Lesson 382

(Lesson 382)(08-31-12) Acts 15:12-29, "Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them. And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me: Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up: That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day. Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren: And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia: Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment: It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.
For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well."

This is an odd lesson and appears to expose early Church leadership to be in disobedience of what God told Peter in the rooftop dream. I readily understand why the Gentiles were told to shun idolatry and fornication, and even the eating of meat that had been sacrificed to idols. But other than that, I can't find scriptural justification for their decision to restrict what else the Gentiles were to eat in light of Peter's rooftop dream.

We see that during this meeting of the Church elders, if was decided that a letter would be written to the Gentiles in the Church at Antioch telling them not to eat meat from animals that had been strangled. Neither were they to eat any kind of meat that contained blood.

In the dream, it should be noted, God told Peter that there were NO restrictions on what His people could eat. He said in Acts 10:15, "And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common."

Therefore I don't understand why James insisted that the Gentiles be told not to eat these two things, which so obviously was in disagreement with what God had told Peter. And, what is even more confusing, is the fact that Peter and the others would go along with him, after having been witnesses that Cornelius and those in his house, all Gentiles, had already received the Holy Ghost without such a restriction on what they would eat!
This lesson does, in fact, demonstrate the inconsistencies within the very first Church, and is a perfect demonstration of how easily the message of the gospel can be distorted by well intentioned members.

Just as so many "Churches" today, even the very first Church members struggled to rid themselves of the burden of the law. We will see, as these lessons progress, that Paul fought desperately to keep the membership of the Church in line with the intent of the gospel of Christ.~

Lesson 381

(Lesson 381)(08-30-12) Acts 15:5-11, "But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter. And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they."

After the Church members from Antioch had returned to Jerusalem and met with the membership there, some of the Pharisees insisted that the newly added Gentile believers be circumcised before they could be accepted as the children of God. Peter reminded them of his experience with Cornelius and how God had indeed extended salvation and the Holy Ghost to the Gentiles, declared them clean and equal with the Jews.

Peter then asked the Pharisees a very important question. He asked, "Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?" One cannot put too much emphasis on the importance of what Peter says here! He has just told us that even the father's of the Hebrew people, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, none of them were able to live above sin! Their failure proved, and was, the necessity for sending Jesus to carry all the sins, of those who would accept him, to the grave and leave them there. Peter knew that making requirements beyond what Jesus had already done would make His supreme sacrifice of no avail. Peter made it very clear that the law had failed, or better put, the Jews had failed the law.
Peter goes further to say, "But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they."
He's telling us that no amount of good behavior on our part, is sufficient to achieve salvation, one MUST accept God's gift (Grace) and merely have absolute faith in the fact that Jesus has already lived the sinless life for us. We are no longer required to be perfect. Jesus stands as a permanent barrier that prevents our sins from being seen by the Father. Thanks to the sacrifice made by Jesus, (The complete operation of God), those of us who are saved, appear as perfectly sinless in the sight of God whether we be Jew, Gentile.

We will learn, as these lessons progress, of the struggle the disciples had maintaining the truth of the gospel as the young Church spread. Many of the Jews kept trying to add elements of the law to the gospel, which was sent to fulfill the requirements of the law, and thereby ending its authority.

The failure of many of today's 'isms' is that they, through their tenets, insist that in order to be a child of God, one must take upon oneself the responsibility for maintaining one's own righteousness, which is impossible, just as Peter said. ~

Lesson 380

(Lesson 380)(08-29-12) Acts 15:1-4, "And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren. And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them."

This lesson documents the first dissention within the Church and the first attempt, by some of the early disciples (No doubt with the guidance and full support of Satan), to distort the gospel of Christ by holding on to elements of the Law of Moses.

In this example, the demand was that one must be circumcised before he can be saved, "And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved."

Sadly, some elements of the law, such as water baptism, living completely without sin, and ritual observance of the passover meal, (communion) have, till this day, been wrongly incorporated into the tenets of many religious faiths.

We know, however, that the Law was fulfilled by the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus, and that salvation holds no such requirements. In order to be eternally saved, one must ONLY BELIEVE in the testimony of Jesus Christ. Acts 16:31, "And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house."
Paul and Barnabus disputed with the men from Judea and decided to go to the Apostles and elders at Jerusalem to set the matter straight.

