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ESCAPE TO EGYPT

 

 

MATTHEW 2: Magi from the East came to Jerusalem to seek Jesus. When Herod of the birth of Jesus he inquired as to the location of Jesus and told the Magi that when they found Him they should report back him. The Magi followed the star to where Jesus was and presented Him with gifts. After the visit they went home by a different route because they were warned in a dream not to go back to Herod.

 

An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and told him to go to Egypt because Herod wanted to kill Jesus. He obeyed and fulfilled the prophecy; ‘called out of Egypt.’ When Herod learned of this he commanded that all male children two years and younger should be killed. This fulfilled another prophecy.

 

After a period of time another angel appeared to Joseph in another dream and told him to take Jesus to the land of Israel because those who wanted to kill Him were dead. When he approached his destination he was warned again that Archelaus was now reining in Judea and he should go to the district of Galilee to a town called Nazareth. Again this was a fulfillment of prophecy that He should be called a Nazarene.

 

This chapter, while short, is powerful as it tells of Old Testament prophecies being fulfilled in Jesus. I seem to recall that there are over 300 Old Testament prophecies fulfilled in Jesus in the New Testament. This is a tremendous testimony of the validity the entire Bible. Please pay particular attention to the love of the Father as He intervenes and provides for Jesus, His Son. My friends, need I remind you that those of us who have accepted and committed our lives to Jesus are also children of the Father and are loved and cared for by Him. We can enjoy and live in the knowledge that He will not permit us to ever get into a situation in which we will not be able to cope; 1^st Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”

 

If you have not accepted Jesus as your personal Savior I urge you to do so. Tell Him you want to be a child of the Father. All you have to do is to confess your sins to Jesus, accept Him, and ask Him to come into your heart. He died for all the sins of the world, past, present and future, and gives us the opportunity and free will to accept Him; or stay as you are in your present state; lost and separated from Him. The Bible says, “…..whoever enters through me will be saved,” John 10:9.

  

 

 

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GOD WITH US

 

 

Matthew 1: The words of the Lord are so precious and mean so much that I love to write about the Gospels where we find so much of what He has said first hand. The first chapter speaks of the 14 generations preceding the birth of Jesus, whereas Luke speaks to all the generations.

 

Mary, the mother of Jesus, was pledged to be married to Joseph. An engagement period in those days was very different than modern times. It was binding and the only way to end it was to divorce. When Mary was found to be pregnant with Jesus Joseph was going to divorce her quietly so as not to disgrace her. However, one night in a dream, an angel of the Lord appeared to him and said: “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” See Psalm 130:8 and Isaiah 7:14.

 

When Joseph woke up he did exactly as he remembered in his dream and took Mary home as his wife, although he had no union with her until after Jesus was born.

 

What a blessing it must have been for Mary and Joseph to have been chosen to be the parents of Jesus, although I don’t believe they realized the significance of it all. It is very obvious though, that they were very God fearing and faithful people. They are wonderful examples for us to follow. Trusting in the Lord is what it’s all about; this is His desire for us. We will be blessed beyond our dreams if we agree to be faithful and the first place to begin is turning our lives over to Him. If you don’t know the Lord as your personal Savior, ask Him to come into your heart. Tell Him you want to repent of your past sins and ask for His forgiveness which He has promised to all those who believe. I would then advise you to search the Scriptures for your self to discover the wonderful things He has for His children.

 

 

 

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ROME

 

ACTS 27&28: We conclude our series of the book of Acts finding Paul sailing to Rome. The trip was not an easy one as they encountered many difficulties, including the loss of their ship following an encounter with a storm. Paul had warned them of the impending disaster but they refused to listen to him. When it was inevitable that the ship would sink Paul told them not to fear for he knew that God would bring them all to safety, and sure enough they were all able to get to shore after the ship broke up on a sand bar.

 

The island was called Malta and the natives were friendly and helped Paul and all those who were on the ship. At one point when Paul was gathering wood for the fire a poisonous viper attached itself to Paul’s hand. When the natives saw this they waited for Paul to die but he didn’t and they thought Paul was a god. Nearby there was an estate owned by Publius, the chief official of the island and he invited them to his home and he entertained them for three days. While they were there Paul was told that Publius’ father was very sick, so Paul went to him and laid his lands on him and prayed that he might be healed and he was. After this miracle many of the sick people on the island came to Paul to be healed. After being on the island for three months they boarded a ship that had wintered on the island and set sail for Rome. When they got there some brothers met Paul and spent a week with him. When they finally got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself under the care of a guard.

 

A few days later Paul summoned some of the Jews and explained why he was in Rome. They told him they had heard nothing about him but they wanted to hear from him directly, about his views of the Way, which everyone seemed to be talking against. They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day and he explained to them the kingdom of God from Moses to the Prophets and how Jesus fulfilled prophecy. Many believed him but there were those who did not. Upon their disagreement they all began to leave. Paul explained a portion of Isaiah’s prophecy speaking about the hardness of their hearts and because of their attitude, the way of salvation was now being delivered to the Gentiles who would listen and believe in the Lord Jesus. For two years Paul preached the g Good News of Jesus, boldly and without hindrance to all those who came to him.

 

In the final chapters of Acts we witness God’s power and grace. He spared the lives of those on Paul’s ship and delivered Paul to Rome as he said He would. Suffice to say that Paul’s fortitude would have been enough for all of us. He never gave up, regardless of the circumstances, because he believed; his faith unshakeable; his goal although seemingly impossible fulfilled his mission. I look forward to the day when I will meet Paul and thank him for his legacy to us. Praise God for His kindness and love. Amen

 

John 16:33; “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” 

 

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DEDICATED TO THE END

 

ACTS 26: With the permission of King Agrippa Paul told his story. After a proper addressing to the council Paul begins to explain that from the beginning of his life, he lived as a dedicated member of the Pharisees in the strictest sense, and now finds himself on trial for the promise and hope made by God to our fathers. Paul was taught that he had to be hostile to the name of Jesus and His followers, and he was very dedicated to that task, putting them in prison; even to casting his vote against them for death.

 

Paul then explains the time of the Lord appearing to him on the road to Damascus and speaking to him, asking why he was persecuting Him. Paul, blinded by a very bright light surrounding him and his men, asked whom it was that was talking and the Lord told him who He was. He told him that He was appointing him to be a minister and witness of all that he had seen and all the things that He would show him. Paul explained to King Agrippa that he was immediately obedient to God and began to preach repentance to all, and the fact that they should turn to Jesus for their salvation. For this very reason the Jews were trying to kill Paul. Paul told Agrippa he was and is still committed to the preaching of the Good News of salvation through Jesus. Paul reiterated reason for the death of Jesus. Agrippa responded by telling Paul he was crazy. Of course Paul denied his accusation and actually told Agrippa that he should have been aware of this. Paul told Agrippa that that he (Agrippa) believes in the Prophets, at which Agrippa accused Paul of trying to convert him. Agrippa and his people arose and conferred with each other admitting that Paul could have been free if he had not appealed to Caesar.

