(Lesson 2745)(06-30-19) Acts 9:23-31
“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. 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.”
Today’s quote relates how the Jews attempted to lay a trap so as to kill Saul as he went out of the city of Damascus. Whereas, after sucessfully escaping the Jews by trickery, Saul (Paul) continued fervently preaching the name of Jesus to anyone who would listen, causing the church to grow rapidly throughout the region.~
Sunday, June 30, 2019
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Lesson 2744
(Lesson 2744)(06-29-19) Acts 9:19-22
“And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. 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 in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.”
Today’s quote relates that Saul, after a short period with the the Christians at Damascus, began to fervently preach that Jesus was indeed the Son of God. That message, coming from Saul, confounded those who had known him to be a torturer of Christians.
The example of Saul’s conversion is the perfect lesson as to what a lost soul should do to become a child of God. A lost soul should profess that Jesus Christ is the Son of God committing to Him entirely by faith for the remission of sins. And then, that child of God is to do as Saul did, he/she should preach the message of God’s saving grace through the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. That message should be preached to every soul who is willing to listen.~
“And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. 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 in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.”
Today’s quote relates that Saul, after a short period with the the Christians at Damascus, began to fervently preach that Jesus was indeed the Son of God. That message, coming from Saul, confounded those who had known him to be a torturer of Christians.
The example of Saul’s conversion is the perfect lesson as to what a lost soul should do to become a child of God. A lost soul should profess that Jesus Christ is the Son of God committing to Him entirely by faith for the remission of sins. And then, that child of God is to do as Saul did, he/she should preach the message of God’s saving grace through the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. That message should be preached to every soul who is willing to listen.~
Friday, June 28, 2019
Lesson 2743
(Lesson 2743)(06-28-19) Acts 9:10-18
“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 enquire 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.”
Today’s quote relates that upon God’s command, Ananias, an obedient disciple of Christ, although he was clearly afraid because of the cruel way Saul had treated his Christian brothers and sisters, went to obey the command God had shown him in a vision.
Yesterday I expressed the importance of remembering why Saul was sent to Damascus. And today’s quote makes that purpose very clear. Saul was to have his sight restored AND TO RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST.
When Ananias found Saul, by laying his hands upon him, Ananias restored Saul's sight as God had commanded. Once again, the Holy Ghost appears to have been imparted by the laying on of hands; However, when Ananias laid his hands upon Saul, the only thing that happened was that the scales fell from his eyes. The quote clearly says that after Saul had received his sight, he “arose and was baptized”.
The importance of remembering what Saul was to learn is because many so-called Christians, erroneously believe that the word “baptized”, as it is applied in today’s quote, refers to a water ritual. In truth, the baptism that Saul experienced after Ananias had laid his hands upon him, was the baptism of the Holy Ghost. That same baptism of the Holy Ghost that John the baptist said Jesus would administer for those who would believe in Him. “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He will baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:” (Matthew 3:11)
So far as I have been able to find, NONE of the fourteen men that were chosen to be apostles were ever baptized in water. ~
“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 enquire 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.”
Today’s quote relates that upon God’s command, Ananias, an obedient disciple of Christ, although he was clearly afraid because of the cruel way Saul had treated his Christian brothers and sisters, went to obey the command God had shown him in a vision.
Yesterday I expressed the importance of remembering why Saul was sent to Damascus. And today’s quote makes that purpose very clear. Saul was to have his sight restored AND TO RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST.
When Ananias found Saul, by laying his hands upon him, Ananias restored Saul's sight as God had commanded. Once again, the Holy Ghost appears to have been imparted by the laying on of hands; However, when Ananias laid his hands upon Saul, the only thing that happened was that the scales fell from his eyes. The quote clearly says that after Saul had received his sight, he “arose and was baptized”.
