Introduction:
Did you hear about the couple who named their
new-born baby “Acts”?
When asked why they chose such an odd name they
replied, “Well, we already had Matthew, Mark, Luke and John!”
Crazy! … but the following studies on the Book of
Acts are going to be our ‘baby’.
And they will be a blessing to you … mark my words!
* * * * * * * * *
Writer:
It is Dr Luke who pens this Book … a ‘beloved
physician’ is how Paul describes him (Colossians 4:14).
Sometimes he writes in the first person, having
actually been with Paul at those times … note the “we” in Acts 16:10-17,
20:5-18, etc…
Luke is a Greek … the only Gentile writer in the New
Testament.
He also wrote the third Gospel.
* * * * * * * * *
Reliability:
Sir William Ramsay, noted archaeologist, followed
Luke’s footsteps through Asia Minor and became convinced in the minute accuracy
of this Book.
Besides which, as Christians, we believe the Holy
Spirit kept him free from error (2 Timothy 3:16).
* * * * * * * * * *
Recipient:
Like Luke’s Gospel, the Book of Acts is also
addressed to Theophilus. The phrase
“most excellent” used in Luke 1:3 may indicate that he held a position of
importance in the Roman Empire. Compare
Acts 23:26, 24:2, 26:25.
* * * * * * * * *
Reason:
Luke writes to tell the continuing story of what
Jesus is still doing. Some have
suggested the book should be called “The Unfinished Work of Christ” or even
“The Acts of the Lord Jesus…through His Apostles”. See 1:1.
Chapters 1-7 In
Jerusalem and Judea Preaching
to Jews
Chapters 8-12 In
Samaria Preaching
to Half-Jews
Chapters 13-28 In
the Uttermost Parts Preaching
to Non-Jews
Memorise the Key Verse … Acts 1:8!
* * * * * * * * *
Three truths leap out at us from these opening 12
verses…
1. CHRIST
IS RISEN
He showed Himself alive on numerous occasions … ten
of which are mentioned in the New Testament (v. 3; e.g., see 1 Corinthians 15:6).
Not only did He arise from the dead, but He arose
into Heaven! (Acts 1:9).
In so doing He became our ‘Fore-runner’ – the first
of glorified humanity to go “Home” (Hebrews 6:19-20).
The Ascension of our Lord was…
·
Foretold
John 6:62
·
Recorded Mark 16:19; John 24:50-51; Acts 1:9
·
Confirmed Ephesians 4:10
2. CHRIST
IS RENEWING
‘Renewal’ is a word oft used in Charismatic circles
these days for their own particular movement.
But the Lord sent the Holy Spirit for all believers…
(a) To
empower them (and us) for service … (vs. 4, 8).
“The Christ of Calvary must
be preached in the Power of Pentecost”! (J.S. Baxter).
(b) To
enlighten their (and our) understanding.
The query of the disciples in verse 6 shows that
they were still nationalistic and materialistic in their view of the Kingdom of
God. One day that Kingdom will be
established, not just for Jews (as they thought) but for all believers. In the meantime the Holy Spirit is given to
us that we might get folk into His Kingdom … NOW!
3. CHRIST
IS RETURNING … vs. 9-11
He went personally … He will come again personally.
He went visibly … He went with the clouds … He went
unexpectedly! And thus He will return.
* * * * * * * * *
CHRIST
IS RISEN The
Basis for our Faith
CHRIST
IS RENEWING The
Emphasis is on Loving Service
CHRIST
IS RETURNING The Focus of
our Hope
Read Acts 1:1-12 again…
==========================================================
Introduction:
Christ has ascended and the apostles head back to
Jerusalem where their Risen Lord had told them to wait for the Baptism with the
Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8, 12).
There are ten days of waiting ahead of them …
although they do not know that.
And Peter decides the time could be spent in
selecting a successor to Judas.
* * * * * * * * *
Let’s focus our attention on the four people who are
at the centre of this story…
1. JUDAS,
THE DOOMED
There are many awkward questions concerning the role
of this traitor among the Twelve.
Could he have NOT betrayed the Lord … or was he
predestined to do so??
Was he ever a child of God … or ever a hypocrite?
(a) A
seeming contradiction has been pointed out by comparing this passage in Acts
with Matthew 27:5-7. Apparently Judas
planned to buy the land (even paid a deposit, Acts 1:18), but the full amount
was purchased by the priests with the returned 30 pieces of silver (Matthew
27:7).
The breaking of the rope, and decomposition of the
body of Judas would harmonise the Acts 1:18 description with Matthew 27:5.
(b) More
serious than the seeming contradiction is the serious condemnation
pronounced upon Judas by the Scripture.
He went “where he belonged”! (v. 25.)
Jesus said that it were better if he (Judas) had
never been born! (Matthew 26:24.)
And that is true of not just Judas, but of ever
person who ends up in Hell.
2. MATTHIAS,
THE FAVOURED
Chosen as an Apostle! (v. 26.)
Oddly enough, we never hear of him again!!
(a) Did
the position of leadership bog him down in a multitude of administrative
details? Did it quench his early
soul-winning zeal?
(b) Or
did the position ‘go to his head’ and cause him to swell up with
self-importance?
Paul warns about the perils of electing to sacred
office those who are not ready to cope with such responsibility (1 Timothy 3:6,
5:22).
3. PETER,
THE HOT-HEADED
Dear old impetuous Peter … he’s at it again.
Why did he want to elect someone on the place of
Judas?
·
Because
the Scripture said another would take the traitor’s place (v. 20 is a quotation
from the Psalms). And notice Who
inspired that writing (v. 16)!!
·
But
did the Lord tell them to do it at this time?
It may well be that Paul was
God’s choice as the 12th Apostle … and Peter and Co. jumped the
gun! See Galatians 1:1, 15-16.
·
Just as the twelve tribes of Israel were not complete until Benjamin
was born…
So, the twelve apostles were
not complete until Paul (a son of Benjamin) was born “out of due time”
(Philippians 3:5; 1 Corinthians 15:8).
Mmmmmmmm???
4. JUSTUS,
THE DEFEATED … v. 23
… and what happened to Justus?
Did he get the huff and leave the fellowship of the
Church. Some believers do act that way,
you know!
Or did he rejoice with his brother who was appointed
over him? “Love envieth not…”
And then did he get on with whatever job the Lord
had for him?
We may not all be called to be apostles … or some
task in the limelight. But let us make
sure we are faithful in the job God gives us to do.
As the old table Grace puts it:
Lord, may we not be like
porridge … stiff and stodgy and hard to stir;
But like cornflakes … crisp
and fresh and ready to serve. AMEN.
==========================================================
Here we have recorded the story of the Birthday of
the Christian Church.
1. THE
PUBLIC PLACE
We usually think of this out-pouring of the Holy
Spirit as taking place in the upper room (1:13). But that is just where the apostles were staying. Luke 24:50-53 tells us that they met at the
temple daily … one doubts whether 120 folk gathered in an upper room (Acts
1:15). Or does the “they” only refer to
the 12, not the 120? (v. 7).
2. THE
PENTECOSTAL PROPHECY
The Spirit came on the 50th day after the
Resurrection of the Lord Jesus … just as Leviticus 23 had indicated it would
happen.
The Lord Jesus died at the time of the Passover
(Leviticus 23:5), He rose at the time of the Feast of the First-fruits
(Leviticus 23:10-11, and the Holy Spirit came on the Feast of Weeks (or
Pentecost, Leviticus 23:15-16).
3. THE
PERFECT PEACE
Those 120 disciples were “all together”. The A.V. has it “in one accord”! They were not squabbling among
themselves. The Holy Dove will not come
to bless and empower a strife-torn fellowship.
4. THE
PROMISED POWER
Jesus had promised that if they tarried the power to
be His witnesses would come upon them.
Some folk get sidetracked on the external events
here recorded … the main thing is: Did
they get the Power?? Read the rest of
the Book of Acts and judge for yourself!
5. THE
PURPOSEFUL PORTENTS
Wind and Fire and supernatural utterance (vs. 2-4).
Such miraculous happenings confirmed the fact that
the Unseen Spirit had come. In
apostolic times the message was confirmed by signs and wonders (Hebrews 2:3-4).
Besides which, the Jews were always requiring a
‘sign’ (1 Corinthians 1:22) … and ‘tongues’ was a sign to these unbelieving
people (1 Corinthians 14:22).
6. THE
PUZZLED POPULACE
Here they were, Jews from all parts of the Roman
Empire, all speakers of differing dialects … yet here were these ‘Galileans’
(the ‘country cousins’ of the more educated Judeans!) speaking in their various
languages! (vs. 6-7.)
Are men and women who come into contact with me day
by day ‘puzzled’ by the Faith they see displayed in my life?
7. THE
‘PIDGIN’ PREACHING
Having caught their attention, Peter now preaches to
them … in ‘Pidgin’ Greek (Acts of the Apostles, by J.A. Findlay, page
66). See verse 14 and following.
Greek was the universal language … whilst there were
a variety of local dialects spoken across the Roman Empire, everybody spoke
Greek. And that was all Peter needed
for his sermon. More about that sermon
the our next study.
8. THE
PARALLEL PRODUCT
Some Jews accuse the believers of being drunk. Well, they are filled with a Spirit … but
not the ‘spirit’ of which they are accused.
There is an interesting comparison here.
Alcoholic spirits affect the way a person talks
… slurred speech and inane rambling.
Being ‘filled with the Spirit’ should affect the way we talk too
(James 3:10).
Likewise spirits affect a person’s walk …
staggering and falling. Being filled
with the Spirit should affect our walk (Galatians 5:16).
Some intoxicated people become affected in their
handling of finance. And if you are
‘filled with the Spirit’ it will surely have an influence on the way you ‘fork
out’ to God’s word (2 Corinthians 9:7)!
==========================================================
Here is Peter’s first sermon … for that matter, it
is the first sermon preached in the history of the Christian Church, a Church
that had been born just a few hours earlier.
1. THE
SAINTS WERE UNITED
They were united in their praying (1:14),
united in their purpose, i.e., the desire to be witnesses for
their Risen Lord (2:14), and they were united in their power … “They
were all filled with the Holy Spirit” (not just the preacher! 2:4).
