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.

Baptized into Christ

Acts 19:1-6 
1 And it happened, while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper regions, came to Ephesus. And finding some disciples 2 he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” So they said to him, “We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 And he said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?” So they said, “Into John's baptism.” 4 Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.” 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.

A baptism only for turning from sin to aim toward God with the true aim of going further to believe in the Christ to follow is what John preached.  These Paul came across had not yet heard the rest of the gospel story, and so were not reborn and sealed by God's Spirit to live within them.  So hearing their hearts were reborn and faith filled them to salvation.  His Spirit gave evidence to them of God's work.

Showing Jesus is the Christ

Acts 18:27-28   
27 And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace; 28 for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.

Paul was encouraged by his fellow believers who were asked to welcome him in Achaia.  There he helped those fellow partakers of God's grace who were encouraged to help him.  He also showed the Jews from scripture who Jesus was, the Messiah who is God's Son.  Paul continued to be faithful to his call in all circumstances.

Apollos' Accuracy

Acts 18:24-26 
24 Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. 25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.  So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.

Apollos knew the Bible very well.  He spoke well also with zeal, passion, and accuracy.  But he only was baptized with the message of repentance, not of the fulfilled message in Jesus Christ whom John pointed to.  So Aquila and Priscilla told him the rest of the story and God began using him for the gospel message.  A reminder for us to not assume all speaking of the Bible know the Lord of it, and always be ready to give the accurate reason for our hope in the fullness of the gospel message of reconciliation.

Strengthening the Disciples

Acts 18:22-23 
22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up and greeted the church, he went down to Antioch. 23 After he had spent some time there, he departed and went over the region of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.

Paul landed in Caesarea on the coast by Antioch and Tarsus, where he came from.  There he first greeted everyone at the church here, then went on to Antioch to spend some time.  After catching up there, he strengthened the disciples all around the area where he traveled before (Acts 16:6), following up by teaching and encouragement.  He did not just preach the gospel, see fruit, and disappear; Paul cared as a good shepherd to tend the sheep and flock.  A great example. 

God Willing...

Acts 18:19-21 
19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there; but he himself entered the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews. 20 When they asked him to stay a longer time with them, he did not consent, 21 but took leave of them, saying, “I must by all means keep this coming feast in Jerusalem; but I will return again to you, God willing.” And he sailed from Ephesus.

Paul came with Priscilla and Aquila from Corinth to Ephesus, then left them to speak the gospel in the synagogue.  Those there even asked Paul to stay longer after he told them he had to go to Jerusalem for the feast, and he said it was important but that he planned on returning if God so granted it.  Paul took a vow to keep what most likely was the Passover with those he knew there.  He had a mission to accomplish, and still kept priorities in mind as he followed God's leading, a good example.

Frivolous Beating

Acts 18:16-18 
16 And he drove them from the judgment seat. 17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. But Gallio took no notice of these things. 18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.

After the magistrate drove away a frivolous lawsuit by the Jews against Paul for preaching the gospel words of life, the others beat up the synagogue leader for stirring them up, and the law looked the other way.  So Paul was able to continue safe and unhindered for a long time.  Finally, he went to Syria with a godly couple in the ministry.  He also had taken a vow about which we find out more a while later.  Paul was faithful to minister and bring the gospel in hard times as well as good. 

Opposition Opposed

Acts 18:12-15 
12 When Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul and brought him to the judgment seat, 13 saying, “This fellow persuades men to worship God contrary to the law.” 14 And when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, “If it were a matter of wrongdoing or wicked crimes, O Jews, there would be reason why I should bear with you. 15 But if it is a question of words and names and your own law, look to it yourselves; for I do not want to be a judge of such matters.”

Opposition to the gospel by Paul arose again after a year and a half, this time with all the Jews dragging him before the law.  They wanted him tried for religious law, but they brought Paul to a civil magistrate.  Since he committed no crime, Gallio would not put up with a trivial case and told them to take care of,it among themselves in their religious community.  A good pattern for modern lawmakers to stay out of God's and the church’s matters on things like speaking the gospel as a public official , or telling churches to perform ungodly weddings. 

Don't Fear Speaking Out

Acts 18:9-11   
9 Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; 10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” 11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

God assured Paul that he would not be attacked for the present in Corinth, so he did not have to hold back in speaking all of God's word (including judgement, resurrection, and repentance to life no doubt).  He was also assured that there were many belonging to God there as an extra assurance to press forward.  For a year and a half Paul had rest from persecution and was able to grow and shepherd the flock there.  The results of his faithfulness are seen in the books of 1 and 2 Corinthians today…

Believed and Baptized

Acts 18:7-8 
7 And he departed from there and entered the house of a certain man named Justus, one who worshiped God, whose house was next door to the synagogue. 8 Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized.

Paul went to those called out of the nations, finding a man who happened to live next to a synagogue to stay with.  That man also worshipped God, and the head of the synagogue next door must have heard and seen, because he came to Christ along with many Corinthians.  The word of God changes hearts of stone to living ones by His grace of faith, and no opposition can stop His drawing.  So he drew us out of dust, so He draws us back for His breath to give new life from out of every nation and people.

