Acts 14

 Good morning. Not sure if you saw it, but beautiful sunrise this morning. Lots of reds, oranges, and yellows...and I am reminded of the adage, "Red sky at night- sailors delight; red sky in morning, sailors take warning!" The morning before our December snowstorm was an absolutely stunning sunrise. I wonder what tomorrow will bring!!

Here is the map from yesterday, for ease of following the travels of Paul and Barnabas. I like Jack's commentary from yesterday- it seemed like a travelogue of their adventures! And the adventures continue today!

Paul and Barnabas' First Missionary Journey

After being kicked out of Antioch, Paul and Barnabas "left, full of the joy of the Holy Spirit" (13:52) and went to Iconium (v 14:1). First place they go is the synagogue. Lots of discussion about that yesterday. First- where else would you go to find a bunch of people that already have a monotheistic theology! Also, it was tradition, when a Jew was travelling to check in at the synagogue of the city they visited. When there, if worship was occurring (and it usually was) the elder would hand a scroll to the visitor and have them read and then teach on a part of scripture. Can you imagine doing that in church? I think I will do that with my next visitor.  When they come in, hand them a Bible and say, "OK, you're turn!" 

Paul and Barnabas presented the gospel in a way that invited belief. The way they preached encouraged people to believe in the message of who Jesus is and what He had done for them. We see some struggle (v 2)-- good and honest preaching often causes tension and some people do get upset at the "truth." Does this happen in your home church? Paul and Barnabas stayed as long as they could, despite the opposition, leaving only when it was necessary. They knew that these Christians in Iconium needed all the grounding they could get to stand strong in a city with much opposition.

Paul and Barnabas were forced (v 5) to leave Iconium and travel to Lystra and Derbe (about 20 miles away). They weren't ready to become martyrs in Iconium!

While in Lystra, they meet a lame man and they begin chatting with him. The crippled man heard Paul preach about Jesus. When he heard about Jesus, his face and manner showed that he believed Jesus could touch his life. Have you ever noticed that in people you talk with? There was something about this man’s faith that was evident, and it is likely that God gave Paul the gift of discernment, so much so that Paul knew God intended to heal the man at that moment. The words Paul uses are similar to the words Jesus used in John 5: "Pick up your mat and go!"

The people have Lystra have not been fully converted and they still believe in gods. These people saw a great miracle happen before their eyes, yet their idea of who God is had not changed. Therefore it seems logical to them to consider Paul and Barnabas gods (vv 11+). In Greek mythology, it was common for the gods to come to earth in human form, though they did not always do so for the good of man. The people of Lystra had a legend that once Zeus and Hermes visited their land disguised as mortals, and no one gave them any hospitality except for one older couple. In their anger at the people, Zeus and Hermes wiped out the whole population, except for the old couple. This may help explain why the Lystrians were so quick to honor Paul and Barnabas.Hermes was the messenger of the gods- and since Paul did all the talking- that was the name he was given; Barnabas was "Zeus" as he apparently had an authoritative air about him! Paul and Barnabas didn't really understand (the people were speaking in Lycaonian language) until the chief priest of Zeus came with a bull and flowers, Then they responded- "Whoa! Wait a minute here!" (v 15). Paul called the Lystrian crowd to consider the real God (15- 16), the One who stands behind all creation, not one of the lesser (and imaginary) Greek gods.

To compound troubles, Jews from Antioch traveled more than one hundred miles just to make Paul and Barnabas miserable (v 19- 20). They were dedicated adversaries of Paul and Barnabas.They incited the people of Lystra against Paul and Barnabas, and instigated the stoning of Paul. This was obviously an attempt to execute Paul and Barnabas – with the rocks being thrown by the same people who wanted to worship them shortly before. This is a dramatic demonstration of how fickle a crowd can be. This never happens in your church- does it?!

Paul was miraculously saved here. Some commentaries say that he was even actually killed and raised to life again, because stoning was usually reliable form of execution. Paul comments in both Galatians and 2 Corinthians about this incident. Do you think Paul thought of Stephen as he was being stoned?

When Paul was revived, he did not flee the city that stoned him. Instead he immediately went back into it (v 20). He had been driven out of Antioch and Iconium by this traveling mob, and he was determined to leave Lystra on his own terms.

Paul and Barnabas decided to head back home to Antioch, they passed through the cities they had visited before(vv 21- 22), to strengthen and encourage the Christians in those cities. Their message, "We must suffer many things to enter God's kingdom" (v 22b) was the message that helped strengthen and exhort these disciples. This was a simple message, proved in Paul’s personal experience. Paul could preach that message because he had lived that message. This is for many a forgotten message today. They consider any kind of tribulation completely counter-productive to Christian living, failing to note the significant place suffering has in God’s plan.I have said many times in worship and other gatherings that nobody ever said this life was going to be easy. Jesus never promised us an easy life!

This first trip was a great success, though not without great obstacles: The difficulty of travel itself, the confrontation with Elymas on Cyprus, the quitting of John Mark, being driven out of the cities of Antioch and Iconium, the temptation to receive adoration, and being stoned in Lystra. Yet Paul and Barnabas would not be deterred from the work God had them to do. Their success with evangelism among the Gentiles, and the blessing of God that it demonstrated, showed that what God did in Antioch was not unique. God wanted to replicate this work all over the world.Back at their home church in Syrian Antioch, we can assume that Paul and Barnabas took a long break and found plenty of ministry to do back there.

Tomorrow we read about the first Jerusalem Conference (49AD) that proposed what Jewish "traditions" the new Christians had to observe and affected the course of Christianity!

Enjoy the day- ready for winter's return??!!

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Acts 13

 Good morning! This is a long chapter with lots of names and things going on!

Let's begin with some of the names of the people:

Simeon (AKA Niger)- "Niger" is Latin for "black" so Simeon was an African among the congregation in Antioch; some commentaries say he may be the same Simeon that carried the cross of Jesus 

Manaen- knew Herod the Tetrarch; tetrarch means a subordinate prince or ruler of the fourth province; this is the Herod beheaded John the Baptist and was at the trials of Jesus (Luke 23:7-12). Interesting how two people could be in the same environment and one turns out nasty and one turns out good.

