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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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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.

 

 

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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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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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NO FEAR

 

ACTS 18: Upon his arrival in Corinth Paul met a Jew named Aquila and his wife Priscilla. They had come from Rome because all Jews were ordered to leave. Paul went to see them because he was a tentmaker and decided to stay for a while. Paul continued his preaching in the Synagogue every Sabbath until Timothy and Silas joined him. The Jews opposed Paul and began to be abusive, so Paul shook out his clothes in protest and left. He went next door to the house of Titus Justus who was a worshipper of God. A man named Crispus, a ruler in the Synagogue believed in Jesus, as well as many of the Corinthians.

 

One night Paul had a vision in which the Lord told him to continue preaching without fear because He had many of His people in the city, verse 9: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.” He stayed there a year and a half preaching. The Jews made a united attack on Paul and brought him before Gallio, the proconsul, to complain. However he rebuked them and told them to handle the matter themselves because the dispute involved their laws. The Jews then turned on Sosthenes and beat him in front of the court without any interference from Gallio.

 

Paul continued his missionary work in Ephesus, preaching in the Synagogue until he left, even though the Jews wanted him to stay. He said he would come back if it is God’s will.

Paul visited many cities, strengthening the brothers in various areas.

 

Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos,a native of Alexandria came to Ephesus to preach the way of the Lord. He had been schooled well and had a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. He taught about Jesus accurately but he was aware only of the baptism of John. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him preach they invited him to their home to more adequately explain the way of the Lord. When he wanted to go to Achaia the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him. He proved to be a great help to those, who by grace, believed. He vigorously refuted the Jews in public proving from Scripture that Jesus was the Christ.

 

Doesn’t the introduction of Apollos cause you to wonder about the difference between what he was preaching and the true way of Salvation? You see, he was preaching repentance of sins, not forgiveness of sins through Jesus. Remember, John was preaching repentance before Jesus was crucified. He was preaching to people to change their ways and admit sorrow for their sins. This is not salvation. A baptism of water does not save. Water baptism is merely symbolic; acceptance of Jesus as your Savior because He paid for the sin of mankind. This is Salvation. AS the Bible states quite literally,”There is no other name under Heaven whereby man can be saved.” (Acts 4:12) If you seek salvation in a religion or anything else you will be committing a mortal mistake. Simply read and listen to the Word of God.

 

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NO FEAR

 

ACTS 18: Upon his arrival in Corinth Paul met a Jew named Aquila and his wife Priscilla. They had come from Rome because all Jews were ordered to leave. Paul went to see them because he was a tentmaker and decided to stay for a while. Paul continued his preaching in the Synagogue every Sabbath until Timothy and Silas joined him. The Jews opposed Paul and began to be abusive, so Paul shook out his clothes in protest and left. He went next door to the house of Titus Justus who was a worshipper of God. A man named Crispus, a ruler in the Synagogue believed in Jesus, as well as many of the Corinthians.

 

One night Paul had a vision in which the Lord told him to continue preaching without fear because He had many of His people in the city, verse 9: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.” He stayed there a year and a half preaching. The Jews made a united attack on Paul and brought him before Gallio, the proconsul, to complain. However he rebuked them and told them to handle the matter themselves because the dispute involved their laws. The Jews then turned on Sosthenes and beat him in front of the court without any interference from Gallio.

 

Paul continued his missionary work in Ephesus, preaching in the Synagogue until he left, even though the Jews wanted him to stay. He said he would come back if it is God’s will.

Paul visited many cities, strengthening the brothers in various areas.

 

Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos,a native of Alexandria came to Ephesus to preach the way of the Lord. He had been schooled well and had a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. He taught about Jesus accurately but he was aware only of the baptism of John. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him preach they invited him to their home to more adequately explain the way of the Lord. When he wanted to go to Achaia the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him. He proved to be a great help to those, who by grace, believed. He vigorously refuted the Jews in public proving from Scripture that Jesus was the Christ.