As they worked their way to Jerusalem, they proudly broadcast the news that the gospel of Jesus Christ had been offered to the Gentiles. When they arrived they were graciously accepted by the Church at Jerusalem.~

Lesson 379

(Lesson 379)(08-28-12) Acts 14:19-28, "And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed. And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia: And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled. And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. And there they abode long time with the disciples."

In this lesson, we find that the Jews from Antioch had followed Paul to Lystra and caused those who did not believe to stone him and leave him for dead outside the city gate, after which, Paul got up and backtracked through the cities where he had preached, reaffirming the faith of the new disciples he had made. Paul then called them all together, after he had warned them of the coming suffering for those who entered the Kingdom of God, he ordained elders from among them to oversee their work.~

Lesson 378

(Lesson 378)(08-27-12) Acts 14:1-18, "And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands. But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles. And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them, They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about: And there they preached the gospel. And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked: The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked. And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker. Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people. Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out, And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein: Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them."

This lesson demonstrates how many have tried to impose cultural tradition and ritual into Christianity. Many of today's isms make this same mistake, not by making sacrifices, as the people of Lystra did, but by adopting ceremonial demonstrations such as water baptism and/or communion etc, as a required part of God's plan of salvation.

As is so clearly evident in the sermon Paul preached and recorded in the 13th chapter of Acts, nothing is required beyond the supreme sacrifice made by the Son of God, "Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man" (Jesus) "is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses." As we can so plainly see, the ONLY requirement for remission of sin is belief in the redeeming power of our Lord Jesus Christ." No amount of ritual can ever accomplish redemption.

After Paul and Barnabas had, through the power of the Holy Spirit, caused the lame man to walk. The people of Lystra began to look upon them as gods. The people came out to meet Paul and Barnabus with gifts to be sacrificed to them. They even referred to the two preachers as the gods, Jupiter and Mercurius (Mercury).
When Paul and Barnabus realized what was going on, they were so frustrated they tore their clothing and immediately began to explain how they were not gods, only messengers from the one true God, come to bear the news of redemption through the gospel of Christ.~

Lesson 377

(Lesson 377)(08-26-12) Acts 13:42-52, "And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath. Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious *proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God. And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth. And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region. But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts. But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium. And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost."

In this lesson Paul, for the first time, preaches to an assembly consisting of both Jews and Gentiles. He tells them how, because the Jews had rejected it, the gospel of Christ had now been given to the Gentiles also.

Again, we find an example of how many souls were saved with no mention of having been baptized in water, "And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed."~

*Proselytes: as applied in this text refers to Gentiles that have been converted to Christianity.

 

Lesson 376

(Lesson 376)(08-25-12) Acts 13:13-41, "Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem. But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down. And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on. Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience. The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it. And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness. And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot. And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet. And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years. And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will. Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus: When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I am not he. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose. Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent. For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day, they have fulfilled them in condemning him. And though they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain. And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre. But God raised him from the dead: And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people. And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David. Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption: But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption. Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins. And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets; Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you."

This is Paul's account of the gospel of Jesus Christ as he preached it in the synagogue at Antioch. This, to me, is the greatest sermon ever preached by an Apostle. Herein, Paul lays out the complete history of the Jews, from Israel (Jacob) through the sacrifice of Jesus. He, very clearly demonstrates the inability of the Law of Moses to provide deliverance from death, then, goes on to relate how Jesus, the Son of God, was sent through the lineage of king David, for the purpose of providing, not just forgiveness, but JUSTIFICATION for sin, "And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses."

The death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ fulfilled the Law of Moses and thereby superceded it.

All that is required to be granted eternal life is so very clearly laid out in this simple message, "And by him all that believe are justified"~

NOTE: Water baptism is not mentioned, as a part of God's plan for eternal salvation, in this sermon.

Lesson 375

(Lesson 375)(08-24-12) Acts 13:1-12, "Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister. And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-jesus: Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God. But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith. Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him, And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord."

