Acts 21:35-40
Paul asked the commander, "May I say something to you?"
Paul said "Please let me speak to the people." Having received the commander's permission. Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd.
Permitted to speak in his defense.
The Egyptian: Leader 'dagger-men' who specialized in assassinating Romans and pro-Roman Jews. They murdered Ananias the high priest in AD 66.
Why?
God gives opportunity to speak to the people of whole Jerusalem. This is good chance to preach gospel in public, even the Roman's commander could be under the arrangement of the Lord
Paul was not stay in dander situation but he was under the protection of Roman's army and can speak to the public before the crowd, like a great the city major.
God leads us in any situation when we let the Lord is our God.
How?
Commit myself to the Lord for he is the almighty king over all of the kings.
Friday, September 30, 2016
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Rumor may kill a man
Acts 21:27-34
Some Jews from the province of Asia saw Paul at the temple. They stirred up the whole crowd and seized him, shouting, "Men of Israel, help us! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against our people and our law and his place...."
The commander came he asked who he was and what he had done, the commander could not get at the truth because of the uproar, he ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks.
But garbles(斷章取義) tales are circulating, that Paul teaches Jews to abandon circumcision and the law. If he openly identifies with a group of men under a strict vow all will see that he respects and observes the law. But before the week-long term of the vow is over, a group of conservative Jews from the province of Asia create such a ferment(發酵) that soldiers from the fort step in to prevent a lynching(處以私刑).
Brought Greeks into the Temple: Anyone might go into the outer court, but notices in Greek and Latin forbade Gentiles, on pain of death, to enter the inner courts.
The barracks/fortress: The cohort(隊列) was stationed in the Fort of Antonia. Two flights of steps led down from the fort(堡) to the outer court of the Temple.
Why?
Most men in the crowd came by the rumor, they did not know the truth, so they could not said what Paul was wrong.
We should not kill one without any reasonable evidence or just from the rumor.
Do not be affected by the rumor and news from internet, we need to identify the truth.
How?
Make decision by the truth! Don't trust in rumor and transfer rumor to others!
Some Jews from the province of Asia saw Paul at the temple. They stirred up the whole crowd and seized him, shouting, "Men of Israel, help us! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against our people and our law and his place...."
The commander came he asked who he was and what he had done, the commander could not get at the truth because of the uproar, he ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks.
But garbles(斷章取義) tales are circulating, that Paul teaches Jews to abandon circumcision and the law. If he openly identifies with a group of men under a strict vow all will see that he respects and observes the law. But before the week-long term of the vow is over, a group of conservative Jews from the province of Asia create such a ferment(發酵) that soldiers from the fort step in to prevent a lynching(處以私刑).
Brought Greeks into the Temple: Anyone might go into the outer court, but notices in Greek and Latin forbade Gentiles, on pain of death, to enter the inner courts.
The barracks/fortress: The cohort(隊列) was stationed in the Fort of Antonia. Two flights of steps led down from the fort(堡) to the outer court of the Temple.
Why?
Most men in the crowd came by the rumor, they did not know the truth, so they could not said what Paul was wrong.
We should not kill one without any reasonable evidence or just from the rumor.
Do not be affected by the rumor and news from internet, we need to identify the truth.
How?
Make decision by the truth! Don't trust in rumor and transfer rumor to others!
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Commit myself to the mission of the Lord
Acts 21:17-26
When we arrived at Jerusalem, the brothers and sisters received us warmly.
Then they said to Paul: "...all of them are zealous for the law. They have been informed that you teach all the Jews who live among the Gentiles to turn away from Moses,telling them not to circumcise their children or live according to our customs."
On his arrival Paul receives a warm welcome from his fellow-Christians, including the church leaders. But garbled tales are circulating, that Paul teaches Jews to abandon circumcision and the law. If he openly identified with a group of men under a strict vow all will see that he respects and observes the law. This issue looms so large that Luke makes no mention of the relief fund on which Paul set such store.
I do not place any value on my own life, provide that I complete the mission the Lord Jesus gave me - to bear witness to the good news of God's grace. (Ephesus 20:24)
Why?
Jews believed in Jesus Christ but they were zealous for the Law, they were limited under the law, abandoned the grace of the Lord!
Paul followed their suggestion for reduce the quarrel among Jews about his rumor.
Paul joined in their purification rites and payed their expenses. Paul do it for the mission from the Lord.
How?
Do what I can to commit the mission of the Lord!
When we arrived at Jerusalem, the brothers and sisters received us warmly.
Then they said to Paul: "...all of them are zealous for the law. They have been informed that you teach all the Jews who live among the Gentiles to turn away from Moses,telling them not to circumcise their children or live according to our customs."
On his arrival Paul receives a warm welcome from his fellow-Christians, including the church leaders. But garbled tales are circulating, that Paul teaches Jews to abandon circumcision and the law. If he openly identified with a group of men under a strict vow all will see that he respects and observes the law. This issue looms so large that Luke makes no mention of the relief fund on which Paul set such store.
I do not place any value on my own life, provide that I complete the mission the Lord Jesus gave me - to bear witness to the good news of God's grace. (Ephesus 20:24)
Why?
Jews believed in Jesus Christ but they were zealous for the Law, they were limited under the law, abandoned the grace of the Lord!
Paul followed their suggestion for reduce the quarrel among Jews about his rumor.
Paul joined in their purification rites and payed their expenses. Paul do it for the mission from the Lord.
How?
Do what I can to commit the mission of the Lord!
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Mission from the Lord is more important than life
Acts 21:7-16
When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”
Philip ... one of the seven: See Acts 6:5; 8:4-40
Agabus: Acted prophecy of this kind us familiar from the Old Testament(e.g. Ezekiel)
Why?
Paul focused on the mission from the Lord, so he did not care the danger to his life.
Paul give up all he had, so apostles give up and said "Lord's will be done."
Our life is in the hands of the Lord.
Mission is more important then any others to Paul. How about me? My life is belong to the Lord. I subdue to the Lord Jesus Christ!
How?
Mission from the Lord is more important than life.
When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”
Philip ... one of the seven: See Acts 6:5; 8:4-40
Agabus: Acted prophecy of this kind us familiar from the Old Testament(e.g. Ezekiel)
Why?
