised from the dead does not change, but a different audience calls for a different presentation. Athens proves hard ground for the gospel.
Why?
Paul has strong enthusiasm to love those people who does not know the true God.
Preaching gospel need started from their familiar issues.
Kernel of gospel is the Resurrection of the dead, Jesus Christ.
Bit city usually is hard ground for the gospel, but it is good opportunity to turn people repent and believe in Jesus. The message may run like fire far and wide. What we see? it is not our capability but the capability of the Lord Almighty.
How?
I am God's offspring so my heart care many people who don't know the true God, God's power will come with me when I preaching gospel to them.
Paul was greatly distressed to see that the city in Athens was full of idols.
Paul found an altar with this inscription: To Unknown God. He was explain they unknown God Jesus Christ to them.
When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, "We want to hear you again on this subject." A few men became followers of Paul and believed.
Therefore since we are God's offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone.
Paul was a strategist. He campaigned in the great cities of the Roman world. He selected centres on trade-routes, sea-ports, places where there was much coming and going. From these centres the message would run like fire far and wide. He started with Roman Asia, moved on to Greece, then set his sights on Rome, and Spain beyond.
So he comes to Athens, a city with 1000 years of history, glorying in past greatness.
In the synagogues Paul argues his case from the Jewish scriptures. Addressing the Greek philosophers in Athens he takes his cue fro a local inscription and quotes from their own writers. The message, that they must repent and believe in Jesus, whom God has raised from the dead does not change, but a different audience calls for a different presentation. Athens proves hard ground for the gospel.
Why?
Paul has strong enthusiasm to love those people who does not know the true God.
Preaching gospel need started from their familiar issues.
Kernel of gospel is the Resurrection of the dead, Jesus Christ.
Bit city usually is hard ground for the gospel, but it is good opportunity to turn people repent and believe in Jesus. The message may run like fire far and wide. What we see? it is not our capability but the capability of the Lord Almighty.
How?
I am God's offspring so my heart care many people who don't know the true God, God's power will come with me when I preaching gospel to them.
To be a noble man
Acts 17:1-15
More noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examine the Scriptures every day to see what Paul and Silas said was true.
Jason suffered persecution for he welcomed Paul and his company to his home.
Paul usually get into Jewish synagogue, reasoned with them from the Scripture.
Why?
Noble character: pertaining to persons so distinguished. Of an exalted moral or mental character or excellence: a noble thought. Admirable in dignity of conception, manner of expression, execution,
Suffering for the Lord is an honor to Christian. This one reason of the Church could be extended at first century.
Jewish has higher reputation in that era, they follow the old testament. It is more possible to accept gospel.
How?
To be a noble man, so I have to get rid of bad behavior and poor mind. Eager to learn the true.
Jason suffered persecution for he welcomed Paul and his company to his home.
Paul usually get into Jewish synagogue, reasoned with them from the Scripture.
Why?
Noble character: pertaining to persons so distinguished. Of an exalted moral or mental character or excellence: a noble thought. Admirable in dignity of conception, manner of expression, execution,
Suffering for the Lord is an honor to Christian. This one reason of the Church could be extended at first century.
Jewish has higher reputation in that era, they follow the old testament. It is more possible to accept gospel.
How?
To be a noble man, so I have to get rid of bad behavior and poor mind. Eager to learn the true.
Friday, May 23, 2014
Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved
Acts 16:16-40
A slave girl who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. This girl followed Paul and shouting, "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved."
Paul said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her" At that moment the spirit left her.
When Paul frees a slave-girl whose psychic powers earn her owners easy money, trouble quickly follows.
The arrest of Paul and Silas is followed by the dramatic conversion of their jailer, after an earthquake opens the prison doors and parts the prisoners' chains.
Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved-you and your household. Paul and Silas spoke the word of the Lord to the jailer and to all the others in his house.
Offered release next day, Paul will not accept until he has an official apology for the illegal bearing of a Roman citizen. When he does move on Luke remains behind.
Why?
1. People don't know the most High God, but the spirit knows.
2. Paul and Silas has the authority from the Lord to free the life from slave of sin and spirits.
3. Personal Identification is good to missionary, sometime it is a protection. Christians has the best identity over all in the world.
4. In the name of Jesus Christ is the power we can do through the Holy Spirit.
How?
Don't look down our Christian Identity, tell people that believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved - you and your household.
A slave girl who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. This girl followed Paul and shouting, "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved."
Paul said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her" At that moment the spirit left her.
When Paul frees a slave-girl whose psychic powers earn her owners easy money, trouble quickly follows.
The arrest of Paul and Silas is followed by the dramatic conversion of their jailer, after an earthquake opens the prison doors and parts the prisoners' chains.
Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved-you and your household. Paul and Silas spoke the word of the Lord to the jailer and to all the others in his house.
Offered release next day, Paul will not accept until he has an official apology for the illegal bearing of a Roman citizen. When he does move on Luke remains behind.
Why?
1. People don't know the most High God, but the spirit knows.
2. Paul and Silas has the authority from the Lord to free the life from slave of sin and spirits.
3. Personal Identification is good to missionary, sometime it is a protection. Christians has the best identity over all in the world.
4. In the name of Jesus Christ is the power we can do through the Holy Spirit.
How?
Don't look down our Christian Identity, tell people that believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved - you and your household.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Spirit of Jesus is not allow and Vision of the Lord says
Act 15:30- 16:15
Disagreement between Paul and Barnabas because of Barnabas wanted to take John, also call mark with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him. For Mark had deserted them in Pamphylis and had not continued with them in the work.