In this lesson, Saul, (who is now called Paul), and Barnabus, were called out by the Holy Ghost and sent on a mission to Cyprus. There, they were to preach the gospel to Sergius Paulus, the "deputy" or governing official of Cyprus. As they were trying to approach him a sorcerer named Elymus, who didn't want Sergius Paulus, a Jew, to convert to Christianity, tried to stop them. Paul, through the power of the Holy Ghost, performed his first miracle by causing Elymus to go blind. After seeing the miracle and learning the gospel of Jesus Christ, Sergius Paulus was saved.

It should be noted that Sergius Paulus neither asked for, nor was he subjected to water baptism.~

Lesson 374

(Lesson 374)(08-23-12) Acts 12:12-25, "And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place. Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter. And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode. And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country. And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them. And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man. And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost. But the word of God grew and multiplied. And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark."

This lesson demonstrates the shock and gladness of the disciples at knowing Peter had escaped the wrath of king Herod.

Herod, in a rage because of Peter's escape, had all the prison guards killed. He was vengeful toward the people of Tyre and Sidon for hiding Peter.

Herod, upon urging from his friend Blastus, ceased his torment of the disciples after which the people praised him for his actions. However, the angel of the Lord cursed Herod to die a horrble death because he took the praise upon himself and failed to give God the glory for his leniency toward the Church.~

Lesson 373

(Lesson 373)(08-22-12) Acts 12:1-11, "Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews."

King Herod, after learning the Jewish leaders were happy because he had killed James, also had Peter arrested and placed in what would appear to be, an un-escapable prison.

This lesson demonstrates the awesome power of prayer, seeing that the continuing faithful prayer of those who believed (The Church), led to Peter's miraculous escape.
This lesson also demonstrates that, just like some of us today, Peter had doubts about the reality of the situation when he was being taken out of that prison. It is in our sinful nature to want, at times, to rely on our own reality instead of totally yielding to the ultimate reality of our omniscient God.~~

Lesson 372

(lesson 372)(08-21-12) Acts 11:22-30, "Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea: Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul."

This lesson tells us how the disciples at Jerusalem chose Barnabas, " good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith:" to go to Antioch. After Barnabas arrived, and "had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord."

We learn here also that the disciples of Christ were first called "Christians" at Antioch and how those Christians, in a communal effort, sent out assistance to other Christian Churches in the drought stricken region.~

Lesson 371

(Lesson 371)(08-20-12) Acts 11:18-21, "When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord."

This lesson reaffirms that up until Peter delivered the soul saving gospel of Jesus Christ to Cornelius, the disciples had only been permitted to preach the gospel to the Jews.
Sadly, there are some who will disagree with the premise that Cornelius was the first Gentile to whom the gospel had been preached, but this text clearly bears out the fact that Cornelius was indeed, the firest, "Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to NONE BUT THE JEWS ONLY."
Some believe the Ethiopian eunuch, to whom Philip preached, was a Gentile and therefore would not have been knowledgeable of, or subjective to, traditional Jewish water baptism. However, according to the above text, no one had yet preached the gospel to any Gentile, therefore, the Ethiopian eunuch must have been a Jew, and indeed subject to Hebrew law and tradition.

Whether, or not, the Ethiopian eunuch was a Jew or Gentile is of little consequence, since his baptism was done at his request, and was clearly after he had received, accepted and believed the Gospel of Christ.~

Lesson 370

(Lesson 370)(08-19-12) Acts 11:1-17, "And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat. But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth. But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven. And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me. And the spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house: And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved. And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?"

This lesson is Peter's recall of the events that took place at the home of Cornelius as he reported it to the other Apostles and those Christian Jews in the Church at Jerusalem.

We should note that, in this account, Peter uses the term "saved" in reference to what was to be accomplished by those who were gathered at the home of Cornelius. The salvation of those present was the primary purpose, and the fact that the gospel had also been given to the Gentiles, was secondary for the mission. Peter's mission was to provide knowledge whereby those gathered could be "saved. "Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved."