Paul focused on the mission from the Lord, so he did not care the danger to his life.
Paul give up all he had, so apostles give up and said "Lord's will be done."
Our life is in the hands of the Lord.
Mission is more important then any others to Paul. How about me? My life is belong to the Lord. I subdue to the Lord Jesus Christ!
How?
Mission from the Lord is more important than life.
Monday, September 26, 2016
knelt down to pray
Acts 20:29:36-21:6
When Paul had finished speaking, he knelt down with all of them and prayed.
We landed at Tyre. We sought out the disciples there and stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go on to Jerusalem.
When it was time to leave, we left and continued on our way. All of them, including wives and children, accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray.
Paul 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 hi, in farewell.
Further voyaging takes Paul and company to Tyre, and another parting, then down to the coast to Ptolemais, and Caesaream where Philip is still living.
Nothing can shake Paul's determination to go to Jerusalem, not even a prophecy of his fate.
Why?
Elders of Ephesus said good bye to Paul with tears, Paul is not alone, his works are preyed with many brothers.
We should pray to the brothers in church when they are struggling for the mission. We are one in Spirit and one God, one believe.
How?
Pray to the Lord for our brothers and sisters for the missionary.
When Paul had finished speaking, he knelt down with all of them and prayed.
We landed at Tyre. We sought out the disciples there and stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go on to Jerusalem.
When it was time to leave, we left and continued on our way. All of them, including wives and children, accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray.
Paul 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 hi, in farewell.
Further voyaging takes Paul and company to Tyre, and another parting, then down to the coast to Ptolemais, and Caesaream where Philip is still living.
Nothing can shake Paul's determination to go to Jerusalem, not even a prophecy of his fate.
Why?
Elders of Ephesus said good bye to Paul with tears, Paul is not alone, his works are preyed with many brothers.
We should pray to the brothers in church when they are struggling for the mission. We are one in Spirit and one God, one believe.
How?
Pray to the Lord for our brothers and sisters for the missionary.
Saturday, September 24, 2016
It is more blessed to give than to receive
Acts 20:25-35
Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.
Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.
Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.
Remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Trials/hard times: There was serious trouble in Asia, quite apart from the riot at Ephesus.
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.
Why?
Why Paul can said so righteously before elders of Ephesus, for Paul did not had any taste for wealth or fashion. With these bare hands he took care of his own basic needs and those who worked with him.
Paul is not only preaching the word of God, but also shown what he did by his hands. The witness of his life is more important then any others.
Yes , It is more blessed to give and receive
How?
Not only say the word of God but also live out the word of God in my life. Showing the honor of the Lord in my life.
Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.
Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.
Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.
Remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Trials/hard times: There was serious trouble in Asia, quite apart from the riot at Ephesus.
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.
Why?
Why Paul can said so righteously before elders of Ephesus, for Paul did not had any taste for wealth or fashion. With these bare hands he took care of his own basic needs and those who worked with him.
Paul is not only preaching the word of God, but also shown what he did by his hands. The witness of his life is more important then any others.
Yes , It is more blessed to give and receive
How?
Not only say the word of God but also live out the word of God in my life. Showing the honor of the Lord in my life.
Friday, September 23, 2016
Life for the mission of the Lord
Acts 20:13-24
Paul told to the elders of the church Ephesus. "However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."
Paul has declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.
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 Yugoslavia 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 from them at Troas.
Detail the island-hopping voyage to Miletus, 48kms south of Ephesus.e in
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.
Why?
Paul was living for the mission of gospel from the Lord.
Paul wanted go to Jerusalem in time for the Feast of Pentecost, because Pentecost is the day Holy Spirit come upon Apostle in Jerusalem.
If Paul went to Ephesus may communicate with brothers their and comfort them, but Paul decided facing the hardship way to Jerusalem, he doesn't care his life but the mission on him.
How?
Paul is our example to learn for the mission what he devoted. What can I do now for the Lord? Do all my heart, my strength and my mind to serve the Lord, serve people.
Paul told to the elders of the church Ephesus. "However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."
Paul has declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.
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 Yugoslavia 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 from them at Troas.
Detail the island-hopping voyage to Miletus, 48kms south of Ephesus.e in
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.
Why?
Paul was living for the mission of gospel from the Lord.
Paul wanted go to Jerusalem in time for the Feast of Pentecost, because Pentecost is the day Holy Spirit come upon Apostle in Jerusalem.
If Paul went to Ephesus may communicate with brothers their and comfort them, but Paul decided facing the hardship way to Jerusalem, he doesn't care his life but the mission on him.
How?
Paul is our example to learn for the mission what he devoted. What can I do now for the Lord? Do all my heart, my strength and my mind to serve the Lord, serve people.
Thursday, September 22, 2016
Give comfort and encouragement to others in Church
Acts 20:1-12
Paul sent out for Macedonia, he travel through that area, speaking many words of encouragement to the people.
Eutychus raised from the dead at Troas. The people took the young man home alive and were greatly comforted.
2 Corinthian 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(窮困) Christians in Jerusalem (then men listed in verse 4 are delegates from the Gentile churches).
Paul went down, threw himself on the young man and put his arms around him. "Don't be alarmed," he said. "He's alive!"
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.
Troas: provides an interesting glimpse(一瞥) of early Christian worship - they meet on a Sunday evening in a private house for the Lord's Supper followed by a meal together. The sermon is very long: Paul has so much to say to them. The effort to listen for so long, late at night in the fuggy warmth of the lamps, proves too much for the weary Eutychus.
Why?
Paul encouraged people by speaking them words of God.
Paul healed the young man Eutychus alive and greatly comforted people their.
To be a Christian and be a servant of God should say word to encourage Christian and comfort them.
Paul took care the young man, for he cares everyone and loves them.
How?
Give comfort and encouragement to the needed people and brothers in church.
Paul sent out for Macedonia, he travel through that area, speaking many words of encouragement to the people.
Eutychus raised from the dead at Troas. The people took the young man home alive and were greatly comforted.
2 Corinthian 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(窮困) Christians in Jerusalem (then men listed in verse 4 are delegates from the Gentile churches).