Timothy joined Paul and Silas in the travel from town to town, they delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey. So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers.
When Paul and his companions came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. Paul saw a vision, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." They got ready at once to leave for Macedonia.
On Sabbath Paul they went outside the city gate to the river where they expected to find a pace of prayer. Lydia, who was worshiper of God, she and the members of her household were baptized at Philippi.
Why?
The decision to circumcise Timothy was taken in order to regularize his position as a Jew, not in order to secure his salvation. Paul had a special affection for his loyal, though timid, companion and successor.
At Troas, close to ancient Troy, Luke joins the party for the first time, and Paul receives his call to cross to Europe.
At Philippi there was simply a group of women, meeting for prayer. So the church at Philippi, whose loving faithful support and unfailing concern would bring Paul such joy begins with the response of Lydia, a local businesswoman.
Sometimes disagreement under the blessing of the Lord has good results.
Barnabas has more love and wisdom to encourage apostle, such as Paul and Mark and other Christians.
Follow the vision of the Lord is the right way to in our life.
How?
Careful to listen the voice of the Lord and vision of Christ to lead our way!
Disagreement between Paul and Barnabas because of Barnabas wanted to take John, also call mark with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him. For Mark had deserted them in Pamphylis and had not continued with them in the work.
Timothy joined Paul and Silas in the travel from town to town, they delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey. So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers.
When Paul and his companions came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. Paul saw a vision, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." They got ready at once to leave for Macedonia.
On Sabbath Paul they went outside the city gate to the river where they expected to find a pace of prayer. Lydia, who was worshiper of God, she and the members of her household were baptized at Philippi.
Why?
The decision to circumcise Timothy was taken in order to regularize his position as a Jew, not in order to secure his salvation. Paul had a special affection for his loyal, though timid, companion and successor.
At Troas, close to ancient Troy, Luke joins the party for the first time, and Paul receives his call to cross to Europe.
At Philippi there was simply a group of women, meeting for prayer. So the church at Philippi, whose loving faithful support and unfailing concern would bring Paul such joy begins with the response of Lydia, a local businesswoman.
Sometimes disagreement under the blessing of the Lord has good results.
Barnabas has more love and wisdom to encourage apostle, such as Paul and Mark and other Christians.
Follow the vision of the Lord is the right way to in our life.
How?
Careful to listen the voice of the Lord and vision of Christ to lead our way!
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
It is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved
Acts 15:1-29
We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are, Peter said.
You are to abstain from good sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things.
Ten years or more have passed since the apostles approved the admission of Cornelius' Gentile household to the church, and opposition has hardened.
When reports of Paul's successes among the Gentiles reach the salvation-by-faith and circumcision-party, they see the red light and openly oppose his teaching.
On such a vital matter, an authoritative decision by the apostles and elders is essential to avoid a complete split. Peter's reminder of the earlier events, and the account given by Paul and Barnabas of God's work among the Gentiles, carry the day.
The final summing-up and verdict given by James, the Lord's brother and leader of the Jerusalem church, finds general acceptance.
The Gentiles are asked simply to accommodate the Jewish Christians by respecting Jewish food-laws, so that Jews and Gentiles can share the same table and the church meet together as one.
This chapter is a turning-point in Acts. The centre now shifts away from Jerusalem and the apostles, with the emphasis on the mission to the Gentiles, and the new churches.
Why?
Follow the laws of Moses can't be saved, but believe in Jesus Christ
Peter and James played their position well in church and make good decision with the truth of the Lord.
Abstain from good sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. These four rules are available to all Christians today.
How?
We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved.
We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are, Peter said.
You are to abstain from good sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things.
Ten years or more have passed since the apostles approved the admission of Cornelius' Gentile household to the church, and opposition has hardened.
When reports of Paul's successes among the Gentiles reach the salvation-by-faith and circumcision-party, they see the red light and openly oppose his teaching.
On such a vital matter, an authoritative decision by the apostles and elders is essential to avoid a complete split. Peter's reminder of the earlier events, and the account given by Paul and Barnabas of God's work among the Gentiles, carry the day.
The final summing-up and verdict given by James, the Lord's brother and leader of the Jerusalem church, finds general acceptance.
The Gentiles are asked simply to accommodate the Jewish Christians by respecting Jewish food-laws, so that Jews and Gentiles can share the same table and the church meet together as one.
This chapter is a turning-point in Acts. The centre now shifts away from Jerusalem and the apostles, with the emphasis on the mission to the Gentiles, and the new churches.
Why?
Follow the laws of Moses can't be saved, but believe in Jesus Christ
Peter and James played their position well in church and make good decision with the truth of the Lord.
Abstain from good sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. These four rules are available to all Christians today.
How?
We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved.
Monday, May 19, 2014
We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God
Acts 14:19-28
Further trouble from the Jews of Antioch takes them on to Derbe, the responses is good. Returning by the same route they encourage the new believers, appointing leaders for each church.
Even be persecuted Paul and Barnabas returned to Lystra, Ionium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith.
We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.
They sailed back to Antioch where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. They reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentile.
Why?
Insist completed their mission from the Lord, preach the good news; grace of God.
Persecution or trouble is the way that we must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.
A spiritual leader needs to strengthen disciples and encourage them to remain to the faith.
How?