Take it to the Nations

Acts 18:5-6   
5 When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ. 6 But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, “Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”

Silas and Timothy finally caught up with Paul in Corinth, and there Paul was moved to tell the Jews directly who Jesus is - the Messiah, the Christ of God.  They then turned on Paul and stood against him, even blaspheming the words of truth he spoke.  They spoke evil of the God they claimed to worship.  So Paul gave them over to God's judgment and moved to the Gentiles with the gospel.  The promise to Abraham to be the father of many nations, the promise for Israel to be a light to the world, had begun to gain traction.

Persuasive Vocation

Acts 18:1-4 
1 After these things Paul departed from Athens and went to Corinth. 2 And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome); and he came to them. 3 So, because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers. 4 And he reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath, and persuaded both Jews and Greeks.

After those in Athens mocked him and stopped listening to the words of life, Paul went to Corinth.  There he found a Christian couple who had the same profession (tent makers) who were kicked out of Rome for being Jewish.  They worked together to earn a living while speaking of Christ every Saturday in the synagogue in order to move others to the truth of the gospel.  He worked to support his work for God. A good example for vocational ministry. 

Philosophic Mocking

Acts 17:32-34   
32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked, while others said, “We will hear you again on this matter.” 33 So Paul departed from among them. 34 However, some men joined him and believed, among them Dionysius the Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

When the Athenian Epicurean and Stoic philosophers heard of Jesus Christ's resurrection from the grave, their open questioning turned to mocking.  Some did say they would listen again sometime, but there were others who believed and followed Paul.  This is still the pattern of learned men, listening and questioning until they see that there is truth and conviction.  Then mocking and turning away take over.  But some seed falls on good ground. 

Omnipresent God of Salvation

Acts 17:28-31 
28 for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’ 29 Therefore, since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man's devising. 30 Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, 31 because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”

Even the philosophers and poets realized God who is unknown is all around us.  They may even say we are God's children.  But they worship gods as statues ignorantly, not knowing their accountability to the one God.  So Paul told these in Athens, but he pointed out further that this one would judge all in the world by His standards of righteousness, and it would be through Jesus Christ who died and rose to life again.  This is the gospel, that this is the condition of sinful man in need of God's righteousness instead of our own vain imitation of it.

Unknown God Revealed

Acts 17:24-27 
24 God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. 25 Nor is He worshiped with men's hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things. 26 And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, 27 so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us;

As Paul spoke of the unknown God the Athenians worshipped, he pointed to where that one God lives - not in man made temples.  He lives above where He made all things, and does not need the works or efforts of us to be worshipped since all life comes from His breath and being to will it to us.  He sets up peoples and nations, and controls their empires.  Why? So we seek Him, groping in the dark of our blinded understanding.  He is near, but so far from our ability to grasp Him… unless He draws us near to Himself in Christ.

Proclaim the Unknown God!

Acts 17:22-23 
22 Then Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are very religious; 23 for as I was passing through and considering the objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore, the One whom you worship without knowing, Him I proclaim to you:

Paul pointed out the religious desires of the Athenians, and used the altars and idols to point to the one God they did not know, yet acknowledged He existed.  Paul began to show that the unknown God could actually be known by them.  So he began to proclaim Him, to announce and explain who the only God is and how to know Him in Jesus Christ His Son alone.  He preached the words of life and reconciliation in Christ.

Strange Things to our Ears

Acts 17:19-21 
19 And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, “May we know what this new doctrine is of which you speak? 20 For you are bringing some strange things to our ears. Therefore we want to know what these things mean.” 21 For all the Athenians and the foreigners who were there spent their time in nothing else but either to tell or to hear some new thing.

The philosophers of Athens heard Paul telling about a foreign God, Jesus Christ, and so took him through the place of many gods to Mars Hill to let him talk to them all.  They were always talking about or listening to the latest new idea or philosophy, so they were curious to hear more of this story.  This was a change from being brought on charges before religious and government leaders as before, as these just wanted to hear the latest philosophical fad.  But God's word always affects those who hear.

Provoked to Speak

Acts 17:16-18 
16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols. 17 Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there. 18 Then certain Epicurean and Stoic philosophers encountered him. And some said, “What does this babbler want to say?” Others said, “He seems to be a proclaimer of foreign gods,” because he preached to them Jesus and the resurrection.

Paul was irritated and moved to respond to all the people following false gods in Athens.  So he spoke to both Jew and Greek in the synagogue and every day in the market to anyone there.  He talked of Jesus Christ and the resurrection, pointing them to the one and only God revealed and proven in Christ and His rising from death.  The philosophers called him a babbler because they could not reason out nor understand God's word and work they were listening to.  So today many stare or slander without stopping to listen carefully.

Sent to Safety

Acts 17:14-15   
14 Then immediately the brethren sent Paul away, to go to the sea; but both Silas and Timothy remained there. 15 So those who conducted Paul brought him to Athens; and receiving a command for Silas and Timothy to come to him with all speed, they departed.

When Paul was about to be attacked for the gospel again by those set against the progress his message was making in Thessalonica, the believers sent him away.  So he was brought to Athens, leaving his fellow workers Silas and Timothy behind.  Then Paul sent for them, and they hurried to rejoin Paul in the work.  The team may have been split temporarily so the adversaries would not pursue Paul, but what we know for certain is there was a reason and purpose - that the good news of Christ would continue to be brought by them.  They were obedient even in the face of violence and death.

