Debased and Deserving Death

Romans 1:28-32    
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.

Those who are wise in their own eyes do not think about or consider God for more than a passing moment.  Instead they fill their thoughts and actions with hate to God and others, self-consumed and breaking the two main commandments - not loving God or others.  They hear God’s righteousness judgment coming on their sin, yet still continue to live opposed to God and supporting others who do the same.  We see this throughout history, and especially in our western cultures today.  It is even “intolerant” to point out these truths of God as society and politics encourage the rebellion in these verses. 

Wise in Own Eyes, Foolish

Romans 1:22-27    
22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.  24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.   26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

Those refusing to glorify God are only wise in their own eyes; making idols of things created by God (including themselves), they hold to ideas of creation by chance and worship their excuses called ideas in place of their obvious maker.  These self taught lies only lead to misuse of their own created bodies for their temporary enjoyment, refusing to rightly use all to honor God’s creation for good.  So God in return gives them over to receive what they ask for and rightfully deserve for rebellion and dishonor of their maker - their dirty desires given into, with resultant penalties both here and beyond death. 

God’s Wrath and Glory

Romans 1:18-21    
18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 

God is justly angry over men’s sinful thoughts and deeds, for they all deny God in His character and creation.  We can see His fingerprints in the stars and in the atom, in the complexity of the planets and in what we call nature.  By these works of His hands we see the hands behind each work, yet deny accountability to Him and so deny God Himself.  God as creator and sustainer stands around us in a cosmic display of His divinity, yet we hide in the garden and are not thankful.  So none has an excuse to not glorify God.  Instead we lift up our empty knowledge and reason apart from Him while His wrath looms over us in sure judgment until we admit our state and turn to trust and honor our Maker. Otherwise, we only find darkness in our rebellious hearts apart from His light... 

Not Ashamed of the Gospel

Romans 1:13-17    
13 Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you (but was hindered until now), that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles. 14 I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise. 15 So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also.   16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.”

Paul tried many time before he could get to Rome, desiring to be fruitful with the good words of life there.  He reached Greeks and other peoples, and now was bringing this gospel to Rome at the empire’s center.  He was not ashamed of Christ or the saving message, knowing it was not his words that convinced or changed others, but God’s power by His Spirit through His word.  This message of Christ and His work had power no man could ever have, as it reached across nations and peoples to make them stand in Christ’s righteousness by trust in Him for it in their place.  His imputed righteousness justifies the ungodly-good news indeed! 

Faith’s Witness

Romans 1:8-12   
8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers, 10 making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you. 11 For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established— 12 that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.

Why was Paul thankful? The Roman followers of Jesus Christ were examples of and for the gospel; many knew their story and so Paul reminded and encouraged them that he did also.  He also let them know of his constant prayer and desire to come to see them in person. His prayer was not just to be with them, but to build their faith up and encourage each other in Christ.  This pastoral heart was lit by God in Paul’s soul and so he poured himself out as a drink offering on them for their grown in knowing and making Him known.  A great example of a servant heart to follow. 

All Reborn Are Saints

Romans 1:5-7   
5 Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name, 6 among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ; 7 To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul knew his calling and the very grace of God meant obedience to the faith given to and exercised by him in Christ.  He also acknowledged those in Rome who also were called by God, called out to the obedience of true holiness by being separated to God out of the world.  So he pronounces that grace and God's peace from God as Father and Son upon these elect ones.  The resurrected Christ brought out and bought out His people with divine power as planned and foretold.  So is our certain hope as His saints, the elect of God in Christ Jesus. 

Romans - Separated Messenger

Romans 1:1-4    
1 Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God 2 which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, 3 concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, 4 and declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.

Paul considered himself a willing servant-slave to his Lord because he was called out by God.  He was set apart to God's good news, His words of life and reconciliation in Jesus Christ, just as promised in all of God's word from the beginning in Genesis to Abraham and to us.  He clarifies that Jesus is both man and God in these opening declarations of Romans, attested to by the Spirit of God's power working through the man, as well as the ability to raise Himself from death to give us the same hope.  His power and authority to save as only God can was embodied in a man like us to take our just punishment and penalty of death.  His grace and mercy in calling us out is guaranteed by His work, His Spirit working in us, and the certain and proven hope of resurrection to life forever with Him. So we who are likewise called out to God in Christ are joyful slaves to His righteousness and work. 

Continuing in Rome

Acts 28:29-31    

29 And when he had said these words, the Jews departed and had a great dispute among themselves.  30 Then Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, 31 preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.

After Paul told the Jews who hardened their hearts to be deaf and blind to the gospel, he let them argue among themselves while speaking the words of life to others in Rome.  He taught the kingdom of God in Christ from his house, welcoming all who were drawn to listen.  Nobody stopped the work, and so he pushed forward to reach the heart of the Roman Empire with the power of the truth of God's work on the cross, Christ crucified. 

Such Grace in Salvation!

Acts 28:25-28   

25 So when they did not agree among themselves, they departed after Paul had said one word: “The Holy Spirit spoke rightly through Isaiah the prophet to our fathers, 26 saying, ‘Go to this people and say: “Hearing you will hear, and shall not understand; And seeing you will see, and not perceive; 27 For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, And their eyes they have closed, Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, So that I should heal them.” ’ 28 “Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will hear it!”

God used Paul to try reach the chosen Jewish people first, but their hearts were hardened so they refused to hear with understanding and could not see the Messiah in their own scriptures.  Their ears were deaf to the gospel as they turned to their own laws over time.  So God turned to the nations promised through Abram to become as numerous as the stars or sand on a beach.  Salvation came to us in part due to the spiritually deaf, dumb, and blind, but more so because God chose us out along with  the remnant of Israel before time began.  He alone opens eyes and ears of the hearts of men by His choice.  Such grace in salvation! 

We Desire to Hear From You

Acts 28:21-24 
21 Then they said to him, “We neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor have any of the brethren who came reported or spoken any evil of you. 22 But we desire to hear from you what you think; for concerning this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere.”  23 So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. 24 And some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved.

The Roman Jews listened to hear what this new sect was about, for they did not hear anything except that many were against it.  So Paul took a whole day to meet and tell of the kingdom of God that was in and through Jesus Christ alone.  He showed  Old Testament scriptures all pointed to and told of the Christ.  Some were moved to understanding and others refused to believe the facts.  Even now many will hear the truth of God, yet choose to believe otherwise, refusing to trust God and admit their accountability to Him.  They choose not to believe and submit to His authority, and remain in their sin.

Present Your Case

Acts 28:17-20 
17 And it came to pass after three days that Paul called the leaders of the Jews together. So when they had come together, he said to them: “Men and brethren, though I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans, 18 who, when they had examined me, wanted to let me go, because there was no cause for putting me to death. 19 But when the Jews spoke against it, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, not that I had anything of which to accuse my nation. 20 For this reason therefore I have called for you, to see you and speak with you, because for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.”

In Rome, Paul met with the Jewish leaders to present his case for being there.  He again spoke of his innocence, yet also God's provision in the need for safety by plotting against him.  So Paul came with the hope of Israel (and the world) to the capital of the empire.  So began his conversation with the Jewish leaders in Rome.  Paul was divinely appointed to spread the gospel far and wide, to the end of the earth…so should we follow Him as He leads.

Sovereign Journey's End

Acts 28:14-16   
14 where we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we went toward Rome. 15 And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.  16 Now when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard; but Paul was permitted to dwell by himself with the soldier who guarded him.