The importance of remembering what Saul was to learn is because many so-called Christians, erroneously believe that the word “baptized”, as it is applied in today’s quote, refers to a water ritual. In truth, the baptism that Saul experienced after Ananias had laid his hands upon him, was the baptism of the Holy Ghost. That same baptism of the Holy Ghost that John the baptist said Jesus would administer for those who would believe in Him. “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He will baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:” (Matthew 3:11)
So far as I have been able to find, NONE of the fourteen men that were chosen to be apostles were ever baptized in water. ~
Thursday, June 27, 2019
Lesson 2742
(Lesson 2742)(06-27-19) Acts 9:3-9
“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 how Saul (Paul) was stricken blind by Jesus as he traveled toward Damascus to persecute more Christians.
It is very important to remember that Jesus told Saul that he would be instructed as to what he should do when he reached Damascus. Those instructions, and what they mean, will be a part of tomorrow’s lesson.~
“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 how Saul (Paul) was stricken blind by Jesus as he traveled toward Damascus to persecute more Christians.
It is very important to remember that Jesus told Saul that he would be instructed as to what he should do when he reached Damascus. Those instructions, and what they mean, will be a part of tomorrow’s lesson.~
Wednesday, June 26, 2019
Lesson 2741
(Lesson 2741)(06-26-19) Acts 9:1-2
“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.”
Today’s lesson relates how Saul (Soon to be Paul) received permission to punish Christians.~
“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.”
Today’s lesson relates how Saul (Soon to be Paul) received permission to punish Christians.~
Tuesday, June 25, 2019
Lesson 2740
(Lesson 2740)(06-25-19) 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 contains information that is not only inconsistent with New Testament intent but is in actual contrast with documented history as well; Therefore, I believe those fifteen verses should be taken with a grain of salt.
First: There is only one other reference in the New Testament that implies that a human may have been carried by the spirit from one place to another. That was when Satan carried Jesus into the desert to tempt Him.
Second: For a eunuch from Ethiopia to have possession of a copy of the book of Isaiah would have been a virtual impossibility at that time. That is because it is a part of the “book of the twelve” which Jews guarded with their lives in order to preserve it’s explicit accuracy.
We must remember that in those times there were no copiers nor printers. For that eunuch to have possessed a copy of Isaiah would have been a miracle in itself since it would have required that the Jews make a special scroll, just for him. From what I have been able to find in the bible as well as the historical record, that would not have been allowed by the Jewish hierarchy under ANY circumstance.
There are more inconsistencies in those fifteen verses that can be easily exposed with a thorough study; Therefore, seeing that those verses have no specific relevance to the doctrine of Jesus Christ, I have decided to ignore the content classifying it as just a bit more Roman Catholic maipulation of the intent of the New Testament. ~
“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 contains information that is not only inconsistent with New Testament intent but is in actual contrast with documented history as well; Therefore, I believe those fifteen verses should be taken with a grain of salt.
First: There is only one other reference in the New Testament that implies that a human may have been carried by the spirit from one place to another. That was when Satan carried Jesus into the desert to tempt Him.
Second: For a eunuch from Ethiopia to have possession of a copy of the book of Isaiah would have been a virtual impossibility at that time. That is because it is a part of the “book of the twelve” which Jews guarded with their lives in order to preserve it’s explicit accuracy.
We must remember that in those times there were no copiers nor printers. For that eunuch to have possessed a copy of Isaiah would have been a miracle in itself since it would have required that the Jews make a special scroll, just for him. From what I have been able to find in the bible as well as the historical record, that would not have been allowed by the Jewish hierarchy under ANY circumstance.
There are more inconsistencies in those fifteen verses that can be easily exposed with a thorough study; Therefore, seeing that those verses have no specific relevance to the doctrine of Jesus Christ, I have decided to ignore the content classifying it as just a bit more Roman Catholic maipulation of the intent of the New Testament. ~
Monday, June 24, 2019
Lesson 2739
(Lesson 2739)(06-24-19) 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 relates how Simon the Sorcerer attempted to buy, from the apostles, the power to bestow the Holy Ghost. That act caused Peter to scold Simon and challenge him to repent and turn from his wicked ways.~
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 relates how Simon the Sorcerer attempted to buy, from the apostles, the power to bestow the Holy Ghost. That act caused Peter to scold Simon and challenge him to repent and turn from his wicked ways.~
Sunday, June 23, 2019
Lesson 2738
(Lesson 2738)(06-23-19) 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 lesson comes from the same quote from which yesterday’s lesson was taken. This is done so as to clarify, as near as possible, what occurred with those Samarians to whom Philip had preached.