Paul went down, threw himself on the young man and put his arms around him. "Don't be alarmed," he said. "He's alive!"
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.
Troas: provides an interesting glimpse(一瞥) of early Christian worship - they meet on a Sunday evening in a private house for the Lord's Supper followed by a meal together. The sermon is very long: Paul has so much to say to them. The effort to listen for so long, late at night in the fuggy warmth of the lamps, proves too much for the weary Eutychus.
Why?
Paul encouraged people by speaking them words of God.
Paul healed the young man Eutychus alive and greatly comforted people their.
To be a Christian and be a servant of God should say word to encourage Christian and comfort them.
Paul took care the young man, for he cares everyone and loves them.
How?
Give comfort and encouragement to the needed people and brothers in church.
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
A christian is a good citizen
Acts 19:32-41
Most of the crowd did not know why they were there.
The city clerk quieted the crowed and said to them. the courts are open and if there are proconsuls. They can press charges. In that case we would not be able to account for this commotion(騷動), since there is no reason for it. After he had said this, he dismissed the assembly.
The Asiarchs: Important officials responsible for maintaining order at religious functions.
The town clerk: The leading civic official, answerable to the Romans for such an illegal assembly.
Why?
Luke mentioned this event that he wanted to let people know preaching gospel does not against the city law, it is the right of man to know the truth. Jesus Christ does not against the local culture.
It is freedom to preaching gospel in this country, so do it as I can.
In order to preach gospel we have to follow the law of nation and do the right and obligation of each member of this nation.
How?
To be a Christian and obey the law of this nation and do good the witness to the world.
Most of the crowd did not know why they were there.
The city clerk quieted the crowed and said to them. the courts are open and if there are proconsuls. They can press charges. In that case we would not be able to account for this commotion(騷動), since there is no reason for it. After he had said this, he dismissed the assembly.
The Asiarchs: Important officials responsible for maintaining order at religious functions.
The town clerk: The leading civic official, answerable to the Romans for such an illegal assembly.
Why?
Luke mentioned this event that he wanted to let people know preaching gospel does not against the city law, it is the right of man to know the truth. Jesus Christ does not against the local culture.
It is freedom to preaching gospel in this country, so do it as I can.
In order to preach gospel we have to follow the law of nation and do the right and obligation of each member of this nation.
How?
To be a Christian and obey the law of this nation and do good the witness to the world.
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
Suffering for the gospel
Acts 19:21-31
There arose a great disturbance about the way in Ephesus. For many people turned to the Lord, some of silversmith worried their trade will lose its good and their goddess Artemis will be discredited.
So effective is Paul's ministry in communicating the message that 'gods 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 theater, and chanting slogans.
Hall of Tyrannus: A lecture-hall which, according to some manuscripts, Paul used during siesta-time, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Magic ..books: Such was the city's name for magical papyrus (紙莎草)scrolls of spells(法術) that these were known in the Roman world as 'Ephesian letters.'
Artemis (Diana): The cult(崇拜) adopted the name of the Greek goddess, but continued to worship the mother-goddess fertility(生育能力) figure of the region's ancient religion. The temple was one of the seven wonders of the world, four times the size of the Parthenon. The 'sacred stone' was a meteorite(隕石), supposed to resemble the goddess, and kept in the temple.
The theater: An ideal place for the crowd to gather, since it could hold 24,000 people.
Why?
Be careful to the custom around us, that these enemy may attack out ministry anytime and anyway when most people turn to the Lord. They worry their business and they living style.
Prayer to the ministry around the world.
How?
To be a follower of Jesus have to suffer the pressure from the world like Jesus suffering.
There arose a great disturbance about the way in Ephesus. For many people turned to the Lord, some of silversmith worried their trade will lose its good and their goddess Artemis will be discredited.
So effective is Paul's ministry in communicating the message that 'gods 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 theater, and chanting slogans.
Hall of Tyrannus: A lecture-hall which, according to some manuscripts, Paul used during siesta-time, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Magic ..books: Such was the city's name for magical papyrus (紙莎草)scrolls of spells(法術) that these were known in the Roman world as 'Ephesian letters.'
Artemis (Diana): The cult(崇拜) adopted the name of the Greek goddess, but continued to worship the mother-goddess fertility(生育能力) figure of the region's ancient religion. The temple was one of the seven wonders of the world, four times the size of the Parthenon. The 'sacred stone' was a meteorite(隕石), supposed to resemble the goddess, and kept in the temple.
The theater: An ideal place for the crowd to gather, since it could hold 24,000 people.
Why?
Be careful to the custom around us, that these enemy may attack out ministry anytime and anyway when most people turn to the Lord. They worry their business and they living style.
Prayer to the ministry around the world.
How?
To be a follower of Jesus have to suffer the pressure from the world like Jesus suffering.
Monday, September 19, 2016
Walk on the way God opened
Acts 19:8-20
Paul spoke and arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God, but some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.
Paul had the power to cured the sick and evil spirits left them. Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. But they were over overpowered by the evil spirit. Evil spirit said "Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?" Evil spirits proved the truth of Paul who is preaching.
When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor. Many of those who believed ow came and openly confessed their evil deeds.
A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power.
Teaching and healing go together, and the news of a remarkable exorcism spreads like wildfire through the city.
Why?
The power of God overcomes the evil power, even the evil spirit know that Jesus Christ is the Lord, but so many people they do not know and still living in the darkness.
Get rid of the sorcery scrolls is the basic action to reflect repent and turn to the Lord. Get rid of the evil things and books and any related material can help us turn to the Lord.
Preaching gospel with the power of the Lord to show the power of the Lord, such as cure sick and changed our life will be good witness.
One way is not worked then turn to the another way, which will be right way opened by the Lord.
How?
Devoted myself to Jesus Christ then I may live out to be good witness among people. The way God is opened will be a easy way to honor the name of the Lord.
Paul spoke and arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God, but some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.
Paul had the power to cured the sick and evil spirits left them. Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. But they were over overpowered by the evil spirit. Evil spirit said "Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?" Evil spirits proved the truth of Paul who is preaching.
When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor. Many of those who believed ow came and openly confessed their evil deeds.
A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power.