Paul and company made a few stops on the way to Rome, and at Puteoli (by Naples, north of Pompeii) they found other believers to stay and fellowship with for a week.  Others also heard and met them on the last leg of the trip.  So God encouraged Paul with them and he bravely pushed on. Finally, the centurion handed over Paul to the captain of the guard at the prison.  Paul was even given his own room and a guard.  So God drew Paul to Rome through an appeal to Caesar that was not needed legally, and kept him safe to arrive in the heart of the empire in order to bring the gospel there.  Sovereignty.  Grace.

Providing What is Necessary

Acts 28:7-10   
7 In that region there was an estate of the leading citizen of the island, whose name was Publius, who received us and entertained us courteously for three days. 8 And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him. 9 So when this was done, the rest of those on the island who had diseases also came and were healed. 10 They also honored us in many ways; and when we departed, they provided such things as were necessary.

An important man lay sick on the island where Paul, the prisoners, and Roman soldiers were shipwrecked.  When the man contracted dysentery, Paul prayed for him and God made him well - and then was used to make others well also.  So Paul and his traveling band were held in honor until they were able to continue their journey toward Rome, and were given supplies for the trip.  So we are to help others, asking nothing as we give of ourselves to minister to the needs.  God gave up His honor and dignity to become a man and suffer for us, so how can we not serve as He showed us?  Paul got this.

Shake the Snake Off

Acts 28:3-6 
3 But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand. 4 So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live.” 5 But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. 6 However, they were expecting that he would swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had looked for a long time and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.

After being shipwrecked on Malta and receiving hospitality of warmth and food, Paul was bitten by a poisonous snake.  The natives kept waiting for him to die from the bite, yet he had shaken the snake into the flames and nothing happened.  They erroneously said he was a god, not realizing the power was from God above to keep him safe, not in or of his own power.  Whatever we do, it is Christ working through us.  When God keeps us from harm, He alone gets the glory; we have no right to mislead others by taking it for our own. 

Unbroken Promise

Acts 27:39-44 
39 When it was day, they did not recognize the land; but they observed a bay with a beach, onto which they planned to run the ship if possible. … 42 And the soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away and escape. 43 But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose, and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, 44 and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land.

About to be shipwrecked, they headed to an unknown landing with a beach in a bay - but the ship was caught and began to be broken up.  The soldiers normally would kill prisoners rather than let them escape, but Paul's influence and speech earlier stopped that.  So they swam to shore or floated in on debris; they all lived.  So God kept them together and alive as promised.  His promises are certain and salvation to all He calls to the heavenly shore is to be relied on.  He is faithful who promises.

Trust in the Storm

Acts 27:34-38 
34 Therefore I urge you to take nourishment, for this is for your survival, since not a hair will fall from the head of any of you.” 35 And when he had said these things, he took bread and gave thanks to God in the presence of them all; and when he had broken it he began to eat. 36 Then they were all encouraged, and also took food themselves. 37 And in all we were two hundred and seventy-six persons on the ship. 38 So when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship and threw out the wheat into the sea.

Paul old everyone to eat before throwing the last food overboard, promising none would die if they did as God instructed.  So he gave thanks in breaking bread (communion), encouraging the other 275 to to the same.  So we can also encourage others by our partaking in and trusting in our Lord and God, Jesus Christ when the storms and floods of life arise.

Ride Out the Storm

Acts 27:30-33   
30 And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, when they had let down the skiff into the sea, under pretense of putting out anchors from the prow, 31 Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved.” 32 Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the skiff and let it fall off.  33 And as day was about to dawn, Paul implored them all to take food, saying, “Today is the fourteenth day you have waited and continued without food, and eaten nothing.

Some tried to steal away in the lifeboat to escape the raging sea and howling winds, but God used Paul to tell them their only hope was to ride out the storm together, eating for nourishment and strength.  So we find rescue in God's plan, holding to Him and finding our sustenance in the bread of life, Jesus Christ.  If we try to escape the storm of judgment or trials on our own efforts, we are capsized and drown in sorrows.  He alone is deliverance.

Voice in the Storm

Acts 27:22-26 
22 And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’ 25 Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me. 26 However, we must run aground on a certain island.”

God showed Paul that the storm would destroy the ship only, as long as they listened.  The assurance was that God had plans for Paul which were absolute and laid out already for him to go before Caesar with the words of life.  God also granted the lives of all traveling with him, no matter how fierce the storm.  So he encouraged all to trust God through him until they ran aground and were safe.  God has absolute sovereign design and control over our circumstances.  He is faithful to His plans for us to the end of His glory in it all.  So we have faith - we trust the God of all in all things.

Tiny Ship Was Tossed

Acts 27:18-21 
18 And because we were exceedingly tempest-tossed, the next day they lightened the ship. 19 On the third day we threw the ship's tackle overboard with our own hands. 20 Now when neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest beat on us, all hope that we would be saved was finally given up.  21 But after long abstinence from food, then Paul stood in the midst of them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss.

The tiny ship was tossed and all seemed lost in the raging storm, with desperate moves to throw even the needed tackle overboard to lighten the ship and avoid sinking.  The storm grew darker so even the sun at day and stars at night could not be seen.  They gave up all hope.  Then after much fasting , Paul addressed the ship’s beleaguered crew to remind them of the warning from God to not set sail. He did this not to criticize, but to point to the God who knows and cares.  The one offering hope and light in the helplessness of sin’s darkness and life’s storms.  Even in these circumstances Paul pointed to God’s mercy and grace in Christ, for he lived for the gospel’s sake in the hearts of men.

God's Headwind

Acts 27:13-17 
13 When the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their desire, putting out to sea, they sailed close by Crete. 14 But not long after, a tempestuous head wind arose, called Euroclydon. 15 So when the ship was caught, and could not head into the wind, we let her drive. 16 And running under the shelter of an island called Clauda, we secured the skiff with difficulty. 17 When they had taken it on board, they used cables to undergird the ship; and fearing lest they should run aground on the Syrtis Sands, they struck sail and so were driven.

Setting sail on a course against God's warning, the wind began to blow hard against them and they could not fight it anymore.  So they ran with the tempest until some shelter was found; there they pulled the water laden launch boat up and tied cables under the ship to keep it from breaking up.  Then they set sail again to avoid the well known dangerous shallows and sandbanks.  They were sailing against the headwind of God's warning, yet He was still watching over and protecting Paul so he could finish the race and do the work he was called to.  God's sovereignty ensures man's decisions do not detract from what He sets in place and in motion.

Path to Destruction

Acts 27:9-11 
9 Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, 10 saying, “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives.” 11 Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul.

The weather turned worse as the seasons changed, yet the warning God gave Paul to the centurion in charge of the ship was not heeded.  He easily dismissed this Jew, this Christian, headed for trial, not knowing God's hand and Spirit on him with the wisdom to know disaster lay ahead on the present course.  So the Roman listened to the ship owner and driver rather than him.  Even now when God's people speak, many will continue on the path to destruction, sailing in a blind faith of human wisdom without foundation or merit.  But those led by God are on an even keel on a journey mapped out by God along the way. 

Journey of Trust

Acts 27:1-8 
1 And when it was decided that we should sail to Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to one named Julius, a centurion of the Augustan Regiment. 2 So, entering a ship of Adramyttium, we put to sea, meaning to sail along the coasts of Asia. Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, was with us. 3 And the next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him liberty to go to his friends and receive care. … 7 When we had sailed slowly many days, and arrived with difficulty off Cnidus, the wind not permitting us to proceed, we sailed under the shelter of Crete off Salmone. 8 Passing it with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near the city of Lasea.