First, it is obvious that they had NOT believed in Jesus Christ to the point of everlasting faith and eternal salvation by simply being “baptized in the name of Jesus Christ”. IF they had indeed been saved, they would have automatically received the Holy Ghost at the point of their salvation, just as those to whom Peter preached as recorded in Acts 10:47.
When discussing those to whom Philip had preached, in reference to their receiving of the Holy Ghost the author wrote, “For as yet He (The Holy Ghost) was fallen upon none of them: ONLY they were baptized IN THE NAME OF the Lord Jesus Christ.” What does that mean? Remember, the phrase “in the name of”, as it is applied in the quote, refers to something that can be taught because Philip, “when he had PREACHED the name of Jesus Christ”, they believed. That obviously must mean that those people had only believed that Philip was being truthful about what he was preaching. It could not have been intended to imply that those Samarians had believed in Jesus Christ to the point of eternal salvation.
The fact that they had been “baptized” IN THE NAME OF the Lord Jesus simply meant that Philip had told them about Jesus. Their salvation, and there receiving of the Holy Ghost, must have occurred when they actually accepted Jesus after Peter and the others further taught them, laid their hands upon and prayed for them.
What, in all reasonable probability occurred in today’s quote, will be further clarified when these lessons reach Acts 18:24-26 in which an identical scenario was confronted by what Apollos’ preached.~
“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 lesson comes from the same quote from which yesterday’s lesson was taken. This is done so as to clarify, as near as possible, what occurred with those Samarians to whom Philip had preached.
First, it is obvious that they had NOT believed in Jesus Christ to the point of everlasting faith and eternal salvation by simply being “baptized in the name of Jesus Christ”. IF they had indeed been saved, they would have automatically received the Holy Ghost at the point of their salvation, just as those to whom Peter preached as recorded in Acts 10:47.
When discussing those to whom Philip had preached, in reference to their receiving of the Holy Ghost the author wrote, “For as yet He (The Holy Ghost) was fallen upon none of them: ONLY they were baptized IN THE NAME OF the Lord Jesus Christ.” What does that mean? Remember, the phrase “in the name of”, as it is applied in the quote, refers to something that can be taught because Philip, “when he had PREACHED the name of Jesus Christ”, they believed. That obviously must mean that those people had only believed that Philip was being truthful about what he was preaching. It could not have been intended to imply that those Samarians had believed in Jesus Christ to the point of eternal salvation.
The fact that they had been “baptized” IN THE NAME OF the Lord Jesus simply meant that Philip had told them about Jesus. Their salvation, and there receiving of the Holy Ghost, must have occurred when they actually accepted Jesus after Peter and the others further taught them, laid their hands upon and prayed for them.
What, in all reasonable probability occurred in today’s quote, will be further clarified when these lessons reach Acts 18:24-26 in which an identical scenario was confronted by what Apollos’ preached.~
Saturday, June 22, 2019
Lesson 2737
(Lesson 2737)(06-22-19) 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 relates that Peter and John traveled to Samaria and learned that those who, even though they were said to have believed in “the name of” Jesus Christ, had not yet received the Holy Ghost.
That text causes pause and stands in contradiction to most other New Testament accounts. The other accounts appear to assert that the Holy Ghost comes immediately to those who believe in Jesus Christ, as is demonstrated in Acts 10:47, which says, “Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which HAVE RECEIVED THE HOLY GHOST as well as we. Those mentioned in Acts 10:47, clearly had received the Holy Ghost BEFORE being baptized in water, and WITHOUT the of laying on of the hands.