 

A very significant point was made in this chapter in verse 18 when Jesus told Paul that his mission was to “open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.” Paul was a very dedicated religious person, but was on the wrong path as so many dedicated, religious people are today. It appears to me that many people would rather dedicate themselves to a religion than to the Bible (God’s word) and freedom from the consequences of sin. We do not have to experience what Paul did on the road to Damascus, all we need is faith, the same faith that Paul had. It was his faith in God that saved him, nothing else. If you don’t have faith you cannot find God, therefore I ask you to pray for the faith you need to realize that Jesus died for you on the cross and believing in Him releases you from the dominion of Satan to the freedom of God’s world.

 

  

 

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PAUL’S DEFENSE

 

ACTS 25: Festus went up to Jerusalem and met with the Jews who continued to bring false accusations against Paul. They asked him to bring Paul to Jerusalem to be tried because they had conspired to kill him on the way. He told them that Paul was being held in Caesarea and for them to go there .After spending some time with the Jews, Festus went down to Caesarea with some of the Jews. Paul began to make his defense when Festus interrupted him to ask if he would be willing to be tried in Jerusalem, to which Paul said no and explained to him that he had a right to be heard and he appealed to Caesar.

 

A few days later King Agrippa and Bernice arrived and Festus told him the story of Paul and how the Jews were accusing him of things related to their religion and something about a dead man who Paul claimed to be alive. The king was intrigued by all this and said he wanted to hear Paul himself.

 

The next day King Agrippa and Bernice entered the hall and Festus addressed them explaining how the Jews were accusing Paul and wanted him tried in Jerusalem. But Festus told them that he had found nothing wrong with what Paul had done, and also that Paul had appealed to Rome. Festus could find nothing to write to Rome about Paul so he was hoping that Agrippa might examine Paul and develop something worth writing to Rome.

 

Again Paul is demonstrating what needs to be done when adversity confronts us and there certainly is plenty to go around. Some Christians might sit back and say let God handle it or some might try to handle it in their own strength, but that is not what God wants. The Bible tells us that God has blessed us which means we already possess that which is necessary to confront any situation. All we have to do is to claim the right to the power that he has given us. In Matthew 7:7-8 Jesus says: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” Paul knew that God was going to put him in Rome; therefore he could have done nothing and left it up to God. However he did do something about it and did leave the results up to God. Paul knew God’s favor was upon him and we should all know that God’s favor is upon us. We are God’s children, therefore we are special in His eyes and he watches over us and wants the best for us. He has told us that throughout the Bible. Let’s claim it. He loves it when we claim what He gave us, when we accept His free gifts and especially the gift of salvation.

 

If you haven’t already given your life to Jesus, ask Him to come into your life. Tell Him you are sorry for your sins and you believe in what He died for on the cross. Look to Jesus directly, you don’t need religion; you need Him and His unchangeable Word.

 

 

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PRISON

 

ACTS 24: Five days later we find the high priest, Ananias and his lawyer, called Tertullus, presenting their case against Paul. They were falsely charging Paul with accusations that he was trying to destroy their religion and creating all kinds of disturbances. Paul responded by denying their allegations. However he did admit to following the Way and the God of their followers. He told him that he agreed with everything in the Jewish law and the resurrection of the dead, in particular. He

continued his defense explaining that he had been away from Jerusalem for quite some time and returned to bring gifts to the poor and to present offerings. He stated that there were some Jews who should be present to prove their accusations against him.

 

The governor, Felix was quite familiar with the Way and ordered the proceedings to cease and had the guards take Paul away. Paul was given all the freedom he desired. Several days later Felix, with his wife Drusilla, came and talked to Paul and he began to speak about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come; all of which was making Felix very uncomfortable so he ordered Paul to stop. Felix told him that he would call for him another day, hoping that Paul would give him money. After two years Felix was replaced by Porcius Festus, however he did leave Paul in prison.

 

Paul might have been in a prison, physically, but it is very obvious that he was a free man in Christ. He was willing to suffer and even die for Jesus. I believe beyond the shadow of any doubt that Paul was, indeed, willing to suffer and die for his conviction. Do we have that kind of conviction? Do we have that level of faith? The Lord needs to know where we stand. He needs us to tell Him where we are. An example is found in Matthew 21: 29-34 when Jesus asked the two blind what they wanted. Don’t you think that Jesus knew what they wanted? Of course He did, but He wanted to hear it from them. If you consider further you will realize that Jesus didn’t just heal anyone, not at all, He healed those who had the level of faith necessary. The two blind men were convinced He could restore their sight, they had no doubt. BELIEF WITHOUT DOUBT. If your level of faith is 10%, then that is what you get back, 10% of what you pray for, if anything at all. God loves us and he wants the best for us, nothing less than the best. Another excellent example of this is our salvation. I’m sure you would all agree that spending eternity with God is the very best thing that could happen to us and all we had to do was believe in what Jesus did for us on the cross, 100%. If you have yet to make a decision for Jesus please pray this simple, but yet profound prayer; ‘Lord Jesus I am a sinner and lost, I believe you died for my sins, please come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior as I confess my sins to you. Amen.’ Remember John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

 

 

 

 

Sermon On the Net

PRISON

 

ACTS 24: Five days later we find the high priest, Ananias and his lawyer, called Tertullus, presenting their case against Paul. They were falsely charging Paul with accusations that he was trying to destroy their religion and creating all kinds of disturbances. Paul responded by denying their allegations. However he did admit to following the Way and the God of their followers. He told him that he agreed with everything in the Jewish law and the resurrection of the dead, in particular. He

continued his defense explaining that he had been away from Jerusalem for quite some time and returned to bring gifts to the poor and to present offerings. He stated that there were some Jews who should be present to prove their accusations against him.

 

The governor, Felix was quite familiar with the Way and ordered the proceedings to cease and had the guards take Paul away. Paul was given all the freedom he desired. Several days later Felix, with his wife Drusilla, came and talked to Paul and he began to speak about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come; all of which was making Felix very uncomfortable so he ordered Paul to stop. Felix told him that he would call for him another day, hoping that Paul would give him money. After two years Felix was replaced by Porcius Festus, however he did leave Paul in prison.

 

Paul might have been in a prison, physically, but it is very obvious that he was a free man in Christ. He was willing to suffer and even die for Jesus. I believe beyond the shadow of any doubt that Paul was, indeed, willing to suffer and die for his conviction. Do we have that kind of conviction? Do we have that level of faith? The Lord needs to know where we stand. He needs us to tell Him where we are. An example is found in Matthew 21: 29-34 when Jesus asked the two blind what they wanted. Don’t you think that Jesus knew what they wanted? Of course He did, but He wanted to hear it from them. If you consider further you will realize that Jesus didn’t just heal anyone, not at all, He healed those who had the level of faith necessary. The two blind men were convinced He could restore their sight, they had no doubt. BELIEF WITHOUT DOUBT. If your level of faith is 10%, then that is what you get back, 10% of what you pray for, if anything at all. God loves us and he wants the best for us, nothing less than the best. Another excellent example of this is our salvation. I’m sure you would all agree that spending eternity with God is the very best thing that could happen to us and all we had to do was believe in what Jesus did for us on the cross, 100%. If you have yet to make a decision for Jesus please pray this simple, but yet profound prayer; ‘Lord Jesus I am a sinner and lost, I believe you died for my sins, please come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior as I confess my sins to you. Amen.’ Remember John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish.”