It is very clear, that through the learning, and acceptance of the words Peter taught, (The gospel of Jesus Christ, in essence, His sacrificial ordeal), those people were "saved". There is NO instruction, in this text, that required those present to undergo water baptism as a necessary part of accomplishing eternal salvation. To the contrary, they were only offered water baptism AFTER they were saved and had received the Holy Ghost.
NOTE: My reasoning for continually stressing this point is that there are literally millions of very sincere, devoted people who go to Church, sometimes as much as three times a week, who have, for whatever reason, mistakenly placed their faith in water baptism as a requisite means of gaining forgiveness of sin, and not placing TOTAL faith in the only one true remitter of sin, that being, the acceptance of, and TOTAL faith in, the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Acts 10:43, "To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever BELIEVETH in him shall receive remission of sins".~

Lesson 369

(Lesson 369)(08-18-12) Acts 10:29-48, "And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days."

I believe this text, beginning with Peter's rooftop vision and carrying through the last verse of todays lesson, is the perfect demonstration of "the operation of God" and how eternal salvation is to be achieved.

We see, herein, that Cornelius already believed in God, the Hebrew God, our God, he believed God was capable of answering prayers and granting eternal life. He believed God would, if asked, provide that means. He then, after being approached by the angels, sent for Peter.
We see also that the chance to be cleansed of sin, (receive remission of sin), and be eternally restored to God the Father, was offered to everyone, and not just the Jews.

We learn further, that when one hears the gospel and believes that Jesus is the son of God and that He was sent as a 'one time fits all' sacrifice for the sins of the entire world, He lived, died, and was resurrected the third day, we, right then and right there, receive eternal salvation, just as Cornelius did.

This lesson reveals also, that salvation and the Holy Ghost is granted before water baptism is to be administered. Unless, of course, one is willing to believe the Holy Ghost can be poured out on the lost and unbelieving. This truth is demonstrated by the fact that Cornelius, his family and friends, received the Holy Ghost BEFORE Peter offered water baptism.

We already know, however, from Peter's experience with Simon the Sorcerer, the Holy Ghost is only bestowed upon those who have already devoted themselves wholly to the gospel of Jesus Christ (His Name).

The fact that water baptism was offered AFTER Cornelius and the others were obviously saved, strengthens the determination, and my belief, that water baptism is to be administered as a ritual symbol of ones salvation, and as a visual example of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.~
NOTE: Tomorrows lesson will be a further examination of Cornelius' experience.

Lesson 368

(Lesson 368)(08-17-12) Acts 10:21-29, "Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come? And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee. Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends. And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?"

Today's lesson verifies that Peter understood the vision sent him by God in preparation for the meeting with Cornelius.
This text also tells us that when Peter entered Cornelius' Home, Cornelius fell to his knees to worship him. In turn, Peter demanded Cornelius rise, confessing that he was merely a man, no greater nor lesser that anyone there.
NOTE: This lesson refutes the Roman Catholic contention that Peter was special in the eyes of God. It also refutes the notion that he (According to Catholicism, Peter was the first Pope) was to be held in some kind of revered state. Today, millions of lost souls fall to their knees and surrender themselves in worship each their the "Pope" sticks his head out the window of the Vatican. That is sad to the nth degree. The Pope has no more authority over the Church than does any child of God.

Judging by what the bible teaches, the Pope is merely a pathetic old man, elevated to an un-scriptural religious position, whom in my opinion, Satan is using to lure millions of souls into the ultimate wrath of God. (Hell)
It is clear, upon a thorough New Testament study, that NO

man, except Jesus Himself, should be revered above others. Matt. 23:11, "But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant."~

Lesson 367

(Lesson 367)(08-16-12) Acts 10 1-20, "There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa. On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven. Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them."

This lesson tells us of Peter's vision, wherein God released him from his remaining ties to the Law of Moses and Hebrew tradition. Peter was told that God had made clean all things that before had been "no-nos" for Jews. Such as eating certain animal flesh and communing with anyone other that those of the Jewish race, "What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common."
God was preparing Peter for a mission to preach to Cornelius (A Gentile), and his family.
Peter would later realize what was meant by the vision.~

Lesson 366

(Lesson 366)(08-15-12) Acts 9:31-43, "Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied. And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord. Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner."