No wonder great things were about to happen!
2. THE
SAVIOUR WAS UPLIFTED
Read John 12:32.
Peter’s sermon exalts the Lord Jesus!
Firstly, there is an Historical Examination
of our Lord’s ministry.
His life (v. 22), His death (vs. 22-23), His
resurrection (24, 32), His exaltation (33), and His Lordship (36).
* Did you realise that Jesus is called
‘Saviour’ 24 times in the New Testament and called ‘Lord’ 433 times!
This sermon gets the
emphasis in the right place. Jesus is
Lord.
Secondly, there is the Scriptural Confirmation
of this fact.
In the 22 verses that make up Peter’s sermon, 11
verses are Old Testament quotations…
Verses
17-21 Joel 2
Verses
25-28 Psalm 16
Verses
34-35 Psalm 110
This is a Bible-based sermon!
Thirdly, there is the Powerful Presentation.
In the previous chapter we saw Peter, the
Hot-headed. Now meet Peter, the
Hot-hearted!
Read again verses 22-24, 36, 40.
3. THE
SUCCESS IS UNDERSTANDABLE
With a Spirit-filled preacher with prayerful backing
and a Bible-based message, no wonder 3000 were ushered into the Kingdom of God
(v. 41).
** Notice:
at the giving of the Law, “the ministration of death written and
engraven on stones” (2 Corinthians 3:7) 3000 met their doom (Exodus
32:25-28). But at the giving of the Gospel
3000 find Eternal Life.
These converts were first convicted of their
sin (v. 37), they were converted (v. 41a), and then we find them confessing
their allegiance to the Lord in the waters of Baptism (41b). And they also confess Him by spoken testimony.
And they continued … (the conversion was no
flash-in-the-pan affair!) They
continued in Bible study, fellowship, the Breaking of Bread, and prayer (v.
42).
And they continued in their witnessing, joy and
unity! (v.46.)
* * * * * * * * *
Conclusion:
These early believers put into practice that which
God had spoken to them through the preaching of the Word.
Do I?
==========================================================
1. THE
LAME BEGGAR
… who asked for alms … and received legs!
Over 40 years of age (4:22) and lame from birth, he
has given up hope. He doesn’t even ask
the passers-by to pray for him…
Peter and John were going to the Temple to pray (NOT
to offer a sacrifice!).
And in the Name of Jesus they command this man to
rise! He does …
Thus the lame beggar becomes …
2. THE
LEAPING WORSHIPPER
The initial ‘leaping’ gives way to steady
‘walking’. Cf. Isaiah 40:31.
And not only do his legs walk… but his tongue
praises, not Peter and John, but God (3:8-9).
And so should we!
3. THE
LIVING TEXT
Peter’s sermons that follow – a day apart – are
based on “this man” (3:12, 4:10).
How was this man able to walk? Because Jesus “Whom ye crucified” is alive
(4:10, 3:15-16).
As a result of this living proof some are
rebellious, and Peter, John and their convert are imprisoned overnight (4:3).
The next day (4:5) they are warned to desist from
preaching (4:18, 21) … but to no avail.
Others, however, were convinced by this miracle that
Jesus was the Messiah, risen from the dead, and the Church grew to about 5000
in number (plus women and children), Acts 4:4.
==========================================================
When the Church starts to ‘come alive’ … so too does
the old Devil.
Already the first of many imprisonments has taken
place (4:3) … and worse is yet to come!
1. THE
CHURCH IS UNITED IN ITS SUPPLICATION … 4:23-31
(a) The
Reason … they have been told to stop preaching (4:18, 21).
(b) The
Request
... they ask God to make them more bold in their preaching! (4:29).
** Notice: the apostles’ view of the Inspiration of the
Old Testament in verse 25. It was not
just the word of David … but the Holy Spirit speaking through him.
** Notice: their deeper understanding of the Old Testament now the Holy
Spirit has come upon (and in) them.
Once they were slow to understand all that the
prophets had written (Luke 24:25), now they see that Psalm 2 is a Messianic
prophecy and it was being fulfilled by the opposition of the Roman and Jewish
authorities (4:27).
** And
Notice: the word “child” in the King James Version
is better translated “Son”, verses 27 and 30.
Some versions have “Servant”.
(c) The
Result. They are filled with boldness to continue
preaching … and they proclaim the fact of the Resurrection as usual! … and the
house is SHAKEN! (vs. 31, 33).
2. THE
CHURCH IS UNSELFISH IN ITS SHARING … 4:32-5:11
Communism says, “What’s your’s is mine … I’ll take
it!”
These Christians said, “What’s Mine is your’s, I’ll
share it.”
There was no compulsion about it. But they “had everything in common”.
Two examples were cited…
(a) Joseph,
the Levite
… later “nicknamed Barny the Preacher” by the apostles (v. 36, The Living
Bible).
He sold his land and gave the money to the apostles.
How different from Judas who had his eye on land and
betrayed Jesus to get enough money to buy it (Acts 1:18).
(b) Ananias,
the Liar …
5:1-11.
He, too, sold land and brought part of the money to
the apostles. He did not have to bring
it all. His sin lay in the lie that it
was the entire amount. In cohorts with
his wife, Sapphira, he pretends to be more devout than he is (5:2, 9).
Judgement falls on them both … Death! (vs, 5, 10.)
But that does not necessarily mean they went to
Hell.
It was an effective warning to the Church … and the
unbeliever … that God expects His people to be holy in word and deed (vs.
13-14).
3. THE
CHURCH IS UNCONQUERABLE IN ITS SUFFERING
… 5:17-42
Note the sequence of what follows…
The apostles are Imprisoned (v. 18),
Delivered
(v. 19)
Preaching!
(25ff)
Condemned
to death (33)
Delivered
(34-39)
And
you guessed it, Preaching! (42.)
Gamaliel’s advice is based on faulty logic. Lots of wicked movements prosper (Mormons,
Communism, J.W.’s, etc.). It is not a
sign of God’s blessing upon them (vs. 38-39).
Nevertheless it is used to deliver the apostles once
more from the Sanhedrin.
After beating them (v. 40) they set them free.
And, the apostles rejoice … ’cos that’s what the
Lord Jesus had told them would happen (Matthew 5:11-12).
==========================================================
If the old Devil cannot conquer the Church by
opposition from without, then he will try dissension within.
And that’s what happens in Acts 6.
1. THE
COMPLAINT OF THE GRECIANS … v. 1
These folk were Greek-speaking Jews, as opposed to
the pure Hebrew-speaking Jews.
Were the apostles favouring the latter in the
distribution of food and clothing??
2. THE
CONFERENCE OF THE CHURCH … vs. 2-4
It is decided to appoint seven men, deacons, to
attend to this matter.
3. THE
COMMENCEMENT OF THE DIACONATE … vs. 5-6
The interesting thing is that all these men have
Greek names! The Church ‘bends over
backwards’ to show that they did not favour the Hebrew-speaking Jews, and that
they trust the men they chose to be fair to both parties.
4. THE
CONVERSION OF THE PEOPLE … v. 7
“So”, i.e. “Because the Church was in one accord once more”, their impact on the community continued to be effective.
5. THE
CONFLICT WITH THE LIBERTINES … v. 9
These were slaves who had found liberty. Today the word ‘libertine’ carries a
different connotation.
This synagogue may have been discovered by
archaeologists in 1913.
6. THE
COMPETENCE OF STEPHEN … vs. 8-10
He disputes so convincingly that none can answer
him. His proclamation of the Word is
accompanied by the miraculous (v. 8).
7. THE
COMPLICITY OF THE WITNESSES … vs. 11-14
Their lies lead to Stephen’s arrest.
8. THE
CONSOLATION OF THE ACCUSED … v. 15
Angelic!
In ACTS 7 we have Stephen’s defence before
the Sanhedrin.
He turns the ‘dock’ into a pulpit!
The trouble is … Just how relevant is his reply?
And why doesn’t he preach the Gospel like Peter did?
And what about the historical blunders he makes??
STEPHEN’S REPLY … Bear in mind that he is cut short before the
sermon is finished. He may well have
been still getting to the Gospel!
His approach, that of reciting Israel’s history, would
capture the attention of his listeners.
And it IS relevant … he has been charged with
speaking against the temple (6:13-14), and he is out to show how God does not
need the temple anyway.
As for the historical errors … it could be that we
have an inspired account of what he said, but what he says is not always
accurate! (Like Job said a number of
untruths … as did his friends … but we have an inspired account of what they
said (see Job 42:8).
Some commentators seek to harmonise the
discrepancies between Stephen’s speech and the Old Testament statements. But it is not easy to do so.
For example, he says…
1. GOD
MET ABRAHAM IN HARAN, AND EVEN IN UR … 7:1-7
2. GOD MET WITH THE PATRIARCHS IN EGYPT,
LONG BEFORE THERE WAS ANY TEMPLE … vs. 9-19
3. GOD
MET MOSES IN MIDIAN! NO TEMPLE NEEDED!
… vs. 20-43
4. EVENTUALLY GOD MET WITH HIS PEOPLE IN THE TABERNACLE … vs. 44-45
AND SOLOMON … ABOUT 1000 BC, FINALLY BUILT THE
TEMPLE … vs. 46-47
5. BUT
DOES GOD REALLY NEED A TEMPLE? … vs. 49-50
6. STEPHEN’S
JUDGES ARE GETTING STEAMED UP … vs. 51-54
He denounces them as being sons of those Old
Testament Jews who resisted God’s Word in their days.
7. JESUS
STANDS TO RECEIVE HIS FIRST MARTYR … 7:55-8:1a
Saul (Paul) SEES how a Christian can die … and
Stephen SLEEPS till the last Trump.
==========================================================
The Wrath of hostile Judaism breaks
upon the young Church. The Result
is that the believers are scattered … taking the Gospel with them as they go
(vs. 1-4).
1. THE
SAMARITANS … AND PHILIP
(a) The
Barrier. Jews had no dealing with the
Samaritans. Yet Jesus had told them to
preach “in Samaria” (Acts 1:8), and now, 3½ years later, someone obeys that
command.
