Lesson 1926

(Lesson 1926)(01-31-17) 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."

Today's quote relates Saul's divine encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Saul was stricken blind and told by Jesus to go ahead into Damascus where he would be told what he should do.

It is important to remember that Jesus personally told Saul that he would be told what he must do by someone in Damascus.~

Lesson 1925

(Lesson 1925)(01-30-17) Acts 8:26-40

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."

Today's quote relates Philip's encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch. This passage relates that, after Philip had preached Jesus to the eunuch, they found water where Philip baptized, or immersed the eunuch.

Although I have no desire to change any opinions I have some major problems with this text, for several reasons. First of all, eunuchs were a class of slaves who were neutered so as to be trusted among the women, therefore, its a stretch of one's imagination to envision a slave with a formal education that would include the learning of foreign languages. Also, there are many questions as to why an Ethiopian slave would be alone in the Queen's chariot in the middle of a Israeli desert. Another reason for my doubts about this text is that the Jews were very particular about who had access to the scrolls of the Torah, our "Old Testament". It makes no sense to me that an Ethiopian slave would even be in Jerusalem to study, let alone, being in the middle of a deadly desert with a forbidden copy of a highly regarded holy text of the Jews. Finally, Isaiah chapter fifty three, the part of Isaiah from the eunuch was supposedly studying, only foretells the life and suffering of Jesus Christ, it does not mention water baptism. As a matter of fact, nowhere in the book of Isaiah is water baptism mentioned, at all.

I wrote all this to say that I believe verses twenty six through forty three of Acts eight, were added to the original text of God's holy word by the Roman Catholics during the time they controlled almost all of the sacred texts.

I believe the reason for the addition was to justify the deceptive Roman Catholic contention that ritual water baptism is a pre-requisite to the justification and salvation of one's eternal soul.

We know, because the New Testament clearly states, that, "by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

To be immersed, or to immerse oneself, in water is a work.~

Lesson 1924

(Lesson 1924)(01-29-17) 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."

Today's quote verifies what was determined in the preceding lessons in this chapter. That being that the Samarians weren't actually saved until Peter had preached the ways of God "more perfectly". The quote confirms that at least one of those who "believed" Philip when he preached the name of Jesus Christ did not believe to the point of having received eternal salvation and thereby the Holy Ghost. That assumption is evident seeing that Simon the sorcerer immediately, after witnessing the Samarians receiving the Holy Ghost, tried to pay the apostles for that awesome power, not understanding that the power came with total acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior. We know that Simon, like Cornelius, would have automatically received the power of the Holy Ghost had he actually put his absolute faith in Jesus Christ.

After Simon had demonstrated that he was only trying to use the gospel of Christ and the power of the Holy Ghost for his own gain, Peter warned him to repent his actions and pray for God's forgiveness.

Sadly, there are far too many today, who like Simon the sorcerer, are only in the business of preaching, for the money.~

Lesson 1923

(Lesson 1923)(01-28-17) Acts 8:14-17

"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."

Today's quote reveals that after hearing that the Samarians had heard the gospel of Jesus Christ, Peter and John were sent to finalize the deal. The quote simply says that the apostles, by the laying on of hands, gave the Holy Ghost to those who had accepted Christ. We know that there must have been more to it than what is recorded therein because we know that the Holy Ghost comes through acceptance of Jesus Christ and not simply by the laying on of hands. That point is evidenced in Acts 10:47, "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" No one in Peter's company, in order to bestow the Holy Ghost, laid hands on Cornelius or those in His house.

I believe that what happened with Apollos in Acts 18:24-26 also happened with Philip and the Samarians, "And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly."

I believe that Peter and John "expounded" the way of God "more perfectly" unto the Samarians the same way Aquila and Priscilla did with Apollos. It was after that more perfect explanation that the Samarians fully trusted Jesus Christ to the point of eternal salvation and the receiving of the Holy Ghost.~

Lesson 1922

(Lesson 1922)(01-27-17) Acts 8:9-13

"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."

After carefully considering the possibilities concerning "baptism" that occurred in Samaria after Philip preached "things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ", I believe the term "baptized", as it appears in this translation, was mis-applied seeing that the Samarians didn't immediately receive the Holy Ghost, as they certainly would have upon having absolute faith acceptance of Jesus Christ unto eternal salvation.

The fact is undeniably evident that at least one of Philip's listeners did not totally believe in Jesus since he tried to buy the power of the Holy Ghost.