Lucius- one of the founders of the church in Antioch and presumably the first "bishop"of Cyrene; there is a Lucius mentioned in Romans 16, but we don't know if they are the same people; Cyrene is a city in Libya, so Lucius is presumably black.

Notice the  cultural diversity of the early church!

Fasting (v 2) and prayer was important for these first church starters. Fasting is a way to seek God.  While they prayed, Barnabas and Paul (Saul) were called into service (v 3). We are not sure why Barnabas and Paul were called- maybe they were best fit for the job ahead? Maybe they were the most gifted to teach? We know God's thoughts about Paul from Acts 9, "He is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake. This was not a touchy-feely “feel good” call – it was a serious call to a serious ministry.When God calls, they went. Do you? When God calls, how do you respond?  Paul and Barnabas were sent out by the Holy Spirit (v 4). The church can send people to do things; other people can send people to do tings, but when the Holy Spirit is involved there is more to it!

See the map below for Paul's (and Barnabas') first missionary journey.

Paul and Barnabas' First Missionary Trip

Seleucia was close to Antioch; there was a thriving church in Antioch- so this was probably a good place to begin the next church. There were probably already some Christians there. We are not told why they went to Cyprus next, but we do know Barnabas grew up on that island (Acts 4:36). They are invited to speak at the synagogue (v 5). This custom of the open synagogue gave Barnabas and Saul many opportunities to preach. This tradition invited any learned man to speak to the people of the synagogue at the Sabbath meeting.They meet up with John Mark (likely the author of the Gospel of Mark). Mark was a valuable companion for Barnabas and Saul. He grew up in Jerusalem, and was an eyewitness of many of the events in the life of Jesus and could relate them with special power to Barnabas and Saul, and to others whom they preached to.

Next stop- Paphos. This city on the west coast of Cyprus was known for its immorality. Here Barnabas and Saul faced a combination of immorality and spiritual darkness that was common across the pagan world of the Roman Empire. Paphos was infamous for its worship of Venus, the goddess of sexuality. In Paphos, they meet Bar-Jesus (AKA Elymas); the name Bar-Jesus means “son of Joshua” or “son of the Savior" ("Elymas" means magician). He is good friends with Sergius Paulus-- a Roman proconsul responsible for an entire province and answered to the Roman Senate-- and he wanted to listen to Paul and Barnabas about God! The door to Christianity had been opened by a Roman- but tries to be hindered by the magician! Is it surprising that the work of God is hindered by magic?

The confrontation between Paul and Elymas is familiar to us! As Elymas was struck with blindness, we can’t help but think Paul would remember his own experience with God. Paul was struck blind at his conversion on the road to Damascus. Certainly, those who resist God are blind spiritually, so God just gave Elymas a physical blindness that matched his spiritual blindness. Sadly, we never hear of Elymas repenting, as Paul did. The proconsul immediately converted to Christianity as he saw the power Pal had (and also the power that Elymas wielded!). 

Notice the name change. When we began the journey- it was Barnabas and Paul; the group is now called "Paul and those with him" (v 13). This change shows the prominence and leadership of Paul. The missionary trips are called "Paul's missionary trips" even though he often had companions with him!

Perga is a major coastal city and the ship Paul was on would have docked here. Antioch in Pisidia (different city from the Antioch we read about earlier) was about 135 miles inland, to the north. This general region was known as Galatia, and later Paul wrote a letter to these churches that is included in our New Testament epistles. Paul begins his sermon in the synagogue (v 16), explaining how God’s work in history leads up to Jesus. In this quick survey of Israel’s history, Paul noted important events – the choosing of the patriarchs, the deliverance from Egypt, the time in the wilderness, the conquest of Canaan, the time of the Judges, the creation of a monarchy – but it all led up to Jesus. Paul then continues his survey with the things of Jesus and focused on things that actually happened, not on philosophy or even theology. He ends (v 37) with the big point and applied the truth of Jesus’ resurrection. The resurrection means that Jesus truly is the unique Son of God.  The promise is that, because of who Jesus is and what He did for us, forgiveness is offered to us freely in Jesus.The warning (v 41) is that if we do not embrace the person and work of Jesus with our whole lives, we are despisers who will perish. This message from Paul is very similar to the one Peter preached in Pentecost-- 15 years earlier! It is also similar to the message Stephen gave in Acts 7- when Paul was there at the stoning! Maybe the sermon of the first martyr of the church still rang in the ears of the man who presided over his execution.Proof that people can change!

Both Jews and Gentiles at the synagogue responded positively (v 42+). The next Sabbath day (v 44), the whole city came to hear Paul! Today we are inundated with news (and noise) from TV, radio, magazines, etc. However- back in the day- they didn't have those sources of information, so, when somebody came through from another city, the person was a source of information and people naturally gathered about him. The Jewish members of the crowd respond negatively (v 45)- Paul was more popular than the leaders- and the leaders became jealous! We can’t all be popular to the same degree, but we can all serve and please God to the same degree in Jesus Christ.

Paul and Barnabas wouldn’t let this challenge go unanswered (v 46+), because they really believed the truth about Jesus. They rebuked those who rejected Jesus, letting the Jews know that it was a privilege that this message should come to them first, a privilege they were now rejecting. When you want to tell others about Jesus, begin with your own group. But if they don’t receive it, or when they start to reject it, don’t stop telling others about Jesus. Just find others to tell, others who will listen. The Gentiles responded to Paul’s invitation with enthusiastic belief, learning with joy that God does not hate Gentiles, but offered them salvation in Jesus. This is where we- the Gentiles- really become incorporated into God's salvation. 

In one week, a church was started! On one Sabbath Paul and Barnabas preached in the synagogue and there was a wonderful response. The following Sabbath there was a mixed response, some very hostile and some very receptive. They took the receptive ones and started a church that was lasted for hundreds of years and through that church. However, Jewish opposition was strong enough to force Paul and Barnabas to leave the area. How often does  the success of something cause an opposing group to drive out the "leadership" of the successful program, possibly hoping that it will fail.