Teaching and healing go together, and the news of a remarkable exorcism spreads like wildfire through the city.
Why?
The power of God overcomes the evil power, even the evil spirit know that Jesus Christ is the Lord, but so many people they do not know and still living in the darkness.
Get rid of the sorcery scrolls is the basic action to reflect repent and turn to the Lord. Get rid of the evil things and books and any related material can help us turn to the Lord.
Preaching gospel with the power of the Lord to show the power of the Lord, such as cure sick and changed our life will be good witness.
One way is not worked then turn to the another way, which will be right way opened by the Lord.
How?
Devoted myself to Jesus Christ then I may live out to be good witness among people. The way God is opened will be a easy way to honor the name of the Lord.
Saturday, September 17, 2016
Knowing the right gospel
Acts 18:24-19:7
Aquila and Priscilla took him aside and explained to Apollos the way of God more accurately. And when Apollos desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him. Apollos greatly helped those who had believed through grace; for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly.
Paul at Ephesus when Apollos was at Corinth. Paul baptized them in the name of the Lord Jesus. Now the men were about twelve in all.
Thanks to Aquila and Priscilla's instruction, the eloquent Apollos became a man of great influence in the Corinthian church.
Alexandria: This city on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt was a center of learning and home of the Jewish philosopher.
Why?
Even those men in Ephesus were Christian but they did not be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, after Paul's teaching and laid hand on them.
Encourage Christian may increase their faith and more accurate to be a Christian.
Aquila and Priscilla did the good instruction to Apollos, took him aside and explained to him the truth. Then he could be good helper to many.
How?
Knowing the right gospel. Experience the power of God and let my life be changed.
Aquila and Priscilla took him aside and explained to Apollos the way of God more accurately. And when Apollos desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him. Apollos greatly helped those who had believed through grace; for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly.
Paul at Ephesus when Apollos was at Corinth. Paul baptized them in the name of the Lord Jesus. Now the men were about twelve in all.
Thanks to Aquila and Priscilla's instruction, the eloquent Apollos became a man of great influence in the Corinthian church.
Alexandria: This city on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt was a center of learning and home of the Jewish philosopher.
Why?
Even those men in Ephesus were Christian but they did not be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, after Paul's teaching and laid hand on them.
Encourage Christian may increase their faith and more accurate to be a Christian.
Aquila and Priscilla did the good instruction to Apollos, took him aside and explained to him the truth. Then he could be good helper to many.
How?
Knowing the right gospel. Experience the power of God and let my life be changed.
Friday, September 16, 2016
Strategy of missionary
Acts 18:12-23
Most of the Jews oppose the new teaching, though the president of the synagogue is convinced and Paul continues teaching for 18 months.
Then 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.
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.
Why?
Paul knew that Ephesus will a center of gospel in that area, so he arrange Priscilla and Aqula stayed in Ephesus, for next time he will come back, and let them stay there to encourage new Christians.
Keep hair means have good healthy in custom, Paul cut his hair mean he devoted his hair for his vows.
Paul devoted whole his life for the mission of Christ. Paul arranged his co-workers may work in his mission.
How?
Paul not only devoted his life to the Lord, but also he has strategy in the mission of Christ. Do something good to the Lord with wisdom.
Most of the Jews oppose the new teaching, though the president of the synagogue is convinced and Paul continues teaching for 18 months.
Then 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.
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.
Why?
Paul knew that Ephesus will a center of gospel in that area, so he arrange Priscilla and Aqula stayed in Ephesus, for next time he will come back, and let them stay there to encourage new Christians.
Keep hair means have good healthy in custom, Paul cut his hair mean he devoted his hair for his vows.
Paul devoted whole his life for the mission of Christ. Paul arranged his co-workers may work in his mission.
How?
Paul not only devoted his life to the Lord, but also he has strategy in the mission of Christ. Do something good to the Lord with wisdom.
Strategy of missionary
Acts 18:12-23
Most of the Jews oppose the new teaching, though the president of the synagogue is convinced and Paul continues teaching for 18 months.
Then 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.
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.
Why?
Paul knew that Ephesus will a center of gospel in that area, so he arrange Priscilla and Aqula stayed in Ephesus, for next time he will come back, and let them stay there to encourage new Christians.
Keep hair means have good healthy in custom, Paul cut his hair mean he devoted his hair for his vows.
Paul devoted whole his life for the mission of Christ. Paul arranged his co-workers may work in his mission.
How?
Paul not only devoted his life to the Lord, but also he has strategy in the mission of Christ. Do something good to the Lord with wisdom.
Most of the Jews oppose the new teaching, though the president of the synagogue is convinced and Paul continues teaching for 18 months.
Then 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.
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.
Why?
Paul knew that Ephesus will a center of gospel in that area, so he arrange Priscilla and Aqula stayed in Ephesus, for next time he will come back, and let them stay there to encourage new Christians.
Keep hair means have good healthy in custom, Paul cut his hair mean he devoted his hair for his vows.
Paul devoted whole his life for the mission of Christ. Paul arranged his co-workers may work in his mission.
How?
Paul not only devoted his life to the Lord, but also he has strategy in the mission of Christ. Do something good to the Lord with wisdom.
Thursday, September 15, 2016
Turn the rick to opportunity
Acts 18:1-11
Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.
But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, "Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."
Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Chorintians, hearing, believed and were baptized.
The Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city."
Why?
Paul was compelled by the Spirit, he preached gospel to the Jews, but they opposed him and blasphemed, so Paul turned to the Gentile, he knew God's mission to him is preach gospel to Gentiles. Paul loves his people of Jews hope they can turn to the Jesus.
Paul did not frustrated to his way of preaching gospel, he turn to the Gentile is the way of God.
Paul was worked together with Aquila at their common trade of tent making. He was doing his best to convince both Jews and Greeks about Jesus.
How?
Follow the mission of the Lord and do what I can do to preach gospel for there are many people who need the Lord. Rick or frustrated is new opportunity. I am like Paul can work on weekday and preach gospel on weekend.
Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.
But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, "Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."
Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Chorintians, hearing, believed and were baptized.
The Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city."
Why?