Noble Bereans of the Book

Acts 17:10-13 
10 Then the brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea. When they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews. 11 These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. 12 Therefore many of them believed, and also not a few of the Greeks, prominent women as well as men. 13 But when the Jews from Thessalonica learned that the word of God was preached by Paul at Berea, they came there also and stirred up the crowds.

After being hunted down in Thessaloniki for the offense of the gospel, Paul and Silas went to Berea where they met more noble listeners.  They listened hungrily and went to the scriptures to make sure what was being preached and taught was what God really said.  As they saw the truth, many believed in Christ - Jews, Gentiles, important women of the town.  The receptiveness combined with checking the validity was no blind faith, but one based on God's word.  So we should speak so they may believe. Even so, some will follow after to stir up trouble and doubt.  Truth sets us free, however.

King Jesus

Acts 17:7-9   
7 Jason has harbored them, and these are all acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying there is another king—Jesus.” 8 And they troubled the crowd and the rulers of the city when they heard these things. 9 So when they had taken security from Jason and the rest, they let them go.

The alleged crime of Paul and Silas came down to Jesus' claim to be King - but that was tried before, and Jesus told Pilate His kingdom was of heaven.  So this attempt by the mob and its leaders to avoid accountability to God as sinners fell flat as the disciples got away.  Even so, they felt it necessary to take money from those harboring and helping them.  Even now laws and lawless ones fight against God and Christ to avoid facing Him ... in this life. 

Turning the World Upside Down

Acts 17:4-6   
4 And some of them were persuaded; and a great multitude of the devout Greeks, and not a few of the leading women, joined Paul and Silas. 5 But the Jews who were not persuaded, becoming envious, took some of the evil men from the marketplace, and gathering a mob, set all the city in an uproar and attacked the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people. 6 But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some brethren to the rulers of the city, crying out, “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too."

When Paul reasoned through the scriptures, reading and giving the meaning, some were moved to accept the truth they heard.  However, those who were not persuaded got a mob together of ruffians and attacked the house where they were staying.  Since they could not find them, they grabbed the owner of the house instead, intent on violence.  What they said is worth noting - "These who have turned the world upside down have come here too."  The gospel shows men their sinfulness in the hands of an angry God, and our pride will not accept the cure.  So it remains today.

Christ's Suffering and Resurrection

Acts 17:1-3 
1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. 2 Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, 3 explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ.”

Paul went to Thessalonica and headed straight to the synagogue, as he always did, to read and give the understanding of the Scriptures.  This exposition of the Old Testament was to show Christ - who He is, how God told He would suffer, die, and rise from death to life.  Then he revealed how Jesus was the Messiah, the Christ who did all and said all to prove the finger of God that wrote the Law on stone came in their midst as He moved His hand among men to write on their hearts.

Legal Ramifications

Acts 16:38-40 
38 And the officers told these words to the magistrates, and they were afraid when they heard that they were Roman citizens. 39 Then they came and pleaded with them and brought them out, and asked them to depart from the city. 40 So they went out of the prison and entered the house of Lydia; and when they had seen the brethren, they encouraged them and departed.

The legal ramifications of what the rulers did to Roman citizens, beating and imprisoning them, were used here by Paul to be set free.  This meant a time of less persecution, but only in that town and only for a short while.  God used this to move them back to Lydia's house to encourage the believers before going on to the next town with the words of this life.  So the obedient Christian life leads to trials and sometimes even death; but these set the example of not loving their lives even to death, crucified daily with Christ.

Public Release

Acts 16:35-37 
35 And when it was day, the magistrates sent the officers, saying, “Let those men go.” 36 So the keeper of the prison reported these words to Paul, saying, “The magistrates have sent to let you go. Now therefore depart, and go in peace.” 37 But Paul said to them, “They have beaten us openly, uncondemned Romans, and have thrown us into prison. And now do they put us out secretly? No indeed! Let them come themselves and get us out.”

After illegally beating and imprisoning Paul and Silas, after an earthquake broke the cell doors down and the jailer was saved, after all these things the city rulers sent word to let them go secretly.  Paul stood firm to point out as Roman citizens they were unlawfully treated, even beaten.  So he told them to come personally and publicly to set them free.  He used the laws lawfully to show others that he had done no wrong with the gospel, and to send a message to others to allow the words of life to continue to be made available. 

Jailer Set Free

Acts 16:30-34 
30 And he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he and all his family were baptized. 34 Now when he had brought them into his house, he set food before them; and he rejoiced, having believed in God with all his household.

When the jailer saw God's fearful work to free Paul, he was convicted of his need for God's deliverance from His judgment.  So he believed on Jesus Christ as Lord, the sovereign God who moves earth and the heavens.  The jailer's household heard and believed with active trust as well, and they were baptized to echo the inner transformation of God in each of them.  They were washed clean from sin by His saving grace and made new.

Rejoicing in Jail

Acts 16:25-28 
25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were loosed. 27 And the keeper of the prison, awaking from sleep and seeing the prison doors open, supposing the prisoners had fled, drew his sword and was about to kill himself. 28 But Paul called with a loud voice, saying, “Do yourself no harm, for we are all here.”

When thrown unjustly in jail for speaking the truth, Paul and Silas turned joyfully to singing praises to God.  While others listened, an earthquake opened all the doors and chains to set the prisoners free.  Since the guard would even be accountable for this if they ran away, he almost killed himself.  So we are set free in Christ from the cell of sin that traps us under guard of our broken will.  The freedom God gives deserves our praise and thanksgiving.  Do yourself no harm, the jailer can be set free by grace also!