(b) The
Blessings
follow. Revival occurs (vs. 6-8)). Many are baptised (v. 12).
Even Simon the Sorcerer (v. 13).
2. THE
SORCERER … AND THE APOSTLES
(a) His
Reputation. Everyone considers him to have
supernatural powers. But does he? (vs. 10-11.)
(b) His
Regeneration. At face value it seems that
Simon got converted (v. 13). But a
number of commentators doubt this.
(c) His
Request. He offers money to buy the ability to impart
the Holy Spirit to others (v. 18). And
the word ‘Simony’ enters the English language.
It means the buying and selling of religious offices. It was a major sin during the Dark Ages.
(d) His
Rebuke. Peter scolds him well and truly (vs.
20-23). It almost sounds like the Peter
we knew in the Gospels, flying off the handle.
Or is it a case of spiritual discernment that sees the wickedness of the
sorcerer’s heart?
(e) His
Repentance. Or at least, so it seems (v.
24).
The catch is: Church history has much to say of this man’s subsequent heresies. Whilst there may be legendary additions in these stories, it seems this repentance was short-lived … if it was sincere in the first place.
==========================================================
In the midst of the great revival in Samaria, which
he is the Revivalist, God tells Philip to go to Gaza … “which is desert”.
So he goes … and meets…
(a) His
Spiritual Position.
Despite his social standing, and his wealth, and his
Judaism … this Ethiopian was not saved.
He had been to Jerusalem to worship (vs. 27-28), but
still did not know the joy of sins forgiven.
Neither his pilgrimage, nor even his Bible reading,
meant that he was a Child of God.
(b) His
Scriptural Confusion.
He was reading Isaiah 53 … but could not understand
its meaning. Philip explains that it is
a prophecy about Jesus (v. 35).
(c) His
Joyful Conversion.
The Ethiopian is converted and baptised. (Baptism must have been a part of Philip’s
sermon.)
Verse 37 in the King James Version is not a part of
the earliest Greek manuscripts. Most
modern translations omit it.
* * * * * * * * *
Chapter 8:1-25 Samaritans converted (Half-Jews)
Chapter 8:25:40 Gentile
Proselytes
Chapter 9 Apostle
to the Gentiles … Paul
Chapter 10 First
Gentile converted … Cornelius
In these chapters we see the early Church breaking
out of its Jewish mould.
The Gospel was to be taken to the Jews, then the
Samaritans, and then to the uttermost part of the world (1:8).
Chapters 1-7 To
the Jews
Chapter
8:26-40 To an Ethiopian
(Gentile), who is already a convert to Judaism
Chapter 9 The conversion of Saul
of Tarsus, who will become the mighty Apostle to the Gentiles
Chapter 10 To the Gentiles. Cornelius, a Roman centurion, is converted.
* * * * * * * * *
The Jews are the descendants of Shem
The
Samaritans are descendants of Shem and
Japhet – a mixture of Hebrew and Gentile blood is in their veins
The Ethiopian is a descendant of Ham
The Roman is a
descendant of Japhet
=========================================================
We come to the story of the conversion of Saul of Tarsus: Arch-enemy of the Christians.
This story will be repeated twice more before our
studies in Acts are completed (chapters 22 and 26).
Notice his four Encounters…
1. ENCOUNTER
WITH THE CHRISTIANS … v. 1
He was out for their blood. He was even after those who had fled from
Judah and settled as far north as Damascus.
And he had the approval of the High Priest to do so.
2. ENCOUNTER
WITH THE LORD … vs. 3-8
On the Damascus Road… a blinding light… a voice… and Saul meets the Risen Christ.
3. ENCOUNTER
WITH ANANIAS … vs. 9-19
Led blinded into Damascus, Saul meets Ananias, who lays hands on him. The blindness departs … both physical and spiritual.
Saul is Spirit-filled, and baptised.
4. ENCOUNTER
WITH THE JEWS … vs. 20-26
Immediately he is witnessing to his
new-found Lord … and that, most effectively.
He escapes their clutches (v. 25) and returns to Jerusalem (v. 26).
Such miracles also helped the Church get on its feet
in those early days. Today we walk by
faith … not by looking for outward
signs and wonders all the time. These
miracles were like scaffolding, which is removed when the building is erected.
The Third Miracle is the raising of Dorcas
from the dead (vs. 36-42). Her name in
Hebrew is “Tabitha”, in Greek it is “Dorcas”, and means “Gazelle”. When this dear lady suddenly dies the
believers in Joppa send for Peter … a three hour trip from Lydda to Joppa …
probably to preside at the funeral.
Instead of which he raises her from the dead. Wow!
Charismatics who suggest the healing of Aeneas
should be a pattern for our day are less emphatic when it comes to the raising
of Dorcas!
She had not been called by God to preach, or sing,
or be a missionary … but her sewing needle was used to bless the saints (v.
39). One writer says that her sewing
room was really a sanctuary where service to the Lord was performed.
Peter’s methodology of calling Dorcas back to life
is reminiscent of the Lord Jesus and the daughter of Jairus. For that matter, as Prof. Findlay suggests,
Was it the same person being raised again?
“Tabitha” and “Talitha” (Mark 5:40-41) says he, appear to be variations
of the same name!!
And there are many who believe, in contrast to all
who believed when Aeneas was healed!!
Interesting! You’d expect it to
be vice-versa!
The Fourth Miracle has to do with the
mellowing of Peter (v. 43). He is
staying in the house of a TANNER – someone who worked with dead animal
hides! And that was frowned upon by
devout Jews. “A tanner was more
ostracised than a leper!”, says one commentator! Maybe Peter was coming to see that the old laws of Moses were no
longer binding on believers… his Jewish
exclusiveness and adherence to the Mosaic Law is starting to collapse!
In the next chapter the Lord will give him a vision
to put him straight on that matter, once and for all.
==========================================================
Peter and Cornelius both receive a message from God
… despite the fact that they are about 30 miles apart, God is at work at ‘both
ends’.
Cornelius, a Roman centurion, is about to become the
first Gentile convert.
1. THE
VISION HE SAW … vs. 3-6
An angel tells him to send for Peter at Joppa. Notice the details the angel gives (v. 5). BUT THE ANGEL CANNOT TELL THIS CENTURION HOW TO BECOME A CHRISTIAN! That is not a task committed to angels, but to us.
2. THE
VISITORS HE SENT … vs. 7-8
Two servants and a soldier set off to Joppa to find the apostle.
* * * * * * * * *
Meanwhile God is preparing the heart of Peter for this visit. Remember, he is a devout Jew … true, he has been converted, but many of Judaism’s customs still haunt him. Talking to Gentiles would be one such problem (v. 28).
1. THE
VISION HE SAW … vs. 9-16
A sheet full of animals, clean and unclean, is shown to the apostle. He refuses to eat at the Lord’s command.
God is teaching him that the old Mosaic ceremonial
laws are passed away. Nor should any
person be regarded as unclean (v. 15).
2. THE
VISITORS HE RECEIVED … v. 23
… and they were Gentiles! And he put them up over night!
Peter accompanies them to Caesarea … and the Centurion falls at his feet (vs. 25-26).
Peter’s reaction indicates that if he was the first
pope, he didn’t know it! (v. 26.)
Cornelius is a good man. He ‘fears God’, he is respected by the Jewish community, he
prays, and gives alms (vs. 2, 22).
But he is not saved (11:14).
This way of salvation Peter now explains to him…
(a) The
Extent of God’s Love.
In verses 34 and 35 Peter explains that the love of
God reaches out to all men.
So much for the exclusiveness of Judaism, who
thought they were God’s own special people.
And so much for those who today teach that God only
has His elect few.
Red and yellow, black and
white,
All are precious in His
sight.
(b) The
Proof of God’s Love, vs. 36-43.
Jesus came … and was crucified (v. 39) … and rose
again (vs. 40-41). One day he will be
our Judge (v. 42), but at the moment He can be our Saviour (v. 43).
The Old Testament prophets foretold His coming … and
YOU need to trust Him.
(c) The
Recipients of God’s Love.
Before the sermon is through (11:15) Cornelius
responds. The Holy Spirit comes upon
these Gentiles, they speak in tongues, and are baptised (vs. 44-48).
They are even COMMANDED (v. 48, KJV) to be
baptised. Wow!
==========================================================
Having experienced the privilege of opening the
Kingdom of Heaven to the Gentiles, Peter journeys to Jerusalem. And finds himself embroiled in an argument…
1. THE
CONFRONTATION WITH THE JEWISH BELIEVERS
vs. 2-3
Peter is criticised for eating with Gentiles.
2. THE
CONFUSION OF PETER … vs. 4-11
He tells the story of the sheet … and how he did not know what to do when God told him to eat.
3. THE
CONVERSION OF CORNELIUS … vs. 13-17
There was no doubting the reality of his
conversion. And, adds Peter, “Who was I
to withstand God?” (v. 17.)
4. THE
CONCLUSION OF THE MATTER … v. 18
All rejoice that God is at work … even though it is now outside the bounds of Judaism.
* * * * * * * * *
NOW… in verses 19-30 the Gospel takes an even
stronger thrust. Cornelius was on the
fringe of Judaism (a God-fearer), who had sought them.
Now we meet out-and-out Gentile pagans … and the
Church is seeking them.
1. THE
SCATTERED BELIEVERS … vs. 19-21
(a) Where
they went
… Phonecia, Cyprus, Antioch…
Antioch was the third most important city in the Roman Empire.
(b) Who
they told … First they only preached to the Jews.
But now to Greeks.
(c) What
they said …
They didn’t preach about Racial Injustice or Land Rights for the Jews … they
preached Jesus.
(d) What
they saw
… conversions.
2. BARNABAS … vs. 21-25
Barnabas is sent by the Jerusalem Church to see what
was going on.
Under his encouraging ministry the new-born Church
continues to flourish.
He realises that he needs help.
3. SAUL … vs. 26
… is sought for, and found, in Tarsus. He returns to Antioch with Barnabas.