Paul was compelled by the Spirit, he preached gospel to the Jews, but they opposed him and blasphemed, so Paul turned to the Gentile, he knew God's mission to him is preach gospel to Gentiles. Paul loves his people of Jews hope they can turn to the Jesus.
Paul did not frustrated to his way of preaching gospel, he turn to the Gentile is the way of God.
Paul was worked together with Aquila at their common trade of tent making. He was doing his best to convince both Jews and Greeks about Jesus.
How?
Follow the mission of the Lord and do what I can do to preach gospel for there are many people who need the Lord. Rick or frustrated is new opportunity. I am like Paul can work on weekday and preach gospel on weekend.
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
We are God's offspring
Acts 17:24-34
God who marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.
Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill.
In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.
For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.
Why?
Paul preached gospel did not using the scriptures but using the poets of Greek. For this word is more familiar to them.
Preach gospel need to understand the culture and custom among them, so prepare out understanding and knowledge before preach gospel.
God created the heaven and our world, He does not living in the temple or our hand made. God is full of universal.
God does not need our supply, but he gives us life and everything.
How?
Pay effort to preach good news to those who does not know Jesus.
God who marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.
Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill.
In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.
For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.
Why?
Paul preached gospel did not using the scriptures but using the poets of Greek. For this word is more familiar to them.
Preach gospel need to understand the culture and custom among them, so prepare out understanding and knowledge before preach gospel.
God created the heaven and our world, He does not living in the temple or our hand made. God is full of universal.
God does not need our supply, but he gives us life and everything.
How?
Pay effort to preach good news to those who does not know Jesus.
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Passion and wisdom
Acts 17:26-23
Paul was greatly distress to see that city full of idols.He reasoned in Syngogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks.
Paul stood up in the meeting of Areopagus and said," People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and look carefully every objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription "TO AN UNKNOWN GOD". You are ignorant of the very thing worship.
Why?
Paul are caring the people who worship idols, there soul are in the darkness.
Paul respected the religious of Athens. But he reminded them that the most important one they are ignorant.
Paul knew that the people in Areopagu are reason people they like to talk the new or strange things. They like to search the truth.
Paul is wise and smart man to preach gospel.
Preaching gospel not only need passion but also need wisdom.
Most people who did not know what they are doing, or worshiping. They need the light of the truth. So as Christian needs to know the God, who is a living God. God loves us and we need follow his way and his word.
How?
Passion plus wisdom to preach gospel, let more people turn to the Lord!
Paul was greatly distress to see that city full of idols.He reasoned in Syngogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks.
Paul stood up in the meeting of Areopagus and said," People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and look carefully every objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription "TO AN UNKNOWN GOD". You are ignorant of the very thing worship.
Why?
Paul are caring the people who worship idols, there soul are in the darkness.
Paul respected the religious of Athens. But he reminded them that the most important one they are ignorant.
Paul knew that the people in Areopagu are reason people they like to talk the new or strange things. They like to search the truth.
Paul is wise and smart man to preach gospel.
Preaching gospel not only need passion but also need wisdom.
Most people who did not know what they are doing, or worshiping. They need the light of the truth. So as Christian needs to know the God, who is a living God. God loves us and we need follow his way and his word.
How?
Passion plus wisdom to preach gospel, let more people turn to the Lord!
Monday, September 12, 2016
Know more about the word of God
Acts 17:10-15
The Beroeans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
Many of the Jews believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.
In Beroea, 100km to the west, the Jewish grout is another for their open-minded study of the scriptures. Jews, Greek women and men respond. But troublemakers from Thessalonica ensure that Paul moves on again, escorted by believers to Athens ahead of Timothy and Silas.
The altitude of Beroeans were better: had more noble character.
Why?
The Beroeans did not reject anything but they respected the Scriptures and confirm what is right according to the Scriptures.
Examining the Scriptures every day to see the truth, is good manner to our life.
How?
Eagerness and examine the Bible is the way to know more about the word of God.
The Beroeans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
Many of the Jews believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.
In Beroea, 100km to the west, the Jewish grout is another for their open-minded study of the scriptures. Jews, Greek women and men respond. But troublemakers from Thessalonica ensure that Paul moves on again, escorted by believers to Athens ahead of Timothy and Silas.
The altitude of Beroeans were better: had more noble character.
Why?
The Beroeans did not reject anything but they respected the Scriptures and confirm what is right according to the Scriptures.
Examining the Scriptures every day to see the truth, is good manner to our life.
How?
Eagerness and examine the Bible is the way to know more about the word of God.
Saturday, September 10, 2016
Warrior of the gospel
Acts 17:1-9
As his custom was, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the scriptures, explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead. " this Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ." he said.. Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and not a few prominent women.
But the Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob ad started a riot in the city. They shouting:" They are all defying Caesar's decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus."
Paul and Silas travel the great Roman highway, the Egnatian Way, from Philippi to Thessalonica. The response to Paul in this sea-port, the capital city of Macedonia, was no mere flash in the pan.
The Jews were 'jealous' because here as elsewhere Paul won over the 'devout Greeks', those already attracted to Judaism(猶太教) - the very people they themselves hoped to win as converts(皈依).
Why?
Because of the jealous so people forsake the truth. They are jealous that Paul has won many Jews and Greeks convert to Jesus. They are jealous their were welcomed to many people.
Jealous is the poison to become Christian, give me a stronger heart and faith to explaining and proving that Jesus is the Christ.
Reasoned with people, if they are reasoned men!
How?
Using the love and Sympathy to build church and encourage brothers and sisters. Be a warrior of gospel.
As his custom was, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the scriptures, explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead. " this Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ." he said.. Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and not a few prominent women.
But the Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob ad started a riot in the city. They shouting:" They are all defying Caesar's decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus."
Paul and Silas travel the great Roman highway, the Egnatian Way, from Philippi to Thessalonica. The response to Paul in this sea-port, the capital city of Macedonia, was no mere flash in the pan.
The Jews were 'jealous' because here as elsewhere Paul won over the 'devout Greeks', those already attracted to Judaism(猶太教) - the very people they themselves hoped to win as converts(皈依).
Why?
Because of the jealous so people forsake the truth. They are jealous that Paul has won many Jews and Greeks convert to Jesus. They are jealous their were welcomed to many people.