Sailing to Rome took many stops along the way, and Paul had a Thessalonican brother, Aristarchus, along.  He was even allowed to go ashore at Sidon to see friends and be ministered to by them.  The continuing journey became more difficult and they had to sail along Crete for shelter from the harsh winds and accompanying storms.  The journey was God bringing Paul to testify to the truth in Rome, but it was not easy; these difficulties were allowed and designed to show others Paul's faith in action, trusting a real savior Lord in all circumstances.  A great example for us all.

Almost Persuaded

Acts 26:28-32 
28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.” 29 And Paul said, “I would to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains.”  30 When he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and Bernice and those who sat with them; 31 and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, “This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains.” 32 Then Agrippa said to Festus, “This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”

Reason almost convinced the king to become a Christian, but unless God called him to that time, he would go no further.  Paul pleaded for him to have the reconciled relationship of joy that he had in Christ, but at this time they only saw Paul's innocence.  Yet the law was set in motion for meeting the court of Caesar in Rome to bear witness there.  We can only wonder if God granted repentance to eternal life to Agrippa, Festus, and Drusilla… we do know that God's word does not return empty.

Beside Yourself!

Acts 26:24-27 
24 Now as he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!”   25 But he said, “I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and reason. 26 For the king, before whom I also speak freely, knows these things; for I am convinced that none of these things escapes his attention, since this thing was not done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.”

The governor thought Paul was crazy as he spoke of life after death through the death and resurrection of the Messiah as all had witnessed or heard of from Jerusalem.  Paul reminded the governor that this was truth and reason.  Then he let the king know that he knew and believed the prophets that foretold of the Christ as well.  Paul reminded Agrippa that this was not missed by him to point him to believe these words of life that are the good news of Jesus Christ.  So we need not fear to tell the truth to our leaders, and so point them to the gospel with truth and reason as God's word contains.

To This Day I Stand

Acts 26:21-23   
21 For these reasons the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me. 22 Therefore, having obtained help from God, to this day I stand, witnessing both to small and great, saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would come— 23 that the Christ would suffer, that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.”

Paul was attacked for the hope found in the prophets and writings of Moses (OT Torah, Pentateuch).  He bore witness to those truths of God saying the Messiah, the Christian, the one of God sent into the world as deliverer was Jesus.  These same scriptures spoke of His sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection.  So light for the world held in the darkness of sin and the devil’s reign was shone to us in the face of Jesus Christ, revealing the glory of God in this most good word of life, the gospel.  For this Paul risked all, for giving up His life was a small thing to bring resurrected life that lasts forever to others.

Not Disobedient

Acts 26:17-20 
17 I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, 18 to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’  19 “Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, 20 but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance.

God delivered Paul from death expressly to bring the gospel words of life - that they might turn from sin and toward God, that they might have their eyes opened by God through His Spirit and Son.  That they may be forgiven for their sin, inheriting everything in Christ forever as His children.  That the darkness in their souls wandering apart from God, dead in sin, might see the blazing light of His kingdom when set free indeed.  This is why Paul was obedient to bear witness far and wide to the truth at risk to his own life.  He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose…

Minister and Witness

Acts 26:14-16 
14 And when we all had fallen to the ground, I heard a voice speaking to me and saying in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ 15 So I said, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 16 But rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you.

Paul recounted how he fell to the ground as the bright light of Jesus Christ met him on the Damascus road, and the voice of the Lord asked why Paul was persecuting Him.  Then Paul was told to stand and follow for a life of purpose - to serve and witness to all Paul had seen and would be revealed to him by God's Spirit of revelation.  God called Saul out of darkness to be transformed into Paul the apostle, evangelist, and servant, by the light of His presence and image.  We see God's calling, our purpose, and His glory in Paul’s example to learn from.

I Saw The Light

Acts 26:9-13 
9 “Indeed, I myself thought I must do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 This I also did in Jerusalem, and many of the saints I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them. 11 And I punished them often in every synagogue and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly enraged against them, I persecuted them even to foreign cities.   12 “While thus occupied, as I journeyed to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests, 13 at midday, O king, along the road I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, shining around me and those who journeyed with me.

Paul recounts his persecution of Christians by authority of the religious leaders, voting for their death sentences and beating them until they blasphemed.  He was so full of anger against Christ that he traveled far and wide to hunt them down.  Yet one day he saw the light… the light of heaven, Jesus, met him on the road to stop him…

Hope of the Resurrection

Acts 26:5-8   
5 They knew me from the first, if they were willing to testify, that according to the strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. 6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers. 7 To this promise our twelve tribes, earnestly serving God night and day, hope to attain. For this hope's sake, King Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews. 8 Why should it be thought incredible by you that God raises the dead?

Paul’s accusers knew his strict religious upbringing and lifestyle, but were unwilling to admit that due to their hatred of the words of life he spoke concerning Jesus the Christ.  He made it clear that the Christian way was the promise made by God to Abraham and Israel.  He was being judged for that fulfilled hope of all the Scriptures, the hope of eternal life and a resurrection from death to life.  Absolute and certain hope brings life, so Jesus rose from the grave and calls us to with Him.  That gospel is what Paul was being persecuted for (as he formerly persecuted also before God found him).

Ready to Answer

Acts 26:1-4 
1 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You are permitted to speak for yourself.” So Paul stretched out his hand and answered for himself: 2 “I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews, 3 especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which have to do with the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.  4 “My manner of life from my youth, which was spent from the beginning among my own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews know.

Paul spoke to the king with joy, giving an answer for the hope in him and to nullify the false accusations brought against him by those with an agenda.  He acknowledged that the king knew the Jewish customs, and so did not have to explain those to show his actions did not violate those as he was slandered to have done.  So Paul began with his past upbringing among his people to lay the foundation of his character and actions.  We also should live above reproach, suffering only as a Christian, and not for ourselves.  Then our testimony is clear and believable, honoring God. 

Not Fit to Live!

Acts 25:24-27 
24 And Festus said: “King Agrippa and all the men who are here present with us, you see this man about whom the whole assembly of the Jews petitioned me, both at Jerusalem and here, crying out that he was not fit to live any longer. 25 But when I found that he had committed nothing deserving of death, and that he himself had appealed to Augustus, I decided to send him. 26 I have nothing certain to write to my lord concerning him. Therefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the examination has taken place I may have something to write. 27 For it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner and not to specify the charges against him.”

The Jews presented their case to the Roman authorities as Paul not being fit to live.  The law found no cause for death, and Paul refused to be put back in judgment at Jerusalem due to the plots against him.  So, on the way to Rome for trial, he now is to be questioned by King Agrippa.  Festus the governor brought him to the king because he did not want to send Paul to Rome without any charges against him.  So God used the legal system and worldly citizenship rights to keep Paul alive to testify to the truth which Pilate questioned before Jesus at His trial.

Crux of the Gospel

Acts 25:17-19 
17 Therefore when they had come together, without any delay, the next day I sat on the judgment seat and commanded the man to be brought in. 18 When the accusers stood up, they brought no accusation against him of such things as I supposed, 19 but had some questions against him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who had died, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.

Now a king hears the plight of Paul from a governor, and hears the allegations by the Jews against him concerning Jesus who died and is told to be alive.  The resurrection is the crux of the hope in Christ, proving not only that He is God, the Lord, but also that He has power over death for us.  We who are His have a certain hope, not a wish or vague expectation, of rising from death to life - both as a reborn creature now, and beyond the grave into forever.  This hope some will try to use legal means to quench, but the word of God is effective and unquenchable.

Opportunity to Answer

Acts 25:13-16 
13 And after some days King Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to greet Festus. 14 When they had been there many days, Festus laid Paul's case before the king, saying: “There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix, 15 about whom the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, when I was in Jerusalem, asking for a judgment against him. 16 To them I answered, ‘It is not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to destruction before the accused meets the accusers face to face, and has opportunity to answer for himself concerning the charge against him.’