There are two contrasting assertions made in the book of Acts concerning how a person receives the Holy Ghost. One assertion made by today’s quote is that the Holy Ghost comes by the laying on of hands, Acts 8:17. The second is that the Holy Ghost comes when a person believes, Acts 10:47. I believe that a lost soul is “baptized” (immersed) into the Holy Ghost when that soul is “baptized” into Jesus Christ through faith in His virgin born life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension. My belief will be factually confirmed as these lessons continue.
It is very important to remember, as we continue, that the phrase “in the name of”, refers to something that can be taught and that one can have faith, or belief, in. That fact will be tantamount to correctly understanding what all this means. And, it will help to establish that there is NO contradiction in the intent of God’s divine word when it is correctly understood.
“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)~
“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 relates that Peter and John traveled to Samaria and learned that those who, even though they were said to have believed in “the name of” Jesus Christ, had not yet received the Holy Ghost.
That text causes pause and stands in contradiction to most other New Testament accounts. The other accounts appear to assert that the Holy Ghost comes immediately to those who believe in Jesus Christ, as is demonstrated in Acts 10:47, which says, “Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which HAVE RECEIVED THE HOLY GHOST as well as we. Those mentioned in Acts 10:47, clearly had received the Holy Ghost BEFORE being baptized in water, and WITHOUT the of laying on of the hands.
There are two contrasting assertions made in the book of Acts concerning how a person receives the Holy Ghost. One assertion made by today’s quote is that the Holy Ghost comes by the laying on of hands, Acts 8:17. The second is that the Holy Ghost comes when a person believes, Acts 10:47. I believe that a lost soul is “baptized” (immersed) into the Holy Ghost when that soul is “baptized” into Jesus Christ through faith in His virgin born life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension. My belief will be factually confirmed as these lessons continue.
It is very important to remember, as we continue, that the phrase “in the name of”, refers to something that can be taught and that one can have faith, or belief, in. That fact will be tantamount to correctly understanding what all this means. And, it will help to establish that there is NO contradiction in the intent of God’s divine word when it is correctly understood.
“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)~
Friday, June 21, 2019
Lesson 2736
(Lesson 2736)(06-21-19) Acts 8:13
“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 expressed my concern about the application of the term “baptized” as it appears in Acts 8:12-13. I’m going to keep today’s commentary short so as not to over complicate the issue.
The application of the term “baptized” as it is applied in today’s quote appears to be referring to a water baptism (immersion) that was administered to those who believed Philip’s preaching AFTER they had repented and, obvioulsy, “believed” in the Lord Jesus Christ. The performance of a water baptism performed after repentance stands directly opposite to ALL the water baptisms that were referenced in the gospels before the Death of Jesus. All of those baptisms occurred before, toward, or “UNTO” repentance. As was earlier stated, all the baptisms that were administered to those who believed Philip’s preaching, occurred After they had repented.~
NOTE: There is more to be said on this subject, as well as how it relates to the baptism of and receiving of, the Holy Ghost. That study will shed more light on my theory that the quoted text may have been altered to promote the contention that water baptism is a required step toward eternal salvation. We will dig into it even farther with tomorrows lesson. ~
“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 expressed my concern about the application of the term “baptized” as it appears in Acts 8:12-13. I’m going to keep today’s commentary short so as not to over complicate the issue.
The application of the term “baptized” as it is applied in today’s quote appears to be referring to a water baptism (immersion) that was administered to those who believed Philip’s preaching AFTER they had repented and, obvioulsy, “believed” in the Lord Jesus Christ. The performance of a water baptism performed after repentance stands directly opposite to ALL the water baptisms that were referenced in the gospels before the Death of Jesus. All of those baptisms occurred before, toward, or “UNTO” repentance. As was earlier stated, all the baptisms that were administered to those who believed Philip’s preaching, occurred After they had repented.~
NOTE: There is more to be said on this subject, as well as how it relates to the baptism of and receiving of, the Holy Ghost. That study will shed more light on my theory that the quoted text may have been altered to promote the contention that water baptism is a required step toward eternal salvation. We will dig into it even farther with tomorrows lesson. ~
Thursday, June 20, 2019
(Lesson 2735)(06-20-19) Acts 8:13
“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 relates that Simon the Sorcerer also believed Philip’s preaching and was subsequently “baptized”. This text gives me pause as to what it actually means because it appears to be in contradiction with the rest of the New Testament text.