4. AGABUS … vs. 27-30
… a prophet … arrives and foretells a forthcoming famine. The believers at Antioch send a donation to the Jerusalem Church by the hands of Saul and Barnabas.
* * * * * * * * *
LEARN…
1. YOU
CAN TRUST HIS BOOK
The famine is confirmed by secular writers. It took place AD 45-50.
2. YOU
CAN AWAIT HIS TIMING
God does not always work to our timetable. Paul has been labouring in Tarsus, in
obscurity … for about ten years. Now
God is ready to put him centre-stage.
3. YOU
CAN ‘WORK OUT’ HIS SALVATION … Philippians 2:12
The Antioch Church shows something of the reality of
their faith by the gift they send to those in need. Despite the fact that the Jerusalem saints had been so critical
of eating with Gentiles (vs. 1-3).
4. YOU
CAN SHINE IN THE PLACE OF HIS APPOINTMENT
If the Church can witness in Antioch, it can witness
anywhere! It was no Sunday-School
picnic.
5. YOU
CAN REJOICE IN YOUR ‘NICKNAME’ … Christian! … v. 26
==========================================================
The persecution against the believers quickens their
prayer life…
1. THE
REASON FOR THEIR PRAYER … vs. 1-2
(a) The
Antagonism of Herod … v. 1.
Just as his grand-father had sought to slay the infant Jesus, so this Herod seeks to slay the infant Church.
(b) The
Execution of James … v. 2.
This is the first of the twelve apostles to lay down
his life for the cause of Christ.
(c) The
Incarceration of Peter. For the third time in Acts,
Peter is imprisoned. And well and truly
guarded!! The Passover season delays
his execution (vs. 3).
2. THE
RECIPE FOR PRAYER … v. 5
(a) Earnest. They just didn’t mumble prayers.
(b) Continuous. The impression given was that the Christians kept up a battery of
prayer from the time of his arrest
(c) United. The Church got together and prayed.
(d) Directed… to the right place – God.
(e) Specific. It was for Peter. They
didn’t pray vaguely.
(All these points are in verse 5!)
3. THE
RESULT OF THE PRAYER … vs. 6-23
(a) The
Deliverance of Peter. Miraculously an angel sets him
free, after having to wake him up! (v.
7.)
(b) The
Doubts of the Believers. They cannot
accept the fact (at first) that their prayer has been answered (v. 15). But Peter enters and their doubts turn to
delight (v. 16).
(c) The
Death of Herod. At a time when he is allowing
himself to be deified, God smites him.
Josephus, the Jewish historian, alludes to this event.
* * * * * * * * *
Conclusion:
“And the word of God continued to grow…” Acts 12:24.
==========================================================
1. THE
COMMISSIONING OF THE MISSIONARIES … vs. 1-4
The Church at Antioch receives a word from the Holy
Spirit (through one of the prophets?) to send forth Barnabas and Saul as
missionaries.
* Note
the priority Barnabas is given at this stage.
* Was “Black
Symeon” (v. 1) the man who once carried the Saviour’s Cross?? Mark 15:21.
* Manaen was
actually brought up with Herod Agrippa I … who just met an untimely end
(12:23).
* John Mark
… later author of the second Gospel … goes along as their assistant (v. 5).
2. THE
CONFLICT WITH THE SORCERER … vs. 6-11
On the Isle of Cyprus they come across the Roman
proconsul and his court-chaplain. This
latter fellow is a false prophet who opposes Paul and Barnabas. Paul speaks sharply and Elymas is smitten
with temporary blindness (v. 11).
3. THE
CONVERSION OF THE PROCONSUL … v. 12
Sergius Paulus believes … and an archaeological find
about a hundred years ago has uncovered the name of this man on a
monument. Even the word ‘proconsul’
reveals Luke’s intimate knowledge of the historical situation.
==========================================================
From Cyprus “Paul and his company” (note that it is
no longer “Barnabas and Saul”) sail to Perga and here John Mark goes home (v.
13).
At Antioch (Psidian Antioch … NOT Syrian Antoich)
they enter the synagogue … and Paul takes the opportunity to speak.
The sermon that follows is in three sections, and in
the King James Version each section commences with the words “Men and
Brethren…”
1. A
SURVEY OF THE PAST … vs. 15-25
Paul catches their ears by reciting the history of their nation. Here is a “Walk Thru’ the Old Testament” in miniature.
But it is not just the story of Israel, it is the
story of God preparing the world for the coming of the Messiah.
2. A
REMINDER OF THE RECENT … vs. 26-37
And He came. A comparison of this section with Peter’s sermons in Acts 2 and 10 reveal the same pattern (or outline).
Jesus came … was crucified … rose … was foretold by
the Old Testament prophets … and is able to save.
3. A
CHALLENGE FOR THE FUTURE … vs. 38-41
Paul preaches “justification by faith” (v. 39). Keeping the Law of Moses cannot save. Only Jesus can … and to reject Him means
judgement.
(a) The
Reaction … Revival (v. 43).
(b) The
Riot …
the Jews are not happy (v. 49).
(c) The
Rejoicing …
among those who believed (vs. 48, 52).
=========================================================
Continuing their first missionary journey, Paul and
Barnabas leave Antioch (in a hurry! 13:51), and go to Iconium.
1. THE
INCIDENTS AT ICONIUM … vs. 1-5
Paul again takes the opportunity to speak in the
synagogue. Many are converted.
But as the pattern will continue throughout Acts
(and throughout history for that matter!) the Gospel also provokes opposition.
With stoning imminent, our missionaries decide it is
time to leave. No need to unnecessarily
make oneself a martyr! (v. 5).
2. THE
LABOURS AT LYSTRA … vs. 6-10
A lame man is miraculously healed … and leaps for
joy (v. 10).
And the populace think that Paul and Barnabas must
be gods. The trouble is that they say
it in their own dialect and our intrepid missionaries do not realise that a
sacrifice is being planned in their honour (vs. 11, 13).
Barnabas is called by the people “Jupiter” (the
father of the council of gods in their superstitious belief) and Paul is
likened to “Mercury” (the younger, speedier god). Verse 12 probably indicates something of the ago of old Barnabas
compared to that of younger Paul.
Discovering the plan of the people, Paul
remonstrates with them saying, “We are men like you…” (v. 15).
And he takes the opportunity to preach about the
true God (vs. 15-17).
Jews arrive from Antioch … the tide turns against
Paul and his friend, and they are stoned.
Some commentators think Paul was actually dead (v. 19).
3. THE
DISCOURSE AT DERBE … vs. 20-21
Paul recovers … goes to Derbe … preaches, and heads
for home. He passes through the towns
recently visited (vs. 24-25).
In each place he warns the disciples of coming
tribulation and appoints elders (pastors).
Then home to Syrian Antioch to show his
slides…
This first missionary journey covered
approximately 1300 miles and took about one and a half years (AD 45-46??)
==========================================================
Once again dissension hits the Apostolic Church.
Some of the Jewish believers (see v. 5, they
“believed”) still maintain that faith in the Messiah must be preceded by an
acceptance of Judaism … with all its rites and ceremonies (v. 1).
THE CONTROVERSY is so vital to the future
of the Church … after all, Gentiles are getting converted now … that it is
decided to hold a council meeting in Jerusalem and thrash this thing out once
and for all.
THE TESTIMONIES …
(a) of
Peter
(vs. 7-11).
He tells how the Holy Spirit was given to Cornelius
… and he was not a Jew.
(b) of
Barnabas and Paul (v. 12).
They too, have seen Gentiles won to the Lord who had never submitted to the rites of Judaism.
** NOTICE
in passing that Peter did not speak as an infallible pope, rather as a member of the Church. Nor is Peter the leader of the council
meeting.
It is James, the Lord’s brother, who gives the
summing up (vs. 13-21).
James quotes Amos 9:11-12 (Acts 15:15-17) to show
that even Gentiles would be welcome in the Christian Church.
Some dispensationalists see a reference here to the
re-building of the temple after the Rapture … but that is not how James
interprets the prophecy of Amos.
The Tabernacle of David (the “moving tent”, v. 15),
is a picture of the spiritual House made of living stones … Jew and Gentile.
* * * * * * * * *
There are certain prohibitions however,
suggested by the council to the Gentile converts.
Eating foot first offered to idols, ignoring the
Jewish laws of marriage as outlined in Leviticus 18, and eating things
strangled with the blood still in them were all abhorrent to a Jew.
So would the Gentile believers show some respect for
these age-old Jewish laws … not as a matter of salvation (see v. 11 again), but
as a matter of courtesy? Otherwise
fellowship between Jew and Gentile will be broken.
This summary is written and sent back to the Church
at Antioch with Barnabas and Paul.
Judas and Silas also go with them (v. 22).
And the predominantly Gentile Church at Antioch was
delighted with the findings of the council (v. 33).
==========================================================
This second missionary journey begins with an
argument (15:39), as to whether or not John Mark should accompany them.
Barnabas says “Yes” … and Paul says “No”.
1. THE
SENIORITY OF BARNABAS
Maybe Paul should have submitted to the one chosen
by the Holy Spirit as the leader (13:2).
2. THE
WILLINGNESS OF MARK
True … he had deserted the missionaries on their
first tour (13:13), but he was evidently ready to try again.
3. THE
ADMISSION OF PAUL
Twenty years later Paul will admit that Mark has
proven himself. It was a good thing he
was not lost to Christian service … and that Barnabas had encouraged him (2
Timothy 4:11).
4. THE
FOOLISHNESS OF SATAN
By causing the two top missionaries to argue, the
Church got two missionary journeys out of it instead of one. Barnabas took Mark to Cyprus. And Paul took Silas to the Churches of
southern Galatia.
A new helper joins them … Timothy, the
lad from Lystra (16:1).
And a new vision captures them … the Man from
Macedonia (v. 9).
Thus it is the Gospel goes to Europe … and the first
convert is LYDIA.
(a) The
City where she lived … Philippi. A Roman colony in
Macedonia.
(b) The
Hometown she had left … she came from Thyatira in Asia.
It was famous for its dyes … even the headquarters of the Dyers
Union. Purple dye especially was
greatly prized.