Paul was told (Acts 9:15) in his calling that he would testify before kings and Israel - he did in the synagogue and now by a king after a governor.  The nations would be next.  So here the king will hear the accused and accusers, and Paul will present the reason for the hope in him and the suffering it has brought unjustly.  God used Paul to testify, to bear witness to the gospel’s words of life.  So will we have opportunities to give a reason of our hope, though not specifically called as Paul before kings necessarily. 

To Caesar!

Acts 25:9-12 
9 But Festus, wanting to do the Jews a favor, answered Paul and said, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and there be judged before me concerning these things?”  10 So Paul said, “I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged. To the Jews I have done no wrong, as you very well know. 11 For if I am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death, I do not object to dying; but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one can deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar.”  12 Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, “You have appealed to Caesar? To Caesar you shall go!”

Festus wanted to appease the Jews and deliver Paul to them, but Paul reminded the governor that he had the right as a Roman to be judged in Rome.  He would gladly face the charges in a legal court due to his innocence, but not before biased religious leaders set on destroying him, much as others tied to do to King David a thousand years earlier.  It was his right as a Roman citizen.  So he was granted an audience before Caesar.  We are under the rulers God sets over us, so we use the process with a good conscience.

Give No Offense

Acts 25:6-8 
6 And when he had remained among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea. And the next day, sitting on the judgment seat, he commanded Paul to be brought. 7 When he had come, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood about and laid many serious complaints against Paul, which they could not prove, 8 while he answered for himself, “Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar have I offended in anything at all.”

The governor heard Paul in court, as well as the Jews who wanted him dead still.  The allegations were weighty, but lacked merit - they could not prove anything.  So Paul again made it clear he did nothing against Roman law, let alone against the Jewish religious system.  He made it a point to be without offense to God and man, as we should also.  Standing for the truth in loving response (though firm) allows God to show His glory in His sovereign work.

Ambush

Acts 25:1-5 
1 Now when Festus had come to the province, after three days he went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem. 2 Then the high priest and the chief men of the Jews informed him against Paul; and they petitioned him, 3 asking a favor against him, that he would summon him to Jerusalem—while they lay in ambush along the road to kill him. 4 But Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself was going there shortly. 5 “Therefore,” he said, “let those who have authority among you go down with me and accuse this man, to see if there is any fault in him.”

The new governor Festus was also approached by the religious leaders to setup a trap to kill Paul, much like before - an ambush.  Again God provided wisdom to the governor to instead call the accusers to present their legal case while Paul was remained safely in the Roman protection at Caesarea.  God watched over Paul again so the gospel could continue to be proclaimed through him to kings and authorities as he was previously told would accompany his sufferings for Christ's sake.

Curious Conviction

Acts 24:24-26   
24 And after some days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. 25 Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” 26 Meanwhile he also hoped that money would be given him by Paul, that he might release him. Therefore he sent for him more often and conversed with him.

Felix and his Jewish wife asked Paul to speak with them, being curious, but soon felt convicted by the reasoning from scripture.  Paul talked about righteousness (we all fall short so can only have Christ's), self-control (choosing to do what God says over our desires), and the judgment that is coming (we are all accountable for our sin and will be rightly punished apart from Christ's righteousness).  So Felix sent him away to avoid confronting the truth of his own sin, guilt, and just dues.  But he did send for him often to get him to pay for better treatment or possibly even release… the seeds were planted, however.

Knowing the Way

Acts 24:22-23   
22 But when Felix heard these things, having more accurate knowledge of the Way, he adjourned the proceedings and said, “When Lysias the commander comes down, I will make a decision on your case.” 23 So he commanded the centurion to keep Paul and to let him have liberty, and told him not to forbid any of his friends to provide for or visit him.

The governor hears Paul's good defense for the reason of the hope that is in him, gaining a better picture of what the accusations were.  He waited until the army commander came before deciding the legal case against Paul, meanwhile keeping Paul under house arrest with visitation privileges.  He was not treated as a criminal, but the legalities had to be followed.  Yet God used this as an opportunity for Paul to have a captive audience to the words of life as well…

Judged for Assured Hope

Acts 24:17-21 
17 “Now after many years I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation, 18 in the midst of which some Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with a mob nor with tumult. 19 They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me. 20 Or else let those who are here themselves say if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council, 21 unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’ ”

Paul came to do his religious and civic duty when nearly beaten to death, and so he presented the case that those falsely accusing him should show up for the trial.  The real reason they had so much against him that they wanted to kill him was the gospel - the resurrection after death in Christ.  The certain hope in Jesus went against the ritualistic earning of God's favor that so many wore as their prideful accomplishments, and so they sought to stop the free gift that nullified their useless efforts.  Grace by faith in Christ alone was on trial.  Even today religious systems wage war against this. 

Good Conscience

Acts 24:14-16 
14 But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets. 15 I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust. 16 This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.

Paul testified that the way of Jesus Christ was not different nor opposed to the Law and Prophets of Israel, but the fulfillment of all God said as it was written.  This hope was in God and so also by His word and work - including a resurrection, life after death.  So Paul sincerely worked to be blameless with a clear conscience before both God and others, fulfilling the commands to love God and others. This should be our hope in a life now and after death, and our sincere life lived toward God and all others.

Sincere Worship

Acts 24:10-13 
10 Then Paul, after the governor had nodded to him to speak, answered: “Inasmuch as I know that you have been for many years a judge of this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself, 11 because you may ascertain that it is no more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship. 12 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with anyone nor inciting the crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city. 13 Nor can they prove the things of which they now accuse me.

Paul finally gets to speak to Felix, and so begins by honoring the leader by respectfully acknowledging his time in office.  So he gladly begins to reply to the allegations, telling of his sincere worship in Jerusalem and his blameless behavior there.  Paul did not stir up a crowd or argue with those opposed to the gospel, not in public nor in the synagogue.  He points out the allegations are unfounded.  So he uses the truth in the legal system to be blameless and harmless as a dove while knowing the wolves and their strategies.  A good example for us in standing for the gospel in these times.

Assenting to His Death

Acts 24:5-9 
5 For we have found this man a plague, a creator of dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes. 6 He even tried to profane the temple, and we seized him, and wanted to judge him according to our law. 7 But the commander Lysias came by and with great violence took him out of our hands, 8 commanding his accusers to come to you. By examining him yourself you may ascertain all these things of which we accuse him.” 9 And the Jews also assented, maintaining that these things were so.

The orator lawyer spoke for the Jews before the Roman court of how Paul needed to be judged by religious law, but the Roman commander Lysias “violently” took him out of their hands.  He left out the part about their own violent actions to kill Paul, however.  So they now accused him to stop the gospel legally, they thought.  These imagined that disagreements over the law and the gospel could only be solved with Crusade-like actions instead of reason.  So many still oppose the gospel with hostility.

Kept Safe

Acts 23:31-35 
31 Then the soldiers, as they were commanded, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris. 32 The next day they left the horsemen to go on with him, and returned to the barracks. 33 When they came to Caesarea and had delivered the letter to the governor, they also presented Paul to him. 34 And when the governor had read it, he asked what province he was from. And when he understood that he was from Cilicia, 35 he said, “I will hear you when your accusers also have come.” And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's Praetorium.

Paul was escorted in safety to Caesarea to be presented to the provincial governor.  There the commander’s letter was given concerning the riotous mob and Paul's situation as a Roman citizen.  So he was kept in the Praetorium headquarters until his accusers arrived to present their case.  So the legal system of the Roman occupation was helping a Roman Jew being hunted for spreading the gospel he once himself attacked and hunted those followers of it.  God turned Saul into Paul to suffer for and spread these good words of life, and protected him until it was accomplished.