I realize this observation leaves a lot to be discussed, and I am certainly open to that discussion. I know that like this instance there are other places in the New Testament that appear, on the surface, to be contradictions. But, I also know that the truth of God's plan for eternal salvation lies within the text of the New Testament and that there is NO contradictions as to how it is to be accomplished. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

Undergoing water baptism is a work.~

Lesson 1921

(Lesson 1921)(01-26-17) Acts 8:9-13

"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."

Yesterday I said that the term "baptized", as it appears in the above quote, could have one of two alternative meanings. It could mean that those who believed Philip were immersed into water in accordance with the old law of the Jews. Remember, that baptism was practiced BEFORE repentance, or UNTO repentance. It could also be a reference to the "baptism" whereby we are made one with Jesus Christ, or a literal baptism into Jesus Christ, through belief in Him as referenced in Galatians 3:26-27.

It is hard to believe that the latter is the definition that should be applied here because Simon was also "baptized" and if the above referenced baptism was a baptism into Christ, Simon and the others would have received the Holy Ghost as soon as they believed, just as Cornelius' and those in his company did in the quote from Acts 10:42-47. We know that Simon did not immediately receive the Holy Ghost, nor did any of the others who believed in what Philip had preached.

Tomorrows lesson will maybe help us shine a bit more light on what actually happened with the Samarians after Philip's sermon.~

Lesson 1920

(Lesson 1920)(01-25-17) Acts 8:9-13

"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."

Today's quote introduces Simon the sorcerer, a man who was highly feared and who had bewitched the Samarian people with his sorcery for a long time. However, when Philip preached about the kingdom of God, and "the name of Jesus Christ", they believed him and many rejected the sorcery of Simon.

The latter part of today's quote tells us that the Samarians, after they had heard Philip preach "the name of Jesus Christ", were "baptized".

It is my belief that the word "baptized", as it is applied in the context of this lesson, along with what occurred after the Samarians believed Philip, is referring to either a water immersion of the type that was ritually administered according to the old law of the Jews, or to a different meaning of the word "baptize" altogether. (We will discuss this alternate meaning in an upcoming lesson.) My reason for believing this is that the Samarians did not receive the Holy Ghost as one would automatically upon believing in Jesus Christ as faith in Him leading to eternal salvation.

An example of what I have said here can be found in Acts 10:42-47, "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?"

The above example provides that, "that through his name whosoever believeth in him (Jesus) shall receive remission of sins. While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word."

As we see in the last quote, the Holy Ghost came through believe in Jesus, water baptism has nothing to do with receiving the Holy Ghost.~

NOTE: We will continue this lesson tomorrow.

Lesson 1919

(Lesson 1919)(01-24-17) 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."

Today's lesson relates the burial of Stephen. It also tells of the horrible exploits of Saul (Who would later be named Paul after his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus).

The final part of the lesson tells How Philip preached the gospel to the Samarians whereby many believed and were saved.~

Lesson 1918

(Lesson 1918)(01-23-17) Acts Chapter 7

"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 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 Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction: and 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. 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, 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. 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."

Today's lesson contains the entire history of the Jews. It also relates the stoning of Stephen and how his faith in God never wavered.

NOTE: After killing Stephen, the Jews put his clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. That same Saul, who at the time was a vicious persecutor of all things Christian, would later be converted by Jesus Christ and would become the bibles most devout and outspoken apostle.~

Lesson 1917

(Lesson 1917)(01-22-17) Acts 6:7-15

"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. 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."

Today's quote relates how Stephen, through the power of the Holy Spirit, won over many of the Jews to the cause of Christianity. Meanwhile, there were other Jews who worshiped at "the temple of the Libertines" who had begun to rise up against the gospel of Jesus Christ and prepared to punish Stephen.~

Lesson 1916

(Lesson 1916)(01-21-17) Acts 6:1-6

"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."

Today's quote records the first appointment, of what would later be called "deacons". The quote also establishes why deacons were deemed necessary in the church. Many of the men were so occupied with the furtherance of their evangelistic duties that the women and children appeared, to the Greeks, to be suffering from neglect.

As is clearly established in today's quote, the duty of those appointed deacons was to remain with, and care for, the families of the men who were busy spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ and expanding the church. Deacons were to mind the everyday business of the church in the absence of the majority of the men.

1 Timothy 8-13 gives us a clearer understanding of the requirements that must be met in order to serve the church as a deacon; "Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus."~

Lesson 1915

(Lesson 1915)(01-20-17) Acts 5:34-42

"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."

Today's quote relates the warning that was passed from Gamaliel to the Jewish leadership.

He correctly predicted that if Jesus was indeed sent from God, there would be no stopping news of His existence and authenticity.