 

Doesn’t the introduction of Apollos cause you to wonder about the difference between what he was preaching and the true way of Salvation? You see, he was preaching repentance of sins, not forgiveness of sins through Jesus. Remember, John was preaching repentance before Jesus was crucified. He was preaching to people to change their ways and admit sorrow for their sins. This is not salvation. A baptism of water does not save. Water baptism is merely symbolic; acceptance of Jesus as your Savior because He paid for the sin of mankind. This is Salvation. AS the Bible states quite literally,”There is no other name under Heaven whereby man can be saved.” (Acts 4:12) If you seek salvation in a religion or anything else you will be committing a mortal mistake. Simply read and listen to the Word of God.

 

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FILLED WITH JOY

 

 

ACTS 16: Paul visited Lystra and met a young disciple named Timothy whose mother was a Jewess and a believer and his father was a Greek. Paul wanted t take him with him on his journey but realized he had to circumcise him to be acceptable to the Jews who lived in the area. They traveled from town to town delivering the Good News of salvation and the numbers of people being converted increased.

 

Paul had a vision one night of a man from Macedonia who was telling Paul to come to his town to preach the Word. They stayed there awhile and then continued to travel winding up in Phillipi where they stayed for a few days. On the Sabbath they went outside the city to a place they expected to find people gathered to pray. It was there Paul met Lydia, a business woman who listened to his message of salvation and she accepted the Lord as Savior for her sins. She asked Paul to stay at her house. Her whole family believed and was baptized.

 

One day on their way to the place of prayer, they came across a demon possessed girl who had the ability to predict the future. She began to follow Paul wherever he went, antagonizing him by declaring that his message was from the Most High God. Finally Paul looked directly at her and commanded ‘that the spirit in her come out,’ verse18. It did and from that day forward she could no longer predict the future. Upon discovering they were out of business her owners took Paul and Silas to the marketplace to face the authorities, where they complained to the magistrates that they were causing an upheaval in the city. The crowd joined in the attack and the authorities ordered them to be whipped and placed in jail, ordering the jailer to make sure they couldn’t escape. In fear the jailer placed them in the center of the prison and placed their feet in stocks to be on the safe side. However the forces of God went to work in the night and ‘caused a tremor that shook the prison and caused the chains to fall from all the prisoners,’ verse26; including the opening of the doors. When the jailer realized what happened he was going to kill himself, assuming all the prisoners had escaped. Paul cried out to him telling him that all was well and everybody was accounted for. The jailer rushed to Paul and was so grateful that he asked Paul what he must do to be saved. Paul told him to believe and he and his whole household would be saved. He did and then took Paul to his house, fed them and cleaned their wounds. The jailer was filled with joy over the saving of himself and his family and they were all baptized to proclaim their acceptance of Jesus as Savior.

 

At daylight the magistrates ordered the release of Paul and Silas, But Paul insisted they come to the jail to release them, because they had no right to beat and jail Roman citizens. Obviously Paul was a Roman citizen. The magistrates were alarmed at this news and did what Paul requested. Later, they went to the house of Lydia where they met with the brothers to encourage them and hen they left.

 

Filled with joy is what God wants for us and the easiest way to be in that state is to know what He did for us, who we are, where we are, and where we will be for the rest of our eternity. Remember, believers are in the eternity now and forever.  It is your decision to accept Jesus or reject Him by doing nothing.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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. 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 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.

 

While Peter was speaking to them the Holy Spirit came upon all those who heard the message. Those 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 and without for three days. Paul was baptized at this time.

 

Paul spent several days in Damascus preaching and proving that Jesus is the Christ. He 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 disciple 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.”Without faith it is impossible to please God. Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see, “(Hebrews 11:1).

 

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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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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.

 

 

 

 

 

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FORGIVENESS UNSURPASSED

 

ACTS 3: This chapter vividly illustrates a type of forgiveness that is most difficult to understand when one considers all the events in the betrayal, torture, humiliation and crucifixion of Jesus. This is clearly a demonstration of a love that is truly one way, (Agape in the Greek, an unconditional love that requires nothing in return). Truly we have a great God.