Strengthen disciples and encourage them to remain to the faith are my mission in this moment.
Further trouble from the Jews of Antioch takes them on to Derbe, the responses is good. Returning by the same route they encourage the new believers, appointing leaders for each church.
Even be persecuted Paul and Barnabas returned to Lystra, Ionium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith.
We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.
They sailed back to Antioch where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. They reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentile.
Why?
Insist completed their mission from the Lord, preach the good news; grace of God.
Persecution or trouble is the way that we must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.
A spiritual leader needs to strengthen disciples and encourage them to remain to the faith.
How?
Strengthen disciples and encourage them to remain to the faith are my mission in this moment.
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Give honor to the Lord almighty no matter waht I gained
Acts 14:1-18
Paul and
Barnabas at Iconium, they speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs
and wonders to be done by their hands.
Paul looking intently at a man who was crippled from birth
and seeing that he had faith to be made
well, said in a loud voice, “Stand upright on your feet.” And he sprang up
and began walking.
Following an
attempted stoning, they escape to Lystra, where the healing of a cripple leads
the people to acclaim Barnabas as Zeus and Paul as Hermes, despite their
protests.
We bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God,
who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them. In past
generations he allowed all the nations to walk in their own ways. Yet he did
not leave himself without witness, for he did good by giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying
your hearts with food and gladness.
Why?
Preaching
way of gospel:
Speaking
boldly for the Lord
Bear
witness to the word of God’s grace
Healing
is Paul seeing the cripple man had faith to be made well.
Give
honor to the Lord, not to the missionary or the preacher. We have to be humble
ourselves.
How?
Boldly
speaking for the Lord and give honor to the Lord for we are his servant and God
has given us much grace and mercy.
Saturday, May 17, 2014
He who rejects Jesus is judge himself unworthy of eternal life.
Acts 13:32-52
Paul and his company bring the good news that what God promised to the fathers at Antioch in Pisidia.
This he has fulfilled to us their children by raising Jesus, as also it is written in the Psalm.
The next Sabbath almost whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul and reviling him.
Paul and Banabas spoke out boldly, saying, "It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you, Jews. Since you trust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles...."
The word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region.
Paul's first reported sermon, at Antioch in Pisidia, is given to a mixed audience of Jews, Gentile converts and sympathisers.
A brief resume of Jewish history is given to show that Jesus is God's promised Savior.
Opposition from the Jews sends Paul and Barnabas to the Gentiles.
Why?
1. Good news is given to who accept it and open their heart to Jesus.
2. Paul and Banabas like to preach gospel to his own Jews, but they rejected it so Paul bring good news to Gentile, It is the mind of the Lord.
3. Boldly speak out God's word, nothing fear to the opposition from men.
4. Contradiction comes from the jealous heart
How?
He who rejects Jesus is judge himself unworthy of eternal life.
Paul and his company bring the good news that what God promised to the fathers at Antioch in Pisidia.
This he has fulfilled to us their children by raising Jesus, as also it is written in the Psalm.
The next Sabbath almost whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul and reviling him.
Paul and Banabas spoke out boldly, saying, "It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you, Jews. Since you trust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles...."
The word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region.
Paul's first reported sermon, at Antioch in Pisidia, is given to a mixed audience of Jews, Gentile converts and sympathisers.
A brief resume of Jewish history is given to show that Jesus is God's promised Savior.
Opposition from the Jews sends Paul and Barnabas to the Gentiles.
Why?
1. Good news is given to who accept it and open their heart to Jesus.
2. Paul and Banabas like to preach gospel to his own Jews, but they rejected it so Paul bring good news to Gentile, It is the mind of the Lord.
3. Boldly speak out God's word, nothing fear to the opposition from men.
4. Contradiction comes from the jealous heart
How?
He who rejects Jesus is judge himself unworthy of eternal life.
Friday, May 16, 2014
Authority of a God's servant
While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper.
Sergius Paulus, the proconsul, an intelligent man, he wanted to hear the word of God. But Elymas the sorcerer opposed and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith.
Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said, “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery.
From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem.
The church at Antioch, directed by the Holy Sprit,selects its best men for pioneer work.
Saul adopts the Roman version of his own name: Paul. From now on it is 'Paul and company', as he takes the lead.
Why?
1.Holy Spirit says while they are worshiping the Lord and fasting.
2.Preaching gospel is proclaim the word of God.
3.God's servant, Christian, has authority to defeat the devil and an enemy of everything that right.
4. There is weak brother accompany us in work for the Lord.
How?
Christian has the authority from the Lord to conquer the evil one.
When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper.
Sergius Paulus, the proconsul, an intelligent man, he wanted to hear the word of God. But Elymas the sorcerer opposed and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith.
Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said, “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery.
From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem.
The church at Antioch, directed by the Holy Sprit,selects its best men for pioneer work.
Saul adopts the Roman version of his own name: Paul. From now on it is 'Paul and company', as he takes the lead.
Why?
1.Holy Spirit says while they are worshiping the Lord and fasting.
2.Preaching gospel is proclaim the word of God.
3.God's servant, Christian, has authority to defeat the devil and an enemy of everything that right.
4. There is weak brother accompany us in work for the Lord.
How?
Christian has the authority from the Lord to conquer the evil one.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Nothing is impossible to the Lord, Almighty
Acts 12:13-25
The story is graphically told, with suspense closely followed by humous, as Rhosda leaves Peter standing at the door.
Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struch him down and he was eaten by worms and died.
The Jewish historian, Josephus, also describes the king's sudden death in AD 44.
Luke sees it as a direct consequence of Herod's self-aggrandisement and disrespect for God.
Eaten by worms: The description points to an intestinal腸 illness, perhaps peritonitis腹膜炎. Poor hygiene衛生 might well admit roundworms蛔蟲. But the phrase may be symbolic. It seems to have been routinely used of the death of a tyrant.
But the word of God continued to increase and spread.
When Barnabas and Saul had finished their mission, they returned from Jerusalem, taking with them John, also called Mark.
Why?
Apostles earnestly prayed all night, but they didn't believe that Peter be released from prison so quickly.
Miracle brings overjoyed people and increase faith to spread word of God.
How?
Nothing is impossible to the Lord, Almighty!
The story is graphically told, with suspense closely followed by humous, as Rhosda leaves Peter standing at the door.
Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struch him down and he was eaten by worms and died.
The Jewish historian, Josephus, also describes the king's sudden death in AD 44.
Luke sees it as a direct consequence of Herod's self-aggrandisement and disrespect for God.
Eaten by worms: The description points to an intestinal腸 illness, perhaps peritonitis腹膜炎. Poor hygiene衛生 might well admit roundworms蛔蟲. But the phrase may be symbolic. It seems to have been routinely used of the death of a tyrant.
But the word of God continued to increase and spread.
When Barnabas and Saul had finished their mission, they returned from Jerusalem, taking with them John, also called Mark.
Why?
Apostles earnestly prayed all night, but they didn't believe that Peter be released from prison so quickly.
Miracle brings overjoyed people and increase faith to spread word of God.
How?
Nothing is impossible to the Lord, Almighty!
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Life's authority is belong to the Lord!
Acts 12:1-12
King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. James, the brother of John was put to death with the sword.
Herod seize Peter also, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by sour squads of four soldiers each.
But the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
The Lord sent his angel and rescued Peter from the Herod's clutches爪 and from everything the Jewish people were anticipating.
When Paul and Barnabas are in Jerusalem, handing over Antioch's donation for the famine relief. King Herod instigates a new wave of persecution.
A maximum security prison presents no problems to God! And there is more for Peter to do.
Four squads of soldiers: One squad of four soldiers for each watch of the night, two with Peter, two at the door.
Why?
Persecution was came, some were dead, some were rescued by the Lord.
It is the authority of the Lord, who chose his servants for specific mission. Peter has mission continue.
Peter's escape from prison is a miracle, for God's help. Who can oppose God!
What we can do and important thing is earnestly praying to God!
How?
Life's authority is belong to the Lord! Blessing is the one who fear the Lord!
King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. James, the brother of John was put to death with the sword.
Herod seize Peter also, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by sour squads of four soldiers each.
But the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
The Lord sent his angel and rescued Peter from the Herod's clutches爪 and from everything the Jewish people were anticipating.
When Paul and Barnabas are in Jerusalem, handing over Antioch's donation for the famine relief. King Herod instigates a new wave of persecution.
A maximum security prison presents no problems to God! And there is more for Peter to do.
Four squads of soldiers: One squad of four soldiers for each watch of the night, two with Peter, two at the door.
Why?
Persecution was came, some were dead, some were rescued by the Lord.
It is the authority of the Lord, who chose his servants for specific mission. Peter has mission continue.
Peter's escape from prison is a miracle, for God's help. Who can oppose God!
What we can do and important thing is earnestly praying to God!
How?
Life's authority is belong to the Lord! Blessing is the one who fear the Lord!
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Full of the Holy Spirit and faith to preach Gospel
Acts 11:19-30
Those who had been scattered by the persecution in connection with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, telling the message only to Jews. however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also.
The church at Jerusalem sent Barnabas to Antioch. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.
Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, he brought him to Antioch. So for the whole year Barnabas and Saul taught great number of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
It was said that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world, The disciple decided to provide help for the brothers living in Judea. They sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
Things are moving in the north, at Antioch, third largest city in the world, busy commercial centre and capital of the Roman province of Syria.
The warm response of the Greeks to the Christian message leads the Jerusalem church to dispatch Barnabas to Antioch. He in turn tracks Saul down at his home city of Tarsus. And the stage is set for the next great advance.
Why?
1. message sent to Jews in Gentile area, but later speak to Greeks. So as to preach gospel is a mission to deliver to anyone we meet. God do the part we can't see.
2. When a man full of the Holy Spirit and faith, he may brought many people to the Lord
3. Serve the Lord with good accompany may produce multiple effect to honor God' s name.
How?
Do our part to speak message of God with faith and Holy Spirit, great number of people will be brought to the Lord.
Those who had been scattered by the persecution in connection with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, telling the message only to Jews. however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also.
The church at Jerusalem sent Barnabas to Antioch. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.
Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, he brought him to Antioch. So for the whole year Barnabas and Saul taught great number of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
It was said that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world, The disciple decided to provide help for the brothers living in Judea. They sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
Things are moving in the north, at Antioch, third largest city in the world, busy commercial centre and capital of the Roman province of Syria.
The warm response of the Greeks to the Christian message leads the Jerusalem church to dispatch Barnabas to Antioch. He in turn tracks Saul down at his home city of Tarsus. And the stage is set for the next great advance.
Why?
1. message sent to Jews in Gentile area, but later speak to Greeks. So as to preach gospel is a mission to deliver to anyone we meet. God do the part we can't see.