Paul and Barnabas leave- not defeated but excited to get on with their missionary trip - to Iconium. Their defeat left them with joy and the Holy Spirit. How often does defeat leave us sad and upset, rather than full of joy and the Holy Spirit?

Lots to soak up in this chapter! Have a great day!
Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Acts 12

 Good Morning and Welcome back...late start again! Blood work!! I have such an exciting life!

We are introduced to King Herod. This was Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of Herod the Great, who ruled in the days of Jesus’ birth (see Matthew 2)  Herod Agrippa I was also the nephew of Herod Antipas, who had a role in the trial of Jesus (see Luke 23). His "mistreatment" of the Christians made him popular with the people- there was still lots of hate for the new Christians and the more the rulers persecuted them, the more their popularity grew! This happens all too often today! How have you experienced someone in power using "persecution" to gain popularity? James was killed- the first of the original apostles to be martyred (Stephen was the first to be martyred- but he was not an original apostle). Up until now, the church had been on a streak of success, experiencing one exciting conversion after another. First there was Saul of Tarsus, then the Gentile centurion Cornelius, then the highly successful work among Gentiles (and Jews) in Antioch.

Peter was next (vv 3+)-- during the Passover (reminiscent of Jesus' arrest!). Peter had escaped prison before, so Herod tries to prevent it with lots of guards. There were four sets of four guards each that would rotate through security detail. Normally a prisoner was handcuffed to just one guard- but not for Peter! I especially love v 5- the church earnestly prayed for Peter. We bring up joys and concerns in church; someone says they will pray for you. Do they do it earnestly? Is the church earnestly in prayer?

Peter showed no anxiety (v 6) as he was quietly sleeping in the prison! The chains, the guards, the prison doors meant nothing to God and God's appointed messengers; Peter was instantly set free. We tend to worry and get anxious. How does Peter's story help you change those thoughts?

Peter leaves the prison, realizing that God had saved him. Peter naturally went to where he knew Christians would be gathered and praying (v 12+). They would want to know that their prayers had been answered. Rhoda was so excited to hear from Peter that she left him out at the gate! Have you ever been that excited? She tells the people that Peter is out of prison- their response- "You're crazy!" Kind of like the disciples on Easter morning! And "Doubting" Thomas later that same day! Why do we sometimes have a hard time believing the strength of God and the power of prayer? The people gathered assumed it was Peter's guardian angel. The Jews believed in the idea of guardian angels, and it seems that some among them may have believed that one’s guardian angel bore some kind of resemblance to the human it was assigned to. They finally realized it really was Peter! Peter tells them what happened and then leaves. This is the last we hear about Peter until a brief mention in Acts 15. Peter connects with Paul in Antioch (in the Galatians epistle) and also writes two epistles of his own. 

Herod seems to have saved the people of Sidon and Tyre from a famine (vv 20-21). They eventually treat him with lots of praise and thanksgiving. They looked to him as a god (v 22). Herod enjoyed it way too much! Herod's death (v 23) was appropriate to his spiritual state; he corrupted from the inside out.

The church continues to grow (vv 24- 25). The contrast between Herod and the church was clear. Herod believed he had the upper hand against God’s people, but God showed who was really in charge – Herod was judged, and the church was blessed.Herod fought against God. He killed James but didn’t defeat God’s plan. He arrested Peter, but the earnestly praying church saw God rescue Peter and the apostle’s work continue.The continual message in Acts is that God will continue!

Have a great rest of the day! Enjoy the snow and cold!!

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Acts 11

 Good morning- what a great day yesterday!! Hold on to your hats today though!

This chapter begins with some controversy! Peter returns to Jerusalem and "the bosses" begin to reprimand him for going to the Gentiles (vv 1-3). He even ate with them!! Eating was a significant sign of  relationship...and when a Jew eats with someone, they are accepting that person. We all know that good Jews would never eat with a non-Jew! The apostles in Jerusalem were under the impression that The Way was just for Jews, not for Gentiles. Do we treat people that way? Make remarks to them about hanging out with "them"?

Peter recounts his dream to the apostles; God is "obviously" telling the importance of this story by having Luke write it again. It is a major point that needs to be repeated in case the reader missed it the first time. To address some comments from the story yesterday: At first, Peter thought God was speaking about food. But Peter came to understand the vision of the sheet and kosher and unkosher animals has to do with people, not food. There is a sense in which the sheet represents the church, having both "kosher" (Jews) and "unkosher" (Gentiles) on it, with no distinction. Peter gets that the Good News must be given even to the Gentiles! The conclusion of this recap (v 15) is the important part: it shows that God's stamp of approval was on this ministry to the Gentiles. How could these believing Jews withhold their approval when God had given God's approval? Do we keep the message away from some people> Does the church?

God is moving ministry in the direction of the Gentiles (vv 16-17), who is Peter (or the apostles) to stop God? Peter recognized the importance of sensing where God is going and heading that same direction, instead of trying to persuade God to go your direction. How often do you persuade God to go in your direction rather than follow God's direction?

The Jewish believers in Jerusalem first react with a stunned silence (v 18). They have their epiphany: they saw God was now working among the Gentiles! This is a powerful passage, demonstrating that the hearts of the Jewish Christians in Jerusalem were soft enough to be guided by God. It is a glorious thing when God's people will allow their prejudices and traditions to be overcome by God's Word and God's work. People in the world need to hear this passage!

New person- new story follows: At first, Christians scattered over the Roman Empire preached only to Jews (v 19). But they eventually began to preach Jesus Christ to Gentiles as well. The preaching and teaching in Antioch (v 20) is unique as it is targeted to the Gentiles! The Antioch referenced here is a large city in Syria pointed to by "the finger" of Cyprus (see map).

Antioch, founded in 300 BC, was the third largest city of the time (Rome and Alexandria being the first two largest) It was well know for its "immorality in the form of lustful sports and pleasures." Their primary goddess was Daphne, whose priestesses were prostitutes. Many church leaders,including Paul, came to Antioch of Syria. When Barnabas came, he established a very strong church and the word "Christian" was used for the first time (v 26).

The church in Jerusalem sends Barnabas (v 22-24), previously known for his generosity (Acts 4:36- 37)  and his acceptance of Saul after his conversion (Acts 9:26- 29). Barnabas saw that the people of Antioch were blessed by God (v 24); some translations say that Barnabas "saw the grace God had given to Antioch." Can you see God's grace in your church? 