(c) The
Meeting she attended … by the riverside. Was Lydia a
Jewess or a Gentile proselyte? What a
tragedy if she’d decided to stay home that particular day.
(d) The
Conversion she experienced … wealthy, astute, religious … but still not saved
(cf. Cornelius, 11:14).
(e) The
Colony she entered … the Church. We are a colony
of Heaven (Philippians 3:20, Moffat Translation), a far-flung outpost of the
Heavenly Zion.
(f) The
Home she opened … Lydia had the gift of hospitality and her home became the meeting
place for the Philippian saints (vs. 15, 40).
Clement of Alexandria says she became Paul’s
wife! Who knows?
==========================================================
Paul, Silas and then other believers at Philippi are
confronted by a demon-possessed lass who confesses that they are “servants of
the Most High God, who are proclaiming a way of salvation.”
And Paul is grieved … and casts the demon out.
1. THE
DIVINATION SHE PRACTISED
Modern theology scoffs at the reality of demons… and
many Charismatics see them under every bush…
The Bible certainly tells of these evil
spirits. And in this particular case
they enabled the lass to foretell the future to a certain degree.
2. THE
DECLARATION SHE MADE
Why was Paul upset by this unsolicited advertising?
Because what she said could have given the crowd a
false impression that Paul and her were really both proclaiming the same
truths. To accept the accolades of the
false teachers only confuses the young converts.
◄◄ INTO THE PRISON CELL
Besides which, her title for God was ambiguous. Pagans spoke of the “Most High God” … but
did not mean the Father of our Lord Jesus.
And note, in our translation, it is “a way of
salvation”, implying there were other ways.
There is only One Way … John 14:6.
3. THE
DELIVERANCE SHE EXPERIENCED
Jesus is stronger than Satan …
Satan to Jesus must bow...
… as the old Methodist hymn puts it.
However, her masters are incensed and are able to
get Paul and Silas arrested.
* * * * * * * * *
1. HIS
PRISONERS
(a) Paul and Silas are suffering
for Him. And thousands have
done the same. He may not always
deliver from the prison cell … but He promises to be with His people in their
time of trouble.
(b) They are singing to
Him (v. 25).
(c) They are saved by Him … when He sends an earthquake to shake off their shackles.
(d) They are speaking for
Him … telling the way of salvation to all (vs. 28-34).
2. HIS
PROSPECTS
The prospect of a jailer whose prisoners escaped was
not too bright. See Acts 12:19.
But this jailer soon finds his gloom turn to Glory.
His Quaking (v. 27) gives way
to Conversion.
And he publicly Confesses his faith in
the baptismal waters.
His family is also converted. Notice verse 32, that says Paul preached to
all his family… and they all believed (v. 34), which indicates there were no
babies baptised.
Baptism follows the acceptance of the Lord Jesus as
Saviour.
* * * * * * * * *
In verses 35-40 Paul uses his Roman citizenship to
humble the authorities.
Before leaving Philippi Paul and Silas visit the
believers at the home of Lydia. Luke
apparently stays in Philippi … as Pastor??
==========================================================
From Philippi Paul travels to Thessalonica, another
Roman colony. The places mentioned in
verse 1 may indicate that he and Silas travelled on horseback.
1. THESSALONICA
… The Usual Practice (vs. 1-2). The place to reach the Jews is
in the synagogue … and the proclamation is centred on the death
and resurrection of Christ (v. 3).
… The Unruly People … storm the house of
Jason, where Paul is staying, accusing him of treason (v. 7). Jason is put on a good behaviour bond … and
Paul leaves the city (vs. 9-10).
2. BEREA
Paul preaches to some studious saints
who check out what he tells them (v. 11).
The arrival of the Jews from the north means that they soon become suffering
saints (v. 13), as Jesus had foretold (Matthew 24:9). And then we meet some sensible saints
who pretend Paul is leaving by sea (v. 14), but such seems to be a ruse to
escape from those who would do him harm.
3. ATHENS
Whilst Paul awaits Silas and Timothy he is
distressed by the widespread veneration of the mythological gods. Statues everywhere!
(a) Disputing. First in the synagogues, and then in the Agora (the market
place). Here he clashes with the two
main philosophical schools of the day.
The Epicureans believe in no god … pleasure is the chief
end of man. The Stoics
believed that everything was God … and advocated an austere existence.
(b) Declaring his convictions before the
council, at the Aeropagus, is the subject of verses 19-31.
He catches their ears with a reference to one of the altars he has seen (v. 23), he quotes two of their own Greek poets (v. 28), and he tells them the true God is going to judge the world … and judgement is in the hands of the One Whom He raised from the dead! (v. 31.)
Bear in mind that this is a Gentile congregation …
hence Paul does not quote the Old Testament;
it is also noteworthy that we only have a précis of his message. He has previously spoken of “Jesus and the
resurrection” (v. 18).
(c) Division among the people is the result
(vs. 32-34).
Some mock … some ponder the issue … and some believe.
==========================================================
Paul now makes his way to Corinth … the Vanity Fair
of the Roman Empire.
It was another strategic city from which to spread
the Gospel. But it abounded in all
kinds of wickedness.
The letter of 1 Corinthians sheds light on this
visit. Paul was apparently in ill
health (1 Corinthians 2:3), his finances were running out (2 Corinthians 11:9,
but despite the evil around him (1 Corinthians 6:9-10) a Church was established
(6:11).
The arrival of his co-workers, Silas and Timothy,
seems to give him fresh heart (v. 5).
As usual he preaches in the synagogue until the opposition
becomes violent (vs. 4, 6).
* * * * * * * * *
1. AQUILA AND PRISCILLA
… tent-makers (leather workers, Moffat translation),
Christians from Rome with whom Paul is able to find employment (v. 2).
This couple later move to Ephesus with Paul (18:18)
… then back to Rome (Romans 16:3-5) … and are dedicated disciples.
2. JUSTUS
… the Gentile, is the man who lives “next to the
church” … and Paul finds hospitality there (v. 7).
3. CRISPUS
… ruler of the synagogue! Is converted and baptised
(v. 8). He is mentioned again in 1
Corinthians 1:14.
A Church is growing in Corinth (v. 8).
4. GALLIO
… is proconsul in Southern Greece, verses
12-16. He is well known from secular
history also.
He hears the case against Paul at the judgement seat
… and decides it is simply a religious matter for the Jews to settle among
themselves (v. 15).
[The word translated “judgement seat” (vs. 12, 16)
is BEMA … a word Paul uses for the place where we all must one day stand (2
Corinthians 5:10).]
5. SOSTHENES
… the ruler who took over the synagogue leadership
from Crispus (?) is beaten up by the mob (v. 17).
Why? Was it
because he had not won the case against Paul and brought disgrace upon the Jews
in the eyes of Gallio? Whatever the
reason … it could be that Paul shows kindness to this ‘leader of the
opposition’ … and binds up his wounds.
For 1 Corinthians 1:1 speaks of a Sosthenes, who is one of Paul’s
friends. Mmmm?
* * * * * * * * *
From Corinth Paul visits Cenchreae
where he makes a Jewish vow. Why? To give thanks for the conversion of the
rulers of the synagogue? (v. 19.)
Then he sails to Ephesus … then to Caesarea
… up to see the apostles at Jerusalem … and home to Antioch (vs.
20-21).
Thus finishes the second missionary journey … and
the Gospel has been established in Europe.
==========================================================
Paul is off on his Third Missionary Journey.
It will take approximately four years … and end with
his being arrested in Jerusalem.
First he goes to Ephesus for about three years, then
over into Europe again, and down the east coast of Greece.
* * * * * * * * *
Whilst Paul is travelling through Galatia, a man
name APOLLOS arrives at Ephesus…
(a) His
Nationality. He is probably a Gentile
convert to Judaism. Jews did not name
their children after Greek gods (v. 24).
(b) His
Ability. He was mighty in eloquence, and a great
teacher (v. 24). He will ‘full of zeal’
and an able evangelist (vs. 25, 28).
(c) His
Deficiency. He only knew of John’s
baptism. Was he saved? In any case, Priscilla and Aquila take him
under their wing…
(d) His
Humility. It says something for Apollos that he was
teachable, despite his great learning (v. 26).
(e) His
Ministry. He goes to Corinth and does a mighty work
there (vs. 27-28).
* * * * * * * * *
And Paul arrives in Ephesus (19:1).
1. THE
UNINSTRUCTED DISCIPLES … vs. 1-7
Had they been taught by Apollos … for they, too,
knew only of John the Baptist’s ministry.
Paul further instructs them. They are baptised in the Name of Jesus … and
baptised by the Lord Jesus with the Holy Spirit.
2. THE
UNFAVOURABLE REACTION … v. 8-10
Opposition rears its head as usual.
Paul rents (?) a lecture hall and uses that for two
years.
3. THE
UNUSUAL MIRACLES … vs. 11-12
Paul’s ministry was attended by the miraculous.
4. THE
UNCONVERTED EXORCISTS … vs. 13-16
The seven sons of Sceva try the Name of Jesus in
their magical incantations … and live to regret it (v. 16).
5. THE
UNPRECENDENTED REVIVAL … vs. 17-20
A great revival takes place … those converted from
the practice of the Black Arts burn their books.
And the Gospel spreads across Asia from this work of
God (v. 10).
==========================================================
After two years at Ephesus Paul plans to cross again
into Europe … and eventually visit Rome.
In the meantime he sends Timothy and Erastus on ahead (vs. 21-22).
But his plans are hindered by an ugly riot…
1. THE
SILVERSMITHS ARE UPSET … vs. 22-28
Paul’s preaching against idolatry has meant a drop
in the idol sales. Demetrius is
incensed. He piously argues that the
worship of “Diana” (“Artemis” in Greek) is under attack. But his main concern is the matter of
financial income (v. 25).
As a result a riot breaks out … v. 28.
2. THE
MOB BECOMES UNRULY … vs. 29-34
Two of Paul’s companions are taken to the
amphi-theatre and Paul would have voluntarily joined them, except he was
restrained by friends (vs. 30-31).