 

May the grace of Jesus and the love of the Father and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you always.

 

 

 

 

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THE CONSPIRACY

 

ACTS 23: Paul got up to speak to all those assembled and tried to explain his position, of fulfilling his obligation to spread the Good News of  Jesus. The high priest instructed someone to strike him, apparently he didn’t agree with him. Paul insulted him and when he found out he was the high priest he apologized, because Paul was aware of the law and respect of the high priest.

 

Paul continued and began to speak about the resurrection because he knew the Pharisees and the Sadducees disagreed on this point and this caused a great uproar. Some of the Pharisees got up and said they found nothing wrong with what Paul was saying. The dispute became so violent that the commander had to have his men retrieve Paul by force from them. The following night, the Lord told Paul not to be concerned because he would be testifying for Him in Rome as he did in Jerusalem.

 

The next day about 40 Jews conspired to kill Paul and made a solemn oath not to eat or drink anything until they did. Paul’s nephew overheard the plot and told him. Paul told him to go the commander and tell him of the plot. He did and when the commander heard the story he ordered his man to assemble 470 soldiers to escort Paul out of the City. He wrote a letter to be delivered to the Governor which explained the circumstances of Paul’s trip to Rome. The commander told the Governor that he could find no fault with Paul other than the fact  that their dispute had something to do with the Jewish law.

 

They delivered the letter and Paul and when the Governor had received them he told Paul he would hear his case upon the arrival of his accusers.

 

Again we see the power of God at work. God had His plans for Paul and nothing would or even could possibly interfere. All who have confessed Jesus as their Savior have the same assurance that the plans He has for us will never be changed or cancelled. We can live in the peace offered through Jesus that we will be with Him, as we are now, for eternity. God bless you all.

 

 

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SAUL…SAUL

 

 

ACTS 21&22: Paul continues his mission and now we find him in Caesarea where he stayed with Philip, the evangelist who had 4 daughters who prophesied. After several days a prophet named Agabus visited Paul and forewarned him of the persecution he would face in Jerusalem. They tried to change his planned visit to Jerusalem but he would have no part in it. He said he was not only ready to be chained, but to die, also, for the work of the lord.

 

When they arrived in Jerusalem they visited James and the elders and informed them of the past events to which they all responded joyously. They knew that thousands of Jews   believed Paul but at the same time certain factions were inciting the people against him. The suggestion was made that Paul take 4 brothers who had taken a vow and have their head shaved which was a sign of living under the law. And so he did.

 

When the seven days of purification were over the crowd seized Paul. Soon the commander of the troops came and put Paul in chains and arrested him. As the soldiers were about to put Paul in the barracks, he persuaded the commander to let him speak to the crowd. Paul was free to do so and he told the crowd in their language what had happened to him on the road to Damascus when the lord spoke directly to Paul and told him what was about to happen to him. When the Lord spoke a very bright light blinded Paul and the Lord directed him to the city where Ananias met him and restored his sight.

He told Paul that God had chosen him to do His work and he prevailed upon Paul to be baptized and wash his sins away which, of course, was merely symbolic of the true forgiveness through Grace. When Paul returned to Jerusalem he was told by the Lord to leave immediately because the people would not accept his testimony and He would send him far away to the Gentiles.

The crowd finally got so angry that the Roman commander was going to have Paul whipped until the commander discovered he was a Roman citizen which stopped him cold in his tracks. The next day the commander brought Paul to the chief priests and the Sanhedrin to try to get to the bottom of the reason why the Jews wanted to kill Paul.

 

We can’t imagine the turmoil created in the formation of the Church. It is indeed a miracle that they were successful. It is so obvious that divine intervention was the hand that dealt the cards, so to speak. I am reminded of the scripture that says, “If God is for us, who can be against us.” When we look to Him and place our trust in Him, then, and only then are we victorious in Him. No matter what confronts us, as did Paul, prayerfully turn it over to God who so graciously wants to help. Ask and it will be. It is God’s wish for us to be content and live a fruitful life here on earth until we are with Him.

 

 

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BEYOND COMMITMENT

 

 

ACTS 20: After the uproar had ended in the previous chapter Paul sent for his friends to tell them   he was going to Macedonia. While he was on his journey he met and preached too many people. He stayed in Greece for about 3 months but left when he discovered another plot against him.

 

In Troas Paul was preaching through the night because he intended to leave the next day. A young man named Eutychus was sitting on the windowsill and fell into a deep sleep as Paul was speaking and fell from the third story to the ground and died. Paul rushed to his aid and told the people to calm down because he was not dead. Paul put his arms around him and he became alive.

 

Paul went to the ship and eventually landed in Miletus where he sent for the elders from Ephesus. Paul gathered them together and began to reminisce about the past times of his ministry, and the trials and tribulations he endured, but that was his conviction; his purpose on this earth. He told them he was going to Jerusalem, not knowing what to expect because the Holy Spirit told him that he would be facing hardship and tribulation. Paul’s conviction was that he felt his life was worth nothing to him, except he knew he was dedicated to proclaim the Gospel. He told them that he knew that they would not see him again and he urged them to be careful and make sure that they oversee the church as their commitment to God.

 

Paul, in his final words dedicated them to the word of God and His grace which would build them up and take care of them. He also reminded them how he personally provided for himself and his workers with his own hands. He wanted them to remember that this work was to help the weak. Paul quoted the words of Jesus; “it is more blessed to give then to receive.” After this they all knelt down and prayed and many eyes were wet because they knew they would never see him aga

 

The words,’ beyond commitment,’ do little to describe the life of Paul. Certainly here is a man so totally dedicated to a task that he once did and now was committed to do just the opposite. This is a good example of the power of faith and God. He labored for himself and his companions to provide their needs, he suffered beatings, prison, and humiliation and he never gave up. He wrote and preached until he went home to the Lord. This is dedication beyond commitment. This is a fine example for anyone to follow. He fought the fight; he persisted and will be rewarded. And remember how much we have to thank him for all his writings that we so much enjoy today. Let’s just praise the Lord for all the Greats of the past and even today for the laborers of His that continue to bring us in simple and practical terms, His Word. Praise Jesus.

 

 

 

 

Sermon On the Mount

 

 

BE READY

 

ACTS 19: Paul’s continuing journey took him to Ephesus where he found some Disciples who had received John’s baptism and he asked them if they had received the Holy Spirit, and they replied that they didn’t even know about the Holy Spirit. Paul baptized them and they received the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different languages and prophesied. Paul went into the synagogue to preach but they didn’t want to listen so he left and went into the lecture hall of Tyrannus and he preached there for about 2 years. God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so powerful that if anyone even touched a cloth of his they would get well.

 

There were some Jews who were going around driving out evil spirits and they tried, unsuccessfully, to invoke the name of the Lord. There were 7 sons of a Jewish high priest who tried this and when they did the evil spirit in the man overpowered them and beat them very badly. This put quite a scare in the Jews in the area. Many of them began confessing their evil deeds and some burned their scrolls they had used practicing sorcery. After this happened Paul decided to go to Jerusalem.