Barnabas goes to get Saul in Tarsus (v 25) and they stayed for a year to establish a church. Interesting side note- many theologians agree that there has been about 12 years between Saul's conversion to this event in Antioch! The word "Christian" is used for the first time (v 26). "Christian" comes from "-ian" meaning "the party of" and (obviously) "Christ" meaning Jesus; so Christian means "of the party of Jesus" or the group associated with Jesus Christ; "Jesus People." It was probably initially used as a mocking word for followers of Christ, but the name stuck! Christians must be willing to take the title "Jesus People," and must also be worthy of the name. Instead of claiming any other title - Roman Catholic, Protestant, charismatic, whatever - we should be just plain Christians. Thoughts?

The chapter ends on an odd note. A prophet, Agabus, prophesies a famine coming. Luke adds an editorial comment that this famine happened during the time of Claudius (v 28). We know from sources that Claudius's reign was marked by a succession of bad harvests and consequent scarcity in various parts of the empire - in Rome, Greece, and Egypt as well as in Judea. 

Have a good weekend...it is finally Friday!! See you all Monday!

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Acts 10

 Good morning! 

This chapter opens in Caesarea, a predominately roman city on the shore of the Mediterranean near Judea. It was the primary residence of the Roman governor of Judea. Cornelius (v 1) was a high ranking officer of the Roman Army and would likely not be trusted or very well liked by any of the Jews. Corneilus, as a Roman, was likely exposed to gods such as Venus, Augustus, Jupiter, Mars, etc, but seems to have turned monotheistic through exposure to the Jewish way of life. He was a member of the loose group called "God-fearers"(by Jews)-- Gentiles that loved the God of Israel and were supportive of the Jewish faith. They were still Gentiles though and the Jews could not really associate with them. 

At 3PM ("the ninth hour", a customary time for Jewish prayer), Cornelius is confronted by an angel (v 3) and is told to go to Joppa and find Simon- who is also called Peter (Peter is the Aramaic and Greek translation for "rock" and Simon is the Greek translation for "hearing"). Cornelius' faith has converted the entire household and some of his men go to Joppa to find Peter. What does this say about the faith of Cornelius and his house?

The next day, Peter is praying and is confronted by a vision (11-13) with kosher and non-kosher food. Peter is hungry, and God says, go and kill and eat. Peter's immediate response to God is NO! Would you ever say NO! to God? Peter would often say no to Jesus though! God comments that what God has made will always be clean and holy. Jewish tradition says that some things are clean (kosher)  and some are unclean (non-kosher), and if something unclean touches something that is clean- the clean will be made unclean. Peter was thinking this dream was all about food- but his eyes will be opened soon when he gets to Cornelius' house! At this point, God has not told Peter that his visitors (v 19-22+) were Gentiles. Normally, a godly Jew like Peter would not associate in this manner with Gentiles.Peter must have been shocked when he opened the door and saw two servants and a soldier at his door. He would have known immediately that they were not Jews, and he would have wondered why God told him to go with them and why God had sent them.The idea that God could send and use Gentiles was entirely new to Peter. God was expanding Peter’s mind and heart. How has God "expanded your horizons" lately?A Gentile – worse yet, an officer in the Roman army – wanted to hear the gospel from Peter. Peter never did anything like this before! How will he respond? How would you respond?

By entertaining these Gentile guests, Peter went against the customs and traditions of Israel, but not against God’s Word (think back about the clean/unclean dream!). Possibly, at this very moment, God flooded Peter’s heart with an understanding that though the Old Testament said God’s people were not to become like their pagan neighbors, it also said God wanted His people to become a light to their neighbors who didn’t know the true God.

Peter finally gets to Cornelius' home (v 24). V 27 is probably one of the most important passages in this story: "Peter went in..."Peter actually entered the house of a Gentile, something that Jewish customs and traditions strictly prohibited. By entering a Gentile’s home, Peter showed that his heart and mind had changed, and that he had learned the lesson of the vision of the great sheet. Peter understood that the dream was about people- not food. For Peter- all means all!

The last part of v 33 says, "Now, we are all here before God to hear everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us." A preacher's dream- an attentive audience!! James Boice- an American Reformed theologian once wrote, When you go to church, do you want to receive a good message? If so, the best way is to come with a prepared heart. I know that the preacher must be prepared too. But when God prepares the messenger as well as those who are to hear him, then tremendous things happen.” When you attend worship- do you come prepared?

A critical point is made by Peter in v 34- "To God- every person is the same." It reminds me of the Genesis story where we are all created in the image of God- "Imago Dei"

This is the foundation for Peter’s understanding that the gospel should now go forth to Gentiles. This statement goes completely against the prevailing Jewish thought at that time that God certainly did show partiality, towards the Jews and against the Gentiles. In essence, many Jews of Peter’s day thought that God loved the Jews while hating the Gentiles. According to William Barclay, it was common for a Jewish man to begin the day with a prayer thanking God that he was not a slave, a Gentile, or a woman. A basic part of the Jewish religion in the days of the New Testament was an oath that promised that one would never help a Gentile under any circumstances, such as giving directions if they were asked. But it went even as far as refusing to help a Gentile woman at the time of her greatest need – when she was giving birth – because the result would only be to bring another Gentile into the world.  If a Jew married a Gentile, the Jewish community would have a funeral for the Jew and consider them dead. But the Gentiles could give as bad as they got from the Jews. Gentiles despised Jews as weird traditionalists, and believed that they were evil plotters who worshiped pigs. After all, they thought, Jews refused to eat pork, so they must worship pigs! All of this changed with the spread of the gospel. Christianity was the first religion to disregard racial, cultural and national limitations.How are we, the church, doing with that now? Showing no partiality?

Peter gives a brief message/ sermon (vv 34- 43) and a result the entire household converts to The Way! Peter commands their baptism and this showed their full acceptance into the community of those who followed Jesus. Their baptism showed they were accepted as Gentile followers of Jesus. We should also see that Cornelius was an undoubtedly good man; yet he needed Jesus. Even good people, who are respectful towards God, still need to come to Jesus. Do you know "good people" that need Jesus?