We should thank God daily that those apostles were devoted enough to keep and spread the good news of salvation by grace through faith on our Lord Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 1914

(Lesson 1914)(01-19-17) Acts 5:17-33

"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, 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. When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them."

Today's quote relates how the ruling Jewish sect, called the Sadducees, imprisoned the apostles only to have an angel of God miraculously take them right back out past the prison guards to freedom. While the apostles preached in the temple, the Sadducees learned of the escape and began to set plans to kill Peter and the others.~

Lesson 1913

(Lesson 1913)(01-18-17) 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."

Today's lesson tells of the many miracles that were performed by Peter and the other apostles.

We, the children of God, should remember that the same power that enabled Peter to perform those miracles has been given to each of us through the Holy Spirit.

"And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you." (Matthew 17:18-20)

Jesus promised that if we have sufficient faith, NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE TO US. ~

Lesson 1912

(Lesson 1912)(01-17-17) Acts 5:1-11

"But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things."

Today's lesson demonstrates the foolishness of those who attempt to deceive God.

I don't believe that Ananias and Sapphira lost their souls because of what they did, but I do believe they paid the physical price for the deed as a lesson to all believers who are so audacious as to tempt our omnipotent God.

The moral of the lesson is that a child of God should never make a promise to God that he/she never intends to keep.~

Lesson 1911

(Lesson 1911)(01-16-17) Acts 4:23-37

"And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them. And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is: Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ. For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus. And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet."

Today's lesson contains the prayer of the apostleS after they were threatened by the Jewish leadership. In spite of the threat, they continued to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ crucified and added many to the church every day.

It is important to note that the early church formed a commune wherein each member gave all he/she owned to a common fund and that fund was meted out to the membership as their needs became known. So far as I have learned there are very few religious groups who are still committed to communal living as was first practiced by the church.~

Lesson 1910

(Lesson 1910)(01-15-17) Acts 4:13-22

"Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it. But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done. For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed."

Today's lesson demonstrates how the leaders of the Jews conspired to get rid of Peter and John seeing that they did indeed command the power of the Holy Spirit to heal.

The children of God today have the same power of the Holy Spirit that was bestowed upon those apostles. A confident and faithful prayer from a child of God that lies within the will of God will indeed be answered without fail.~

Lesson 1909

(Lesson 1909)(01-14-17) Acts 4:1-12

"And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide. Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand. And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes, And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."

In today's quote, Peter and John were judged by the leadership of the Jews as to what power had enabled them to heal the lame man. Peter then sternly stated that it was through the divine power of the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ that they were able to perform miracles.

In the final verse of the quote, Peter established that Jesus is the ONLY means by which one can achieve eternal life. Referring to Jesus and condemning the Jews for His death, Peter said, "This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."~

Lesson 1908

(Lesson 1908)(01-13-17) Acts Chapter Three

"Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ancle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God: And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering. And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers. But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled. Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began. For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people. Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities."

In today's quote, Peter performed his first miracle and preached the plan of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 1907

(Lesson 1907)(01-12-17) ACTS 2:41-47

"Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved."

Today's lesson contains another point that is often wrongfully understood and grossly misapplied by many. Especially in most of the so called "Churches of Christ" et al, and in all of Roman Catholicism.

When Luke, referring to the events that ensued Peters sermon at Pentecost, recorded, "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized:", he did NOT mean that those three thousand whom had just believed in Jesus Christ, and who's faith had just made them to become the children of God, were consequently immersed in, or sprinkled with, water. The word "baptized" as it is applied in that quote, simply means that those who, "gladly received his word", or those who had, by faith, actually accepted and believed in Peter's description and definition of the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ, had been eternally immersed (baptized) into Christ and into His church.

The context within which the transliterated word "baptize" is herein applied, demands that it refers, not to water immersion or sprinkling, but rather to being eternally saved and thereby immersed into the "body of Christ", His church. This fact is borne out by the very next statement in the quote, "and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls."

We should ask ourselves, to what were these three thousand souls added? The only logical answer is that those three thousand souls were added to, and made a part of or "baptized" into, the Church.~

Lesson 1906

(Lesson 1906)(01-11-17) ACTS 2:37-40

"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation."

Today's lesson will conclude the study into Acts 2:37-40 and will be concentrated on the full intent of the lesson's quote.

Peter said "repent and be baptized for remission of sins". Lets first determine what achieves "remission of sins". Peter said it was "baptism" that remits sins. If that is true, what constitutes the "baptism" Peter referred to? That baptism is very clearly the immersion of one's self into the blood of Jesus Christ through faith in Him. NOT water immersion.