We know that the term “baptized” can mean three totally different things as that term is applied in the New Testament. The first is baptism into water, the second is the baptism of the Holy Ghost, and the third is baptism into Jesus Christ. The appropriate meaning relies absolutely upon the context in which the term is applied.
Baptize the *transliterated word, and it’s grammatical variations, first appeared in the New Testament text in reference to the ceremonial water immersions which were required, and practiced, by all obedient Jews, according to their law. To the Jews, the baptismal ritual was required before entering into any religious ritual, entering the temple, or tabernacle, for prayer, offerings etc. The water version was ALWAYS administered UNTO repentence. However, almost all applications of the term appearing, in the four gospels, after Jesus was baptized, referred to the baptism of the Holy Ghost or to a baptism INTO Jesus Christ.
The term, as it is applied in today’s quote, appears to be in reference to water immersion.~
NOTE: We will continue this discussion with tomorrow’s lesson.
*To transliterate is to carry forward a sound alike word, from one language to another, which does not specifically translate the meaning or intent of the word in it's original language.
“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 relates that Simon the Sorcerer also believed Philip’s preaching and was subsequently “baptized”. This text gives me pause as to what it actually means because it appears to be in contradiction with the rest of the New Testament text.
We know that the term “baptized” can mean three totally different things as that term is applied in the New Testament. The first is baptism into water, the second is the baptism of the Holy Ghost, and the third is baptism into Jesus Christ. The appropriate meaning relies absolutely upon the context in which the term is applied.
Baptize the *transliterated word, and it’s grammatical variations, first appeared in the New Testament text in reference to the ceremonial water immersions which were required, and practiced, by all obedient Jews, according to their law. To the Jews, the baptismal ritual was required before entering into any religious ritual, entering the temple, or tabernacle, for prayer, offerings etc. The water version was ALWAYS administered UNTO repentence. However, almost all applications of the term appearing, in the four gospels, after Jesus was baptized, referred to the baptism of the Holy Ghost or to a baptism INTO Jesus Christ.
The term, as it is applied in today’s quote, appears to be in reference to water immersion.~
NOTE: We will continue this discussion with tomorrow’s lesson.
*To transliterate is to carry forward a sound alike word, from one language to another, which does not specifically translate the meaning or intent of the word in it's original language.
Wednesday, June 19, 2019
Lesson 2734
(Lesson 2734)(06-19-19) Acts 8:9-12
“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.”
As was established with yesterday’s lesson Philip “preached” the name of Jesus Christ after which many believed and were baptized; Therefore, the phrase “the name of”, as the author applied it in the quote, identified something that could be taught. In the above application it refers to, or stands for, the very essence of Jesus Christ crucified. In simpler, more modern terms, Philip preached the life, death, burial, resurrecion and ascension of Jesus Christ whereafter, his listeners believed and were saved.
This clarification is very important to remember because that same phrase is applied in Matthew 28:19-20 wherein Jesus told His apostles to baptize (immerse) those who would believe “in the name of” The Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Those apostles were, in reality, instructed to immerse the believers into the full concept and amazing grace of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
The term “baptizing” as it was applied in the Matthew quote, just as the term “baptized” is applied in the reference to those to whom Philip preached, is a reference to the learning about Jesus Christ. The variations of the term baptize as applied in both the Matthew quote as well as today’s quote, are a reference to an immersion INTO Jesus Christ, NOT and immersion into water.~
NOTE: There will be more discussion of this subject in tomorrow’s lesson.
“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.”