Have a great day-- enjoy the sun and beauty that we are to be graced with! Maybe after Easter, we can gather together (outside) for a quick meet and greet?

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Acts 9

 Good morning and grey morning! Rain is good- we do need it. Looks like today will be an inside day and errand day!!

This is a huge chapter in the life of Saul! Today we read about Saul's transformation. I just preached in this last Sunday (March 21,2021), you may like to listen to the message on our Facebook page.

Saul was born in Tarsus, the capital of Cilicia-- a Roman province in the eastern part of Asia Minor. He is one of the most well know persecutors of people that followed "The Way" (as it was called 2000 years ago). He was (in his words), "a Hebrew of the Hebrews, a Pharisee of the Pharisees..." and very well known for his wickedness. We last saw him as he approved the stoning of Stephen. Saul is currently in Jerusalem, but wants to extend his reach to Damascus (vv 1-2), about 150 miles north (2 weeks of walking). We see a picture of a violent, angry person, determined on destruction of "the Way. We don't know what Saul looked like, but various commentaries have him as moderate stature, blue eyes, crooked legs, tightly knit brows, and a long nose. This is the image I used Sunday...

Saul goes to the high priest asking for approval to go to Damascus to get people that are following the Way (interesting to call it that- but it is more  than doctrine and theology and and belief, it is a new way of living). Saul was willing to walk 2 weeks to find people, to bring them back to Jerusalem to put them on trial and probably execute them! Can you imagine having that much hate for someone?

Outside of Damascus, Jesus "confronts" Saul with a bright light. Saul hears a voice calling his name twice (for emphasis, I don't think out of anger). The voice (Jesus) asks (v 4), "Why are you persecuting Me?" We can emphasize either the "why" or the "Me" in that question. That was the question is posed to the congregation on Sunday- "Why?" Why?

Some translations have Saul asking the question, 'What do you want me to do?" (v 5), mine does not (it is not in the original Luke text). Jesus' response is the same--go to Damascus and I will tell you what to do when you are there (v 6).  

As Saul opens his eyes, he cannot see (v 8). It is as if God is saying "You are spiritually blinded, so why not also be physically blinded!" He eventually gets to Damascus and lives a desolate life- no food, no water, no vision- for three days (v 8). Significance of three days?

God calls Ananias (v 10, different than the one we read about earlier- as he is dead!) to go to Saul and heal him. Ananias essentially says (v 13)"Saul? You want me to heal Saul? Do you know what this guy does to Jews?" God's response (v 15), "Go! I have chosen Saul for my work" (some translation have God calling Saul a chosen vessel or a chose instrument). Has God called you to do something you didn't want to do or were too afraid to do?

Ananias goes and heals Saul (v 17-19) both physically (he could see again) and spiritually (he was filled with the Holy Spirit). He was immediately baptized and goes to spend time with the apostles. This story is important for us. It shows us the power of divine grace, that nobody is too wicked for God's love, and everybody is able to receive God's love. Does the church really believe that?

Saul immediately begins teaching in the synagogue in Damascus (v 20). People have questions though (v 21) and question his integrity, his belief, his willingness to serve God, his conversion! Some of the  people even wanted to kill him (v 23), but the apostles rescued him (v 25)! Saul was never really trusted by the original apostles as he goes back to Jerusalem to be with them...they wondered what his ulterior motives were!  Do we do that with some people- question their belief?

The church continues to grow and explode all over (v 31)! Luke says that there was a time of peace- but commentaries believe that the early Christians were at peace knowing that they were going to be persecuted but they were doing God's work. 

The apostles begin to move out of Jerusalem and do the work of healing. Peter goes to Lydda (near current Lod, about 15 miles south of the Tel Aviv airport). Peter heals the man Aeneas, and qualifies that it was Jesus that healed him (v 34). Peter was the instrument that Jesus used. Do you feel as if you are an instrument for God?

Peter begins to travel to Joppa (v 36+), about 15 miles west of Lydda. Joppa is one of the oldest seaport cities in Israel and is known as Jaffa in contemporary times. It is on a high cliff that overlooks the Mediterranean. It was a Canaanite city  in Biblical times and was on a trade route called the Via Maris that connected Egypt with Syria. 

Joppa (Jaffa) in current times

The name Tabitha (Dorcas) means "deer"; she was a gentle and well loved person in the community

It is interesting that Luke says (v 36b), "She was always doing good deeds and kind acts." Some translations say, "She was full of good works and charitable deeds, And she did them." Sometimes people may be full of good deeds and charity- but do they do them? Do you know any people that are full of charity and good works- but don't do them?

Peter isn't in Joppa yet, and some of the town people come urging Peter to come quickly as Tabitha is dying (v 38). The hope was that he would heal Tabitha, or at least comfort the town  upon her death. Tabitha dies. Peter "simply" says words similar to Jesus in Mark 5:38- 43, "Talitha, cumi." (translation from the Aramaic- "Little one, arise"). Tabitha is resurrected and Peter stays for many days. Interesting note- he stays with Simon, a tanner. In Judaic customs, good Jews would not associate with people that worked with dead animals! According to Jewish custom, tanners (and butchers, etc) wold have to live at least 75 feet outside the city gates because of their continual ritual uncleanliness. What does this say about Peter's regard for Judaic law and its relation to Christianity?

Lots of really good stories here! And more tomorrow about Peter. In fact, we have a few chapters about Peter before we get back to Saul!

Have a good day! 

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Acts 8

 Good morning! Yesterday with Stephen's story was quite a day! And today it continues!

Luke tells us (v 2) that the persecution of the followers of "The Way" begins and people start to scatter. Scatter-- as in spreading something all over. When I go on my hikes to Catskills or FLT (or wherever)  I always take a small container of Mom's and Dad's ashes with me and when I get to the summit or a beautiful look out, I scatter their ashes. They always loved to travel and this is my way of helping them continue their journey. This is what I imagine the believers doing- scattering so that God's message is carried and spread throughout he world. Do you "scatter" God's message?