The following passages clearly establish that it is the blood of Jesus Christ that remits sins through repentance. Washing in water has NOTHING to do with remitting sin.

"For this is my BLOOD of the new testament, which is SHED for many FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS." (Matthew 26:28) "

"John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the BAPTISM OF REPENTANCE for the remission of sins." (Mark 1:4)

"And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the BAPTISM OF REPENTANCE for the remission of sins" (Luke 3:3)

"And that REPENTANCE and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." (Luke 24:47)

"To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM SHALL RECEIVE REMISSION OF SINS." (Acts 10:43)

"Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation THROUGH FAITH IN HIS BLOOD, TO DECLARE HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS that are past, through the forbearance of God;" (Romans 3:25"

As Peter continued his sermon he, in essence, told those men that if they indeed repented and were bathed, by faith, in the blood of Jesus Christ, they would be saved, and would receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

It is my prayer that all those who are deceived by, and place their faith in the contention that water "baptism" is a requirement for the remission of sins, would come to understand that water has NOTHING to do with eternal salvation. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." Submitting one's self to water baptism is a work.~

Lesson 1905

(Lesson 1905)(01-10-17) ACTS 2:37-40

"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation."

In yesterday's lesson we established that the baptism Peter referred to in Acts 2:38 is not an immersion into water, but rather it is a baptism into or a receiving of the Holy Ghost.

In simpler terms, those people who believed in Peter's message at Pentecost, concerning Jesus Christ, received and were that day sanctified by the soul saving power of the Holy Ghost.

Those of us who have accepted God's saving grace through Jesus Christ, are eternally justified in our everyday actions whether good or bad. We are also forever sanctified within, and sealed by the Holy Spirit of God until the "day of redemption".

The above described spiritual immersion has nothing to do with washing in water, but rather, it is a baptism into the name of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, and IS that baptism that Peter preached at Pentecost.~

Lesson 1904

(Lesson 1904)(01-09-17) ACTS 2:37-40

"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation."

Today's lesson is a continuance of yesterday's and is intended to more clearly define the ultimate intent of the word "baptized" as it is applied in the quote from which the lesson is taken.

As was said yesterday, to baptize is to simply immerse one thing into something else in order to cause a desired change in the original form or substance. For example, we put raw cucumbers into a brine solution to make a pickle. When a cucumber is left in the brine solution its makeup actually alters so that it still appears to be a cucumber, but in fact, it has become a pickle and can NEVER again be just a cucumber.

At this point we should remember what John the baptist said about water baptism, understanding that ALL Jews who were about to enter into ANY religious ritual were required by Hebrew law to be baptized or washed with water BEFORE they were allowed to pray, offer a sacrifice, enter the temple, or tabernacle, etc.

John said, "I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost." (Mark 1:8) The "he" John referred to in that statement, was Jesus Christ.

In essence, John said I indeed have baptized you with water, but Jesus will baptize you with the Holy Ghost.

When Peter was asked, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?", he replied, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Peter told those brethren that they were to first repent their sins and then be baptized. (NOTE: John's WATER baptism was UNTO repentance. it was to be administered BEFORE repentance.) Therefore, the baptism Peter referred to herein, was a reference, NOT TO WATER BAPTISM, but rather to a baptism with the Holy Ghost.~

Again, to allow what has been said so far to soak in, there will be a continuance of this lesson tomorrow.

Lesson 1903

(Lesson 1903)(01-08-17) ACTS 2:37-40

"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation."

Much of the foundation for the contention that water baptism is pre-requisite to eternal salvation, as that contention is put forth by the, so-called, churches of Christ, Roman Catholicism, et al, if found in today's quote.

In order to fully understand the implications of the phrase, "and be baptized" as it is applied in todays quote, it behooves us to first determine the meaning and intent of the word, "baptized", as it is applied therein. We have discussed this issue before but it is relevant that we again explain it's significance.

The English word "baptized", in its every application in the New Testament was transliterated from the ancient Greek word "baptizo".

NOTE: To transliterate is to make up a sound alike word in a known language to replace a given word in the original language that is to be transliterated. In this instance, "baptizo" was transliterated into "baptize".

Once a word has been transliterated it carries the same definition and intent in it's new language as the original word did in the foreign language.

To "batpizo" or "baptize" simply means to place one item, substance, or entity into another item, substance, or entity and leaving it there to obtain a desired result.

I'm going to stop this part of today's lesson here so the it don't get bogged down and to allow time for proper absorption of what has already been said.

It is very important that we fully understand the meaning of the word "baptized" as it is applied in today's lesson.