God's Word Not Bound

Acts 16:22-24 
22 Then the multitude rose up together against them; and the magistrates tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods. 23 And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely. 24 Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

After the loss of both profit and religious control, the mob had Paul and Silas beaten and thrown jail with a command to keep close watch on them.  So they were put away from walls and their feet were clamped down so they could not escape.  The fear of the truth that the gospel held made the people and rulers so angry that they did all they could to shut them up.  Those whose deeds were evil and were bound in broken and blind wills could not see, but God's word cannot be bound to the ones He chooses to unbind the sinful wills of. 

Truth over Profit

Acts 16:19-21   
19 But when her masters saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to the authorities. 20 And they brought them to the magistrates, and said, “These men, being Jews, exceedingly trouble our city; 21 and they teach customs which are not lawful for us, being Romans, to receive or observe.”

For these slaveowners, profit trumped truth.  When their slave girl was set free, they realized her demonic talents of fortune telling were gone with all the lucre that they gained from her.  So they went after those responsible, taking them to court for damages.  They then slandered Paul and company as troublemakers and lawbreakers.  Even now when we stand for truth some will slander and bring lawsuits in retaliation.  Ah, but God is always greater!

Demonic Mocking

Acts 16:16-18 
16 Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling. 17 This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.” 18 And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour.

This possessed girl seemed to honor God by telling everyone out loud how Paul and company were servants of God with the message of salvation.  However, it was really a false attention and even mocking of Christ that annoyed Paul after some days - so he told the false spirit to leave (which it did in Christ's name).  Not all who loudly use the name of Christ are necessarily His; the devil mocks and misleads by many who cry Lord, Lord, but do not do what He says or believe what He wrote.  Discernment backed by God's word is needed.

Lydia's Faithfulness

Acts 16:13-15 
13 And on the Sabbath day we went out of the city to the riverside, where prayer was customarily made; and we sat down and spoke to the women who met there. 14 Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul. 15 And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” So she persuaded us.

After several days in Philippi of Macedonia, Paul and the others went where people prayed.  There they spoke the gospel to the women who met there, and found one who worshipped God (presumably a Jewish convert).  God opened her heart to Paul's message and was reborn and baptized.  Then she invited them all to stay at her house, since she had the means and wanted to help those who helped her to be set free in Christ.  So we must talk to those we meet with the good news, wiring for God to open their hearts.  We are ambassadors and messengers of the God who saves.

The Straight Course

Acts 16:10-12 
10 Now after he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go to Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to preach the gospel to them. 11 Therefore, sailing from Troas, we ran a straight course to Samothrace, and the next day came to Neapolis, 12 and from there to Philippi, which is the foremost city of that part of Macedonia, a colony. And we were staying in that city for some days.

Paul was shown they needed to go help a Macedonian man, so they got up and went straightaway.  They rightly saw that God was telling them to go with the good words of life to someone begging to be helped by God.  So they sailed until arriving at Philippi there, and waited around for days to see where they needed to be.  They waited on God's call for direction, took action to go, then waited for direction again to participate in His work at His time, doubting nothing.  A great example for us.

Come Help Us!

Acts 16:6-9 
6 Now when they had gone through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. 7 After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them. 8 So passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. 9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”

Paul, Silas, and Timothy tried to take the words of life to Asia, but God the Spirit stopped them.  They tried again in Bithynia, and again had their steps redirected.  They were not permitted to go where God did not ordain them to go.  Finally at Troas Paul heard God direct them to a Macedonian man's plea for help.  Since God is sovereign, we do not choose who to evangelize; it is to His call and drawing of people that we become the messengers for in His planning and timing.  We need to follow Him.

Elder Oversight

Acts 16:4-5   
4 And as they went through the cities, they delivered to them the decrees to keep, which were determined by the apostles and elders at Jerusalem. 5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily.

Again we see Paul giving a pattern of ministry as he traveled to the churches around the area, teaching the agreed upon elements of sound faith.  The elders and apostles under leading and authority of God's Spirit recorded the essentials of Christ's teaching, then Paul and company went to instruct and strengthen the faith of His followers.  This led to more being added to the church, the body of Christ.  So we have statements of faith and council decrees that capture the Bible truths that are foundational, and teach with those as a guide to build others up.

Discipleship Without Offense

Acts 16:1-3 
1 Then he came to Derbe and Lystra. And behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a certain Jewish woman who believed, but his father was Greek. 2 He was well spoken of by the brethren who were at Lystra and Iconium. 3 Paul wanted to have him go on with him. And he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in that region, for they all knew that his father was Greek.

Paul traveled with Silas, having parted with Barnabas, and found Timothy in Lystra.  He was half Jewish, so Paul had him circumcised to avoid the Jews using his Greek heritage against Timothy.  Since Timothy was well regarded by the other Christians, Paul took him along (with Barnabas no longer at his side) to continue spreading the gospel words of life and building up the churches. This bringing alongside is a pattern of discipleship we can emulate, looking at at Paul and Timothy through the scriptures.