Saul is the biggest proponent of the persecutions (v 3) and he is instrumental throughout the next several chapters. Saul (often called by his Roman name "Paul") is the most well known early church persecutors. We will talk more about him in chapter 9! We read about Peter and John in prison, and some beatings, but death was not imminent for them. Death to followers of The Way becomes more rampant. Stephen’s death might seem sort of meaningless at first glance. His ministry was cut short. His ministry also seemed to end in failure – no one was immediately brought to faith (we don't read of that anyway), and all that came forth was more persecution against the church. But as always has been the case, the blood of the martyrs became the seed of the church. A point to draw out-  (v 2) some religious people (other translations say "some devout men of the synagogue") buried Stephen. Maybe this was Luke's way of saying that not all Jews hated the new Christians! 

Philip (v 5) was one of the seven deacons we were introduced to in 8:4-8. Because of the persecution that was beginning in Jerusalem, Philip flees to Samaria,  a region of Canaan where people with a mixed Jewish and Gentile heritage resided, which was the result of Assyrian reallocation of peoples (remember the parable of the good Samaritan? Jesus planted seeds of hope to the Samaritans when he told this story and Philip was going to reap the harvest!). Samaritans were not well liked by the Jews because of the intermarriage with the Gentiles and their turn to pagan religions. How do we treat people of mixed races or mixed ethnicity? Philip went anyway! And he taught and healed and ministered to the community. Many people were happy and filled with hope.

Enter Simon the Sorcerer (v 9). The sorcery Simon performed was likely a variety of magic, illusions, astrology, and the occult. When Simon saw the authentic miraculous signs done by Philip, he also believed; possibly an indication that Simon knew his own signs were not authentic? We can trust that Simon's belief was pure- as he doesn't indicate that it wasn't. 

I find it interesting that even with all the work Philip did, the Samaritans did not "receive the Holy Spirit" (v 16) even though they (including Simon) were baptized and healed and believed!? Anyone else find that odd? It wasn't until Peter and John- the apostles from Jerusalem- came (vv 14- 15) and laid hands on them that they received the Holy Spirit. What does this mean to you?

Regardless, Simon noticed that when Peter and John laid hands on the Samaritans and prayed for them, something happened (vv 18- 19). He was impressed by that something-- and offered money to have the same power as Peter and John! Simon thought that the Holy Spirit was merely a power that could be bought or sold. He wanted to control the working of the Spirit, and regarded the Holy Spirit as a power he could use as he wanted. [Interesting(?) side-note: Simony is the word used for the buying or selling church offices or privileges, because it is done in the same spirit as this Simon. This is sometimes practiced today; but more commonly people simply think that blessing follows money instead of money following blessing. Simony was one of the abuses of the church that lead Martin Luther to write his 95 Theses. We may not use "money" but do we use other things to "buy" power and status in the church?

Peter strongly rebukes Simon and says (essentially) 'to hell with you and your money!" (v 20). Strong words for such a young Christian (Simon). Would we use words like that today if someone was wrong in their interpretation of Christianity? Was Simon a "real" Christian? He does (somewhat) ask for forgiveness (v 24).

Peter and John leave; Philip gets a message from God to leave Samaria and go to the desert (v 26). How would you feel leaving a place of success to go to the desert? On his walk on the Gaza Road, Philip finds an Ethiopian royal official in his chariot on the way home. This man, who was likely Jewish, was a eunuch and thus would have been excluded from the inner courts of the Temple in Jerusalem. However, he had come to worship and was now on his way home, reading the book of Isaiah as he traveled. The Ethiopian was a rich man (scrolls cost lots of money!), a man of power, and at least in some way a celebrity. Yet Philip knew he needed Jesus just a much as anyone else. We should never fear speaking to those who are considered to be important people about Jesus. Philip goes to him and says (v 30), "Do you know what you're reading?" And the man replies (v 31), "How can I know unless someone teaches me?!" What message for us is embedded in these verses? Philip teaches that the passage from Isaiah is about Jesus Christ, the Ethiopian believed and was baptized.  The Ethiopian was ready for God 

Then, as miraculously as he appeared, Philip was taken from this man and delivered to Azotus (a Philistine city also known as Ashdod) from where he preached to all of Ceasarea. This tells us that Philip preached even to the Gentile cities (Ceasarea). Look back at Jesus' command in Acts 1:8---this is the beginning of the preaching and spreading of the Gospel to all the ends of the earth!

Great stories in this chapter and it continues in chapter 9. We hear more about Saul and his life!

Have a great day and enjoy the nice warmth! 

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Acts 7

 Good morning. Late again- cavity work at the dentist, so if I start slurring words and drooling- it's the Novocaine!

Chapter 7 is long, but I don't think there will be many comments. In this chapter- Stephen defends the Jewish faith and then the conversion to "The Way' (as it was called back in the day!)

The high priest mentioned in v 1 is probably still Caiaphas- the high priest who presided over Jesus' trial. He gives Stephen a chance to counter the claims of blasphemy (6:11-14).

In his response Stephen gave a panorama of Jewish/Hebrew history.  Stephen primarily emphasized things in Jewish history people may not have considered: That God never confined God's self  to one place (like the temple), and that the Jewish people had a habit of rejecting those God sends to them. This really was not a defense. Stephen wasn’t interested in defending himself. He simply wanted to proclaim the truth about Jesus in a way people could understand. 

There is an element of trust and faith and hope that ruins through all of Stephen's speech. Do we have that faith and trust and hope that Stephen continues to talk about?

Abraham (vv 2-8) was promised both the land and descendants, but had no outward proof of either. He could only trust God for the fulfillment of these things.Stephen emphasized a relationship with God on the basis of faith and not outward evidences like a temple or the structure of institutional religion and its customs. Back to a common talking point for us: Circumcision became the sign of the covenant for Israel, and the covenant was passed down through these descendants of Abraham.

Again, Stephen emphasized the spiritual presence of God with Joseph (vv 11-16) all the time. Joseph did not need to go to the temple to be close to God – there was no temple. Stephen possibly brings up the story of Joseph because Joseph is somewhat "similar" to Jesus. The sons of Israel (Jacob) rejected Joseph, who later became a "savior" to them; Jesus was rejected by Israel only to become their savior later. Thoughts?