2. When a man full of the Holy Spirit and faith, he may brought many people to the Lord
3. Serve the Lord with good accompany may produce multiple effect to honor God' s name.
How?
Do our part to speak message of God with faith and Holy Spirit, great number of people will be brought to the Lord.
Monday, May 12, 2014
Who am I could oppose God
Acts 11:1-18
Who was I to think that I could oppose God?
When they heard Peter explained this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, "So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life."
The recounting of the events at Caesarea underlines their significance.
The criticism Peter faces from a particularly Lord's so the Christians declared 'Jesus is Lord'
Why?
Apostles understood that "John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit" Jesus has said.
Who am I could oppose God, I have to obey the command of God.
Even leader of a church as Peter may be criticized by brothers.
How?
Blessing is the one who follow word of the Lord.
Who was I to think that I could oppose God?
When they heard Peter explained this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, "So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life."
The recounting of the events at Caesarea underlines their significance.
The criticism Peter faces from a particularly Lord's so the Christians declared 'Jesus is Lord'
Why?
Apostles understood that "John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit" Jesus has said.
Who am I could oppose God, I have to obey the command of God.
Even leader of a church as Peter may be criticized by brothers.
How?
Blessing is the one who follow word of the Lord.
Sunday, May 11, 2014
God shows no partiality
Acts 10:34-48
Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.
As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all)
To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.
While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word.
Why?
God shows no partiality for the gospel is preaching to everyone, God loves every sinner.
Gospel is a good new of peace, believed in his name may have peace in heart.
The Holy Spirit will fell on them without their request, when they exalted the name of Jesus Christ. It may come. It is evidence that for the faith they can receive Holy Spirit, no matter they be baptised or not, no any requirement.
After these event that Jews and gentile are have the same Spirit from Jesus Christ.
It is surprised Jews for peter was living with gentile and he baptised gentile.
How?
God shows no partiality and the Holy Spirit might fall on all who heard the word of God.
Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.
As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all)
To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.
While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word.
Why?
God shows no partiality for the gospel is preaching to everyone, God loves every sinner.
Gospel is a good new of peace, believed in his name may have peace in heart.
The Holy Spirit will fell on them without their request, when they exalted the name of Jesus Christ. It may come. It is evidence that for the faith they can receive Holy Spirit, no matter they be baptised or not, no any requirement.
After these event that Jews and gentile are have the same Spirit from Jesus Christ.
It is surprised Jews for peter was living with gentile and he baptised gentile.
How?
God shows no partiality and the Holy Spirit might fall on all who heard the word of God.
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Do not call any person common or unclean
Acts 10:17-33
While Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Behold, three men are looking for you,. Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them."
Associate with or to visit anyone of another nation is unlawful to Jew, but God has shown Peter that he should not call any person common or unclean.
Cornelius and his family are ready to hear all that peter have been commanded by the Lord.
Angle: a man stood before me in bright clothing.
Why?
Gospel will preach to gentile through apostle Peter, for there is no boundary in God's kingdom, everyone will be saved if he believe Jesus Christ.
Peter holds the key of church, so God let Peter open the gospel door to Gentile.
It is implement the command before Jesus lifted up, you will be my witness in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth.
How?
Respect everyone for their life is precious to the Lord. Do not call any person common or unclean. Love them as Jesus Christ loves them.
While Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Behold, three men are looking for you,. Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them."
Associate with or to visit anyone of another nation is unlawful to Jew, but God has shown Peter that he should not call any person common or unclean.
Cornelius and his family are ready to hear all that peter have been commanded by the Lord.
Angle: a man stood before me in bright clothing.
Why?
Gospel will preach to gentile through apostle Peter, for there is no boundary in God's kingdom, everyone will be saved if he believe Jesus Christ.
Peter holds the key of church, so God let Peter open the gospel door to Gentile.
It is implement the command before Jesus lifted up, you will be my witness in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth.
How?
Respect everyone for their life is precious to the Lord. Do not call any person common or unclean. Love them as Jesus Christ loves them.
Friday, May 9, 2014
The gospel is for everyone in the world
Acts 10:1-16
Cornelius a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly.
Cornelius was an adherent to Jewish faith and worship, but not a circumcise convert.
Peter saw a vision what heaven opened and something like large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. It contained all kinds of four-footed animals. Then a voice told him, "Get up, Peter, Kill and eat." Peter replied, "Surely not, Lord! I have never eat anything impure or unclean". The voice spoke to him "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." This happened three times.
Why?
Up to this point the gospel has been preached only to Jews, converts to Judaism and Samaritans (who observed the law of Moses). Now God steps to make it plain that the message is for everyone.
God prepares the Roman officer, Cornelius, and he prepares Peter. Three times the vision and message come - apparently instructing Peter to break the Jewish food laws.
1)All family devote to the Lord 2)God fearing 3)give generously to those in need 4)pray to God regularly are good living styles for a Christian.
How?
The gospel is for everyone in the world, and it is started from Jews.
Cornelius a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly.
Cornelius was an adherent to Jewish faith and worship, but not a circumcise convert.
Peter saw a vision what heaven opened and something like large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. It contained all kinds of four-footed animals. Then a voice told him, "Get up, Peter, Kill and eat." Peter replied, "Surely not, Lord! I have never eat anything impure or unclean". The voice spoke to him "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." This happened three times.
Why?