As was established with yesterday’s lesson Philip “preached” the name of Jesus Christ after which many believed and were baptized; Therefore, the phrase “the name of”, as the author applied it in the quote, identified something that could be taught. In the above application it refers to, or stands for, the very essence of Jesus Christ crucified. In simpler, more modern terms, Philip preached the life, death, burial, resurrecion and ascension of Jesus Christ whereafter, his listeners believed and were saved.
This clarification is very important to remember because that same phrase is applied in Matthew 28:19-20 wherein Jesus told His apostles to baptize (immerse) those who would believe “in the name of” The Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Those apostles were, in reality, instructed to immerse the believers into the full concept and amazing grace of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
The term “baptizing” as it was applied in the Matthew quote, just as the term “baptized” is applied in the reference to those to whom Philip preached, is a reference to the learning about Jesus Christ. The variations of the term baptize as applied in both the Matthew quote as well as today’s quote, are a reference to an immersion INTO Jesus Christ, NOT and immersion into water.~
NOTE: There will be more discussion of this subject in tomorrow’s lesson.
Tuesday, June 18, 2019
Lesson 2733
(Lesson 2733)(06-18-19) Acts 8:9-12
“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.”
Today’s quote relates how Simon, a magician, had, for years, beguiled the people of Samaria with his sorcery.
It is also very important to note that the quote 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.” The importance of that statement is that it verifies that the “name of” is something that can be preached and believed.
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus said, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the NAME OF the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world, Amen.:
Tomorrow we will dig deeper into this lesson to determine what, exactly, is meant by the use of the word “baptized” as it is applied in today’s quote, as well as it’s application in Matthew 28:19-20. ~
“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.”
Today’s quote relates how Simon, a magician, had, for years, beguiled the people of Samaria with his sorcery.
It is also very important to note that the quote 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.” The importance of that statement is that it verifies that the “name of” is something that can be preached and believed.
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus said, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the NAME OF the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world, Amen.:
Tomorrow we will dig deeper into this lesson to determine what, exactly, is meant by the use of the word “baptized” as it is applied in today’s quote, as well as it’s application in Matthew 28:19-20. ~
Monday, June 17, 2019
Lesson 2732
(Lesson 2732)(06-17-19) Acts 8:5-8
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 quote relates that Philip, by his preaching and the performance of miracles, converted many among the Samarians.~
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 quote relates that Philip, by his preaching and the performance of miracles, converted many among the Samarians.~
Sunday, June 16, 2019
Lesson 2731
(Lesson 2731)(06-16-19) Acts 8:1-4
“ 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 them to prison. Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.”
Today’s quote relates how the Jews, led by Saul, (who would later be named Paul), persecuted and imprisoned those who followed Jesus. In spite of the constant threat to themselves, the apostles continued to preach Jesus. If only we had such devotion today. ~
“ 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 them to prison. Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.”
Today’s quote relates how the Jews, led by Saul, (who would later be named Paul), persecuted and imprisoned those who followed Jesus. In spite of the constant threat to themselves, the apostles continued to preach Jesus. If only we had such devotion today. ~
Saturday, June 15, 2019
Lesson 2730
(Lesson 2730)(06-15-19) Acts 7:30-60
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 Abraham, 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.”
In today’s quote, Stephen preached the history of the Jews and how they had denied God and killed His own Son. After Stephen expose the Jews for what the really were, they stoned him to death. ~
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 Abraham, 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.”
In today’s quote, Stephen preached the history of the Jews and how they had denied God and killed His own Son. After Stephen expose the Jews for what the really were, they stoned him to death. ~
Friday, June 14, 2019
Lesson 2729
(Lesson 2729)(06-14-19) Acts 7:1-29
“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.”
Today’s lesson recounts the history of the Jews up until Moses began demanding that Pharoah free his people.~
“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.”
Today’s lesson recounts the history of the Jews up until Moses began demanding that Pharoah free his people.~
Thursday, June 13, 2019
Lesson 2728
(Lesson 2728)(06-13-19) 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.”