 

About that time a man named Demetrius who made silver shrines of the local’s god, Artemis, became very disturbed, and gathered together some men in related trades. He told them of his concern that what Paul was doing would be very bad for their business. When they heard this they became furious and began to shout praises to their god, Artemis. Soon the whole city was in an uproar and they seized some of the Disciples and brought them into the theater. The crowd was very agitated and began to chant once again to their god, Artemis. The city clerk got involved and eventually got the crowd to quiet down. He explained their meeting was unlawful and the fact that the Disciples did nothing wrong. He said if anyone had a problem with them they should take go to court.

 

What we see in this chapter is a continuation of the trials the Disciples had everywhere they tried to preach the Word. But the Word of God is more powerful and will always prevail. As Christians today, we must stand ready to deliver His Word to anyone who will listen. Each one of us has a very distinct witness capability, whether it is direct one on one discussion or the example we can be according to how we live, act and react to life and what confronts us each day. Remember, we know that God is watching and so is everybody else.

 

 

Sermon On the Mount

 

 

 

BONDAGE

 

ACTS 15: Some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers that circumcision was necessary for salvation. Paul and Barnabas were sent to Jerusalem to try to rectify the situation and on the way they were meeting   people and telling them that the Gentiles were being converted. When they arrived in Jerusalem they were greeted by the brothers and were told by members of the Pharisees that the Gentiles must be circumcised, therefore obeying the Law of Moses. Peter told them that God made no distinction among men and He gave the Holy Spirit to the Gentiles. He emphasized that salvation was through God’s grace and not works or symbolism. James also supported Peter’s testimony and the fact that the prophets were in agreement. James told them that they should not make it difficult for the Gentile believers. He suggested they write a letter to the Gentiles and have some of their own people accompany Paul and Barnabas to take the letter to them.

 

They did this and also suggested to the Gentiles that they should refrain from eating blood and meat with blood in it or food sacrificed to idols. In addition they told them to refrain from sexual misconduct. The brothers were glad to hear from Paul and were encouraged with the content of the letter. After spending some time there they left for other cities to continue spreading the Good News.

 

What we learn from this chapter is how quickly some want to change the simple act of salvation as Jesus has prescribed it. There are many religions today that attempt to keep its members in bondage by creating requirements for salvation that do not exist in the Bible. Verse 5 illustrates the doctrine of the Pharisees and their convoluted prescription for salvation; totally contrary to the teachings of Jesus; “The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses.” Most, if not all religions or cults today decree some form of teaching, also contrary to the Bible. This is why it is so critical for everyone to read the Bible and discover, for themselves, the truth and simple message of salvation. We will all be judged by the content of the Bible; this is a fact. If you believe this then you should read God’s word. It’s informative, interesting, and easy to read. I would suggest as a starting point the gospel of John for those who have never experienced the fruit of the Bible. Open the Book with a genuine heart to learn and the Holy Spirit will do the rest. Try it, you might like it.

 

Sermon On the Mount

 

 

THE POWER

 

 

Acts14: In this chapter we see the power of God demonstrated in several different ways. In the beginning the discussions that Paul and Barnabas had were so powerful that many Jews and Gentiles believed. Those who were not convinced though began to poison the minds of many and they wanted to stone them to death, but when they discovered their plot they left the area, but not before they performed many miracles and signs.

 

In Lystra they came across a man who had been crippled from birth and when Paul looked at the man he recognized that this man had faith. He said in verse 10: “Stand up on your feet!”  A great example of God’s mercy and his faith. The crowd got so excited that they thought Paul and Barnabas were gods. They had all they could do to try to convince them that they were just men like themselves. They explained how God was behind them and how he brought them rain and crops in their seasons and how food was so plentiful. He tried to explain how God made the Heaven and the sea and everything in them. Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd’s confidence. They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead after the stoning which was their intention. But after the Disciples had gathered around him he got up and went back into the city. The next day they left for Derbe.

 

They continued to preach the good news of salvation in that city and won over a large number of believers. Then they returned to various cities and strengthened the Disciples and encouraging them to continue in their work. Paul explained how they would have to go through many hardships, but not to be discouraged. Paul appointed elders and with fasting and prayer committed them to the Lord.

 

Their next stop was in Antioch where they were committed to the grace of God for their works. They gathered the church together and reported to them all God had done through them and how he opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.

 

The power of God is awesome as evidenced by the many miracles and signs performed by His Disciples. We are a very blessed people to have such a God looking out for us. Yes, I know there are times when one might wonder if there truly is a God. My friends, I tell you there truly is. He is with us, He provides for us, He promises to never allow us to get into a situation that is too much for us as stated in 1^st Corinthians 10:13: “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so you can stand up under it.” Best of all, He loves us and has a place for us to spend eternity with Him. I don’t know about you but I find this revelation to be very exciting and inspiring; it gives me great hope and peace of mind. Let’s enjoy what He has given us, let’s keep our hearts and minds focused on Him. Let us not look to the world where Satan has his dominion. Look up and you will find Him smiling upon those who have faith and love Him, and are willing to serve Him.

 

Sermon On the Net

 

 

 

THE POWER

 

 

Acts14: In this chapter we see the power of God demonstrated in several different ways. In the beginning the discussions that Paul and Barnabas had were so powerful that many Jews and Gentiles believed. Those who were not convinced though began to poison the minds of many and they wanted to stone them to death, but when they discovered their plot they left the area, but not before they performed many miracles and signs.

 

In Lystra they came across a man who had been crippled from birth and when Paul looked at the man he recognized that this man had faith. He said in verse 10: “Stand up on your feet!”  A great example of God’s mercy and his faith. The crowd got so excited that they thought Paul and Barnabas were gods. They had all they could do to try to convince them that they were just men like themselves. They explained how God was behind them and how he brought them rain and crops in their seasons and how food was so plentiful. He tried to explain how God made the Heaven and the sea and everything in them. Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd’s confidence. They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead after the stoning which was their intention. But after the Disciples had gathered around him he got up and went back into the city. The next day they left for Derbe.

 

They continued to preach the good news of salvation in that city and won over a large number of believers. Then they returned to various cities and strengthened the Disciples and encouraging them to continue in their work. Paul explained how they would have to go through many hardships, but not to be discouraged. Paul appointed elders and with fasting and prayer committed them to the Lord.

 

Their next stop was in Antioch where they were committed to the grace of God for their works. They gathered the church together and reported to them all God had done through them and how he opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.

 

The power of God is awesome as evidenced by the many miracles and signs performed by His Disciples. We are a very blessed people to have such a God looking out for us. Yes, I know there are times when one might wonder if there truly is a God. My friends, I tell you there truly is. He is with us, He provides for us, He promises to never allow us to get into a situation that is too much for us as stated in 1^st Corinthians 10:13: “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so you can stand up under it.” Best of all, He loves us and has a place for us to spend eternity with Him. I don’t know about you but I find this revelation to be very exciting and inspiring; it gives me great hope and peace of mind. Let’s enjoy what He has given us, let’s keep our hearts and minds focused on Him. Let us not look to the world where Satan has his dominion. Look up and you will find Him smiling upon those who have faith and love Him, and are willing to serve Him.