Up to this point the gospel has been preached only to Jews, converts to Judaism and Samaritans (who observed the law of Moses). Now God steps to make it plain that the message is for everyone.
God prepares the Roman officer, Cornelius, and he prepares Peter. Three times the vision and message come - apparently instructing Peter to break the Jewish food laws.
1)All family devote to the Lord 2)God fearing 3)give generously to those in need 4)pray to God regularly are good living styles for a Christian.
How?
The gospel is for everyone in the world, and it is started from Jews.
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Be a man of Encouragement like Barnabas and honor name of Jesus like Peter
Acts 9:23-43
Saul grew more an more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ. After many days had gone by, the Jews conspired to kill him.
When Paul escapes to Jerusalem, no one in Jerusalem believing that Saul really was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. Barnabas comes to the rescue.
Peter healed a paralytic named Aeneas who had been bedridden for eight years. "Jesus Christ heals you. get up and take care of your mat" peter said to Aeneas. All those who lived in Lydda and sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.
In Joppa Peter said to dead disciple named Tabitha who was always doing good and helping the poor, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes and seeing Peter she sat up. This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord.
A healing at Lydda leads to a call from the port of Joppa(20km to the north-west), where Tabiths, a much-loved Christian woman, has dies. Peter brings her back to life and settles for a time at Joppa.
Peter's host is a tanner皮匠, an 'unclean' occupation for the Jews because it involves handling dead animals. Is Peter already to some extent liberated from his Jewish religious taboos禁忌 and ready for the next big challenge?
Why?
Barnabas rescued Paul to helping his mission to gentile in following a few years. Only he knew Paul is a believer.
It was time of peace so Peter can freely went out to other places.
Peter's powerful healing and bring life back at Joppa, it turned many people to the Lord. It is need before the Bible is implement and few people could read Bible.
Peter had great mission to do so the Holy Spirit was with him to honor name of Jesus Christ.
How?
When we honor the name of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit will with us and help us to do great things. Barnabas is really a Son of Encouragement.
Saul grew more an more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ. After many days had gone by, the Jews conspired to kill him.
When Paul escapes to Jerusalem, no one in Jerusalem believing that Saul really was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. Barnabas comes to the rescue.
Peter healed a paralytic named Aeneas who had been bedridden for eight years. "Jesus Christ heals you. get up and take care of your mat" peter said to Aeneas. All those who lived in Lydda and sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.
In Joppa Peter said to dead disciple named Tabitha who was always doing good and helping the poor, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes and seeing Peter she sat up. This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord.
A healing at Lydda leads to a call from the port of Joppa(20km to the north-west), where Tabiths, a much-loved Christian woman, has dies. Peter brings her back to life and settles for a time at Joppa.
Peter's host is a tanner皮匠, an 'unclean' occupation for the Jews because it involves handling dead animals. Is Peter already to some extent liberated from his Jewish religious taboos禁忌 and ready for the next big challenge?
Why?
Barnabas rescued Paul to helping his mission to gentile in following a few years. Only he knew Paul is a believer.
It was time of peace so Peter can freely went out to other places.
Peter's powerful healing and bring life back at Joppa, it turned many people to the Lord. It is need before the Bible is implement and few people could read Bible.
Peter had great mission to do so the Holy Spirit was with him to honor name of Jesus Christ.
How?
When we honor the name of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit will with us and help us to do great things. Barnabas is really a Son of Encouragement.
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Christian is the chosen one from the Lord as Paul be chosen
Acts 9:1-22
Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He took anyone who belonged to the Way, take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.
Saul's confrontation with Jesus, on the road to the old Syrian capital, Damascus, marks a turning-point in the history of the early church.
The story is told three times in Acts: once, here, by Luke, and twice by Saul/Paul himself.
Never has any conversion brought a more radical change. The blinding light leaves Saul sightless for three days, with nothing to do but think.
By the time Ananias reaches him, Saul the persecutor has become 'Brother Saul' - a man who will suffer much for the cause he tried to stamp out.
His immense energy is given at once to preaching Jesus as Son of God and opposition begins.
God said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."
Why?
The Way: The church was known by this name before the people of Antioch invented the new name 'Christian'
Tarsus: A university city with a population of half a million; meeting-place of East and West, Greek and Oriental.
Ananias is an honest disciple of Jesus so God said to him in vision. And Ananias followed the command of the Lord, placing is hands on Saul and praying.
How?
The chosen one from the Lord is the instrument of the Lord, every Christian is the chosen one to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He took anyone who belonged to the Way, take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.
Saul's confrontation with Jesus, on the road to the old Syrian capital, Damascus, marks a turning-point in the history of the early church.
The story is told three times in Acts: once, here, by Luke, and twice by Saul/Paul himself.
Never has any conversion brought a more radical change. The blinding light leaves Saul sightless for three days, with nothing to do but think.
By the time Ananias reaches him, Saul the persecutor has become 'Brother Saul' - a man who will suffer much for the cause he tried to stamp out.
His immense energy is given at once to preaching Jesus as Son of God and opposition begins.
God said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."
Why?
The Way: The church was known by this name before the people of Antioch invented the new name 'Christian'
Tarsus: A university city with a population of half a million; meeting-place of East and West, Greek and Oriental.
Ananias is an honest disciple of Jesus so God said to him in vision. And Ananias followed the command of the Lord, placing is hands on Saul and praying.
How?
The chosen one from the Lord is the instrument of the Lord, every Christian is the chosen one to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Create in me a pure heart
Acts 8:14-40
Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Simon was rebuked by peter for his heart is not right before God.