Jealous is the poison to become Christian, give me a stronger heart and faith to explaining and proving that Jesus is the Christ.
Reasoned with people, if they are reasoned men!
How?
Using the love and Sympathy to build church and encourage brothers and sisters. Be a warrior of gospel.
Friday, September 9, 2016
Pursue the justice
Acts 16:35-40
Paul said to the officers: They beat s publicly without a trial, even though we are Roman citizen, and threw us into prison. And now do they want to get rid of us quietly? Not! Let them come themselves and escort us out?
Offered release next day, Paul will not accept until he has an official apology for the ilegal bearing of a Roman citizen. When he does move on, Luke remains behind.
Why?
Paul wanted the just officially, for they were ashamed publicly without trial. They did nothing wrong.
When we do the right thing we do not fear the authority or any officers, God has the most high authority.
To be a Christian we have to live out the justice and keep the justice in our society. It is not for our own profit but for the justice of this world.
How?
pursue the justice in this world, and do the right things always. Keep away from bribe.
Paul said to the officers: They beat s publicly without a trial, even though we are Roman citizen, and threw us into prison. And now do they want to get rid of us quietly? Not! Let them come themselves and escort us out?
Offered release next day, Paul will not accept until he has an official apology for the ilegal bearing of a Roman citizen. When he does move on, Luke remains behind.
Why?
Paul wanted the just officially, for they were ashamed publicly without trial. They did nothing wrong.
When we do the right thing we do not fear the authority or any officers, God has the most high authority.
To be a Christian we have to live out the justice and keep the justice in our society. It is not for our own profit but for the justice of this world.
How?
pursue the justice in this world, and do the right things always. Keep away from bribe.
Thursday, September 8, 2016
Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved
Acts 16:22-34
Under mistreated and was put into prison, be fastened feet in the stocks. Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God.
Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose.
Paul shouted, "Don't harm yourself! We are all here!"
The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He asked, 'Sir, what must I do to be saved?" They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved - you and your household."
Trouble quickly follows, Philippi was a Roman colony and the owners clamor(叫囂) for their rights as Roman citizens. Paul the Jew ha the same rights, but no one knows that.
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.
Why?
How great the Lord is! He saved his servants Paul and Silas from the prisoner.
How great the faith of Paul and Silas, under such situation they were praying and singing hymn to God!
Believe in the Lord Jesus, you will be saved! It is very easy in our heart if you accepted.
The jailer asked Paul and Silas is how they could not be killed for the doors of jailer were opened, but Paul and Silas gave them the fundamental answer. Don't be the servant of Roman empire instead of being the servant of the Lord.
How?
Who is your Lord! Jesus Christ is my Lord!
Under mistreated and was put into prison, be fastened feet in the stocks. Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God.
Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose.
Paul shouted, "Don't harm yourself! We are all here!"
The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He asked, 'Sir, what must I do to be saved?" They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved - you and your household."
Trouble quickly follows, Philippi was a Roman colony and the owners clamor(叫囂) for their rights as Roman citizens. Paul the Jew ha the same rights, but no one knows that.
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.
Why?
How great the Lord is! He saved his servants Paul and Silas from the prisoner.
How great the faith of Paul and Silas, under such situation they were praying and singing hymn to God!
Believe in the Lord Jesus, you will be saved! It is very easy in our heart if you accepted.
The jailer asked Paul and Silas is how they could not be killed for the doors of jailer were opened, but Paul and Silas gave them the fundamental answer. Don't be the servant of Roman empire instead of being the servant of the Lord.
How?
Who is your Lord! Jesus Christ is my Lord!
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
Telling good news to everyone we met
Acts 16:11-21
Paul went outside the city gate to the river, they sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, the Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. After they baptized, she invited Paul's team to her home.
They met a slave girl who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. This girl followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, "These men are servants of the Most High God who are telling you the way to be saved."
Paul became so troubled that he turned around and said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!
When the owner of the slave girl realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities.They said, "These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice."
In each place he visited, Paul normally went first to the synagogue (for which a minimum of ten men was required). 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 beings with the response of Lydia, a local businesswoman.
When Paul frees a slave-girl whose psychic powers earn her owners easy money, trouble quickly follows.
Why?
Drive devil spirit out with the name of Jesus Christ for his name is power.
Working with the Holy Spirit then the spirit will know.
The main reason is the man lost the hope of easy money, but he claimed false reason and try to recover his loss with lie and angry.
Who will be saved we do not know before we preach the gospel. God will open their heart if they are deserved. Our joy is show to them and talk to them the good news.
There was not synagogue in Philippi city.
How?
How to show my life of Christ and preaching the gospel to others?
The power of Christ and the grace of gospel may come upon one who I can't predicted.
Paul went outside the city gate to the river, they sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, the Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. After they baptized, she invited Paul's team to her home.
They met a slave girl who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. This girl followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, "These men are servants of the Most High God who are telling you the way to be saved."
Paul became so troubled that he turned around and said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!
When the owner of the slave girl realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities.They said, "These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice."
In each place he visited, Paul normally went first to the synagogue (for which a minimum of ten men was required). 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 beings with the response of Lydia, a local businesswoman.
When Paul frees a slave-girl whose psychic powers earn her owners easy money, trouble quickly follows.
Why?
Drive devil spirit out with the name of Jesus Christ for his name is power.
Working with the Holy Spirit then the spirit will know.
The main reason is the man lost the hope of easy money, but he claimed false reason and try to recover his loss with lie and angry.
Who will be saved we do not know before we preach the gospel. God will open their heart if they are deserved. Our joy is show to them and talk to them the good news.
There was not synagogue in Philippi city.
How?
How to show my life of Christ and preaching the gospel to others?
The power of Christ and the grace of gospel may come upon one who I can't predicted.
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
Follow the leading way of the Holy Spirit
Acts 16:1-10
At Lystra and Derbe, Timothy is added to the company.
Timothy joined Paul and Silas, whose father was a Greek whose mother was a Jewess and a believer.
They traveled from town to town, delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey.
After Paul had seen the vision, they got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called them to preach the gospel to them.