Today’s quote relates how the Jews began to turn against Stephen because He steadfastly preached Jesus.~
“ 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 the Jews began to turn against Stephen because He steadfastly preached Jesus.~
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Lesson 2727
(Lesson 2727)(06-12-19) 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.”
Today’s lesson relates how, and why, the first deacons were chosen for the church.~
“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.”
Today’s lesson relates how, and why, the first deacons were chosen for the church.~
Tuesday, June 11, 2019
Lesson 2726
(Lesson 2726)(06-11-19) Acts 5:27-42
“ 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. 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.”
Today’s quote relates how the Jewish leaders struggled as to what to do with the apostles. They knew that if they continued to preach Jesus, many of the Jews would join them. And, if they punished them, those who believed in Jesus would cause a riot.
In the end they beat them and set them free. Praise and thanks to God for those brave men who endured the punishment and brought the word of God to us today. ~
“ 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. 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.”
Today’s quote relates how the Jewish leaders struggled as to what to do with the apostles. They knew that if they continued to preach Jesus, many of the Jews would join them. And, if they punished them, those who believed in Jesus would cause a riot.
In the end they beat them and set them free. Praise and thanks to God for those brave men who endured the punishment and brought the word of God to us today. ~
Monday, June 10, 2019
Lessson 2725
(Lesson 2725)(06-10-19) Acts 5:17-26
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.”
Today’s quote relates that Peter, John and the others were thrown into prison, by the high priest of the Jews, for preaching Jesus in Jerusalem. Those same priests were baffled when they discovered that God had sent an angel to secretly free them.~
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.”
Today’s quote relates that Peter, John and the others were thrown into prison, by the high priest of the Jews, for preaching Jesus in Jerusalem. Those same priests were baffled when they discovered that God had sent an angel to secretly free them.~
Sunday, June 9, 2019
Lesson 2724
(Lesson 2724)(06-09-19) 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 quote relates that Peter and the others continued their work healing the sick and adding to the church daily. Their labors caused many to believe in Jesus and join His church. What a wonderful thing it would be if, we today, were to have the zeal for Christ that those apostles did.~
“ 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 quote relates that Peter and the others continued their work healing the sick and adding to the church daily. Their labors caused many to believe in Jesus and join His church. What a wonderful thing it would be if, we today, were to have the zeal for Christ that those apostles did.~
Saturday, June 8, 2019
Lesson 2723
(Lesson 2723)(06-08-19) 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 quote relates how Ananias and his wife were consumed by death after having lied to the Holy Spirit.
There’s a part of an old saying that goes, “You can fool all of the people some of the time and some of the people all of the time”, but you can NEVER fool God. Truer words were never spoken.~
“ 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 quote relates how Ananias and his wife were consumed by death after having lied to the Holy Spirit.
There’s a part of an old saying that goes, “You can fool all of the people some of the time and some of the people all of the time”, but you can NEVER fool God. Truer words were never spoken.~
Friday, June 7, 2019
Lesson 2722
(Lesson 2722)(06-07-19) Acts 4:32-37
“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 quote relates how the disciples of Christ pooled all their belongings and formed a kind of commune. They all pulled together with one ultimate goal. That goal was to spread the doctrine of Jesus Christ to every soul who would listen.
NOTE: I will be traveling for the next several days; Therefore, our daily lessons will be subject to the availability of wifi. I will try to post a lesson every day but the time of the post will, no doubt, vary from day to day. Sorry for the inconvenience I’ll try to do better. :)
“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 quote relates how the disciples of Christ pooled all their belongings and formed a kind of commune. They all pulled together with one ultimate goal. That goal was to spread the doctrine of Jesus Christ to every soul who would listen.
NOTE: I will be traveling for the next several days; Therefore, our daily lessons will be subject to the availability of wifi. I will try to post a lesson every day but the time of the post will, no doubt, vary from day to day. Sorry for the inconvenience I’ll try to do better. :)
Thursday, June 6, 2019
Lesson 2721
(Lesson 2721)(06-06-19) Acts 4:23-31
“ 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.”