Philip proclaimed gospel to the people in Samaritan, Peter and John was sent to Samaritan,because Holy Spirit had not yet come upon any of them.
Philip listen to the message from Angel "Go south to the road - the desert road- that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." So he started out and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians.
Candace: The title of the queen mother who ruled the country on behalf of her son. The king himself, defiled as the child of the sun-god, was considered too holy for such secular.
Both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing.
It is Philip's power which draws Simon, and he covets the power to convey the gift of the Spirit, needing Peter's stern words to set him right.
Why?
Every believer has the Spirit of God- see Romans 8:9 1 Corinthians 12:13. But there is special significance in the visible sign of the coming of the Spirit- given when the apostles officially recognize these members of the despised enemy nation as equal citizens in God's kingdom.
At the height of Philip's flourishing Samaritan campaign God calls him away to meet the need of an individual. Eunuchs were barred from the Temple, but God knows this foreigner is ready to receive the Good news about Jesus.
Motivation; heart is right or not before God is more important than what he is or what he has done.
How?
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (Psalm 51:10)
Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Simon was rebuked by peter for his heart is not right before God.
Philip proclaimed gospel to the people in Samaritan, Peter and John was sent to Samaritan,because Holy Spirit had not yet come upon any of them.
Philip listen to the message from Angel "Go south to the road - the desert road- that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." So he started out and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians.
Candace: The title of the queen mother who ruled the country on behalf of her son. The king himself, defiled as the child of the sun-god, was considered too holy for such secular.
Both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing.
It is Philip's power which draws Simon, and he covets the power to convey the gift of the Spirit, needing Peter's stern words to set him right.
Why?
Every believer has the Spirit of God- see Romans 8:9 1 Corinthians 12:13. But there is special significance in the visible sign of the coming of the Spirit- given when the apostles officially recognize these members of the despised enemy nation as equal citizens in God's kingdom.
At the height of Philip's flourishing Samaritan campaign God calls him away to meet the need of an individual. Eunuchs were barred from the Temple, but God knows this foreigner is ready to receive the Good news about Jesus.
Motivation; heart is right or not before God is more important than what he is or what he has done.
How?
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (Psalm 51:10)
Monday, May 5, 2014
God's plan beyond our mind
Acts 7:46-8:13
You who have received the law that was put into effect through angels but have not obeyed it.
Stephen said "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. Lord, do not hold this sin against them" When he had said this, he fell asleep. He said the similar words as Jesus did.
Great persecution broke out against the Church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.
Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. Crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said.
Simon the sorcerer himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw.
Why?
The present generation has rejected the Messiah himself. Stephen's answer to the charges about the destruction of the Temple. A permanent building to 'house' God was never more than second-best.
The prosecuting witnesses, by law, had to cast the first stones though in other respects this was little more than a lynching私刑. The 'young man' Saul was probably in his 30s. He appears here for the first time, sharing the responsibility for Stephen's death.
The attack seems to have concentrated on Stephen's fellow-Hellenists(Greek-speaking Jews), leaving the apostles free to remain in Jerusalem.
This attack let many Jesus followers break out to other cities and proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ.
How?
Great signs and miracles attract people's attention, but more important is the gospel which lead us free from the sin, and have the eternal life. It is needed before people heard the gospel.
You who have received the law that was put into effect through angels but have not obeyed it.
Stephen said "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. Lord, do not hold this sin against them" When he had said this, he fell asleep. He said the similar words as Jesus did.
Great persecution broke out against the Church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.
Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. Crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said.
Simon the sorcerer himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw.
Why?
The present generation has rejected the Messiah himself. Stephen's answer to the charges about the destruction of the Temple. A permanent building to 'house' God was never more than second-best.
The prosecuting witnesses, by law, had to cast the first stones though in other respects this was little more than a lynching私刑. The 'young man' Saul was probably in his 30s. He appears here for the first time, sharing the responsibility for Stephen's death.
The attack seems to have concentrated on Stephen's fellow-Hellenists(Greek-speaking Jews), leaving the apostles free to remain in Jerusalem.
This attack let many Jesus followers break out to other cities and proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ.
How?
Great signs and miracles attract people's attention, but more important is the gospel which lead us free from the sin, and have the eternal life. It is needed before people heard the gospel.
Sunday, May 4, 2014
(*HS)History is His story, the story of Jesus Christ, our savior
Acts 7:1-45
Moses had said to Israelites,'God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers.'
Stephen's lengthy defence takes the form of a review of the nation's history.
The court knows the facts, but the interpretations is revolutionary.
Israel of old rejected the prophets from Joseph and Moses onwards. The present generation has rejected the Messiah himself.
Why?
A round figure for a generation but also a number with special significance, making each new development in the history of God's mighty acts.
God allows people to suffer the consequences of their wrongdoing.
Joseph said that Jesus is the prophet mentioned by Moses, but their ancestor did not listen to the words of Moses so as today they rejected Christ.
History is His story, the Jesus Christ' story, let people cann't reject Jesus Christ is the Lord.
How?
From the history of Christ - the Bible to know the savior Jesus Christ. And through the Holy Sprit to read Bible.
Moses had said to Israelites,'God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers.'
Stephen's lengthy defence takes the form of a review of the nation's history.
The court knows the facts, but the interpretations is revolutionary.
Israel of old rejected the prophets from Joseph and Moses onwards. The present generation has rejected the Messiah himself.