This lesson relates a period of calm for the early Church after Saul, their greatest tormentor, had converted to Christianity.
This is also the first account of an Apostle, through the power of the Holy Ghost, restoring life to Dorcas.
It should also be noted that Peter put all those who had gathered, out of the room before he prayed. This action is further proof that prayers are to be offered in private as Jesus instructed in Matt. 6:6, "But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly." Prayer is clearly not to be publicly "led" as is done by most professed Christians, today.~

Lesson *365

(Lesson 365)(08-14-12) Acts 9:20-30, "And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus."

This lesson relates how Saul, to the amazement of the other disciples, began to preach the gospel of Christ as soon as he got to Damascus. Saul displayed such divine authority, and preached Christ crucified so effectively so as to cause the Jewish authority to want him killed. With the help of the faithful however, Saul escaped the Jews and fled to Tarsus, his home town."~

Lesson 364

(Lesson 364)(8-13-12) Acts 9:10-19, "And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus."

In this lesson, Ananias, following Jesus' instructions, went to Saul to restore his sight and to fill him with the Holy Ghost, which he subsequently did, "and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized."
Those who believe water baptism is essential to eternal salvation, should take special note that water baptism (immersion), is not mentioned among the things Ananias was told to do for Saul. However, after Saul had received his sight and the Holy Ghost, this text clearly states that Saul was baptized (immersed) into something.
I can readily see how, because of the much misinterpreted use of the term "baptize" and its grammatical variations, one could ASSUME water was the medium into which Saul was immersed, but it would be just that, an assumption with no basis in fact.
The context leads me to believe that the baptism Saul was subjected to, was an immersion into, or a total subjection to, the divine will of Jesus Christ, or in my simple English, Saul gave himself over to the total acceptance of Jesus Christ as his Master and redeemer. He became immersed in Christ in the sense that is demonstrated in Galatians 3:27, "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." Saul essentially wrapped himself in Christ as one would put on a coat.
I do believe, seeing that the bible provides NO evidence that any of the other thirteen Apostles were baptized (immersed) in water, there would have been no explicit reason for Saul to have been baptized in water.
Saul, after his commitment to Christ, went on to Damascus where he spent several days with the other Apostles.~

Lesson 363

(Lesson 363)(08-12-12) Acts 9:1-9, "And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink."

This lesson relates the utter wickedness of Saul as he made plans to continue the persecution of those who had given themselves over to Christianity. It also conveys Saul's experience on the road to Damascus. Jesus struck him down and challenged his intentions. Saul was also blinded by the experience.

This lesson sets the beginning of Saul's conversion to Christianity.

Even though Saul had so tormented the Church, before he converted and became Paul, I am very glad he was chosen to lead those of us who are Gentiles, to the amazing grace of God through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus our savior. Paul became one of the gospels greatest defenders after he was persuaded by Jesus.~

Lesson 362

(Lesson 362)(08-11-12) Acts 8:26-40, "And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans. And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing. But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea."

In this lesson, The Lord tells Philip to go and preach to the Ethiopian eunuch. Because this eunuch was reading from Isaiah, he was obviously already seeking God when Philip was sent. After Philip explained that Isaiah was talking about the coming of Jesus and his sacrifice for the sins of all mankind, the eunuch understood and believed. He subsequently submitted himself to water baptism.
This lesson clearly demonstrates that one's salvation must be demonstrated before water baptism can to be administered. This truth can be established by what Philip demanded of the eunuch before he could be baptized. "The eunuch said, "See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest." Philip would not baptize the eunuch until he was assured of his salvation. Philip had learned his lesson when Simon pretended to believe and was then baptized, his insincerity making a mockery of his baptism.
NOTE: Every mention of water baptism, made in the New Testament before Jesus was crucified, placed the baptism BEFORE repentance. Every mention of the term baptism, after the ascension of the Glorified Jesus, placed the baptism AFTER belief in, recognition and acceptance of Jesus Christ as the Son of God.
To put it in simpler terms, water baptism, until the ascension of a risen Jesus Christ, was practiced as a Jewish traditional preparation for all things religious, including repentance. After Christ ascended, water baptism was practiced as a verification, by the Church, of one's salvation and a symbol of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and was practiced AFTER salvation had been professed.~

Lesson 361

Lesson 361)(08-10-12) Acts 8:18-25, "And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.
Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me. And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans."