Stephen makes some comparisons between Moses and Jesus too (vv 19- 38). Moses was also like Jesus in that he was favored by God from birth and preserved in childhood.  At an appointed time, Moses came down from his royal throne out of care and concern for his brothers and sisters; Jesus- when it was time- came into ministry to help His brothers and sisters.  When Moses offered deliverance to Israel, he was rejected and rejected with spite. When Jesus offered deliverance- look what happened to Him! Stephen’s message was plain: “You have rejected Jesus, who was like Moses yet greater than him, and you deny that Jesus has any right to be a ruler and a judge over you.”When ancient Israel rejected Moses and God’s work through him, they replaced him with their own man-made religion. Stephen applied the same idea to the council he spoke to. One of the accusations against Stephen was that he blasphemed the temple. It wasn’t that Stephen spoke against the temple, but against the way Israel worshiped the temple of God instead of the God of the temple. Just as Israel worshiped the calf in the wilderness, so now they were worshiping the works of their own hands- the great Temple! Do we do that? Do we know of places that worship their building more than God?

Stephen confronted their idolatry of the temple (vv 44-50). In doing so, they tried to confine God within the temple. Yet God is too big to fit in any temple man could make. Many Christians today do the same thing. It may not be the worship of a church building (though certainly that does take place from time to time), but it is the confinement of God to one place. In other words, the only place they meet God is at the church. As far as they are concerned, God is absent from the rest of their lives. In the minds and lives of some today, God might as well only live at the church. How does that settle with you? What are your thoughts about this?

Stephen hits them hard with (v 51) "You stubborn people! You have not given your hearts t God,nor will you listen to God!" Some translations say, "You stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears!" Probably not the best way to win friends! One can imagine the angry whispering among the Sanhedrin as Stephen’s history lesson began to make sense. Stephen saw this and knew they were rejecting again the One God sent, just as before. Could you look at your accusers and say words that you know would alienate them from you even more?

The council responds (vv 54- 8:1) with so much anger that they were grinding their teeth..."  (Some translations say "gnashing teeth"). It is remarkable to think of this response from men who were dignified, respected leaders in Israel. This would as if a group of senators ground their teeth in anger in response to the testimony of a witness at a hearing. While all this is going on, Stephen sees Jesus- quite a contrast to the "religious upper crust"! Stephen sees Jesus standing- not sitting- at the right hand of God= maybe as an ovation to the testimony that Stephen just gave?

When Stephen declared that he saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God, it was too much. The Sanhedrin reacted quickly, violently, and together. When Jesus, before this same body of men, declared that He would sit at the right hand of God, they had the same reaction and sealed his death as a blasphemer. The extent of their rage was shown by their execution of Stephen, which was done without regard for Roman law, and which was performed according to traditional Jewish custom (stoning). Interesting to see that in Acts 8:1, Saul of Tarsus is there.  Saul stood there as the supervisor of the operation. As a member of the Sanhedrin, he had also approved of Stephen’s execution. We will talk about Saul later (chapter 9)!

Stephen displayed the same forgiving attitude that Jesus had on the cross (Luke 23:34). He asked God to forgive his accusers, and he made the promises loudly and publicly.The text describes the passing of Stephen as tenderly as possible. Instead of saying simply that he died, it says that he merely "fell asleep" with the idea that he woke up in a much better world. Stephen is the first "official" Christian martyr. Many more would follow. Could you do what Stephen did? Could you die in defense of Christ?

Wow! Lots to digest here! Take time, read it again. Have a great day!

Shalom+

Pastor Paul

Acts 6

 Good morning! Well, yesterday was quite a wash out! Hop you could all stay in and stay dry!

The church was continuing to grow and develop (v 1) and as with all large bodies of people- tensions arose (Satan at work trying to stop the church?) this time between the Greeks and the rest of the people (Not sure why only the Hellenist community was upset). There was always tension between the Hebrew and  Hellenist groups; Hellenists (the "Greeks") were primarily Jews from the dispora (exile) that embraced Greek culture. The Hebrews saw the Hellenists as unspiritual and siding with the Greek culture; the Hellenists saw the Hebrews as "holier-than-thou" because many of them still followed many of the Levitcal laws. It’s important to remember that though the titles Hebrews and Hellenists are used, these were Christians, followers of Jesus. They were all from a Jewish background, but they had all embraced Jesus as their Messiah. Do we not trust those that are from a different culture?

The care of orphans and widows was of primary concern for the "original" Jews, yet they seem to be put aside here . It was the Temple priests that divided up food to the needy. Unfortunately, in such a large group- it was almost impossible to care for all people equally. We see that in our churches and culture today even! The twelve almost seem like they are being superior (v 2) when they say they can't be bothered with caring for the widows. The apostles seem to be saying that A pastor should not have their time consumed in tasks that are essentially serving tables. Yet there is something wrong with a pastor who considers such work beneath them!Comments? Thoughts about pastors you've seen and worked with?  I feel pastors need to be the model of the servant life Jesus told us about! Granted, pastor have been "set aside" to teach and preach", but someone has to care for others! The apostles spoke to the general group of believers and pursued the solution with a lot of communication and input from among the people (vv 3-4). They even asked those – probably especially those who felt wronged – to suggest men of good character to do this work.his was a wonderful way to solve the problem. They didn’t throw the complainers out. They didn’t divide into two congregations. They didn’t shun the unhappy people. They didn’t form a committee and discuss the problem to death. What can we learn from this example? The role of the diaconal minister (deacon) is modeled after this- going out in love and caring and serving; they tend not to preach in a church setting. 

The seven men chosen (vv 5-6) all had Greek names, indicating that they were probably Hellenists themselves. The people (and the apostles) showed great sensitivity to the offended Hellenists by appointing Hellenists to take care of the widows’ distribution. The people nominated the men, and the apostles approved them by laying hands on them, after praying for God’s guidance and approval.