Why?
A round figure for a generation but also a number with special significance, making each new development in the history of God's mighty acts.
God allows people to suffer the consequences of their wrongdoing.
Joseph said that Jesus is the prophet mentioned by Moses, but their ancestor did not listen to the words of Moses so as today they rejected Christ.
History is His story, the Jesus Christ' story, let people cann't reject Jesus Christ is the Lord.
How?
From the history of Christ - the Bible to know the savior Jesus Christ. And through the Holy Sprit to read Bible.
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Full of the Spirit and of wisdom and has good repute
Acts 6:1-15
Twelve apostles said "It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty."
They chose seven, these they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.
Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people.
Some set up false witness accused Stephen and seized him. Stephen sat in the council, his face was like the face of an angel.
Two left a permanent mark on the young church: Stephen, a powerful preacher, the first martyr, and Philip the evangelist.
Stephen is charged with blasphemy and brought before the Jewish Council, just as Jesus was. He seems to have been among the first to foresee the inevitable break with Jewish worship which the new teaching entailed.
Why?
Church needs share the mission as teaching, serving people.
God's servants require full of the Spirit and of wisdom. It is the right men.
Prayed and laid hands on the servant is blessing from God and give authority to them.
Stephen not only serve the table but also full of grace and power, no one could withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking.
How?
Serve the Lord needs good repute and full of the Spirit and of wisdom.
Twelve apostles said "It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty."
They chose seven, these they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.
Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people.
Some set up false witness accused Stephen and seized him. Stephen sat in the council, his face was like the face of an angel.
Two left a permanent mark on the young church: Stephen, a powerful preacher, the first martyr, and Philip the evangelist.
Stephen is charged with blasphemy and brought before the Jewish Council, just as Jesus was. He seems to have been among the first to foresee the inevitable break with Jewish worship which the new teaching entailed.
Why?
Church needs share the mission as teaching, serving people.
God's servants require full of the Spirit and of wisdom. It is the right men.
Prayed and laid hands on the servant is blessing from God and give authority to them.
Stephen not only serve the table but also full of grace and power, no one could withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking.
How?
Serve the Lord needs good repute and full of the Spirit and of wisdom.
Friday, May 2, 2014
Proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ
Acts 5:29-42
"Leave these men alone! let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God", a Pharisee named Gamaliel who said to high priests and rulers.
Peter and apostles never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
Gamaliel: A well-respected leader of the Prarisees, Paul's teacher.
Theudas story: the resistance, headed a protest in AD 6 against paying tax to Rome.
Why?
Threats, imprisonment, even the lash(鞭打), are of no avail against the power of God.
Apostles and Christians were witnessed of these things that God raised Jesus from the dead, so his kingdom has existing for more than 2000 years. and will be forever.
If it is from men origin will be fail, but from God will greater. No one can against the Lord.
How?
Continue preach the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
"Leave these men alone! let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God", a Pharisee named Gamaliel who said to high priests and rulers.
Peter and apostles never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
Gamaliel: A well-respected leader of the Prarisees, Paul's teacher.
Theudas story: the resistance, headed a protest in AD 6 against paying tax to Rome.
Why?
Threats, imprisonment, even the lash(鞭打), are of no avail against the power of God.
Apostles and Christians were witnessed of these things that God raised Jesus from the dead, so his kingdom has existing for more than 2000 years. and will be forever.
If it is from men origin will be fail, but from God will greater. No one can against the Lord.
How?
Continue preach the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Tell the people the full message of this new life
Acts 5:12-28
The apostles healed many peoples with sick and tormented by evil spirits who was brought from the towns around Jerusalem.
The high priest and all his associates who were filled with jealousy.
The apostles were persecuted but the angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. He said " Go, stand in the temple courts, and tell the people the full message of this new life."
The captain of the temple guard and the chief priests were puzzled, wondering what would come of this. For the jail securely locked but when they open them, they found no one inside.
Having brought the apostles, be questioned by the high priest. "you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood."
Why?
It was like the days of Jesus in Galilee all over again, so many were being healed by the apostles.
No wonder the Jewish authorities grew jealous of their enormous influence. Their swift deliverance from prison and the angel's command further convince the apostles of their mission.
The apostles openly held the Council responsible for Jesus' death, and they fear reprisals報復.
Church and Christian should be have influence in the community around them.
How?
How is the influence of the churches and Christians to the society in this generation? Forgive us, O Lord, please restore us and let us bravely tell the people the full message of this new life.
The apostles healed many peoples with sick and tormented by evil spirits who was brought from the towns around Jerusalem.
The high priest and all his associates who were filled with jealousy.
The apostles were persecuted but the angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. He said " Go, stand in the temple courts, and tell the people the full message of this new life."
The captain of the temple guard and the chief priests were puzzled, wondering what would come of this. For the jail securely locked but when they open them, they found no one inside.
Having brought the apostles, be questioned by the high priest. "you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood."
Why?
It was like the days of Jesus in Galilee all over again, so many were being healed by the apostles.
No wonder the Jewish authorities grew jealous of their enormous influence. Their swift deliverance from prison and the angel's command further convince the apostles of their mission.
The apostles openly held the Council responsible for Jesus' death, and they fear reprisals報復.
Church and Christian should be have influence in the community around them.
How?
How is the influence of the churches and Christians to the society in this generation? Forgive us, O Lord, please restore us and let us bravely tell the people the full message of this new life.
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