When Alexander, a Jew, tries to point out to the mob
that the Jews are not responsible, it is the fault of those Jews who have
become Christians, he is howled down (vs. 33-34).
The mob cannot be reasoned with. Half of them don’t even know what the riot
is about (v. 32).
3. THE
TOWN CLERK IS UNDERSTANDING … vs. 35-41
And he gets across to them a series of reasons as to
why they should go home.
(a) Did they think a handful of
Jews could overthrow the worship of Diana?
Ridiculous … so he thought! (vs. 35-36.)
(b) There is no evidence that
these Christians had broken any laws (v. 37).
(c) There are proper courts and
magistrates to hear such charges. Use
them! (vs. 38-30).
(d) And if Rome hears about this
riot we will be in big trouble. (Which
was probably this town clerk’s main fear – v. 40).
So he sends them home … and they go.
What a tragedy if this town clerk should defend the
Christians and yet never be converted himself.
Sticking up for the Faith does not cancel out the need for a personal
commitment to Jesus Christ…
==========================================================
HEADING FOR
JERUSALEM … Chapter
20
Following the riot at Ephesus Paul moves on.
1. TRAVELLING
THROUGH EUROPE … vs. 2-5
Four verses tell us of the apostle’s second excursion
into Macedonia and Achaia.
An attempted murder plot of the Jews forces him to
alter his plans and he returns the way he has come, overland, instead of
sailing to Syria.
A number of disciples accompany him to Philippi …
then they go on ahead to Troas and Luke and Paul rejoin them later (note “we”,
v. 6).
2. PREACHING
AT TROAS … vs. 6-12
A Lengthy Sermon results in a Weary
Saint named Eutychus falling from an upstairs window.
Luke’s reference to the lamps (v. 8) may be a word
of explanation concerning the stuffiness of the room.
The Satisfying Sequel is that Eutychus
is restored … there is some doubt among commentators as to whether he was
actually dead … and whether there was any miraculous healing. The Greek language is ambiguous here.
The Lord told him that his testimony would not be
received in Jerusalem. He is to be the
Apostle to the Gentiles. And a series
of warnings are given that he should not go…
See Acts 20:17-38.
No time to visit Ephesus! He sends for the elders whilst he awaits a ship at Miletus, with
one last message for them…
1. RECOUNTING
PAST MINISTRY … vs. 17-21
(a) The
Content of His Message … v. 21.
“Repentance … and faith in Christ.” So often the preaching of repentance has become a ‘missing link’ ’twixt being lost and being saved.
The 6 year-old in Sunday School had it right when he
said that “Repentance was being sorry enough to quit!”
“Repent and be baptised…” that is, “Turn from sin
and publicly declare yourself a follower of the Lord Jesus!” Such was the apostolic theme (Acts 2:38).
(b) The
Source of His Teaching … vs. 26-27.
Not only did Paul evangelise during the three years in Ephesus, he taught the ‘whole counsel of God’, as it was revealed in the Scriptures.
No riding ‘hobby-horses’ in the pulpit! No preaching ‘Heaven’ and leaving out
‘Hell’! No dodging Bible prophecy … or
holy living … or the priestly ministry of the Lord Jesus … or any other subject
revealed by the Author of the Book. The
WHOLE counsel.
(c) The
Scope of His Message … v. 21.
For Jews and Gentiles. Both need the same message of the Gospel … for both
are lost.
2. CONFESSING
PRESENT FEELINGS … vs. 22-23
There is a certain apprehensiveness as to what the
future holds … “not knowing what shall befall me…” (v. 22).
But he is convinced it is God’s will for him to
go. (Whether it is God’s will is
another matter!) Not every commentator
thinks so! Paul’s sphere of service is
the Gentiles! (Acts 22:18-21.) And the Holy Spirit warns him about going
(20:23). So does one of God’s faithful
prophets (21:10-12). But to no
avail. Paul goes … and gets arrested!
Sometimes God’s servants make mistakes. We are only human.
When Paul wrote Scripture the Holy Spirit kept him
free from error … but in his daily life he was liable to err as much as any of
us.
And the merciful Lord takes that into account! (Psalm 103:8-14.)
3. EXHORTATIONS
FOR THE FUTURE … vs. 38-32
(a) Beware
of False Teachers that will come creeping in to disrupt the fellowship (v.29).
(b) Feed
the Flock
with solid Scriptural teaching (v. 28).
(c) …
and a Benediction that needs no comment! (v.
32).
Amen… and Amen.
==========================================================
There is a Reminder of his Past Ministry
(vs. 18-21), a Confession of his Present Feelings (vs. 22-27),
and a Charge concerning their Future Service (vs. 28-35).
There follows a tearful scene as Paul bids farewell
to his friends … knowing he will see them no more in this life (vs. 36-38).
==========================================================
THIS
ONE INCLUDED …..
See No.
26 (similar) ***
SAILING PAST
CYPRUS … 21:1-3a
Returning from his third missionary tour, the
apostle sees the isle of Cyprus.
Memories come flooding back.
And regrets.
The ship did not stop at Cyprus…
1. THE
MEMORIES HE RECALLED
It was on the isle of Cyprus ten years previous Paul
had ‘cut his teeth’ as a missionary under the leadership of Barnabas (Acts
13:1-12).
It was Barnabas who had encouraged the Christians at
Jerusalem to give Paul a welcome after his conversion (Acts 9:26-28). And Barnabas who had introduced him to the
work of the ministry at Antioch (Acts 11:25).
And what great times they had experienced together
on Cyprus … the confrontation with the sorcerer and the conversion of the
procurator.
2. THE
REGRETS HE EXPERIENCED
For just 6 or 7 years ago he had ‘fallen out’ with
Barnabas. It had been an awful row
concerning whether Mark should accompany them on their second missionary
tour. They parted company … Paul took
Silas to Asia Minor … and Barnabas took Mark to Cyprus (Acts 15:36-41).
And now Paul realises that Barnabas had been
right. Mark deserved a second chance … and
had made good.
Now that Barnabas was too aged to travel, he lived
on Cyprus (v. 7), and Mark was travelling with Peter. If only Paul could see his old friend again and say “I’m
sorry”. But the ship sailed past
Cyprus.
3. THE
LESSONS HE LEARNED
(a) Beware of saying anything
for which you will have to apologise later.
A loving, Christ-controlled tongue does not flare up … does not want its
own way … is not “easily provoked” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
(b) Don’t
be too proud to say “I’m sorry” … the opportunity may not come again. “Agree with thine adversary quickly…”
(Matthew 5:24-25).
(c) Even an apology, whilst it
may bring forgiveness, may not undo all the damage caused. What if some young believer overheard the
row between Paul and Barnabas? Or some
unbeliever heard it and said, “If that’s how Christians behave … no thanks!”
* * * * * * * * *
Job 22:21 reminds us that the unsaved sinner must
agree with God “and you will have peace at last! His favour will surround you if you will only admit that you were
wrong.” (The Living Bible.)
Because of Calvary, God can forgive your sin against
Him.
==========================================================
probably
won’t want both *****
THE DISOBEDIENT
APOSTLE … 21:1-16
It is difficult to read this passage without
confirming our view that Paul is being disobedient.
God tells him not to go to Jerusalem (vs. 4, 10-11)
and Christian friends plead with him not to do so (v. 12) … all to no avail.
* * * * * * * * *
The voyage from Miletus (20:15, 21:1) to Cos, to
Rhodes, to Patara, then south of Cyprus (v. 3) and on to Tyre, should be traced
on a map.
After seven days at Tyre (awaiting the ship to
change its cargo, v. 3), Paul and Luke sail for Ptolemais (v. 7), and then
journey by land to Caesarea. Here they
stay with Deacon Philip and his four daughters, and receive warning from the
prophet, Agabus (vs. 10-11).
Nothing daunted, Paul presses on to Jerusalem
(v. 16).
And finds trouble awaits him.
* * * * * * * * *
The two references to Cyprus in this passage may
well teach us a lesson or two…
1. PAUL’S
REGRETS
… v. 3
As they sailed by Cyprus without calling there Paul
must have thought deeply concerning past events connected with that isle. It was here he had evangelised with
Barnabas.
Sergius Paulus had been converted. Elymas, the sorcerer, had been
confounded. Exciting days.
But since that first missionary journey ten years
have gone by. And Paul had fallen out
with Barnabas! (15:38-39).
Now Barnabas was there, preaching in Cyprus (15:39).
And an older, wiser Paul wishes he could say “Sorry”
for the dissension he caused. After
all, Barnabas had been right; Mark, the
cause of their split, had made good.
But sometimes the wrongs we do, and the harsh words
we say, cannot be rectified. The
opportunity to say “Sorry” may not come!
Better to let the Lord control the tongue than to
say things you will later regret. The
ship did not call at Cyprus!
2. PAUL’S
REJOICING … v. 16
This verse introduces us to Mnason (pronounced
Nason), the man from Cyprus.
(a) He was an “old”
disciple, says the KJV. “One of the
earliest believers” is how one modern translation puts it.
Converted on the Day of Pentecost?
Or even one of our Lord’s disciples, of which there
were many (Mark 2:15)?
The main thing was that after many years he was
still going on with the Lord.
(b) He was a “Disciple” –
a learner!
Despite old age he still kept learning about the
Lord and His ways.
You are never too old to learn…
(c) He was able to provide
hospitality for God’s servants.
Maybe he couldn’t preach or write or sing … but he
had a generous heart.
And that night in his home, as he reminisced about
old times … he never had a more appreciative audience.
Paul was all ears…
and Luke, no doubt, took notes (Luke 1:1-2).
==========================================================
RIOT IN
JERUSALEM … 21:17-40
Paul arrives in Jerusalem in time to keep the Feast
of Pentecost (20:16).
And takes what seems to be another wrong step!!
1. CONVEYING
THE STORY … vs. 17-19
To James and the other leaders of the Jerusalem
Church, Paul relates the story of his third missionary journey. Especially of the conversion of the
Gentiles.
And these Jewish Christians “glorify God”. So far, so good.
But many Jewish Christians still have a ‘hang-up’
about these Gentiles who do not keep the Law of Moses.