It is obvious, by his actions, Simon had not truly accepted Christ. He had made the pretense, but like so many "Christians" today, he couldn't have been sincere because he wasn't willing to put aside his devious mentality. Instead of seeing the great spiritual, soul saving, benefit of being engulfed in the power of the Holy Ghost, his only thoughts were how he might benefit financially from that power.

Only after Peter told him that gifts from God were indeed gifts and that they could not be bought nor sold and condemned him for his insincerity, Simon began to see the error of his ways and asked Peter to pray for his forgiveness.
As this lesson clearly tells us, just believing Jesus lived and that there is a God, won't suffice for eternal salvation, that salvation requires an absolute acceptance of Jesus as the one sin remitting sacrifice made for all who will commit to it, James 2:19, "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble." One MUST realize that Jesus paid the price for ALL sin. Not just the sins of the past, but ALL sin.

Simon's problem, again like many today, is a failure to totally immerse oneself in the complete testimony and sacrifice of Jesus. The immersion I'm talking about is NOT in water, but is the baptism so often referred to in conjunction with eternal salvation. I have absolutely NO fear of eternity because my Father God promised me that if I would simply bury my sin with Jesus and believe Him capable, He would rise and leave it all behind in the grave. I believe Him, and in that belief I am, so far as the Father is concerned, totally righteous and without sin.~

Lesson 360

(Lesson 360)(08-09-12) Acts 8:9-17, "But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost."

This lesson appears to be centered on the supposed conversion of "Simon the Sorcerer". Although the text says, "But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done." It appears that Simon had not fully understood the full gospel of Christ.

There appears to be an anomaly in the latter portion of this text concerning when, and how, the Holy Ghost was given to some of the disciples. Since this same anomaly appears later in the New Testament text, for example Acts 19:1-6, "And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied."
I will, hopefully, establish the truth of both teachings.~

Lesson 359

(Lesson 359)(08-08-12) Acts 8:1-8, "And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles. And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison. Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city."

This lesson tells us of *Saul/Paul's approval of Stephens death and the horrible treatment he inflicted on the early Church, he tortured and imprisoned many of them before his conversion.
The attempted Roman and Jewish purge of early Christians scattered them into many outlying areas. Even knowing they could be killed, the disciples kept preaching the gospel of Jesus throughout the region.
Philip preached to the people in Samaria, and performed many miracles. Many of the Samaritans were added to the ranks of the disciples (Church), "And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did."
*Saul was a Jew, but he was also a Roman citizen and soldier.~

Lesson 358

(Lesson 358)(08-07-12) Acts 7:54-60, "When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep."

This lesson demonstrates how, after Stephen told them he saw the glory of God with Jesus at His right hand, the leaders of the Jews immediately took him out of the city and stoned him. As Stephen lay dying, he asked God to forgive those who had taken his life. Wouldn't it be a glorious thing if we were all so forgiving today?
The young Roman soldier named Saul, at whose feet the disciples threw their clothes, would later become Paul, one of the most noted and respected Apostles. He would deliver the good news of Jesus risen to the Gentiles.~

Lesson 357

(Lesson 357)(08-06-12) Acts 7:1-53, "Then said the high priest, Are these things so? And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee. Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell. And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child. And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years. And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place. And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs. And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him, And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house. Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance. But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first. And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh. Then sent Joseph, and called his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, threescore and fifteen souls. So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he, and our fathers, And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem. But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt, Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph. The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live. In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three months: And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son. And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds. And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel. And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian: For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not. And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another? But he that did his neighbour wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us? Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday? Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons. And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush. When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the Lord came unto him, Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abrham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold. Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground. I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send thee into Egypt. This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush. He brought them out, after that he had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years. This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear. This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us: To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt, Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands. Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness? Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon. Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen. Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David; Who found favour before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob. But Solomon built him an house. Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest? Hath not my hand made all these things? Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it."