 

9 14 2012

 

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THE LIGHT

 

ACTS 13: Barnabas and Paul were instructed by the Holy Spirit to begin a missionary work. Verse 2: “…Set apart for me  Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” They went to Salamis and began to preach the Word in the Synagogues. John was also there with them. In Paphos there was a proconsul that had heard about Paul and the Christians; he was curious and wanted them to speak before him. There was also a sorcerer there who tried to turn the proconsul’s mind. Paul quickly put him in his place, he told him that he would be blind for a little while. Verse 12: “When the pro-consul saw what had happened he believed, for he was amazed at the teaching of the Lord.”

 

Paul and his companions soon found themselves in Pisidian Antioch on the Sabbath. They went to a Synagogue and listened to the reading of the Law and the Prophets. The church leaders asked them to speak if they had a message of encouragement. Paul stood up and addressed the crowd mentioning both Jews and Gentiles. He discussed how the Lord had taken care of Israel during their time in Egypt and how He led them out of that country and endured their conduct for about forty years in the desert. He overthrew seven nations in Canaan and gave the land to the people of Israel as an inheritance which took about 450 Years. Paul continued telling them how the Lord gave the people Judges and then Kings and the fact that through the lineage of the Kings came Jesus. He was very clear and concise to point out that Jesus was not accepted by His people, yet they fulfilled the words of the Prophets of old by having Him crucified. He then pointed out hoe He was raised from the dead and His body saw no decay, which was prophesied through the Prophets. He reiterated how the Father fulfilled His promise to their fathers in Jesus. He told them how David’s body decayed and yet not so with the body of Jesus as was prophesied. Paul made a point of the fact that the Law could not do anything for them, if they wanted salvation it had to be through the name of Jesus Christ. Paul quoted the Priphets and warned them not to have the same thing happen to them in their disbelief. The Lord told them that He was going to do something that they wouldn’t believe.

 

The following Sabbath Paul continued hid discussions and finally told them that because of their unbelief, the good news of salvation was now open to the Gentiles. As was written, ‘I made you a light for Gentiles that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth. When the Gentiles heard this they were glad and felt honored and all who believed were appointed to eternal life. In the meantime the Jews stirred up a protest and told them to leave. Paul and Barnabas shook the dust from their feet (as they were told by Jesus) and left the region. And they were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.

 

As I have previously written concerning salvation for the Gentiles, we do have a rebellious Jewish nation to thank for the opportunity to have direct access to God. Remember when the veil in the Temple was torn open; this presented the opportunity for direct access to God for the entire world. We now have direct access to God through Jesus, and only through Him. John 14:6: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Whenever I think of Jesus and eternal life, a smile and a warm feeling of joy does indeed overtake my body. This is what God wants, think of Him and enjoy, enjoy AND enjoy.

 

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CHRISTIAN

 

Acts 11: This chapter is a repeat of chapter 10, in that Peter describes what happened in the city of Joppa with Cornelius. The balance of the chapter deals with the disciples continually preaching the Good News of Jesus everywhere. However we see in this chapter that the disciples were called Christians for the first time in verse 26, “…The disciples were called Christians for the first time at Antioch.” It is worthy to note that one of the prophets, whose name was Agabus, came down from Jerusalem and predicted a world famine which did occur during the time of Claudius.

 

Acts 12: This chapter deals with the miraculous escape of Peter from the prison. King Herod had Peter arrested and put in jail until the Passover was over and intended to deal with him at that time, however in the middle of the night an angel of the Lord appeared to Peter and freed him from his chains. Peter was bound in chains and slept between two soldiers so as not to attempt to escape. Needless to say, Peter was awe struck by this event, could hardly believe it until the angel disappeared and Peter found himself on the street. Verse 7: “Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. ‘Quick, get up!’ he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.’ He went to the house of Mary where they were gathered. After Peter told them what happened, he left for another place.

 

In the meantime when King Herod discovered the escape of Peter, he had the guards questioned and then executed, which was the common practice for guards when they failed in their duties. He then attended a feast honoring Claudius Caesar, dressed magnificently in robes, etc. and the people were proclaiming him to be a god which he did not deny. He did not give the Lord praise and was struck down dead immediately. The word of God continued to spread throughout the area.

 

We are reminded in this chapter that, while our God is a God of forgiveness and love, He is nonetheless our Supreme God and we should always remind our selves to honor, respect and worship Him. Remember, His very first commandment is to love Him with all your heart. Indeed God is love and this is a characteristic of God that we should continually strive for in our daily lives, as difficult as it may be at times. Ask Him to help you live your life in this manner and He will. Love Him and love your neighbor. What a world this would be if we could accomplish that.    

 

  

 

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OPEN TO ALL

Acts 10: Cornelius, a centurion in the Italian Regiment, saw an angel of God in a vision one day and was told that his prayers and gifts to the poor have not gone unnoticed by God. He was a very generous man. The angel told him to send some men to Joppa to ask Peter to return with them to him, which he did.

About noon the next day as the men were on their journey, Peter was up on a roof top to pray, when suddenly he fell in a trance and saw Heaven open and something like a large sheet came down. In it were all kinds of animals and birds and Peter was told to kill and eat. This happened 3 times and Peter did not know what it meant. At first Peter did not want do what he was told because he had never eaten anything that was unclean. The voice told him not to call anything impure that God has made clean.: Acts10:15, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." While he began to wonder about the meaning of the vision the Spirit told him about the 3 men who were now downstairs and he was to go to them and accompany them on their return journey. Peter agreed to go and invited them to stay for the night and proceed to Cornelius the next day.

When Peter arrived at Cornelius' house he was greeted by him and his family. He got on his knees to Peter who promptly told him to get up as he was just a man like him. Peter told the gathering that he was not to look upon anyone as being unclean but was to think of everyone as the same. He said this because it was at one time, before Christ, for Jews not to mingle with Gentiles; it was actually against their law.

Peter began to speak to them and explained that it was now proper for him to speak to everyone; that God in the vision he had was teaching him that salvation was open to all who would believe in Jesus. Peter talked about the ministry of Jesus and how He did good and was ultimately crucified and subsequently raised from the dead. Peter and his followers were witness to His resurrection. He explained that Jesus told them to preach the Word to the world, for those that would believe on His name would not perish but would have eternal life. John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

While Peter was speaking to them the Holy Spirit came upon all those who heard the message. The believers who had accompanied Peter on the journey could hardly believe what was happening. They just couldn't imagine the Holy Spirit entering the lives of Gentiles. After this they were baptized as a symbol of their conviction Of Jesus.

Well my friends, there you have it, as was the splitting of the veil in the Temple when Jesus gave up His Spirit to the Father, which symbolized open access to the Father by anyone who believes; we now have salvation officially opened to the Gentiles. One might say, in a perverse sought of way, that we Gentiles have the Jews to thank for our direct access to God. What I or anyone else might think is totally immaterial because God has spoken and He has the final word. If we want to be with Him in His eternal Kingdom we must believe in what Jesus did and accept Him as our Savior. Speaking personally, I can confidently say you will be most pleased accepting His free gift.

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OPEN TO ALL

Acts 10: Cornelius, a centurion in the Italian Regiment, saw an angel of God in a vision one day and was told that his prayers and gifts to the poor have not gone unnoticed by God. He was a very generous man. The angel told him to send some men to Joppa to ask Peter to return with them to him, which he did.