 

One day Peter and John were on their way to the Temple and they came across a man who was crippled from birth. He was placed at the gate and would beg for money. As soon as he saw Peter he asked for money and Peter said to him that he did not have any but he would give him what he could. Peter then said in verse 6, “in the name of Jesus Christ, walk.” Peter took him by the hand and the man instantly got up and began to walk and jump with joy, he was perfectly healed. The people in the Temple could hardly believe their eyes and were completely astonished. Peter asked them why they stared at them as if they had accomplished this miraculous healing. He told them that his healing was a result of his faith in Jesus, verse 12, “Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? Peter laid it on them accusing them of killing the very author of life.

 

We now see the truly loving forgiveness of God when Peter told the crowd they had acted in ignorance and in spite of that God was willing to forgive them and give them everlasting life. Indeed this is forgiveness, unsurpassed. Peter told them to ‘repent of your sins and they will be forgiven.’ Peter then explained to them how the prophets of old had predicted all that had happened. Verse 24: “Indeed, all the prophets from Samuel on, as many as have spoken, have foretold these days.”

 

Repent, believe, and accept the free gift of life through Jesus and you will be saved. All His love makes it possible for anyone, regardless of their prior life, to be part of God’s family. Eternity is eternal, where do you want to be?

 

   

 

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THE LORD PROVIDES

 

John 21: We find ourselves at the end of the Gospel of John with seven of His disciples who decided to go fishing. They hadn’t had much success and daylight finally came upon them and Jesus was standing on the shore, although they did not know it was Him. He asked then if they had any fish and they told him they hadn’t caught any. He told them in verse 6 to: “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some. Immediately, it was filled with 153 fish, almost too heavy to carry in to shore, (This is an excellent example of the result of obedience to the Lord). The net did not tear even though it was overloaded with fish, which is the way things are when the Lord is involved. Jesus said: “Come and have breakfast.” This was the third time Jesus appeared to them since the resurrection.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

 

After breakfast Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him three times and He told him to tend His sheep (followers) each time. (This could have been an affirmation of Peter’s love for Jesus in reference to Peter’s three denials). Jesus then prophesied to Peter as to the type of death he would suffer, (crucifixion). Jesus then told Peter to follow Him and as they were walking another disciple followed them prompting Peter to question Jesus about him. Jesus told Peter that the other disciple was of no concern to him, i.e., Peter should be concerned about himself, (a good lesson for all of us).

 

John ends the Gospel with a testimony that every thing he wrote about Jesus was true as they were witnesses of all the events. John goes on to say that he thought if every thing that Jesus did were recorded the world would be not be able to contain the books which were written.

 

What we see in this chapter is a fine example of listening and being obedient to the Word of God. The word says to believe in Jesus and if we do we will have eternal life. In addition we will be able to live in the peace He offers, knowing that He loves us and is looking after us until the day when we will see him face to face. Amen.

 

 

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THE LORD PROVIDES

 

John 21: We find ourselves at the end of the Gospel of John with seven of His disciples who decided to go fishing. They hadn’t had much success and daylight finally came upon them and Jesus was standing on the shore, although they did not know it was Him. He asked then if they had any fish and they told him they hadn’t caught any. He told them in verse 6 to: “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some. Immediately, it was filled with 153 fish, almost too heavy to carry in to shore, (This is an excellent example of the result of obedience to the Lord). The net did not tear even though it was overloaded with fish, which is the way things are when the Lord is involved. Jesus said: “Come and have breakfast.” This was the third time Jesus appeared to them since the resurrection.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

 

After breakfast Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him three times and He told him to tend His sheep (followers) each time. (This could have been an affirmation of Peter’s love for Jesus in reference to Peter’s three denials). Jesus then prophesied to Peter as to the type of death he would suffer, (crucifixion). Jesus then told Peter to follow Him and as they were walking another disciple followed them prompting Peter to question Jesus about him. Jesus told Peter that the other disciple was of no concern to him, i.e., Peter should be concerned about himself, (a good lesson for all of us).