Disagreements and Grace

Acts 15:37-41 
37 Now Barnabas was determined to take with them John called Mark.
38 But Paul insisted that they should not take with them the one who had departed from them in Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work. 39 Then the contention became so sharp that they parted from one another. And so Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus; 40 but Paul chose Silas and departed, being commended by the brethren to the grace of God. 41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Paul and Barnabas disagreed on taking Mark along because he left God's work before.  They argued enough as to go separate ways, one to Cyprus and the other to Syria and Cilicia to continue in following up believers in the churches.  God used them all, but we wonder if the sharp argument could have been more amicable.  We all fail in many ways, and the Bible clearly shows we all fall short.  Thanks be to God for His forgiving grace!

Revisiting, Prophecy

Acts 15:32-36 
32 Now Judas and Silas, themselves being prophets also, exhorted and strengthened the brethren with many words. 33 And after they had stayed there for a time, they were sent back with greetings from the brethren to the apostles. 34 However, it seemed good to Silas to remain there. 35 Paul and Barnabas also remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also. 36 Then after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing.”

Prophecy is most often bringing understanding of God's word in a God-inspired way, not new words, just revealing the meaning and implications.  So these two spoke such to strengthen and encourage.  Paul and Barnabas stayed to minister; they taught and preached until moved to go back to visit those in the cities they came from to follow up with those they brought God's word to previously.  Such pattern is a reminder to us to go where God leads, read and give sense to the word preached and taught, and follow up with those who come to Christ.  Discipleship, making disciples, is all encompassing.

Freed From Burdens

Acts 15:28-31 
28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: 29 that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell. 30 So when they were sent off, they came to Antioch; and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter. 31 When they had read it, they rejoiced over its encouragement.

We are not burdened with the Law as a way to earn God's acceptance, but it is now written on our hearts by His Spirit to motivate our desires as His own.  Certain things of course we do not do; there is no lawlessness, but lawfulness in rightful and willing obedience.  Therefore the church and its leaders gave good counsel and brought encouraging joy to the hearers of the letter.  So God's Spirit moves us to minister to the house of God as He did here. 

Our desire must be to find His words and devour them, making them give joy and rejoicing in being His (Jer.15:16).

No Such Commandment

Acts 15:23-26 
23 They wrote this letter by them: The apostles, the elders, and the brethren, To the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Greetings. 24 Since we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, “You must be circumcised and keep the law”—to whom we gave no such commandment— 25 it seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 26 men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The letter to clarify following God in Christ came from the apostles, elders, and all the other believers - to let the new gentiles in Christ know they all were in accord on the interpretation of the guidance.  It was not about outward rituals of circumcision and the ordinances (but the inward cleansing of the heart).  So they sent the letter to encourage and affirm by means of those who lay their lives on the line for the words of truth and life.  They set the example of church matters for us. 

Scriptural Church Polity

Acts 15:19-22   
19 Therefore I judge that we should not trouble those from among the Gentiles who are turning to God, 20 but that we write to them to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from things strangled, and from blood. 21 For Moses has had throughout many generations those who preach him in every city, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath.” 22 Then it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas who was also named Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren.

After accepting that non-Jews also were inheriting eternal life in Christ, the church wrote not that they keep the Law but only aspects that were at the heart of offense to God.  They were to not have other Gods (idols), be sexually pure, from sacrifices and blood (life) in meat.  They knew he Law was read every week if they really wanted to hear it.  So they wrote a letter to those gentile churches and sent some with Paul and Barnabas with the ruling.  Church polity based on scripture had begun.

God Knows His Works from Eternity

Acts 15:12-18 
12 Then all the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles. 13 And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, “Men and brethren, listen to me: 14 Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name. 15 And with this the words of the prophets agree, just as it is written: ... So that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, Even all the Gentiles who are called by My name, Says the Lord who does all these things.’ 18 “Known to God from eternity are all His works.

When the church heard of God's work among the nations, they were quiet and contemplative.  Then the leader James spoke to again point back to scripture, showing how even non-Jews would be called by His name.  The Lord does these things, so how could they not agree with His word?  God knows all He does from the beginning to end of time, for He appointed it to be so and had the prophets write down what He purposed.  So we must seek answers and direction likewise.

Saved by Grace, Not Law

Acts 15:7-11 
7 And when there had been much dispute, Peter rose up and said to them: “Men and brethren, you know that a good while ago God chose among us, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe. 8 So God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us, 9 and made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. 10 Now therefore, why do you test God by putting a yoke on the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? 11 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved in the same manner as they.”

We can endlessly dispute doctrine as the apostles and elders started to do here, but when these stopped to consider what God had done according to His word and promises, then the matter can become clear.  God promised through Abraham to bring children of promise to Himself, that is through His Seed, Jesus Christ.  So the results were assessed against the backdrop of scripture, and the clarity of the Law versus grace became apparent.  Salvation was out of all people to all be sealed by His same Spirit. The pattern to apply scripture comes out of understanding it in context.

Consider this Matter

Acts 15:4-6 
4 And when they had come to Jerusalem, they were received by the church and the apostles and the elders; and they reported all things that God had done with them. 5 But some of the sect of the Pharisees who believed rose up, saying, “It is necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.”  6 Now the apostles and elders came together to consider this matter.

Paul and Barnabas returned to the church leaders, the apostles and elders, to tell of God's work among the nations through their ministry of the gospel.  Some believing Pharisees tried to make the gentiles also follow the Jewish law, so the leaders came together to consider what a God's intended will was from the scriptures and His Spirit's guidance.  So now when issues arise the elders must approach matters seriously but biblically at all times.