So James makes a suggestion…
2. CONTEMPLATING
THE PROBLEM … vs. 20-25
The suggestion is made that Paul take a Nazarite Vow
(and pay for four others) to show that he is not anti-Moses.
Is this the way to tackle the problem though?
Christ is the end of the law … as far as earning
salvation thereby.
There were some aspects of the law … like abstaining
from certain foods, that really did not matter whether one observed them or
not. What one eats does not affect
one’s salvation. This was thrashed out
in Acts 15.
But surely no converted Jew would continue to offer
a sin offering. It would be a denial of
the offering of the Lord Jesus “once for all”.
YET THAT IS WHAT THESE JEWISH LEADERS ARE
SUGGESTING!!
Part of the Nazarite Vow includes the offering of a
lamb as a sin-offering (Numbers 6:13-14).
Thus we find Paul …
3. COMPROMISING
THE FAITH … v. 26-40
To appease the Jewish believers … instead of education them … he takes the Vow. Notice that Luke makes a point of mentioning the offerings (v. 26).
This act of compromise probably confirmed in the
minds of thousands of Jews that law-keeping and animal sacrifice were still acceptable
to God.
But the keeping of this Vow by Paul results in more
trouble…
(1) RIOT … vs. 27-31
Non-Christian Jews from Asia falsely accuse Paul of
taking a Gentile into the temple (i.e. beyond the Court of the Gentiles).
(2) RESCUE … vs. 32-36
The Roman Legion has a battalion at the Castle
Antonia. They hurry down and rescue
Paul from the mob.
The “chief captain” (v. 31) is Claudius Lysias
(23:26).
(3) RESPITE … vs. 37-40
Paul asks for permission to speak to the Jewish mob
(v. 39).
Lysias is surprised when he discovers that Paul is
an educated Hebrew … and not the Egyptian leader of a band of cut-throats (v.
38).
Many of the crowd did not know who the prisoner was
either (v.34)!
==========================================================
ADDRESSING THE
MOB … Chapter 22
Paul is about to testify to the Lord, in front of a
wild mob that minutes previously had been almost killing him (21:32).
Rescued by the Roman garrison and conveyed to the
steps of their headquarters, he asks permission to speak … and he addresses the
crowd in the Hebrew tongue, which is an unknown language to the Roman captain
(21:40, 22:2).
1. HIS
PRE-CONVERSION DAYS … vs. 1-6
He tells of his upbringing as a devout Jew, his
anti-Christian zeal, and the High Priest can vouch for it! (v. 5).
But on the way to Damascus … something happened (v.
6).
2. HIS
CONVERSION … vs. 7-16
The arch-persecutor of the believers meets the Risen
Christ.
The story was told in Acts 9.
Paul goes on to tell of his being led blinded into
Damascus … his meeting with Ananias … the opening of his eyes (both physical
and spiritual) … and his public confession of Christ in the baptismal waters.
Sins are “washed away” (v. 16), by the blood of
Christ when one calls upon Him … water baptism is but an outward picture of
this inner cleansing.
3. HIS
POST-CONVERSION DAYS … vs. 17-21
When Paul visited Jerusalem he argued with the Lord
that he would be a great draw-card in that city.
God told him to leave Jerusalem, it was not to be
his sphere of service. Which makes one
wonder what Paul was doing there!!
Paul was to be the Apostle to the Gentiles.
The word “Gentiles” causes the mob to go into a
frenzy (v. 22-23).
The riot is on again … just when the captain thought
order had been restored.
Paul is ushered into the castle and prepared for
flogging (v. 24).
But he holds a trump card.
Paul is not only a Jew … but he is a Roman
citizen. To flog him without a proper
trial and conviction would cause trouble for this captain.
(Recall that once previously Paul used his rights as
a Roman citizen to humble the magistrates at Philippi (Acts 16:37. On that occasion he willingly suffered for
the cause of Christ … and then maintained his rights for the sake of future
mission work. The Philippian magistrates
would think twice before imprisoning these Christians the next time!)
But now Paul speaks up … perhaps to save himself
from a beating … and perhaps to save the captain from repercussions.
Paul tells us that he was born a Roman citizen. It was something he must have inherited from
his father, or grandfather (v. 28).
The captain decides that Paul will have a hearing …
a fair trial (so he thinks) … before the Sanhedrin (v. 30).
==========================================================
BEFORE THE
SANHEDRIN … Chapter
23
Paul tells them that as a Jew prior to conversion …
and as a Christian (after his conversion) he had kept a clear conscience (v.
1).
All of which shows that a good conscience is not
enough … it needs to be illumined by the Word of God.
As a Jew (with a good conscience) he waged war on
God’s people.
1. THE
CONDEMNED IS MISTREATED … v. 2
Ananias commands that Paul be smitten. Why?
Because Paul was (in v. 1) protesting his innocence?
The apostle’s outburst in verse 3 has been variously
explained. Was it a display of the
First Adam? Or did he not recognise the
High Priest?
Verse 5 sounds like a genuine apology, especially as
he quotes Exodus 22:28 to show his allegiance to this Old Testament law.
As for the “poor eyesight” theory, v.1 seems to
discount this. Or does it??
2. THE
COUNCIL IS CONFOUNDED … vs. 6-9
With one master stroke Paul puts the Sanhedrin at
odds against itself. He mentions the resurrection. And the Sanhedrin is made up of Sadducees who deny such, and
Pharisees who believe in a future resurrection (v. 8).
A verbal fight develops among the accusers … (v.
10).
3. THE
CAPTAIN IS PERPLEXED … v. 10
Again his men rescue Paul from mob violence.
4. THE
CAPTIVE IS COMFORTED … v. 11
In custody once more, in the Castle of Antonia, Paul
has a vision of the Lord, Who assures him that eventually he will get to Rome.
* * * * * * * * *
(1) The
Scheming High Priest … vs. 12-15
Forty cut-throat Jews are hired to assassinate Paul.
Josephus tells us that Ananias employed the Sicarii
(Assassins) for his wicked purposes (Acts 21:38).
The Sanhedrin will ask Lysias to bring Paul before
them once more … and an ambush will be waiting for them…
(2) The
Listening Nephew … vs. 16-21
Paul’s nephew overhears the Jewish plot and informs
the captain.
(3) The
Lying Captain … vs. 23-33
Paul gets an armed escort of 470 Roman soldiers to
take him, at night, to Caesarea, 70 miles north-west of Jerusalem.
It is here the Roman Procurator, Felix, is living.
Claudius Lysias sends an explanatory letter saying
that he rescued Paul “having understood he was a Roman citizen” (v. 27, KJV),
which was not strictly true. He first
though Paul was an Egyptian (21:38).
The captain also states that as far as he can
determine, Paul has done nothing worthy of death (2:9).
Felix decides to hear the case against Paul and
sends for his accusers … (v. 35).
==========================================================
TRIAL BEFORE
FELIX … Chapter 24
The accusers arrive in Caesarea to present their
case against the apostle.
Spokesman is Tertullus, who ‘butters up’ Felix (vs.
2-4), and then charges Paul with rebellion … and Lysias and his men with
‘police brutality’! (v. 7.)
Shouts of “Amen!” from the Jews … (v. 9).
1. PAUL’S
DEFENCE
… vs. 10-21
The apostle calmly replies that these charges are
not provable (vs. 12-13).
He still worships the God of his fathers … the God
of the Old Testament … and he believes the Old Testament Scriptures (v. 14).
Any Christian can say “Amen” to that. Mind you, there are some portions of the Old
Testament that were only until the Messiah came … and are no longer binding
upon believers. But even the Old Testament
itself said that (Jeremiah 31:31-34).
His purpose in visiting Jerusalem, he says, was to
bring a gift to the poor (v. 17).
It was the Jews from Asia that caused the riot … and
they are the ones who should be before Felix, presenting their case against
Paul (vs. 18-19).
It was Paul’s statement that he believed in the
resurrection that provoked the wrath of his present accusers (v. 21).
Notice that Paul has shifted his emphasis to the
general resurrection of the “just and the unjust” (v. 15), rather than only the
resurrection of Christ.
2. THE
DECISION OF THE JUDGE … v. 22
Felix replaced Pontius Pilate as Procurator of Judea
about AD 52. He had been there for 4-5
years before this trial.
3. THE
SENTENCE … v. 23
Paul is placed on probation. He is free to write and receive
visitors. He will be well treated.
Felix knows Paul is innocent, but to curry favour
with the Jews does not release him (v. 27).
4. THE
SPOUSE
… vs. 24-25
Drusilla is his second wife … daughter of Agrippa I
(Acts 12). And she is sister to Agrippa
II mentioned in Acts 25…
The apostle has opportunity to explain to them the
Christian faith (called the Way, v. 22).
Felix knew there was more to it than the resurrection from the dead at
the end of the world. There was also
the assertion that Jesus had risen already.
5. THE
SIN
… vs. 25-26
The sincerity of Felix is in question. He is really hoping for a bribe (v.
26). And the impact of Paul’s preaching
is that he puts the matter aside until a later time … which never comes.
==========================================================
THE ARRIVAL
OF FESTUS … Chapter 25
Around the year AD 60 Felix is recalled to Rome and
Festus is appointed in his place.
He inherits a problem … named Paul.
1. A
VISIT TO JERUSALEM … vs. 1-5
Festus meets with the Jewish leaders who are still
plotting to kill Paul. Could the
prisoner be brought to Jerusalem?
Festus decides that another trial be held … but the
Jews are to come to Caesarea.
2. A
TRIAL IN CAESAREA … vs. 6-9
Again the accusations against Paul are
unproven. And the governor knows
it. Nevertheless, “to please the Jews”
(v. 9), Paul is to remain in prison.
3. AN
APPEAL TO ROME … vs. 10-12
The suggestion of Festus that Paul be tried in
Jerusalem (v. 9) is rejected. The
apostle knows that there would be no fair trial there. He exercises his Roman citizenship and
demands that his case be heard in Rome itself (v. 11).
Festus approves of Paul’s request (v. 12).