 

John ends the Gospel with a testimony that every thing he wrote about Jesus was true as they were witnesses of all the events. John goes on to say that he thought if every thing that Jesus did were recorded the world would be not be able to contain the books which were written.

 

What we see in this chapter is a fine example of listening and being obedient to the Word of God. The word says to believe in Jesus and if we do we will have eternal life. In addition we will be able to live in the peace He offers, knowing that He loves us and is looking after us until the day when we will see him face to face. Amen.

 

 

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CHAINS FALL OFF

 

Acts 12:7: “Quick get up!” The angel of the Lord told Peter and the chains fell from his wrists. Peter was imprisoned by Herod but the Lord had other plans for him. When God has a plan nothing is going to interfere. Have you ever considered God has a plan for you? Have you thought about the fact God saw you before you were born? It’s true you know and God does have a plan for each person ever born or those yet to be born.

 

I know the plan God has for me. He created me, He sustains me and He redeemed me by providing a Savior who paid my debt in full. He put me here on this earth to prepare me for eternity with Him. I have faith and trust in what His living word tells me. I know Jesus is my Savior; so can you.

 

PRAYER MINISTRY

 

1st Thessalonians 5:16: “Be joyful always, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you.in all circumstances.”

 

  Bunny and I are taking a week’s cruise this coming week. Please pray for a safe trip; thank you.

Bunny (my wife); Vista Knoll Nursing home patients; District Prayer Ministry; Dennis P.; Betty and family; Angela, cancer; Nick (me); Military; Emma and Alex; Tom H.; Patti L.; Jan; Doug; Jim & Michelle M; Sherry & Ellie O’C.: Dillon; Lynn; Donna; John M; Ross & Connie; Joan T; Pat Z.; Oguazi; Pam; Bruce; David F.; BMF; Tass and family; Johnny Riccio; Jay;

 

Rms.11:29: “For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.”

 

Web site: www.hiswayisfree.com        E-mail: ndelsesto@cox.net         

 

 

                         

 

 

 

 

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THE INTERCESSOR

 

John 17: Jesus looked toward Heaven and began to pray: Verse 1-3: “Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people thst he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”

 

Jesus continues praying to the Father throughout this entire chapter. Verse 6, 7: “I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours; you gave them to me and they have obeyed your word. Now they know that everything you have given me comes from you.” Verse 9: “I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me for they are yours. Verse 15: “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.” Verse 18: “As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.”

 

Verse 20, 21: “My prayer is not for them alone. I also pray for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you…”

 

This is a beautiful prayer and I would suggest you read the entire chapter; it will certainly humble you.

 

Sermon On the Net

PEACE AND TRIBULATION

 

John 16: The time of the crucifixion is drawing close and Jesus begins to inform the disciples of things to come and things they need to know. Jesus explains the reason He had not told them all these things before because He was with them from the beginning of His ministry. He wants them to be prepared because a time was soon to come when the Jews would think they would be doing a service for God by killing the Disciples. The fact was that they did not know the true God: Jesus said in verse 3, “They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me.” Jesus wanted them to remember these things so that when certain events happened they will remember He told them in advance. The Holy Spirit will come to teach them and help them to remember all things, and He will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. The greatest sin is not believing in Jesus which, obviously, has serious consequences.

 

In verse 16 Jesus says “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.” They could not understand what He was saying and He finally told them that He would soon speak more plainly to them, (referring to the time following His resurrection).He explains that they will be able to ask anything of the Father in His name and it will be granted to them. Jesus then tells them that He came from the Father and is soon to return to Him. The disciples understood this and believed in Him. Jesus told them that they would desert Him soon; however He would not be alone because the Father would be with Him, (referring to the time preceding the crucifixion}. The last verse in this chapter is a most comforting and heartwarming message from Jesus. He says, “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.” Verse 33.