Timothy: The decision to circumcise Timothy was taken in order to regularized his position as a Jew, not in order to secure his salvation. Paul had a special affection fro his loyal, though timid, companion and successor/ He came to regard him almost as his won son.
At Troas, close to ancient Troy, Luke joins the party for the first tome, and Paul receives his call to cross to Europe. It is tempting to think that Luke(whose home town may have been Philippi) was the man in Paul's dream.
Why?
To a missionary, when I chose one then I have to give up other choices. we need take responsibility for ourselves. If we have not vision we can not do anything.
How to know the way of the Lord?
1)Using the wisdom and knowledge from the Lord to analysis information I got, to make conclusion which consistent with God's word.
2)Put it in praying, and waiting for the instruction from the Lord. If there is not vision shows, do it as we planned.
Don't do God's work and wanted to do the target on the world. Focusing on the work and target of the mission.
How?
What I needed to give up and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit?
At Lystra and Derbe, Timothy is added to the company.
Timothy joined Paul and Silas, whose father was a Greek whose mother was a Jewess and a believer.
They traveled from town to town, delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey.
After Paul had seen the vision, they got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called them to preach the gospel to them.
Timothy: The decision to circumcise Timothy was taken in order to regularized his position as a Jew, not in order to secure his salvation. Paul had a special affection fro his loyal, though timid, companion and successor/ He came to regard him almost as his won son.
At Troas, close to ancient Troy, Luke joins the party for the first tome, and Paul receives his call to cross to Europe. It is tempting to think that Luke(whose home town may have been Philippi) was the man in Paul's dream.
Why?
To a missionary, when I chose one then I have to give up other choices. we need take responsibility for ourselves. If we have not vision we can not do anything.
How to know the way of the Lord?
1)Using the wisdom and knowledge from the Lord to analysis information I got, to make conclusion which consistent with God's word.
2)Put it in praying, and waiting for the instruction from the Lord. If there is not vision shows, do it as we planned.
Don't do God's work and wanted to do the target on the world. Focusing on the work and target of the mission.
How?
What I needed to give up and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit?
Monday, September 5, 2016
Encourage a failed person and faith of brothers in the church
Acts 15:30-41
The people of Antioch read the letter and were glad for its encouraging message.
Disagreement between Paul and Barnabas, because Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They parted company.
Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.
A 'sharp argument' about John Mark results in two missionary campaigns instead of one. Barnabas, the 'encourager', not doubt helper his young nephew to make the grade and eventually win Paul's approval.
Silas: Representative of the Jerusalem church. Like Paul, he was a Roman citizen. He traveled with the apostle as far as Beroea and rejoined him at Corinth. Silas was associated with Paul in the writing of 1 and 2 Thessalonians; also with Peter in the writing of his first letter.
Paul said to Barnabas,'Let us go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.'
Why?
New believers are easy to be disturbed by the world and personal difficulty, so needed to be encouraged in their faith and help them.
Encourage the young men in the work of God is difficult but good work before the Lord.
Bad record doesn't mean he is unchanged, depends on his mind and works.
Confirm the church and keep growing of the brothers in the church is an important matter.
How?
Not only preach gospel to others but confirm brothers in church is main issue to service in the church.
The people of Antioch read the letter and were glad for its encouraging message.
Disagreement between Paul and Barnabas, because Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They parted company.
Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.
A 'sharp argument' about John Mark results in two missionary campaigns instead of one. Barnabas, the 'encourager', not doubt helper his young nephew to make the grade and eventually win Paul's approval.
Silas: Representative of the Jerusalem church. Like Paul, he was a Roman citizen. He traveled with the apostle as far as Beroea and rejoined him at Corinth. Silas was associated with Paul in the writing of 1 and 2 Thessalonians; also with Peter in the writing of his first letter.
Paul said to Barnabas,'Let us go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.'
Why?
New believers are easy to be disturbed by the world and personal difficulty, so needed to be encouraged in their faith and help them.
Encourage the young men in the work of God is difficult but good work before the Lord.
Bad record doesn't mean he is unchanged, depends on his mind and works.
Confirm the church and keep growing of the brothers in the church is an important matter.
How?
Not only preach gospel to others but confirm brothers in church is main issue to service in the church.
Sunday, September 4, 2016
這到底是誰？
路8:22-25
9/4/2016。 台南聖教會。 高敏智牧師
前言
不熟裝熟 ...攀關係
熟卻是負面... 抱怨聲 生活在旁邊，卻常常要求這個、那個，我不要這樣...
新神的故事 看見神
我們看見，所以我們戰戰兢兢！
思想：
1.以瑪杵斯的門徒：
直到主擘餅…重新認識復活的主，原來他們不熟
2.十字架下的百夫長
…這真是個義人
3.馬利亞，使女的順服
…主阿！我情願！
我不知道耶穌，我願意學習認識所不知道的！
簡易大綱：
1. 沒有同行卻以為與主同行？
背十字架跟從的路。沒有背十字架跟從，就不是同行
2.沒有對話，卻當作有對話 以利的時代
3. 原來真是不熟.....這人到底是誰?
大綱：
1.與主同行 …耶穌睡著了…
湖上起了暴風！
仍然會遇到危險？
耶穌睡著了嗎？
漁夫與木匠間的對話？
2. 與主對話？…門徒叫醒他？
…夫子！我們喪命啦！
1.叫醒了他？
2.夫子！夫子！我們喪命了！
3.耶穌對他們說：你們的信心在那裡呢？
3. 與主認識？…這人到底是誰？
…連風和水也聽從他。
1.斥責那狂風大浪;風浪就止住，平穩了
2.又懼怕又稀奇。
3.他吩咐風和水，連風和水也聽從他了。
挑戰：
1.神對摩西說：我是自有永有的：
又說：你要對以色列人這樣說：那自有的打發我到你們這裡來。
2.求我們主耶穌基督的神，榮耀的父，將那賜人智慧和啟示的靈賞給你們，使你們真知道他，並且照亮心中的眼睛，使你們知道他的恩召有何等的指望，他在聖徒中的基業有何等豐盛的榮耀;並知道他向我們這信的人所顯的能力是何等浩大…
9/4/2016。 台南聖教會。 高敏智牧師
前言
不熟裝熟 ...攀關係
熟卻是負面... 抱怨聲 生活在旁邊，卻常常要求這個、那個，我不要這樣...