Sovereign Over All Rulers

Acts 23:23-30 
23 And he called for two centurions, saying, “Prepare two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen to go to Caesarea at the third hour of the night; 24 and provide mounts to set Paul on, and bring him safely to Felix the governor.”…  29 I found out that he was accused concerning questions of their law, but had nothing charged against him deserving of death or chains. 30 And when it was told me that the Jews lay in wait for the man, I sent him immediately to you, and also commanded his accusers to state before you the charges against him. Farewell.

Paul was escorted safely by 470 Roman soldiers to see the governor after the plot to kill him was found out.  The commander wrote a letter to the governor explaining the mob and Paul's innocence.  So Paul was given the chance to testify to the hope in him, and to have his Jewish accusers half accountable for their accusations and possibly even their actions.  God rules over the rulers, sovereignly directing their hearts and history at all times, as we see here.

Plot Foiled

Acts 23:20-22 
20 And he said, “The Jews have agreed to ask that you bring Paul down to the council tomorrow, as though they were going to inquire more fully about him. 21 But do not yield to them, for more than forty of them lie in wait for him, men who have bound themselves by an oath that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him; and now they are ready, waiting for the promise from you.”  22 So the commander let the young man depart, and commanded him, “Tell no one that you have revealed these things to me.”

The young nephew of Paul reveled the details of the plot he overheard to the Roman commander of the army in Jerusalem.  The forty plus murderers were going to set a trap in the guise of questioning, then kill him on the way there.  So the plot was foiled, and the commander sent the man away, commanding him to keep quiet about their conversation.  The Roman was set to help Paul.  So God moves hearts of men for His purposes.

God's Plan and People

Acts 23:13-17 
13 Now there were more than forty who had formed this conspiracy. 14 They came to the chief priests and elders, and said, “We have bound ourselves under a great oath that we will eat nothing until we have killed Paul. 15 Now you, therefore, together with the council, suggest to the commander that he be brought down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to make further inquiries concerning him; but we are ready to kill him before he comes near.”  16 So when Paul's sister's son heard of their ambush, he went and entered the barracks and told Paul. 17 Then Paul called one of the centurions to him and said, “Take this young man to the commander, for he has something to tell him.”

Those committed to ambush and murder Paul talked the Jewish council into calling the Roman commander to bring Paul to them to end him and the words of life they so opposed.  But God put Paul’s nephew there to overhear and warn Paul, who then sent him with a centurion to tell the commander of the plot and how they were to involve the Romans.  The enemy will use all means to stop the gospel, but God never steps down from sovereignty to abide anything against His plan and people.

God Spoke Encouragement

Acts 23:10-12 
10 Now when there arose a great dissension, the commander, fearing lest Paul might be pulled to pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them, and bring him into the barracks.   11 But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.” 12 And when it was day, some of the Jews banded together and bound themselves under an oath, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.

Paul is rescued by the Roman army from the mob set on killing him for the fulfillment of their law in Christ, the gospel words of life.  Then God came to strengthen and encourage Paul by telling him he would certainly make it to Rome with the gospel as he had spoken in Jerusalem.  To the end of the earth.  But others plotted to kill him, even vowing to not eat or drink until he was dead.  Ah, but God controls and allows as He wills, making the plans of man nothing unless they align with His…

Hope of the Resurrection

Acts 23:6-9 
6 But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, “Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!”  7 And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees; and the assembly was divided. 8 For Sadducees say that there is no resurrection—and no angel or spirit; but the Pharisees confess both. 9 Then there arose a loud outcry. And the scribes of the Pharisees’ party arose and protested, saying, “We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him, let us not fight against God.”

Paul escaped a dangerous situation when he claimed his Pharisee upbringing to divert the two doctrinally opposed groups to look at each other instead.  By pointing to the resurrection of Jesus and others, the Sadducees had to argue, for they were like JWs who believed in annihilation instead of an eternal spirit of man.  So the Pharisees’ scribes suddenly saw Paul as innocent, and wanted to stop in case they were fighting God.  God moves the hearts of kings and peasants alike like a river to the course He sets.

Lawful Truth-Telling

Acts 23:2-5 
2 And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth. 3 Then Paul said to him, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! For you sit to judge me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?” 4 And those who stood by said, “Do you revile God's high priest?” 5 Then Paul said, “I did not know, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’ ”

When Paul was slapped by order of the high priest, he pronounced God's judgment on him for breaking their own law.  Yet, when Paul found out he was the high priest, he quoted the law concerning not speaking evil of a ruler as he said not knowing who he was.  The position Paul did not want to speak evil of, but the reason and God's judgment were not retracted it seems.  We need to know who we speak to for respect and honor, but truth spoken in love cannot be restrained either.

Earnest Conscience

Acts 22:30 - 23:1 
30 The next day, because he wanted to know for certain why he was accused by the Jews, he released him from his bonds, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down and set him before them.  23:1 Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, “Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.”

Paul began his defense against the false accusations before the religious leaders by first looking intently and intentionally at them.  He then spoke of his sincerity in all he did to live for God - having a clear conscience and not deceiving or misleading as he was accused of.  This included his persecution of Christians as well as seeing His light to become one himself in fulfillment of all the law and scriptures.  This is being a witness and witnessing to the gospel words of life and truth.

Born a Citizen

Acts 22:26-29 
26 When the centurion heard that, he went and told the commander, saying, “Take care what you do, for this man is a Roman.” 27 Then the commander came and said to him, “Tell me, are you a Roman?” He said, “Yes.”  28 The commander answered, “With a large sum I obtained this citizenship.” And Paul said, “But I was born a citizen.”  29 Then immediately those who were about to examine him withdrew from him; and the commander was also afraid after he found out that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.

Paul used the law as a way not to avoid mob violence, but to further give a defense of the hope in Jesus and the words of life that are the gospel.  So fear in the Roman ranks caused the beatings to stop and the rule of law and its consequences to surface.  This was all part of God's work to move Paul safely elsewhere to give his defense of the gospel to many more besides the mob at hand.  The sovereignty of God fills the pages of Acts here as it does throughout the Bible.

Un-condemned

Acts 22:22-25 
22 And they listened to him until this word, and then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!” 23 Then, as they cried out and tore off their clothes and threw dust into the air, 24 the commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, and said that he should be examined under scourging, so that he might know why they shouted so against him. 25 And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who stood by, “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?”

The Jewish mob wanted to kill Paul when he claimed God wanted him to go to the nations instead of the Jews, even though they were opposed to the gospel.  They wanted God for themselves, even a God whose possible Messiah was Jesus.  Judgmental hate ruled and fueled their system of religion, having been blinded to the fact that Jesus fulfilled their Law, not abolished it.  The Roman commander only knew the trouble seemed to be Paul, so tied him up to beat him; however, Paul revealed he was a Roman also and it was his right as a citizen to first have sentencing before punishment.

Sent to the Nations

Acts 22:17-21 
17 “Now it happened, when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, that I was in a trance 18 and saw Him saying to me, ‘Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly, for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.’ 19 So I said, ‘Lord, they know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who believe on You. 20 And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by consenting to his death, and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.’ 21 Then He said to me, ‘Depart, for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles.’ ”

So Paul recounted God's saving grace again, this time when warned to leave Jerusalem in a hurry for safety.  Paul knew he had persecuted many of God's children, and even watched gladly as Stephen was killed for his testimony.  Because of the gospel and its offense to the Jewish leaders, God was sending Paul to the nations who would hear, fulfilling the promises to Abraham and Isaac to bring children from the world to God.  This was the biggest offense to those who arrogantly assumed they were the only ones of God, and God was theirs alone.