Saved by Grace Alone

Acts 15:1-3 
1 And certain men came down from Judea and taught the brethren, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” 2 Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and dispute with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this question. 3 So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the Gentiles; and they caused great joy to all the brethren.

It is fallen human nature to add our works to the grace of salvation.  Here the law's ritual of circumcision was made essential for salvation, when that was but an outward sign of the heart's inner cleansing that God was concerned with.  The question became a dispute, and the disciples had to appeal to the apostles and elders for resolution.  So today those who argue against the doctrines of grace add our effort of a dead will assumed to be able to choose apart from God's grace, but we have the reformation's creeds based on examinations of scripture to stand on.  But real joy comes from those God saves along the way.

Faithful in Trials & Victory

Acts 14:24-28 
24 And after they had passed through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. 25 Now when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia. 26 From there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had completed. 27 Now when they had come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. 28 So they stayed there a long time with the disciples.

Paul and Barnabas went to a few other cities before ending up in Antioch, where they had first been called and sent out by God's grace with the gospel.  Returning now, having finished the work they were to do, they gathered with the church and told of all God worked through them on the journey.  This included the door opening past the Jews of God's people to the world of His called out.  Then they stayed a while in fellowship with the followers of Christ.  What trials and victory in their obedient faithfulness!

Enter by Tribulation

Acts 14:21-23 
21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.” 23 So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.

After making disciples through the gospel words of life, Paul and Barnabas came back to follow up by encouraging and exhorting to continue, to not give up, in their journey of sanctification.  This included addressing the reality of suffering on the way to the kingdom for His name’s sake.  Then they appointed elders in those churches and put them all in God’s sovereign hands, just as we should be doing now according to this biblical example patterned out for us.

Worshipped and Stoned

Acts 14:18-20 
18 And with these sayings they could scarcely restrain the multitudes from sacrificing to them. 19 Then Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there; and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead. 20 However, when the disciples gathered around him, he rose up and went into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

From leader worshippers back to attempted murder, Paul suffered for the gospel but did not give up in proclaiming the necessary and soul-consuming message of the Christ.  His suffering, death, burial, and resurrection with the eternal hope of glory drove Paul ever onward and upward in the race. So Paul got up after being stoned and went on with Barnabas to the next city with the words of life.

Turn From Useless Things

Acts 14:12-17 
12 And Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. ... 14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard this, they tore their clothes and ran in among the multitude, crying out 15 and saying, “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men with the same nature as you, and preach to you that you should turn from these useless things to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them, 16 who in bygone generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways. 17 Nevertheless He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.”

When the focus went to Paul and Barnabas for the healing, they were called gods and worshipped.  So the apostles jumped in to set things straight, pointing out that they were only men as those of Lystra.  They implored them to turn from useless void of life things to the one living God.  God through nature even shows He is the one who gives good things and gladness, not lifeless idols.  The same God had allowed the nations to live their own way until then - when God showed Himself as a man among them...

His Stripes Heal the Soul

Acts 14:8-11 
8 And in Lystra a certain man without strength in his feet was sitting, a cripple from his mother's womb, who had never walked. 9 This man heard Paul speaking. Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed, 10 said with a loud voice, “Stand up straight on your feet!” And he leaped and walked. 11 Now when the people saw what Paul had done, they raised their voices, saying in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!”

When God healed a man lame from birth who trusted God could make him whole, observers seemed not to consider the gospel message from the apostles.  Instead they attributed the work to the men instead of God.  They even went further to worship the men as if they were gods.  Even now some claim to do miracles, drawing attention to themselves, basking in the self importance.  But when God heals a man, He gets the attention, credit, and worship.  And it is the message of healing of the soul that is primary; the outside is only an echo of the inner work (Isaiah 53:5-6).

Divided Wisdom

Acts 14:4-7 
4 But the multitude of the city was divided: part sided with the Jews, and part with the apostles. 5 And when a violent attempt was made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to abuse and stone them, 6 they became aware of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding region. 7 And they were preaching the gospel there.

Some sided with those leaders and people opposed to the words of life, and some sided with the apostles bringing the truth.  The opposition turned violent as it often does to suppress what is good and is opposed to their controlling power base.  So when faced with death, the apostles left town and preached the gospel there instead, for they could do no more where they were.  So we also need to be wise and go where the message can be heard, not staying in our own wisdom when needing to be moved elsewhere. 

Bold Witness in Opposition

Acts 14:1-3 
1 Now it happened in Iconium that they went together to the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke that a great multitude both of the Jews and of the Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren. 3 Therefore they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

Here we see the opposition again from the religious, but also the response from many of all backgrounds to the gospel.  Still the religious poisoned the minds of the non-religious against the Christians.  But Paul and Barnabas were faithful to speak, holding nothing back, and were witnesses in life and word to the grace of God.  The wonderful things they did were merely added proof of the source of their message that itself contained the power to heal souls and not just the outward. 

Collaborative Persecution

Acts 13:50-52. 
50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and prominent women and the chief men of the city, raised up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them, and came to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

Persecution is often a collaborative effort.  Faithful followers shake off the dust and rejoice to be worthy in suffering for His sake.  So we are joyful in the Spirit when this happens as with Paul and Barnabas here.