4. FESTUS
ACKNOWLEDGES A PROBLEM … vs. 13-21
When King Agrippa II arrives Festus discusses with him the matter of Paul. He has tried him and found him innocent. But the Jews still clamour for his death. The cause Festus explains, is that Paul maintains Jesus rose from the dead (v. 19).
5. FESTUS
ARRANGES A MEETING … vs. 22-25
Tomorrow (v. 22) Paul will meet Agrippa.
Thus it is … with much pomp and ceremony (v. 23),
the king and his ‘wife’, a half-sister named Bernice, hear Paul.
The procurator introduces the hearing by again
admitting that Paul has done nothing worthy of death (v. 25).
6. FESTUS
ASKS FOR HELP … vs. 26-27
Perhaps Agrippa will help him draft a letter to accompany the prisoner to Rome. After all, Festus is new in Judea, whereas Agrippa has been familiar with these things for some time (26:3).
==========================================================
THE FIFTH
DEFENCE … Chapter
26
Here is Paul’s great sermon before
Festus, Agrippa II, and Bernice.
1. THE
REASONING OF PAUL … vs. 1-23
(a) Pre-conversion…
verses 4-12.
After preliminary remarks (vs. 1-3), Paul tells of his strict Judaistic upbringing
and his opposition to Christianity.
The accusation of the Jews hinge on the future
resurrection spoken here as “the hope” (v. 6 … explained as the resurrection in
verse 8).
Paul was in full agreement with the teaching of the
Pharisees on this matter … although he took it a step further and claimed that
One had already risen.
(b) Conversion…
verses 13-18.
The incident on the road to Damascus is told
again. And the fact that the Lord Jesus
commissioned him to preach to the Gentiles (v. 17).
(c) Post-conversion…
verses 19-23
Since that time Paul tells that he has constantly
been persecuted by the Jews … despite the fact that the message he preaches is
the one found in their own Scriptures (v. 22).
The Old Testament abounds in prophecies of the coming
Messiah … and His death and resurrection.
And that the message should go to the Gentiles (v.
23).
And that’s why the Jewish authorities want to kill
him.
2. THE
WRATH OF FESTUS … vs. 24-27
He yells at Paul … “Mad!”
Paul replies that Agrippa knows the Old Testament
writings … and he can confirm what Paul says is true (v. 26).
3. THE
REACTION OF AGRIPPA … vs. 28-32
He, too, believes Paul is innocent of the charges
laid against him (v. 31).
And his heart and mind are apparently touched by the
reasoning of the apostle. “Almost
persuaded” … but still lost (v. 28).
==========================================================
ALL ABOARD … Chapter 27
We now have a vivid first-person description of
Paul’s voyage to Rome.
1. THE
COMPANIONS
Notice that he is accompanied by Aristarchus (v. 2)
and Luke (“we”, v. 1). A centurion
named Julius is in charge of the prisoners.
2. THE
COURSE
The course of the voyage needs to be followed on a
map.
From Caesarea they sail to Sidon (v.
3), and then to Myra (5). After
changing boats (6) they set sail and are blown off course. They put into Fair Havens (8). Paul advises them to stay put … the windy
season was fast approaching (9), but he is over-ruled (vs. 10-11).
Again they are blown off course (14-15), and there
follows an exciting description of the storm.
The dinghy being dragged by the ship is hauled on board (16-17), great
ropes are placed around (i.e. underneath) the ship to keep it from shattering
to pieces (17). Some cargo is jettisoned
(18).
The absence of starts meant that they were unable to
chart their position. All seemed lost.
* * * * * * * * *
1. A
WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
“We will not perish”, he tells them. Shipwreck … but not loss of life. An angel told him so (v. 23).
2. A
WORD OF TESTIMONY
“I believe God…” (v. 25).
And He says that Paul will get to Rome (v. 24).
After two weeks of terror (v. 33) on the deep, land
is heard.
Four anchors are cast … for it is night and they fear
drifting onto the rocks (v. 29).
Some of the crew lower the dinghy to make their
escape, but Julius puts an end to their plans.
It seems as if is willing to accept whatever Paul says … now (vs.
31-32).
After a meal (Paul seems to have taken charge of things)
they sail for the inlet (v. 41), but the ship runs onto a sandbank and is
wrecked.
All the 276 persons on board make it safely to land
(v. 44)
==========================================================
HOME AT
LAST … Chapter 28
The island is Malta (v. 1).
Note the kindness of the people (v. 2), and the
willingness of Paul to personally share in the gathering of wood for the fire
(v. 3).
Which eventuates in a miracle!
The Maltese expect Paul to die when bitten by the
snake in the wood … but the lack of ill effects causes them to think he must be
a god (v. 6).
This remarkable deliverance from snakebite was one
of our Lord’s promises (Mark 16:18).
Not only a miracle at the fireside (v. 3) takes
place in Malta, but also at the bedside of the head man’s father.
It is interesting to recall that Dr Luke is present.
However, it is Paul who prays for the father of
Publius and sees him restored to health (v. 8).
After three months they leave Malta (v. 10).
Sailing again, they call at Syracuse (in Sicily, v.
12), and then Rhegium (v. 13).
Italy at last!
Next day to Puteoli, Italy’s major port.
There Paul meets some fellow believers, who journey
with him toward Rome (v. 14).
And near Rome (30-40 miles south), they are met by more
brethren, who give the
apostle great cause for praise (v. 15).
In Rome itself Paul is kept in a hired room … with a
soldier to guard (v. 16).
1. PREACHING
TO THE JEWS … vs. 17-29
The Jewish leaders in Rome have heard nothing of the
charges made against Paul in Jerusalem (v. 21).
Paul explains to them why he is in Rome … and they
desire a fuller explanation of his teaching (vs. 17-20, 22).
As a result Paul preaches to them … with the same
old result: some believe … and some do
not (v. 24).
The apostle quotes Isaiah 6:9-10 to show how their
own prophets had foretold such a reaction … and how the Gospel was to also be
taken to the Gentiles (v. 28).
2. PREACHING
TO THE GENTILES … vs. 30-31
From his “own hired house” Paul writes and preaches,
chained to a Roman soldier … but unhindered in his witness.
* * * * * * * * *
A study of the Pastor Epistles leads us to the
conclusion that Paul was released from this imprisonment … tackled another
missionary journey … was arrested again … and tradition has it, was beheaded
about AD 66-67, during the reign of Nero.
==========================================================
**** DONALD
… This is an extra – not sure if you’ll need it … but it’s here anyway….
Introduction:
During World War II Malta became the most bombed
place on earth. This tiny island …
south of Italy … was a strategic British supply base during those horrific
days. The people of Malta, with less
than 100 square miles of land surface, experienced over 1200 air raids!
Leader of the British forces as Lt-General Sir
William Dobbie who, in his book, “A Present Help”, gives testimony to
his faith in God and his belief that it was only Divine intervention that saved
Malta from falling to the enemy.
Paul (and Luke) are on their way to Rome when the
boat is shipwrecked. The site of this
disaster is today known as St Paul’s Bay … overlooked by a statue of the
apostle.
The people of Malta rescue the shipwrecked passengers
and crew … and the miracles begin!!
1. THE
MIRACLE AT THE FIRESIDE
(a) The
Hospitality of the Maltese … Acts 28:1-2.
These good folk are described as ‘barbarians’ … a word that simply described those who did not speak the Greek language. But they were civilized … and abounding in kindness to Paul and the others. Hospitality is a Christian virtue … and these natives of Malta had never heard the Gospel at this time.
(b) The
Humility of the Apostle … v. 3.
Notice that Paul is doing menial work … not bossing others around to do it. “He who would be chief among you, let him be your servant” (Matthew 20:27).
(c) The
Heresies of the Foolish
Liberal theologians deny the snake was
poisonous. Yet Luke, the medical man,
and the Maltese (who were actually there) say it was!
Snake Handlers, an extreme Pentecostal sect, still practise
playing with poisonous snakes in their churches. They claim the Lord will protect them as He did Paul (vs. 4-5).
But it is one thing to accidentally find oneself in
danger… it is another thing to “tempt the Lord our God” by deliverately putting
oneself in such a foolish position.
New Agers have one doctrine in common … that man is a
god. That’s a mistake some of the
Maltese folk made (v. 6).
Some Charismatics/Pentecostals always jump to the
conclusion that one suffers sickness because of sin in the life (v. 4). That was the mistake of Eliphaz in the Book
of Job (Job 4:7-8). And of the Lord’s
disciples (John 9:1-2). But there are
other reasons as to why a person may be suffering.
2. THE
MIRACLE BY THE BEDSIDE
(a) Concerning
Archaeology.
In verse 7 Luke (the writer of Acts) describes Publius as the “chief man” … the word he uses being the “title of the Roman Governor; another instance of Luke’s accuracy” (Finlay, page 221). There is a tradition that Publius became Bishop (pastor) of the first church on the island.
(b) Concerning
the Remedy.
The word “healed” appears in both verses 8 and
9. But in the original Greek they are
two different words. Verse 8 speaks of
Paul’s miraculous, immediate healing of Publius’ father. But verse 9 really says that many came and
were treated … waited upon … attended to … presumably by Dr Luke. Notice that both Paul and Luke (“us” in v.
10), were honoured before they sailed away on their journey to Rome.
(c) Concerning
the Victory!
Paul’s casting of the serpent into the flames (vs.
4-5) is a reminder that believers may resist the Old Serpent, the Devil, by the
power of God. And by standing on His
promises. The Lord Jesus had promised
such protection (Mark 16:17-18).
And it is a reminder that at the End of the Age,
“the Apostle and High Priest of our profession” (Hebrews 3:1) … Christ Jesus …
will cast the Old Serpent into the Lake of Fire. (Revelation 20:10)
Hallelujah!
* * * * * * * * *
Conclusion:
Notice again the change of attitude on the part of
these Maltese. One minute they were
saying Paul must have been a great sinner (v. 4) … the next they were calling
him a god (v. 6)!
And it is possible for a person
to go from being a ‘child of the Evil one’ to a ‘child of God’ … the moment
that one places his or her faith in the Lord Jesus.
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