Tomorrow's lesson will be a continuance of today's. We will stay on the meaning and intent of the word "baptize" until it is clear what Peter was saying in today's quote.~

Lesson 1902

(Lesson 1902)(01-07-17) ACTS 2:22-36

"Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, Until I make thy foes thy footstool. Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ."

In today's quote, Peter preached the life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. The sermon Peter and the others preached at Pentecost defined the divine act that provided an opportunity for a lost world to find everlasting life. The blood of Jesus Christ justified the sins of all who will put their faith in Him.
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Lesson 1901

(Lesson 1901)(01-06-17) ACTS 2:14-21

"But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God,I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved."

In today's lesson, Peter assured the masses that what they were witnessing was not a drunken display, but rather, it was a demonstration of the awesome power of the Holy Ghost unfolding after He had fell upon the apostles of Jesus Christ.

The last verse of today's quote once again confirms that all those who believe in Jesus Christ will be granted unconditional eternal life, and shall not be judged among the spiritually dead when Christ returns. "whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved."~

Lesson 1900

(Lesson 1900)(01-05-17) ACTS 2:1-13

"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine."

Today's quote relates how, at Pentecost, the power of the Holy Ghost. as Jesus promised, was bestowed upon the twelve apostles. The awesome power of Jesus Christ was given to His church.

The Holy Ghost, through those apostles, worked an earth shaking miracle that day. That miracle was that as the apostles preached the gospel of Christ in their own language, they were heard and understood in the language of those from the many different countries who were listening.

The miracle performed that day was not so much that the apostles spoke in an "unknown" tongue. They knew perfectly well what they were saying because they spoke in their own language, which was probable either Aramaic or Hebrew. The miracle occurred as the messages were miraculously translated into the ears of those foreigners who had come to listen. Therefore, the miracle that was performed at Pentecost was more a miracle of hearing more so than a miracle of an "unknown" tongue.

Sadly, there are many isms today who contend that somehow the Holy Ghost blessed those apostles with some mysterious "unknown" tongue. That is far from what happened. There is some slight possibility that each of the apostles were miraculously blessed with the ability to translate what Peter preached into the languages of the foreigners, but it is much easier to believe that the Holy Ghost simply acted as a translator for the many who were there.

I say this because there was no interpretor present at Pentecost, other than the Holy Ghost, and because Paul said, in 1Corinthians 14:26-28, "How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, everyone of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. BUT IF THERE IS NO INTERPRETER, LET HIM KEEP SILENCE IN THE CHURCH; AND SPEAK TO HIMSELF, AND TO GOD."

An "unknown" tongue, as the reference is applied in the New Testament, simply refers to a language other than one's own.~

Lesson 1899

(Lesson 1899)(01-04-17) ACTS 1:12-26

"Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey. And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,) Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus. For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry. Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood. For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles."

Today's quote relates the selection of Matthias to number with the other eleven apostles as a replacement for Judas Iscariot.

It is important to note that, in order to qualify as an apostle, Matthias was required to have been a disciple and witness of the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ from the very beginning of His ministry. That requirement debunks the Roman Catholic contention that there is a succession to the apostleship as the replacements die away. Since an apostle was required to have been a witness to the ministry of Jesus, those posing as apostles today are wholly unauthorized. "Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection."~

Lesson 1898

(Lesson 1898)(01-03-17) ACTS 1:6-11

"When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."

In today's quote the apostles watched as Jesus ascended into heaven and completed the fifth and final phase of His divine soul saving mission, His life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension.

Faith in the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ is the ONLY means by which the sins that condemn us can be "justified".~

Lesson 1897

(Lesson 1897)(01-02-17) ACTS 1:1-5

NOTE: I said yesterday that today's lesson would concern the variations in the accounts of the gospels as related by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. However, after further consideration, I have decided to continue through the Acts of the apostle before comparing the gospels.

Acts 1:1-5

"The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence."

Today's quote assures that the apostles had, through faith, accepted the doctrine of Jesus Christ. The quote also relates that the apostles were to remain in Jerusalem to await the of the coming of the Holy Ghost.

We should make note that, according to Luke, it is the baptism or the over-washing of the Holy Ghost that empowered the apostles. Luke made it clear that water baptism has nothing to do with obtaining the Holy Ghost. "For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence."~

Lesson 1896

(Lesson 1896)(01-01-17) John 21:20-25

"Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me. Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true. And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen."

Today's lesson concludes John's account of the gospels of Jesus Christ. John's writing varies slightly in it's presentation compared to the accounts of Matthew, Mark and Luke. Tomorrow we will point out and try to explain some of those differences.~