Appointed to Eternal Life to Believe

Acts 13:48-49 
48 Now when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord. And as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was being spread throughout all the region.

Knowing God desires you and is calling you makes all the difference.  These gentiles were overjoyed to know the gospel was for them as well as "God's people," the Jews.  So the ones who believed, who became Christ followers, were the ones God chose and already appointed to eternal life.  So His word spread even further as it began its reach to all the world.  So we have restful assurance knowing our call that brought us to Jesus Christ as His chosen people.  Blessed assurance!

Light to the Nations

Acts 13:45-47 
45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy; and contradicting and blaspheming, they opposed the things spoken by Paul. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, “It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have set you as a light to the Gentiles, That you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ”

Those without ears to hear, whose hearts have been hardened, mock and oppose the word of God in their jealousy.  These religious ones wanted control and attacked those of the truth in an attempt to keep it.  Even today the papists continue this in varying degrees.  So the apostle turned from the heirs to those willing to hear, the nations, as God had already told they would do.  The good words of life in the gospel deliver those around the world from God's wrath!

Gospel Grace of God

Acts 13:42-44 
42 So when the Jews went out of the synagogue, the Gentiles begged that these words might be preached to them the next Sabbath. 43 Now when the congregation had broken up, many of the Jews and devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas, who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God. 44 On the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God.

When people have not heard the gospel explained before, many will do as these Jews and non-Jews to eagerly come back to ask for more of God's word.  Some will even begin associating with those teaching the words of life.  So we do as Paul and Barnabas to exhort and encourage followers of Christ to not give up on the grace working in them.  We disciple and remind others that God is working, so why stop following?

Justified Belief

Acts 13:38-41 
38 Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins; 39 and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses. 40 Beware therefore, lest what has been spoken in the prophets come upon you: 41 ‘Behold, you despisers, Marvel and perish! For I work a work in your days, A work which you will by no means believe, Though one were to declare it to you.’ ”

The victory that has overcome the world is our faith in Jesus Christ alone.  The work God did is the only forgiveness for the sin we all are born into, and the only hope is to believe this marvelous work He did in Jesus Christ.  If we despise Christ, we die in our sin with no escape from the consequences; no wishful teaching of chances after death change the truth.  But we who believe, who trust Him and His word are justified before God forever, and have His righteousness covering us - that which we can not earn, acquire, or have imparted to us.  It remains His righteousness applied to us.

Begotten Son Raised Up

Acts 13:33-37 
33 God has fulfilled this for us their children, in that He has raised up Jesus. As it is also written in the second Psalm: ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You.’ 34 And that He raised Him from the dead, no more to return to corruption, He has spoken thus: ‘I will give you the sure mercies of David.’ 35 Therefore He also says in another Psalm: ‘You will not allow Your Holy One to see corruption.’ 36 “For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers, and saw corruption; 37 but He whom God raised up saw no corruption.

God foretold what He would do with His Son, raising from death to life, not dying and rotting but living forever.  This resurrection is the hope repeated in the scriptures to assure us of our own eternal life with God, and proven by Jesus rising first to show us.  All who die stay dead unless given life.  We who have been given life have this hope in which we stand.

Promise of Glad Tidings

Acts 13:28-32 
28 And though they found no cause for death in Him, they asked Pilate that He should be put to death. 29 Now when they had fulfilled all that was written concerning Him, they took Him down from the tree and laid Him in a tomb. 30 But God raised Him from the dead. 31 He was seen for many days by those who came up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are His witnesses to the people. 32 And we declare to you glad tidings—that promise which was made to the fathers.

Jesus was crucified innocent.  This all happened because God said and arranged it.  So Jesus had suffered and died in our place to give us credit for His righteousness - but He the rose from death to offer us life in His righteous, the very good news promised all along but hidden from our understanding.  There is cause for death in all but Christ, and He died without cause so we can wear His righteousness!  By His stripes we are spiritually healed from sin and death's scourge, and stand in this life by grace forever.

Savior Foretold

Acts 13:24-27 
24 after John had first preached, before His coming, the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. 25 And as John was finishing his course, he said, ‘Who do you think I am? I am not He. But behold, there comes One after me, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to loose.’ 26 “Men and brethren, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to you the word of this salvation has been sent. 27 For those who dwell in Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they did not know Him, nor even the voices of the Prophets which are read every Sabbath, have fulfilled them in condemning Him.

The Savior came after God called people to turn from sin by John's message, but he was not the deliverer.  The very Son of God, His word become a man, this one came after the way was made ready to those fearing God.  But most could not understand what they heard from the scriptures, not knowing Him who came into His own world He made.  The prophets told of Him, but their eyes were shut and ears stopped up.  God now gives life to dead men walking with spiritual ears and eyes and a mind to understand.  Just hearing in church alone brings no life apart from God's work in each of us.

The Savior, Jesus

Acts 13:20-23 
20 “After that He gave them judges for about four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet. 21 And afterward they asked for a king; so God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years. 22 And when He had removed him, He raised up for them David as king, to whom also He gave testimony and said, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.’ 23 From this man's seed, according to the promise, God raised up for Israel a Savior—Jesus—

Israel had judges to rule with God as their king until they wanted to be ruled by their own king as unbelieving nations were to be like them.  But God mercifully allowed it, with King David as one after His heart and listening to God as the Sovereign over himself.  So the Messiah, the deliverer from the wrath of God on the sin all are born in, He as God's Son and living word came as a man.  This is the good news of life to all rightly condemned, mercy and love making justice appeased and righteousness imputed. 