The story of Stephen begins next. Interesting side note- Cilicia is mentioned (v 9) - that is the small area from which Saul/Paul came, so he probably knew people that went to this debate with Stephen (or he may have even been there himself!). We don't know what the debate came from or what it was about-- my guess is he was talking about Jesus and the Jews were not in favor of that! The group accused Stephen  (v 11) of some things (similar to what Jesus was accused of!). Stephen seemed to be preaching about Christianity based on the claims of the accusers. He was taken to "court" (v 12); Stephen was on trial before the highest religious court he could face; examined by honored, educated, and powerful men. He had been falsely accused and seemed to have lost popular support.As he is "on trial" his face reflected (v 15) the perfect peace and confidence of one that knows and trusts his God. Stephen knew that his fate was in God's hands at this moment. We have seen Peter and John face the courts; we have seen Stephen face the courts How would you fare if you had to face the courts and defend Jesus?

We all know the fate of Stephen. His rousing speech is the next chapter- it is long, but great reading and gives an abbreviated historical account of the Jewish faith!

Have a great weekend. Enjoy the first day of Spring this weekend with some warm weather!! See you all Monday!

Shalom+
Pastor Paul

Acts 5

 Acts 4 ends with such a happy story about Barnabas giving his proceeds from land sale to the newly formed church. Life is good. Then we get the story of Ananias and Sapphira. I have always been troubled by this story! They sell property (vv 1-2), but only give some of the money to the church and keep some for themselves. Did they sell the land because they wanted the same respect and honor that Barnabas got? Did they want recognition? Did they want to be notice? Seems like lack of humbleness. Peter calls out Ananias (vv 3-4)  (knowledge given from God)- imagine how deflated Ananias must have felt- thinking he was doing good, but is chastised instead (for holding back some of the money that he said was dedicated to the church). Peter freely acknowledged that the land and its value belonged to Ananias alone; he was completely free to do with it what he wanted. His crime was not in withholding the money, but in deceptively implying that he gave it all. That was the fault of Ananias- deception. Ananias dies (vv 5-6)- Peter did not cause the death- the church does not pronounce death sentences on anyone. We don't know why Ananias died- heart attack? Stress? It was his time to go? Does God seem excessive in this "punishment"? Did God cause the death?

Now on to the wife (vv 7-8)!Sapphira was a knowing and willing participant in the sin, as well as the blatant cover-up.We don’t know if Ananias and Sapphira had a good or a bad marriage, if they agreed often or fought often. We do know that they at least that they agreed to deceive the Holy Spirit (v 9)! The same judgment came upon Sapphira as came upon her husband Ananias (v 10). Ananias and Sapphira both died, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that they did not go to heaven. It is impossible to say for certain, for only God knows. Same questions as before...Does God seem excessive in this "punishment"? Did God cause the death? Interesting side note: The name Sapphira means, Beautiful in Aramaic. The name Ananias means God is Gracious in Hebrew. It might seem that their names contradicted their lives, but we see the beauty and graciousness of God in two significant ways.

News alert...read v 11 again...this is the first time the world "church" is used in Acts!

What does this story tell you about God?

Contrary to the suggestions from the council in chapter 4- the apostles continue healing and teaching (vv 12- 13).  We don't know what exactly they were, but we can assume that they were like what we see in other places in Acts and in the Gospels – healings, deliverance from demonic powers, unusual blessings. We see lots of unity and togetherness in the group as it grows (vv 14) The church is growing at an exponential rate! Imagine how Rome is looking at this movement! Peter is getting avChrist-like following; the community thinks that if even Peter's shadow touches them they will be healed (v 15). "If only I could touch them hem of His garment." The church was expanding too (v 16) as Luke mentions that people form "towns around Jerusalem..."

One thing we need to remember is that the church of the day (and even now) didn't exist on its own- it had to integrate with society. Luke likes to talk about the church, but then he also adds in how it is interacting with Rome (vv 17- 18). The more we see of the city- the more we see of persecution. Thrown into jail (v 18), not knowing what may happen to them- and an "angel" comes (v 19)to release them. Was it a guard? Was it a soldier? Was it really an angel? What does this say about God and the desire of God to get God's message out!

Obviously the apostles were not worried about repercussions (v 21)-- they went to the most public place they could-- the temple-- and as soon as they could-- early in the morning--  When they were thought to be in the prison, they were obediently teaching God’s word to the common people.At this point (vv 22- 24) the religious leaders had to wonder just what they were dealing with. They bring Peter and John back, yet fear what the crowd may do (v 26). The crowd is beginning to turn against Rome!

Peter and John are reminded that they were asked not to do what they were doing (v 27- 28) and Peter and John respond with (v 29) "We have to do the work God wants us to do!" Are you that committed to God? The apostles’ response to the council was not a defense, nor was it a plea for mercy; it was a simple explanation of action. 

Peter and the apostles had clearly and briefly explained to them (again) the core ideas of who Jesus was, what He did for all of us on the cross, and how we should respond to who Jesus is and what He did. Their reaction was furious anger (v 33) with the sentence of death! Very similar to when Jesus was gaining popularity!

Gamaliel (v 34) was the grandson of the esteemed Hillel, the founder of Israel’s strongest school of religion and a very well respected rabbi. He reminds them of two people that led rebellions against Rome, but when they were killed, their groups dissolved (vv 36- 37). Gamaliel really doesn't know what to think of Peter and John and the other apostles; he seems like a fence sitter. He spoke as if they should wait and see if Jesus and the apostles were really from God. But what greater testimony did he need, beyond Jesus’ resurrection and the apostles’ miracles? He took a “wait-and-see” attitude when there was plenty of evidence.

The leaders listened to Gamaliel's suggestions and thought they could intimidate and discourage the apostles with a beating and a stern warning (v 40). The apostles leave- full of joy (v41)- joy at suffering for God (this is what Paul says lots in his letters- as we have seen). Would you be beaten for standing up for God? After your beating- would you be full of joy- and then continue to do what the establishment didn't want you to do? This challenges each of us as followers of Jesus. The apostles continued where we may have stopped. We often find the threat of social rejection enough to make us keep quiet about who Jesus is and what He did for us. We need to have the apostles’ courage and determination to stand firm for Jesus Christ.

Lots to think about in this chapter...quite intense! Chapter 6 is short and less intense!

Enjoy the day-- it is a good one to stay inside and read!

Shalom+
Pastor Paul