After the Jews had threatened Peter and John, they met with the other Christians and prayed that God would protect and empower them as they went about to preach His saving grace through faith in Jesus. ~
“ 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.”
After the Jews had threatened Peter and John, they met with the other Christians and prayed that God would protect and empower them as they went about to preach His saving grace through faith in Jesus. ~
Wednesday, June 5, 2019
Lesson 2720
(Lesson 2720)(06-05-19) Acts 4:1-22
“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. 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 quote relates that, after Peter and John, thorugh faith, caused a lame man to walk for the first time, the leadership of the Jews set about to silence their message and bar them from preaching the saving grace of God through the life, death, burial and resurrection of Jesus.~
“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. 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 quote relates that, after Peter and John, thorugh faith, caused a lame man to walk for the first time, the leadership of the Jews set about to silence their message and bar them from preaching the saving grace of God through the life, death, burial and resurrection of Jesus.~
Tuesday, June 4, 2019
Lesson 2719
(Lesson 2719)(06-04-19) Acts 3:20-26
“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.”
Today’s quote relates how the coming of Jesus Christ, the redeemer of the world, had been prophesied since the beginning of time.~
“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.”
Today’s quote relates how the coming of Jesus Christ, the redeemer of the world, had been prophesied since the beginning of time.~
Monday, June 3, 2019
Lesson 2718
(Lesson 2718)(06-03-19) Acts 3:12-19
“ 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.”
In today’s quote, Peter explained that it was through faith in Jesus Christ that the lame man was made to walk.
In the last part of the quote, Peter made it clear that remission of sins comes through faith in Jesus when he said, “ 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.”
We would do well to note that Peter did not use the word baptism in his determination of how those men were to be saved. Remission of sins DOES NOT come from an immersion in water.~
“ 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.”
In today’s quote, Peter explained that it was through faith in Jesus Christ that the lame man was made to walk.
In the last part of the quote, Peter made it clear that remission of sins comes through faith in Jesus when he said, “ 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.”
We would do well to note that Peter did not use the word baptism in his determination of how those men were to be saved. Remission of sins DOES NOT come from an immersion in water.~
Sunday, June 2, 2019
Lesson 2717
(Lesson 2717)(06-02-19) Acts 3:1-11
“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 ankle 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.”
Today’s quote relates that Peter and John, since receiving the Holy Ghost, performed their first miracle in the name of Jesus Christ when they restored the legs of a man who had been lame from birth.
Those of us whom have been redeemed by the grace of God and received the Holy Ghost through faith in Jesus, should always remember that we too have the power to perform miracles through prayer, just as Peter and John did. It only requires sufficient faith. ~
“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 ankle 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.”
Today’s quote relates that Peter and John, since receiving the Holy Ghost, performed their first miracle in the name of Jesus Christ when they restored the legs of a man who had been lame from birth.
Those of us whom have been redeemed by the grace of God and received the Holy Ghost through faith in Jesus, should always remember that we too have the power to perform miracles through prayer, just as Peter and John did. It only requires sufficient faith. ~
Saturday, June 1, 2019
Lesson 2716
(Lesson 2716)(06-01-19) Acts 2:43-47
“ 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 quote relates that on that day of the Pentecost celebration, the church, as the body of Christ, permenantly received the Holy Ghost. Until that day, the apostles and their disciples, who were the actual beginning of the church, had been given the power of the Holy Ghost by Jesus Himself.
Today’s quote goes on to relate how the membership came together, in “one accord”, with the sole aim of fulfilling the will of God the Father through the teachings of Jesus Christ. ~
“ 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 quote relates that on that day of the Pentecost celebration, the church, as the body of Christ, permenantly received the Holy Ghost. Until that day, the apostles and their disciples, who were the actual beginning of the church, had been given the power of the Holy Ghost by Jesus Himself.
Today’s quote goes on to relate how the membership came together, in “one accord”, with the sole aim of fulfilling the will of God the Father through the teachings of Jesus Christ. ~
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