Today's lesson contains almost all of the seventh chapter of Acts. Sorry, but I couldn't break it down into shorter lessons for fear of distorting the context. It is the sermon Stephen preached to the Jewish leaders in their own synagogue, after they had forcibly taken him captive.

Stephen's sermon contains a summary of Jewish history beginning at God's covenant with Abraham and continues through the coming of Jesus, even through the day the sermon was preached.

Stephen condemned the Jews for their historical disobedience to God's law, as well as their failure to accept God's prophets and His promised Messiah. "Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye."~~

Lesson 356

(Lesson 356)(08-05-12) Acts 6:9-15, "Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake. Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God. And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council, And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law: For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us. And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel."

This lesson depicts the circumstances leading up to the last sermon Stephen preached. It was a message to the leadership of the Jews after they had forcefully taken him and accused him of blaspheming their synagogue and the law of Moses.
The latter portion of this lesson says Stephen appeared to have the face of an angel. I'm not sure I know what that means. The word "angel", as it appears here, is taken from the Greek word "aggelou", and according to Strong's bible dictionary, 'aggelou' means, "a messenger, envoy, one who is sent, an angel, a messenger from God".

Stephen's appearance must have, in some way, been altered by the Holy Ghost that surrounded him. I suppose, those of us who are saved, will find out what those physical changes were when the Lord comes back. But for now, we'll just have to wonder.~

Lesson 355

(Lesson 355)(08-04-12) Acts 6:1-8, "And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people."

This lesson acknowledges that only men taught the gospel, the women stayed home and tended to the daily requirements for the existence of their individual families.

In those days it was the custom of the people that when a woman was widowed, the men of the community saw to it that those things the widow and her children could not do for themselves, were done and that she and her family were provided for.
While the men were out preaching the gospel, the widows were being neglected and left to fend for themselves. This caused complaints to rise, contending the men were neglecting their duties toward the community. Out of this necessity the Apostles selected a group of seven men to tend to the needs of the widows families while the rest of them continued to preach the gospel.
This scripture is the origin of electing Deacons in the Church.~

Lesson 354

(Lesson 354)(08-03-12) Acts 5:33-When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them. Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space; And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought. After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ."

This lesson explains how the Jewish leaders were convinced by Gamaliel to ignore the Apostles, in hope that their message would soon fizzle out and disappear as had the pretenders who had arisen before them. They didn't realize that the divine gospel of Jesus Christ is the real deal and would eventually spread throughout the whole world.
It should be noted that the old law, the law Jesus fulfilled when He arose from the dead, that law the Jews so desperately tried to hold on to, is in many respects, the same law many wrongly apply to themselves and others today.

There are those who profess that one must live a perfectly righteous, sinfree life, in order to obtain eternal salvation of the soul. They are correct in one regard, one must be found absolutely sinless in order to be a part of the kingdom of God. However, that sinlessness does NOT come through our own, day to day, actions, or inactions. Absolute remission of ALL sin ONLY comes through that perfect righteousness imputed to us through the grace of God upon acceptance of the sacrifice He gave through Jesus Christ, the ONLY remitter of sin. Acts 12:4 "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."

Lesson 353

(Lesson 353)(08-02-12) Acts 5:17-32, "Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told, Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within. Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow. Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people. Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned. And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him."

The first part of this lesson tells of another miracle of the Holy Ghost as He freed Peter and John from the prison un-noticed.

In the latter portions of today's lesson, Peter and John again condemn the Jewish leadership for the crucifixion of our Savior. It also shows the frustration of the Sadducees as they try to figure out how to stop the spread of the gospel through the Jewish people.

There is something I neglected to add to yesterday's lesson that should be very important to those who believe water "baptism" is essential to eternal salvation.

Notice the scripture said, "And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women." There is no mention of water baptism made with these additions.~

Lesson 352

(Lesson 352)(08-01-12) Acts 5:12-16, "And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch. And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them. And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one."

This lesson demonstrates how the Apostles continued to preach daily on Solomon's porch at the temple in Jerusalem. Many Jewish followers brought their sick to be healed by the power of the Holy Ghost. There were also more and more additions to the Church as the Apostles continued to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ crucified.~