 

There shouldn’t be any doubt in anyone’s mind, as Jesus said, that there is tribulation in the world. The question is, can we have real peace while living in this world? In John 16:33 Jesus said you may ‘have peace’. How? Jesus died on the cross to pay the sin debt of everyone and all that is required of anyone who wants the assurance of this peace is to believe it. Yes, believe that Jesus died on the cross for all those who welcome Him into their heart. Then, and only then, will we have the peace that Jesus promised us.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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THE WAY AND THE TRUTH

 

JOHN 14: Verses 1-14. Here we see Jesus encouraging His disciples telling them; “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” He tells them that He will return for them to take them where He will be. Thomas asked Jesus where He was going and Jesus said: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Because the disciples still had doubts, He told them to believe in His works if they couldn’t believe in what they were witnessing. Jesus told them that anyone who believed would be able to do the works that He was doing, and possibly even greater works. Jesus said, “You may ask for anything in my name, and I will do it.”

 

Verses 15-26: These verses involve the Holy Spirit; Jesus told the disciples “If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever.” He would send the Holy Spirit to them after His ascension to Heaven. The Holy Spirit would teach them and cause them to remember all the things that happened when Jesus was with them.

 

VERSES 27-31: Jesus is soon going to be leaving His disciples and He tells them that He is leaving them peace and they should not be troubled because of the events of the world that are going to come to confront them in their crusade to establish His Church.

 

Today we live in a world that is probably very different than the time of  Jesus’ ministry on earth and yet it is probably the same in many respects. The reason we were created, the reason we are here is the same since the beginning of Adam and Eve. God wants to fellowship with His people and He wants all the people to be ‘His people’, but history tells us the way it is, the way it was and the way it’s going to be. Some will choose to go the way of Jesus while others will choose to remain on the path to which they were destined at birth. But know this, John 14:6 is very clear and uncompromising; Jesus said that He and only He is the Way, there is no other. I pray daily for you all that you will examine your beliefs and take the simple faith step and accept Jesus as your personal Savior. It’s very easy, just tell the Lord that you are a sinner and you are lost, and ask Him to come into your life. My friends, you can believe that He will and you will know when He does.

 

 

 

Sermon On the Net

HUMILITY & LOVE

 

I have decided to change the format of Bible study to a combination of Bible study and Salvation (the most important consideration of Christianity). I will write two parts to each message, the first will be an overview of the chapter and the second will be a salvation message lifted from the chapter being discussed.

 

John 13 has two major issues: First we see a demonstration of the humility of Jesus as He washes the feet of His disciples; verse 8 says, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” This is the kind of forgiveness and humility Jesus wants us to possess in our everyday lives. Jesus does mention that saved people should confess their sins to Him because sin will happen in our daily walk. We have been cleansed once and for all but we should always confess our sins.

 

The second point of this chapter is the demonstration of a love that only God has. Jesus chose Judas and gave him plenty of opportunity to believe, but Judas chose to fall prey to the deception that Satan had placed in his heart. When Jesus told the disciples to love one another (and we are to follow the same example), as He loved us (verse 34). We do not possess that kind of love, (His love is unconditional), but we can sure try and always pray to God He will help us to achieve that goal.

 

John 13:38: When Jesus told Peter he would deny Him three times in this verse  He was well aware of the inherent weakness in mankind, (“…before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.”) In spite of man’s weakness Jesus still offers salvation to anyone who will take a faith step and believe in Him. This is truly a God of love and forgiveness. To know that we were separated from Him at birth because of the fall of Adam and Eve, and the sin that we commit in our lives, and to have salvation offered to us is simply an astounding fact of life. John 13:8: Jesus said, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with me.” We need to consider the washing of our sins with His blood on the cross, because that is exactly what He did, if only you will believe it.