About noon the next day as the men were on their journey, Peter was up on a roof top to pray, when suddenly he fell in a trance and saw Heaven open and something like a large sheet came down. In it were all kinds of animals and birds and Peter was told to kill and eat. This happened 3 times and Peter did not know what it meant. At first Peter did not want do what he was told because he had never eaten anything that was unclean. The voice told him not to call anything impure that God has made clean.: Acts10:15, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." While he began to wonder about the meaning of the vision the Spirit told him about the 3 men who were now downstairs and he was to go to them and accompany them on their return journey. Peter agreed to go and invited them to stay for the night and proceed to Cornelius the next day.

When Peter arrived at Cornelius' house he was greeted by him and his family. He got on his knees to Peter who promptly told him to get up as he was just a man like him. Peter told the gathering that he was not to look upon anyone as being unclean but was to think of everyone as the same. He said this because it was at one time, before Christ, for Jews not to mingle with Gentiles; it was actually against their law.

Peter began to speak to them and explained that it was now proper for him to speak to everyone; that God in the vision he had was teaching him that salvation was open to all who would believe in Jesus. Peter talked about the ministry of Jesus and how He did good and was ultimately crucified and subsequently raised from the dead. Peter and his followers were witness to His resurrection. He explained that Jesus told them to preach the Word to the world, for those that would believe on His name would not perish but would have eternal life. John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

While Peter was speaking to them the Holy Spirit came upon all those who heard the message. The believers who had accompanied Peter on the journey could hardly believe what was happening. They just couldn't imagine the Holy Spirit entering the lives of Gentiles. After this they were baptized as a symbol of their conviction Of Jesus.

Well my friends, there you have it, as was the splitting of the veil in the Temple when Jesus gave up His Spirit to the Father, which symbolized open access to the Father by anyone who believes; we now have salvation officially opened to the Gentiles. One might say, in a perverse sought of way, that we Gentiles have the Jews to thank for our direct access to God. What I or anyone else might think is totally immaterial because God has spoken and He has the final word. If we want to be with Him in His eternal Kingdom we must believe in what Jesus did and accept Him as our Savior. Speaking personally, I can confidently say you will be most pleased accepting His free gift.

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OPEN TO ALL

Acts 10: Cornelius, a centurion in the Italian Regiment, saw an angel of God in a vision one day and was told that his prayers and gifts to the poor have not gone unnoticed by God. He was a very generous man. The angel told him to send some men to Joppa to ask Peter to return with them to him, which he did.

About noon the next day as the men were on their journey, Peter was up on a roof top to pray, when suddenly he fell in a trance and saw Heaven open and something like a large sheet came down. In it were all kinds of animals and birds and Peter was told to kill and eat. This happened 3 times and Peter did not know what it meant. At first Peter did not want do what he was told because he had never eaten anything that was unclean. The voice told him not to call anything impure that God has made clean.: Acts10:15, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." While he began to wonder about the meaning of the vision the Spirit told him about the 3 men who were now downstairs and he was to go to them and accompany them on their return journey. Peter agreed to go and invited them to stay for the night and proceed to Cornelius the next day.

When Peter arrived at Cornelius' house he was greeted by him and his family. He got on his knees to Peter who promptly told him to get up as he was just a man like him. Peter told the gathering that he was not to look upon anyone as being unclean but was to think of everyone as the same. He said this because it was at one time, before Christ, for Jews not to mingle with Gentiles; it was actually against their law.

Peter began to speak to them and explained that it was now proper for him to speak to everyone; that God in the vision he had was teaching him that salvation was open to all who would believe in Jesus. Peter talked about the ministry of Jesus and how He did good and was ultimately crucified and subsequently raised from the dead. Peter and his followers were witness to His resurrection. He explained that Jesus told them to preach the Word to the world, for those that would believe on His name would not perish but would have eternal life. John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

While Peter was speaking to them the Holy Spirit came upon all those who heard the message. The believers who had accompanied Peter on the journey could hardly believe what was happening. They just couldn't imagine the Holy Spirit entering the lives of Gentiles. After this they were baptized as a symbol of their conviction Of Jesus.

Well my friends, there you have it, as was the splitting of the veil in the Temple when Jesus gave up His Spirit to the Father, which symbolized open access to the Father by anyone who believes; we now have salvation officially opened to the Gentiles. One might say, in a perverse sought of way, that we Gentiles have the Jews to thank for our direct access to God. What I or anyone else might think is totally immaterial because God has spoken and He has the final word. If we want to be with Him in His eternal Kingdom we must believe in what Jesus did and accept Him as our Savior. Speaking personally, I can confidently say you will be most pleased accepting His free gift.

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OPEN TO ALL

Acts 10: Cornelius, a centurion in the Italian Regiment, saw an angel of God in a vision one day and was told that his prayers and gifts to the poor have not gone unnoticed by God. He was a very generous man. The angel told him to send some men to Joppa to ask Peter to return with them to him, which he did.

About noon the next day as the men were on their journey, Peter was up on a roof top to pray, when suddenly he fell in a trance and saw Heaven open and something like a large sheet came down. In it were all kinds of animals and birds and Peter was told to kill and eat. This happened 3 times and Peter did not know what it meant. At first Peter did not want do what he was told because he had never eaten anything that was unclean. The voice told him not to call anything impure that God has made clean.: Acts10:15, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." While he began to wonder about the meaning of the vision the Spirit told him about the 3 men who were now downstairs and he was to go to them and accompany them on their return journey. Peter agreed to go and invited them to stay for the night and proceed to Cornelius the next day.

When Peter arrived at Cornelius' house he was greeted by him and his family. He got on his knees to Peter who promptly told him to get up as he was just a man like him. Peter told the gathering that he was not to look upon anyone as being unclean but was to think of everyone as the same. He said this because it was at one time, before Christ, for Jews not to mingle with Gentiles; it was actually against their law.

Peter began to speak to them and explained that it was now proper for him to speak to everyone; that God in the vision he had was teaching him that salvation was open to all who would believe in Jesus. Peter talked about the ministry of Jesus and how He did good and was ultimately crucified and subsequently raised from the dead. Peter and his followers were witness to His resurrection. He explained that Jesus told them to preach the Word to the world, for those that would believe on His name would not perish but would have eternal life. John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

While Peter was speaking to them the Holy Spirit came upon all those who heard the message. The believers who had accompanied Peter on the journey could hardly believe what was happening. They just couldn't imagine the Holy Spirit entering the lives of Gentiles. After this they were baptized as a symbol of their conviction Of Jesus.

Well my friends, there you have it, as was the splitting of the veil in the Temple when Jesus gave up His Spirit to the Father, which symbolized open access to the Father by anyone who believes; we now have salvation officially opened to the Gentiles. One might say, in a perverse sought of way, that we Gentiles have the Jews to thank for our direct access to God. What I or anyone else might think is totally immaterial because God has spoken and He has the final word. If we want to be with Him in His eternal Kingdom we must believe in what Jesus did and accept Him as our Savior. Speaking personally, I can confidently say you will be most pleased accepting His free gift.