Call on His Name

Acts 22:14-16 
14 Then he said, ‘The God of our fathers has chosen you that you should know His will, and see the Just One, and hear the voice of His mouth. 15 For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard. 16 And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’

God chose Saul and called him out to be Paul.  He was to see the Just One (Jesus our righteousness), hear His voice to reveal God's will to us (via much of the NT), and know God's will to do and to teach to the church as it grew.  So Paul bore witness to the God revealed in the face of Jesus Christ after being cleansed from his sins in forgiveness as he called on the Lord’s name to salvation.  The example pattern was to be called out by God, be forgiven, call on Jesus as Lord, and follow to serve according to each one’s calling and path set out to walk in after Him. 

What Shall I Do, Lord?

Acts 22:10-13 
10 So I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed for you to do.’ 11 And since I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those who were with me, I came into Damascus.  12 “Then a certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good testimony with all the Jews who dwelt there, 13 came to me; and he stood and said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And at that same hour I looked up at him.

What was Saul to do when blinded by the Lord of the universe as he was on his way to persecute more of God's people?  God told him to go to town and wait to be told.  He went.  Led by the hand, Saul came to Ananias and was told to see.  So Saul looked up and saw.  This shows how God gives sight to the spiritually blind, for none of us is able to see Him until He opens our eyes.  But when He does, we see clearly for the first time, and the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ is then seen all around.

Who are You, Lord?

Acts 22:6-9 
6 “Now it happened, as I journeyed and came near Damascus at about noon, suddenly a great light from heaven shone around me. 7 And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’ 8 So I answered, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’ 9 “And those who were with me indeed saw the light and were afraid, but they did not hear the voice of Him who spoke to me.

Paul recounts his conversion when Jesus sought him and called him out to Himself.  The light shone in darkness, and the darkness did not overcome the light because it was the brilliance of God Himself before Saul.  Nobody could see the light but Saul, much like Nicodemus was told how the Spirit of God is as unseen as the wind.  God works to reveal Himself to each of us in unseen ways after drawing us over unseen years to know Him, even if not so spectacularly as Paul.  Salvation is God's work, not ours, and we so live for His glory shone into our hearts, not ourselves.

Hear My Defense

Acts 22:1-5 
1 “Brethren and fathers, hear my defense before you now.” 2 And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept all the more silent. Then he said: 3 “I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the strictness of our fathers’ law, and was zealous toward God as you all are today. 4 I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women, 5 as also the high priest bears me witness, and all the council of the elders, from whom I also received letters to the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Jerusalem to be punished.

Paul spoke in the native tongue of the Jews is a foreign city, and they listened as he told who he was, including his religious upbringing and zeal for God as the crowd had also.  Then he spoke of his persecution of Christians to the death and seeking them out far and wide to stop this new way that seemed to replace the law (but actually fulfilled it in Christ).  So he began and they were listening to this point as he related their common background.  However, Paul would soon point to Christ and the gospel, and the ears would stop.  Even now we speak of human commonalities, yet the point of accountability to God becomes a stumbling block.

Permit Me to Speak

Acts 21:37-39 
37 Then as Paul was about to be led into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I speak to you?” He replied, “Can you speak Greek? 38 Are you not the Egyptian who some time ago stirred up a rebellion and led the four thousand assassins out into the wilderness?”  39 But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; and I implore you, permit me to speak to the people.”

Paul is finally safe from the mob and is being escorted into the Roman barracks…but then he asks the commander of the army if he can speak to the mob.  The Roman is amazed this Jew can speak Greek, thinking Paul is an Egyptian rebel (like the Jews thought Jesus was another rabble rouser as well).  So Paul identified himself as a citizen and Jew, and begged to be able to address the crowd.  He used his citizenship and rights to make a defense to the accusatory mob with the gospel, using any means to reach them.

Away With Him!

Acts 21:33-36 
33 Then the commander came near and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and he asked who he was and what he had done. 34 And some among the multitude cried one thing and some another.  So when he could not ascertain the truth because of the tumult, he commanded him to be taken into the barracks. 35 When he reached the stairs, he had to be carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the mob. 36 For the multitude of the people followed after, crying out, “Away with him!”

The Roman authority handcuffed Paul with chains and then asked what he did to cause a riot from the whole town.  Of course everyone began yelling different accusations until they took him inside to question him.  The mob was so bad that they had to carry Paul to the stairs as the mob grew violent, calling out for his death.  It was a first century lynch mob….  So do some still react with violence when their religion is confronted with the gospel of Jesus Christ which shows nobody can earn God's favor with what we do, and that we all sit under His wrath until He intervenes on our behalf. The exclusivity of Christ alone is the final straw the world is built on, a weak foundation that crumbles in the end.

Gospel Uproar

Acts 21:30-32   
30 And all the city was disturbed; and the people ran together, seized Paul, and dragged him out of the temple; and immediately the doors were shut. 31 Now as they were seeking to kill him, news came to the commander of the garrison that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. 32 He immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down to them. And when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul.

So the mob grabbed Paul and drug him out of the temple, shifting the doors to keep him out and let him know he could not come back in.  Then they wanted to murder him until the Roman army heard and came quickly.  Only then did the Jews stop beating Paul.   So God uses civil authorities to sometimes protect His people to use them and the situation for His glory; it is not about us and our protection as much as it is to show Himself in good and bad situations.  We were made for Him and not He for us..

Temple Truth

Acts 21:26-29 
26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day, having been purified with them, entered the temple to announce the expiration of the days of purification, at which time an offering should be made for each one of them.   27 Now when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews from Asia, seeing him in the temple, stirred up the whole crowd and laid hands on him, 28 crying out, “Men of Israel, help! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against the people, the law, and this place; and furthermore he also brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.” 29 (For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian with him in the city, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)

Paul followed the rules of the Jewish law, but the Jews saw him and his companions in the trample and assumed there were non-Jews who should not be there, and so started a mob.  They accused Paul of teaching against all they held sacred, and defiling the temple (even though the Greek they saw him with in another place in the city was not even there).  How fear and ignorance can turn off the ears to hear and lead to the very unrighteousness of those claiming to fight for it.... we can learn much here.

Walk Orderly, Keep the Law

Acts 21:23-25 
23 Therefore do what we tell you: We have four men who have taken a vow. 24 Take them and be purified with them, and pay their expenses so that they may shave their heads, and that all may know that those things of which they were informed concerning you are nothing, but that you yourself also walk orderly and keep the law. 25 But concerning the Gentiles who believe, we have written and decided that they should observe no such thing, except that they should keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality.”

Paul was falsely accused, so he went with those who would show his sincerity and right living by association.  As for the non-Jews, they were instructed not to follow the law, except in regards to idols, earring blood in meat (unhealthy), from animals strangled (with blood also), and from all forms of sexual immorality (adultery, fornication, other deviate behavior).  We are to honor God, not the rules meant to teach us how to honor from the heart.

Valiant for the Truth

Acts 21:19-22 
19 When he had greeted them, he told in detail those things which God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. 20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord. And they said to him, “You see, brother, how many myriads of Jews there are who have believed, and they are all zealous for the law; 21 but they have been informed about you that you teach all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs. 22 What then? The assembly must certainly meet, for they will hear that you have come.

After telling all the glory God received from their service in the words of life, those in Jerusalem gave God glory as well.  But because so many Jews believed, stories about their destroying the customs (when the fulfillment was so much more) led to plots against Paul.  The real issue always comes to following Christ instead of the Law which points to Him.  So falsely accused, arrangements were made to get Paul to safety to fight another day, valiant for the truth.