新神的故事 看見神
我們看見，所以我們戰戰兢兢！
思想：
1.以瑪杵斯的門徒：
直到主擘餅…重新認識復活的主，原來他們不熟
2.十字架下的百夫長
…這真是個義人
3.馬利亞，使女的順服
…主阿！我情願！
我不知道耶穌，我願意學習認識所不知道的！
簡易大綱：
1. 沒有同行卻以為與主同行？
背十字架跟從的路。沒有背十字架跟從，就不是同行
2.沒有對話，卻當作有對話 以利的時代
3. 原來真是不熟.....這人到底是誰?
大綱：
1.與主同行 …耶穌睡著了…
湖上起了暴風！
仍然會遇到危險？
耶穌睡著了嗎？
漁夫與木匠間的對話？
2. 與主對話？…門徒叫醒他？
…夫子！我們喪命啦！
1.叫醒了他？
2.夫子！夫子！我們喪命了！
3.耶穌對他們說：你們的信心在那裡呢？
3. 與主認識？…這人到底是誰？
…連風和水也聽從他。
1.斥責那狂風大浪;風浪就止住，平穩了
2.又懼怕又稀奇。
3.他吩咐風和水，連風和水也聽從他了。
挑戰：
1.神對摩西說：我是自有永有的：
又說：你要對以色列人這樣說：那自有的打發我到你們這裡來。
2.求我們主耶穌基督的神，榮耀的父，將那賜人智慧和啟示的靈賞給你們，使你們真知道他，並且照亮心中的眼睛，使你們知道他的恩召有何等的指望，他在聖徒中的基業有何等豐盛的榮耀;並知道他向我們這信的人所顯的能力是何等浩大…
Saturday, September 3, 2016
Freedom and restriction to live out holy life
Acts 15:22-29
The apostles and elders sent their own men Judas and Silas with Paul and Barnabas to Antioch.
Their bring the letter to them, sending Judas and Silas to confirm by word of mouth what we are writing.
It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality.
Why?
The rule of living set up because among Gentiles there were many bad custom or culture to eat blood strangled animals or sexual immorality etc. Showing the different spirit of God and away from the world.
These rules is the basic requirement to a Christian.
I need to keep away any sexual immorality even the mind of immorality.
We are enjoy the freedom of the salvation of the Lord but we have to follow rules of the Holy life for the Lord. May church has peace!
How?
Freedom of the salvation and living out holy life in the world.
The apostles and elders sent their own men Judas and Silas with Paul and Barnabas to Antioch.
Their bring the letter to them, sending Judas and Silas to confirm by word of mouth what we are writing.
It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality.
Why?
The rule of living set up because among Gentiles there were many bad custom or culture to eat blood strangled animals or sexual immorality etc. Showing the different spirit of God and away from the world.
These rules is the basic requirement to a Christian.
I need to keep away any sexual immorality even the mind of immorality.
We are enjoy the freedom of the salvation of the Lord but we have to follow rules of the Holy life for the Lord. May church has peace!
How?
Freedom of the salvation and living out holy life in the world.
Friday, September 2, 2016
Obey the word of the Lord
Acts 15:12-21
James spoke up: The words of the prophets are in agreement with this, as it is written by Amos 9:11,12. That the remnant of men may seek the Lord, and all the Gentiles who bear my name says the Lord, who does these things. Gentiles is nations in Amos.
And James make judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the gentiles who are turning to God.
Write to them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood.
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 center now shifts away from Jerusalem and the apostles, with the emphasis on the mission to the Gentiles, and the new churches.
Why?
James used Amos's words proved that God says that Gentiles bear his name. And all the wonder and many miraculous signs are happened as in Jews. So they have not right to reject the way of the Lord.
According to the word of the Lord to make decision is correct way to resolve troubles in church.
How?
Obey to the words of the Lord and subdue to the authority of the Lord.
James spoke up: The words of the prophets are in agreement with this, as it is written by Amos 9:11,12. That the remnant of men may seek the Lord, and all the Gentiles who bear my name says the Lord, who does these things. Gentiles is nations in Amos.
And James make judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the gentiles who are turning to God.
Write to them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood.
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 center now shifts away from Jerusalem and the apostles, with the emphasis on the mission to the Gentiles, and the new churches.
Why?
James used Amos's words proved that God says that Gentiles bear his name. And all the wonder and many miraculous signs are happened as in Jews. So they have not right to reject the way of the Lord.
According to the word of the Lord to make decision is correct way to resolve troubles in church.
How?
Obey to the words of the Lord and subdue to the authority of the Lord.
Thursday, September 1, 2016
Keep obey the truth of the Lord and praying for the church with pure heart
Acts 15:1-11
The apostles and elders met to consider this question; "The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses."
Paul and Barnabas went to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about this question.
Peter got up and addressed them: "God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He made no distinction between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith... We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just they are."
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 part, 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.
Why?
Obey the law or following the grace of our Lord may becomes question among us now. But let believe that through the grace of our Lord Jesus and believe that the Holy Spirit is our helper, there is nothing can dispute and quarrel among us.
Church may argue for the just and love or feel the Pastor is unfair. Our heard should be open and pure and obey the teaching from Jesus Christ.
How?
Argument may lead church more stronger among Christians, because all of us are not completed. We need keep following the truth of the Lord, and praying to bear this mission from the God.
The apostles and elders met to consider this question; "The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses."
Paul and Barnabas went to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about this question.
Peter got up and addressed them: "God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He made no distinction between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith... We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just they are."
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 part, 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.
Why?
Obey the law or following the grace of our Lord may becomes question among us now. But let believe that through the grace of our Lord Jesus and believe that the Holy Spirit is our helper, there is nothing can dispute and quarrel among us.
Church may argue for the just and love or feel the Pastor is unfair. Our heard should be open and pure and obey the teaching from Jesus Christ.
How?
Argument may lead church more stronger among Christians, because all of us are not completed. We need keep following the truth of the Lord, and praying to bear this mission from the God.
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