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PAUL'S CONVERSION


Acts 9: Paul was very active in his quest to destroy the church. He went to the high priest to ask for letters that he could use when he went to Damascus, so that he could arrest any Christians he might find. On his way, a flash of light on Paul caused him to fall to the ground and a voice sounded out of nowhere asking Paul why he was persecuting the church. Paul questioned the voice and was told that it was Jesus whom he was persecuting. Then Jesus told him to get up and go into Damascus and he would be told what to do. While he traveled to Damascus Jesus called on Ananias and told him to go to a particular house in Damascus and he would find Paul there. Ananias was told that Paul, in a vision, saw him come to him and would restore his sight. Ananias was afraid of Paul but Jesus told him it would be okay. Jesus also told Ananias that Paul was chosen to deliver the salvation message to the gentiles. When Ananias found Paul, he did as he was instructed and Paul regained his sight after being blind for three days. Paul was baptized at this time.

Paul spent several days in Damascus preaching and proving that Jesus is the Christ. His words irritated the Jews to the point that they conspired to kill him. When this was discovered they lowered Paul in a basket outside the city wall to escape. When he arrived in Jerusalem the disciples had a hard time accepting Paul as one of them, But Barnabas intervened, took him to the Apostles, and assured them that Paul, indeed, was one of them. Paul continued his relentless quest to proclaim Jesus to everyone to the point that they were trying, again, to kill him. They sent him off to Tarsus and there followed a time of peace and they continued preaching the Word.

Peter was preaching throughout the area and came to a paralytic who had been bedridden for eight years. Peter told him to get up and he was instantly healed of his affliction. Many came to believe because of this miracle. There was a woman in Joppa who was always doing good for everyone. About that time she died and when Peter was told, he went to her house. She was in an upstairs room, having been prepared for burial. Peter went to the room and told everyone to leave and when they did Peter got on his knees, prayed to God and told Dorcas to get up. She did and everyone was amazed at this miracle. Many believed because of this.

One would think that it would be easier to believe in Jesus in those days because of the fact that He was living at the time and all the signs and wonders that were happening. But this is not true because there is only one way to believe and accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, and that is FAITH. Yes, regardless of the circumstances, faith is the necessary ingredient for salvation, then and now. This is the reason that people who try to prove the truth find it so difficult, if not impossible, to accept Jesus as Savior. No one can prove Jesus as Savior and if you have any doubts, think back to the time when Jesus was alive and on the earth. Imagine, you see Him and yet you don't believe while others who saw Him did believe. Why? Because of faith. Look no further than faith. Hebrews 11:6 says: "And without faith it is impossible to please God." Hebrews 11:1: " Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."

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SERVE ME

Acts 7: Stephen's speech to the Sanhedrin: When the high priest asked Stephen if the charges against him were true he replied by turning to the Scriptures: "Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran. 'Leave your country and your people,' God said, 'and go to the land I will show you,' verses 2-3. He reminded them that God had told Abraham to flee to Haran and God told him that he would have no inheritance there, but his descendants would possess the land even though Abraham had no child at that time. God foretold Abraham that the people would be enslaved for '400 years,' and he would punish the nation that held them captive. God then gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision and Isaac was born to him soon thereafter. Isaac had a child, Jacob, and he became the father of the 12 patriarchs who then sold one of their brothers, Joseph, as a slave to Egypt, "…but God was with him," verse 9. God was with Joseph and caused the Pharaoh of Egypt to favor with him and eventually made him ruler over all of Egypt and his palace. When the famine struck Egypt, Joseph's family eventually went down to Egypt for food and discovered that Joseph was still alive. The family of Abraham grew to about 400 when another Pharaoh came to rule and began to mistreat the Jews.

This was the time when Moses fled into the desert following an incident when he killed an Egyptian who was mistreating a Jew, and stayed there for 40 years, and had two sons. One day God appeared to Moses and told him that He was going to send him back to Egypt to lead the people out of Egypt. God gave Moses instructions to pass on to the people, but in their hearts they turned back to Egypt. Stephen went on to say the people at that time rejected the truth and they are doing the same thing. They persecuted the prophets then and continued to do so until they finally crucified the Son of God, Jesus, and they continued to ignore the law that was put in effect in those days.

The stoning of Stephen: The Jews were so furious with him that they gnashed their teeth, covered their ears and rushed him and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. In the interim Stephen told them in verse 55 that he 'looked up to Heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.' As they continued to stone them, Stephen prayed to the Father to forgive them because of their ignorance and then said, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." and then he fell asleep. They laid his clothes at the feet of a man named Saul, (Paul), who was in favor of their actions.

There are two words in this chapter that impressed me the most, which are our obligation as Christians to observe. Verse 7 ended with these two words; 'worship me.' This the first of the two commandments that Jesus gave us. This is all that God asks of us, to worship Him and Him only. The second one, as you know is to love each other. This would be a world we would never recognize if we did that, unfortunately we won't. But, as Christians who have accepted Jesus as their Savior, this is exactly what it'll be like when we join Him in Heaven. Praise the Lord for what He accomplished for us on the cross.

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SERVE ME

 

Acts 7: Stephen's speech to the Sanhedrin: When the high priest asked Stephen if the charges against him were true he replied by turning to the Scriptures: "Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran. 'Leave your country and your people,' God said, 'and go to the land I will show you,' verses 2-3. He reminded them that God had told Abraham to flee to Haran and God told him that he would have no inheritance there, but his descendants would possess the land even though Abraham had no child at that time. God foretold Abraham that the people would be enslaved for '400 years,' and he would punish the nation that held them captive. God then gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision and Isaac was born to him soon thereafter. Isaac had a child, Jacob, and he became the father of the 12 patriarchs who then sold one of their brothers, Joseph, as a slave to Egypt, "…but God was with him," verse 9. God was with Joseph and caused the Pharaoh of Egypt to favor with him and eventually made him ruler over all of Egypt and his palace. When the famine struck Egypt, Joseph's family eventually went down to Egypt for food and discovered that Joseph was still alive. The family of Abraham grew to about 400 when another Pharaoh came to rule and began to mistreat the Jews.

 

This was the time when Moses fled into the desert following an incident when he killed an Egyptian who was mistreating a Jew, and stayed there for 40 years, and had two sons. One day God appeared to Moses and told him that He was going to send him back to Egypt to lead the people out of Egypt. God gave Moses instructions to pass on to the people, but in their hearts they turned back to Egypt. Stephen went on to say the people at that time rejected the truth and they are doing the same thing. They persecuted the prophets then and continued to do so until they finally crucified the Son of God, Jesus, and they continued to ignore the law that was put in effect in those days.

 

The stoning of Stephen: The Jews were so furious with him that they gnashed their teeth, covered their ears and rushed him and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. In the interim Stephen told them in verse 55 that he 'looked up to Heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.' As they continued to stone them, Stephen prayed to the Father to forgive them because of their ignorance and then said, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." and then he fell asleep. They laid his clothes at the feet of a man named Saul, (Paul), who was in favor of their actions.