Mnason's Reception

Acts 21:15-18 
15 And after those days we packed and went up to Jerusalem. 16 Also some of the disciples from Caesarea went with us and brought with them a certain Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom we were to lodge. 17 And when we had come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly. 18 On the following day Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present.

Paul and company finally arrive in Jerusalem and stay with Mnason mentioned in Pilgrims Progress.  Their fellow believers there welcomed them heartily.  The next day they went to the leader and elders of the church to tell of how God had used the gospel at their hands and tongues to glorify God in Jesus Christ.  What a joyful and blessed meeting this must have been!  Think of not only being used by God in such ways for His kingdom, but then to share and see the joy of others reliving it with you…

Ready to be Bound to Die

Acts 21:11-14 
11 When he had come to us, he took Paul's belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’ ” 12 Now when we heard these things, both we and those from that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” 14 So when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The will of the Lord be done.”

When the prophet Agabus came to Paul, God as Spirit told him that he would be bound by the opposing Jews and put in custody of the gentiles at Jerusalem.  So the others begged him not to go. But Paul was ready to lay down his life for Jesus Christ, and could not be talked out of going.  Then the others realized God's will was to be done, even if they lost their beloved brother.  So this begs the question of whether we are prepared to lay down our lives for the Lord and others’ possible salvation?

Fellowship with Philip

Acts 21:5-8 
5 When we had come to the end of those days, we departed and went on our way; and they all accompanied us, with wives and children, till we were out of the city. And we knelt down on the shore and prayed. 6 When we had taken our leave of one another, we boarded the ship, and they returned home. 7 And when we had finished our voyage from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, greeted the brethren, and stayed with them one day. 8 On the next day we who were Paul's companions departed and came to Caesarea, and entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him.

Traveling on after long goodbyes and prayer from the disciples and all their families, Paul and company sailed to Ptolemais and Caesarea.  There they lodged at Philip’s house - the same Philip chosen with Stephen who was murdered for his testimony as Saul watched.  Now Paul was no longer Saul, and had fellowship with the fellow servant of the one whose death he consented to.  God heals and saves people to bring together in Christ in ways man cannot in his fallen state.  Grace is seen here.

Finding Disciples

Acts 21:1-4 
1 Now it came to pass, that when we had departed from them and set sail, running a straight course we came to Cos, the following day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara. 2 And finding a ship sailing over to Phoenicia, we went aboard and set sail. 3 When we had sighted Cyprus, we passed it on the left, sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre; for there the ship was to unload her cargo. 4 And finding disciples, we stayed there seven days. They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem.

Paul and company kept sailing on their journey, ending up in Tyre for a week.  There they found other disciples and stayed with them as the ship unloaded cargo before going on again.  But these were moved by God to let Paul know the dangers of going on to Jerusalem.  God was drawing him to go in spite of the danger, all for the gospel to reach the hearts of men and fill out God's plan till the journey’s end.  He remained faithful after counting the cost, no matter who tried to dissuade him.

Joyful Facing Death

Acts 20:36-38   
36 And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all. 37 Then they all wept freely, and fell on Paul's neck and kissed him, 38 sorrowing most of all for the words which he spoke, that they would see his face no more. And they accompanied him to the ship.

So Paul left with God's message given to many and one of no return for himself.  They prayed as he went into danger for God's work, with much emotion because of the strong bond of one who was like a spiritual parent to them.  Then they saw him off to sail onward for God's good plan.  Paul was told early on that he would suffer many things for the kingdom, and here it was. And he joyfully went…

More Blessed to Give

Acts 20:33-35 
33 I have coveted no one's silver or gold or apparel. 34 Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. 35 I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

Paul showed that he was not after the believers’ money or possessions; he was transparent in his efforts to work to support himself, not asking nor seeking anything besides their hearts because of the gospel.  He went further to state clearly that he also did this to teach and motivate by example to support those who could not support themselves well, the “weak.”  But he made certain to emphasize and focus on God's word who said that it is more blessed to give than receive (Mt.10:8).

Wolves and Grace

Acts 20:29-32 
29 For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. 31 Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. 32 “So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.

There are always wolves pretending to be sheep among the flock.  They do not relent.  There are also those within who twist God's word to pull people away from truth, just to make followers of themselves, twice the sons of hell as themselves.  This is why we watch, pray, and put the sheep in the sure hands of the eternal Shepherd and His word.  God's words of life build up and remind of the inheritance by grace through faith for those who are set apart to Him.  Watch, pray, and preach the word. That is our defense.

The Whole Counsel

Acts 20:26-28 
26 Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27 For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God. 28 Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.

To be innocent of the blood of others is to tell them of all God said, good and bad (Ezk.3:17-19).  For us this means talking of hell with heaven, accountability when we die with absolute justification in Christ, and no condemnation with required holiness.  This is what shepherding the flock entails, and Paul's advice and pleading with the elders as he headed off to what seemed like the end.  Jesus purchased us with His blood through suffering, and so must we endure as well in the gospel.

Finish the Race with Joy

Acts 20:22-25 
22 And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. 24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.  25 “And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more.

Paul went to a certain encounter (as God kept telling him) with those who would put him in jail, but even knowing that, he went joyfully.  The tribulations he faced made him see that the surpassing glory of the work of the gospel pushed him on to race towards Jesus and His grace.  So Paul told his companions they would never see him again as he ran toward the glory of God in Christ.  All else he counted as dung, as worthless and unsatisfying.  Do we have an eternal perspective of the hope we bear witness to?

Hold Nothing Back

Acts 20:17-21 
17 From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called for the elders of the church. 18 And when they had come to him, he said to them: “You know, from the first day that I came to Asia, in what manner I always lived among you, 19 serving the Lord with all humility, with many tears and trials which happened to me by the plotting of the Jews; 20 how I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house, 21 testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul passed Ephesus to get to Jerusalem in time, so he sent for the Ephesian elders to speak to them.  He began with a reminder of his sincere and devoted work in the gospel, serving and not lording over, humble, deeply caring, and all this in the midst of plots against his life he was laying down for them.  He did not hold back anything that could help them grow and serve also, teaching in groups or in houses.  What did he teach?  Repentance to God and faith in Jesus Christ, to both Jews and gentiles. The gospel. 

Hurried Journey

Acts 20:13-16 
13 Then we went ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, there intending to take Paul on board; for so he had given orders, intending himself to go on foot. 14 And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene. 15 We sailed from there, and the next day came opposite Chios. The following day we arrived at Samos and stayed at Trogyllium. The next day we came to Miletus. 16 For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.

Paul walked to Assos to meet the others who sailed there, then they all sailed on through four other places.  They went right past Ephesus where Paul had done much work for God because he was hurrying to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover.  We have to wonder what that festival now meant to them as Christ was the Lamb of God who covered their sins now.  So they continued their journey to do God's work of the gospel, making disciples of all nations...

Sermon of Death to Life

Acts 20:9-12 
9 And in a window sat a certain young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep. He was overcome by sleep; and as Paul continued speaking, he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead. 10 But Paul went down, fell on him, and embracing him said, “Do not trouble yourselves, for his life is in him.” 11 Now when he had come up, had broken bread and eaten, and talked a long while, even till daybreak, he departed. 12 And they brought the young man in alive, and they were not a little comforted.