You Who Fear God, Listen

Acts 13:16-19 
16 Then Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand said, “Men of Israel, and you who fear God, listen: 17 The God of this people Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an uplifted arm He brought them out of it. 18 Now for a time of about forty years He put up with their ways in the wilderness. 19 And when He had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, He distributed their land to them by allotment.

God chose a people for Himself as He promised to faithful Abraham, and later chose Israel out of 400 years of slavery in Egypt.  He showed them and the world who watched that nothing was too hard for God.  Then His people disobeyed and wandered for 40 years in Sinai until all but a few faithful ones survived - then He destroyed nations in the land given to Israel, most of which they are living in today.  But all this was to point to an eternal redeemer, the Messiah/Christ.  In Him we have true freedom in reconciliation with our creator by His sacrifice for our disobedience.  This is the grace in which we stand.

A Word of Exhortation

Acts 13:13-15 
13 Now when Paul and his party set sail from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia; and John, departing from them, returned to Jerusalem. 14 But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down. 15 And after the reading of the Law and the Prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying, “Men and brethren, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.”

Saul now Paul took his team onward as John returned to God's work in Jerusalem.  They went into the Jewish synagogue on the prescribed day of worship and sat to listen to God's word being read.  When asked to say something to contribute, they began to speak.  So should we be respectful and look for opportunities God provides to bear witness to the words of life, the gospel of reconciling grace in God's Son.

Blinded to See

Acts 13:11-12 
11 And now, indeed, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you shall be blind, not seeing the sun for a time.” And immediately a dark mist fell on him, and he went around seeking someone to lead him by the hand. 12 Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had been done, being astonished at the teaching of the Lord.

In the end, the false prophet Elymas who tried to blind the governor from seeing the truth was himself blinded for a while to teach him who God was and the truth, as well as not to stand in God's way when calling His people out.  The proconsul then had the understanding of his heart and mind opened, and believed in Jesus the Christ through the accurate teaching of God by Saul.

Enemy of Righteousness

Acts 13:8-10   
8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for so his name is translated) withstood them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith. 9 Then Saul, who also is called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him 10 and said, “O full of all deceit and all fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease perverting the straight ways of the Lord?

Those opposed to God do all they can to keep others from hearing about Jesus Christ and His work.  They deceive and knowingly defraud others into unrighteousness to their gain and others' harm.  But God is not mocked; here Paul looked straight and boldly at the deceiver in his follower and pointed out the twisting of God's straight way into another which is no real way but to perdition. 

Sent by the Spirit

Acts 13:4-7 
4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. 5 And when they arrived in Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. They also had John as their assistant. 6 Now when they had gone through the island to Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew whose name was Bar-Jesus, 7 who was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. This man called for Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear the word of God.

God's Spirit sent Barnabas and Saul on a trip by ship to the synagogues with His gospel.  This good news was assisted by John, and to a provincial Roman governor who was drawn to ask for them to hear the words of life.  But there was also a self proclaimed prophet who was a sorcerer set against God with the proconsul.  So they went to speak with a godly assistant, John, to speak to a governor drawn to hear who had a false prophet with him.  God speaks through us for many purposes at the same time. We are only to be faithful to go and tell.

Separated to the Work

Acts 12:25-13:3 
25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had fulfilled their ministry, and they also took with them John whose surname was Mark. 
1 Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

Barnabas and Saul were ministering God's word when called to something more specific by God through the hands and assent of others. So now God moves elders to appoint preachers, elders, deacons, and other ministers to serve in the gospel to be sent into the harvest.  This could be on missions, as Saul and Barnabas, or as the elders in churches everywhere.  The pattern is God's call, the commissioning, and the sending into service to minister the words of life.

The Word Grew and Multiplied

Acts 12:20-24 
20 Now Herod had been very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon; but they came to him with one accord, and having made Blastus the king's personal aide their friend, they asked for peace, because their country was supplied with food by the king's country. 21 So on a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat on his throne and gave an oration to them. 22 And the people kept shouting, “The voice of a god and not of a man!” 23 Then immediately an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give glory to God. And he was eaten by worms and died. 24 But the word of God grew and multiplied.

People such as those in Tyre and Sidon make political alliances and lift up leaders like Herod, but here the adulation of the ruler became worship as a god.  The living God sent an angel to cut him down to prove otherwise.  But God's word of life grew even more and more as the truth and true worship spread to many.  So now people put trust in political chariots and horses, even angrily defending the ones they worship, but God's people trust Him above all others.  We obey the rulers, but trust and worship God alone.

Deliverance and Persistence

Acts 12:16-19 
16 Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17 But motioning to them with his hand to keep silent, he declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Go, tell these things to James and to the brethren.” And he departed and went to another place. 18 Then, as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers about what had become of Peter. 19 But when Herod had searched for him and not found him, he examined the guards and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and stayed there.

Peter persistently knocked till the door as opened, then told of the Lord's deliverance from prison.  The word spread about God's faithfulness throughout the church, while Herod searched in vain and in his anger had the guards at Peter's jail executed.  So Peter went to another city for a while.  Persistence, God's faithful deliverance, and the gates of hell unable to stop the church of His people - these we see here.