 

There are two words in this chapter that impressed me the most, which are our obligation as Christians to observe. Verse 7 ended with these two words; 'worship me.' This the first of the two commandments that Jesus gave us. This is all that God asks of us, to worship Him and Him only. The second one, as you know is to love each other. This would be a world we would never recognize if we did that, unfortunately we won't. But, as Christians who have accepted Jesus as their Savior, this is exactly what it'll be like     when we join Him in Heaven. Praise the Lord for what He accomplished for us on the cross.

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FACE OF AN ANGEL

 

Acts 6: Verses 1-7…Certain Jews were complaining that some widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food, so the Twelve gathered together to determine a solution. They decided to select seven men of good standing to do the job, those who were full of the Spirit and wisdom. Verse 5: "The proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit," and six others. The Twelve were now able to concentrate on preaching the word of God. Many came to the Faith and even the priests were becoming obedient to the faith.

 

Verses 8-15…Stephen, being full of the Holy Spirit, began to perform many wonders and miracles. Opposition arose against Stephen and they began to argue with him, but they could not overcome the power of God and Stephen continued, with wisdom and the Spirit. Finally his opposition created some false testimony in verse 11: "We have heard Stephen speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God."

 

They were convinced that Jesus was going to destroy the Temple and every Sanhedrin was watching Stephen and noticed his face began to shine like the face of an Angel. Stephen lays into them in chapter 7.

 

When we are full of faith and 'connected' to God we are able to withstand any and all challenges facing us. I'm reminded of a life crisis about 33 years ago when I was on my way to become a very successful General Agent in the life insurance business. Then one day the whole world crashed around me; my company went out of business and I was out of a job and income, with a family to support. Everything I had worked so hard for was now being threatened. But I had my faith and trust in God and was not in any danger of losing that. This is God's promise to us. I didn't quite feel like Job but it was close. I am firmly convinced that God gave me the wisdom to not look at the circumstances, to keep my nose to the grindstone and have faith and trust that that everything will be okay. My friends, I can tell you that everything did, in fact, work out well. I am sure that I could not have achieved the same results in my new venture as I did if I were to have remained a General Agent. God had a door opened for me even before the other one closed. I give God all the glory and the credit. The moral here is, when you have a crisis, and you will have, turn to God and He will help you. All things are for good in God.

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AS TO GOD

Acts5:1-11. Ananias and Sapphira…In the previous chapter we witnessed the sharing of each person's possessions. In this chapter we see a demonstration of man deceiving God, thinking that he was deceiving his fellow man. Ananias and his wife sold their property and kept back some of the proceeds, (this was certainly their right) and Peter knew what he had done and questioned him and he lied to Peter about the price. Verse 3: "Then peter said, 'Ananias, how is it that Satan has filled your heart that you lied to the Holy Spirit and kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? Because of his attempted deception to Peter he was struck down dead on the spot. Others took his body out to bury him. Shortly thereafter Sapphira came in and Peter questioned her about the price and she lied, as did her husband. She fell dead and they buried her with her Ananias.

Verses 12- 16: The Apostles heal many…"The Apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders among the people." Many people did not join them in fear of the Jewish leaders, however many people were being saved. Crowds began to develop as the people were coming from all over and bringing their sick and demon possessed people to be healed.

Verses 17-41: The persecution of the Apostles…The high priest and members of the Sadducees, being jealous of the Apostles had them arrested and thrown in jail. Verse 19: "During the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. Go stand in the temple courts and tell the people of this new life." As they were preaching the high priest and the Sanhedrin (the supreme Jewish court) convened to determine their next move, after discovering the events at the jail. They sent the guards to bring the Apostles to them and they questioned them as to the reason they disobeyed their strict orders not to preach any more. In verse 29-30 Peter replied: "we must obey God rather than men." Peter reminded them who God was and the fact that they crucified Jesus, "whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree." When they heard Peter's accusations they became furious and wanted them to be put to death. A Pharisee named Gamaliel who taught the law and was highly respected spoke up and told them to leave them alone. He said that if their purpose were of human origin it would fail, however if it were from God they would not fail and they (the Sanhedrin) would find themselves fighting God. They listened to him and let the Apostles go free, but not before they flogged them according to their law, (39 lashes to each). The Apostles, rejoicing, because they were counted as worthy to suffer for Jesus, continued to preach proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ, day after day, from the temple and house to house and never stopped.

As we live our time on this earth let us assume that we are in the very presence of God and behave as we know we would if we were aware of the fact that we are. This behavior pleases God and He will bless us abundantly because we are trying to please Him. This is why we are here; to love Him and love your neighbor. Jesus my Savior, my Redeemer, thank you.

Sermon On the Net

CONVICTION

 

 

Acts 4: The priests, captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees approached Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. They were very disturbed because of this and put them in jail overnight. Verse 4 says, "But many who heard the message believed, (that day) and the number of men grew to about 5,000." The next day the rulers, elders, and teachers of the law met and had Peter and John brought before them to question their authority to speak to the people. Peter, convicted of the Holy Spirit, told them in no uncertain terms in verses 9-10: "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed." They asked them to leave the room and began to speak among themselves as to their course of action. They realized the consequences of the healing of the cripple and could do nothing about it. They ordered them to stop preaching and Peter asked them whether they should listen to them or God. Again, Peter was so convicted of the Holy Spirit that he told them that they cannot stop preaching the salvation message.

 

After they were released they went to the other believers to share their good news and began to pray and praise the Lord. They prayed and in their prayer mentioned how God knew what the actions of the Jewish people and the rulers of that time would be and used it to allow their conspiracy against Jesus to fulfill prophecy. The place where they were praying was shaken and everyone was filled with the Holy Spirit. The believers were of one heart and began to share their property with those in need so that no one went without. They actually sold their property and shared.

 

They wanted the Apostles to stop preaching and in verse 19-20, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard."

 

Acts 4:12 says, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name given under Heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Simple, straight forward and right on;  'no other name,' no other way to escape Hell and be with God forever.

 

 

 

 

 

Sermon On the Net

CONVICTION

 

 

Acts 4: The priests, captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees approached Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. They were very disturbed because of this and put them in jail overnight. Verse 4 says, "But many who heard the message believed, (that day) and the number of men grew to about 5,000." The next day the rulers, elders, and teachers of the law met and had Peter and John brought before them to question their authority to speak to the people. Peter, convicted of the Holy Spirit, told them in no uncertain terms in verses 9-10: "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed." They asked them to leave the room and began to speak among themselves as to their course of action. They realized the consequences of the healing of the cripple and could do nothing about it. They ordered them to stop preaching and Peter asked them whether they should listen to them or God. Again, Peter was so convicted of the Holy Spirit that he told them that they cannot stop preaching the salvation message.

 

After they were released they went to the other believers to share their good news and began to pray and praise the Lord. They prayed and in their prayer mentioned how God knew what the actions of the Jewish people and the rulers of that time would be and used it to allow their conspiracy against Jesus to fulfill prophecy. The place where they were praying was shaken and everyone was filled with the Holy Spirit. The believers were of one heart and began to share their property with those in need so that no one went without. They actually sold their property and shared.

 

They wanted the Apostles to stop preaching and in verse 19-20, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard."

 

Acts 4:12 says, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name given under Heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Simple, straight forward and right on;  'no other name,' no other way to escape Hell and be with God forever.