Eutychus found it difficult to stay awake as Paul preached till midnight; at last he slept and fell three stories, appearing to have died from the fall.  He picked him up and went on talking until dawn.  Then the young man showed up alive - whether he actually died or was completely knocked out, we don't know, but it is interesting to see Paul's assurance that Eutychus was alive and so kept on preaching and teaching all night.  He made the most of the time and still cared as he trusted God.  So should we.

Longest Sermon

Acts 20:6-8 
6 But we sailed away from Philippi after the Days of Unleavened Bread, and in five days joined them at Troas, where we stayed seven days.   7 Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight. 8 There were many lamps in the upper room where they were gathered together.

Paul, Luke, and company joined up with the others who had gone ahead to Troas and stayed a week before gathering for a very long sermon.  It lasted until midnight because Paul had much to say before leaving the next day.  They did have a lot of lamps to keep people awake as the evening wore on.  No matter how good a message, it can be difficult to stay focused or even awake to hear if it goes so long into the night… but words of life cause us to seize on these moments to hear.

Danger of the Gospel

Acts 20:1-5 
1 After the uproar had ceased, Paul called the disciples to himself, embraced them, and departed to go to Macedonia. 2 Now when he had gone over that region and encouraged them with many words, he came to Greece 3 and stayed three months. And when the Jews plotted against him as he was about to sail to Syria, he decided to return through Macedonia. 4 And Sopater of Berea accompanied him to Asia—also Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia. 5 These men, going ahead, waited for us at Troas.

After the mob dispersed, Paul said his farewell and went to the next area, encouraging all in the places he stopped.  He then arrived in Greece for a few months, until another plot against him was crafted as he was getting ready to sail to Syria.  So he went another route instead a handful of faithful fellow followers went with him to Asia, then on to Troas to wait.  These all faced danger for the very real message of a very real savior who died for them and rose again with unending life in the message. If the gospel and person of Jesus Christ were not true, they would not have suffered so - as it has been said, liars make poor martyrs. 

Destroy Ideas, Not Temples

Acts 19:37-41 
37 For you have brought these men here who are neither robbers of temples nor blasphemers of your goddess. 38 Therefore, if Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen have a case against anyone, the courts are open and there are proconsuls. Let them bring charges against one another. 39 But if you have any other inquiry to make, it shall be determined in the lawful assembly. 40 For we are in danger of being called in question for today's uproar, there being no reason which we may give to account for this disorderly gathering.” 41 And when he had said these things, he dismissed the assembly.

Those like these who bring the gospel should not destroy the temples of false gods, but bring every thought into captivity to Jesus Christ.  The law will not always be favorable to those of Christ, but here it was - the false accusations led to an illegal mob in an uproar, and it took a town clerk to convey this and disperse the crowd.  So do we try to destroy what is offensive to God by being offensive ourselves, or do we fight the good fight in the unseen realms of power? 

False Accusations

Acts 19:31-34 
31 Then some of the officials of Asia, who were his friends, sent to him pleading that he would not venture into the theater. 32 Some therefore cried one thing and some another, for the assembly was confused, and most of them did not know why they had come together. 33 And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander motioned with his hand, and wanted to make his defense to the people. 34 But when they found out that he was a Jew, all with one voice cried out for about two hours, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!”

Paul had friends in the government who begged him not to enter the fray of the brewing riotous mob.  The mob made wild accusations, but they couldn't agree on any one thing - so they singled out one of Paul's companions to focus on.  They wouldn't let Alexander speak when they knew he was a Jew amongst the Greeks, and drown him out from defending himself with shouts to their supposed goddess.  Truth was covered as if by audible fingers in their ears because of their hearts of stone.

Gain and Loss

Acts 19:27-30 
27 So not only is this trade of ours in danger of falling into disrepute, but also the temple of the great goddess Diana may be despised and her magnificence destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worship.”  28 Now when they heard this, they were full of wrath and cried out, saying, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!” 29 So the whole city was filled with confusion, and rushed into the theater with one accord, having seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, Paul's travel companions. 30 And when Paul wanted to go in to the people, the disciples would not allow him.

The trade dispute turned to defense of false gods and their demise when faced with the truth of the gospel, which affected many.  This frenzy led to confusion and a mob, where they grabbed Paul’s companions.  Paul then tried to go to them, but was restrained for his own safety.  How quickly anger against Christ wells up when truth comes to the door and the eyes of some begin to open! There are enough examples of this fanaticism today.

Idol Work

Acts 19:23-26 
23 And about that time there arose a great commotion about the Way. 24 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Diana, brought no small profit to the craftsmen. 25 He called them together with the workers of similar occupation, and said: “Men, you know that we have our prosperity by this trade. 26 Moreover you see and hear that not only at Ephesus, but throughout almost all Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away many people, saying that they are not gods which are made with hands.

God's way caused a stir because the idol trade was in jeopardy.  So the idol union got together and began stirring up the workers to stop opposition to their trade.  They saw this threat beyond Ephesus, reaching across what is now northwest Turkey, seeing how Paul had persuaded many to stop worshiping man made gods and worship instead the only true God and Jesus whom was sent.  Even now industries that thrive on immorality, materialism, and works of man (such as many movies) all feel threatened by Christ and morality.  But God still changes people by His word.  It is above censors and trade.

Gospel Teamwork

Acts 19:21-22 
21 When these things were accomplished, Paul purposed in the Spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, “After I have been there, I must also see Rome.” 22 So he sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to him, Timothy and Erastus, but he himself stayed in Asia for a time.

Paul had a mission, moved by God, to go to both Jerusalem and then Rome.  So he sent Timothy and Erastus, coworkers and disciples, to go there to begin the work until he could come to Macedonia.  Here we see the value of discipleship and teamwork in play, giving an example against those who would make ministry about themselves instead of the calling and work of the gospel. 

Free from Magic

Acts 19:17-20   
17 This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. 18 And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds. 19 Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver. 20 So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.

True freedom is bondage of sin in darkness, which is found in Christ alone as here where confession and repentance led to turning backs on sin and all that offended God.  His word brought conviction to faith which then prevailed and grew greatly among these in Ephesus and beyond with the recounting of the story.  Our value is solely in Christ, our worship is toward Him alone, and life in the light magnifies His name above all others.  This is freedom.

More than The Name of Jesus

Acts 19:13-16 
13 Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.” 14 Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so. 15 And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” 16 Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.

Those who attempted to command evil spirits in Jesus’ name but who did not know Jesus simply had no authority over them, so they were able to turn against them.  Just saying, “in the name of Jesus” does not work, because all authority in heaven in earth is His, and nobody else has any apart from Him.  So the evil ones legitimately ask, “who are you?”  But we who are in Christ have His power and authority to bring light in this present darkness.

Unusual Miracles

Acts 19:11-12 
11 Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, 12 so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them.

Paul did unusual mighty things which pointed to Christ and not himself.  Today many seek to do miracles, thinking them to be ordinary and expected to draw attention to themselves or prove their ministry.  Here we see the miraculous are not the norm, nor are they to do anything except reinforce the gospel to those not seeing.  Just saying that the things done are in the name of Jesus does not make it so, only His gifts and working in and through us can ever rightly do that. 

Reasoning, Persuading, and Teaching

Acts 19:8-10 
8 And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God. 9 But when some were hardened and did not believe, but spoke evil of the Way before the multitude, he departed from them and withdrew the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus. 10 And this continued for two years, so that all who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

Paul reasoned for three months over the kingdom of God in a Jewish synagogue.  Christ compelled him even when opposition came with slander.  What did he do?  He moved to a school where he could speak freely for two years.  He moved to where people would hear, outside the established religious system, and the result was many around the whole region got to hear God's word as Christ taught it.  People outside and inside Judaism heard.  Even now we must not limit the preaching of God's word to church alone, but take it everywhere, including online.