 

 

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THE BETRAYER

 

 

John 12: We find Jesus in Bethany six days before the Passover, sitting at the dinner table with His disciples. Mary anointed Jesus’ feet with a very expensive perfume and it caused Judas (the betrayer) to become angry. Judas thought this was a waste of money and could have been used for the poor: actually he was probably more concerned because he stole money from the money box from time to time. Here we have a man who was not only a betrayer, but a thief as well and who knows what else. Jesus told Judas to let Mary do what she wants, as the poor would always be around, but not so with Jesus ( He was predicting His crucifixion). Verse 7: “Leave her alone, it was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.”

 

The multitude of Jews learned that Jesus and Lazarus were in the area and began to devise a plan to put Lazarus to death as well as Jesus, because many were beginning to believe in Jesus because of the He miracle performed on Lazarus. The next day the crowd gathered palm branches to place on the road where Jesus would appear riding on a donkey to go into town. This is a prophecy found id Zechariah 9:9, “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, daughter of Jerusalem! See your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt,” The disciples were at a loss as to what all this meant, but realized its meaning later. The Pharisees were becoming more agitated with Jesus because more and more people were beginning to believe.

 

There were some Greeks who came to see Jesus and when He was told they wanted to see Him, He told them that the time of His glorification was at hand. He used a parable to explain that He must die and would rise again and many would come to believe in Him because of it, verse 23-26. He also told them that people who love their life on this earth would lose it and those who hate it would find eternal life. He continued, saying that the Father would honor people who serve Him; “…My Father will honor the one who serves me.”

 

At this time Jesus began to feel the stress of the coming events. Verse 27 says, “Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father glorify your name.” And as He said that, a voice came with a thunderous sound, saying that He had glorified it and would glorify it again. Jesus explained to those near Him that the voice was not for Him, but rather for the benefit of the people, He then told them that judgment was upon the world and that satan would be cast away at the appropriate time. He told them of His being ‘lifted up’   (crucifixion), which would provide the way of salvation. The crowd questioned His meaning of being lifted up. As was His way at times, He simply stated that people should believe and follow Him while He is still here, and they will become members of the family of God. However we continue to see so many, many people refusing to believe.

 

John 12:37-40 need clarification as it can be somewhat confusing and misleading. Isaiah 6:10 is a prophecy of this section: the nation of Israel is now in judgment because they have refused to believe and their hearts have been hardened because of their continued stubbornness through out the ages, and now He turns His attention to the Gentiles. We are in the time of the Gentiles and our opportunity for salvation. There were many Jews who did believe in Jesus but were afraid to admit it because they did not want to be put out of the synagogue. Jesus told them that anyone who believed in Him actually believes in God the Father: “When a man believes in me, he does not believe in me only, but in the one who sent me,” verse 44. He told them that He came to open their eyes, but for those that don’t believe, He says His Word will judge them on the last day. As Jesus is God’s representative, He is stating all of God’s wishes, the most important one being, believing in Him and having eternal life.

 

The meaning to me in this chapter is as follows: Verses 1-9 presents the opportunity for Judas to believe and be a true disciple and follow Him faithfully. However Judas allowed satan to influence and control Him to the point of betraying God. We must be careful of satan and the ways in which He can deceive us. He is a master at deception.

Verses 9-11: Here we witness how some will go to any extreme to prevent people from believing in anything other than what they desire.

Verses12-19: The fulfillment of this prophecy supports the validity and accuracy of the Bible as a whole entity, nothing to be exclusive in and by itself. We see prophecy being fulfilled in this section.

Verses 20-26: again we see prophecy made and fulfilled within the lives of the disciples to encourage them as they see these things unfold in their life times. We, also, should be encouraged.

Verse 27: In spite of what was coming, Jesus did not back down for our sake. Truly this is an inspiration to me.

Verse 43: Such a gracious and forgiving God we have, as He overlooks our weaknesses as He did for those who were afraid to state their convictions.

Verse 48: the world is going to be judged by the words contained in the Bible. Jesus said it and I believe it.

 

My application of the words in this chapter is to believe it, trust in it and follow His Word, Amen and amen.