Lesson 3648

 (Lesson 3648)(12-31-21) Acts 11:4-17

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

    In today’s quote, Peter confronted the other apostles back in Jerusalem and explained why he had been to the home of a Gentile.

    The last part of today’s quote reaffirms that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is achieved by belief in Jesus Christ; “John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ”. 

    That part of the quote also confirms that the water baptism that John performed has nothing to do with the rebirth of the spirit nor eternal salvation.

    The quote further affirms that the baptism mentioned in Matthew 28:19, “Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost”, should be defined as the baptism WITH the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.~

Lesson 3647

 (Lesson 3647)(12-30-21) Acts 11:1-3

    “And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.”

    Today’s quote exposes the anger the Jewish “Christians” in Jerusalem held toward Peter because he had taught, and eaten in the home of, a Gentile.

    This quote also demonstrates the aversion that James and most of the apostles had toward the intent of the Gospel of Christ concerning the old laws and how those laws were to be kept apart from the new law of faith whereby eternal salvation is gained without the works of the old laws. 

    The apostles at Jerusalem wanted the old laws of the Jews to be incorporated into the new law of faith. Jesus Himself warned against that idea. Jesus said, “No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment, for that which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse. Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved.” (Matthew 9:16-17) 

    The Matthew quote clearly establishes that the old laws of the Jews DO NOT apply to those who accept Jesus and His new law of faith.~

Lesson 3646

 (Lesson 3646)(12-29-21) Acts 44-48

    “ While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.”

    Today’s is a very important lesson, and in some respects, a very confusing one. I will readily admit there is much about this passage that I don’t understand and cannot explain.

    The first part of today’s quote relates that as Peter preached, the Holy Ghost “was poured out” upon “all” who heard the word. That included both Jews and the Gentiles.

    To this point in our study, it has been said that receiving the Holy Ghost required being physically touched by one of the apostles. (Expressed in the New Testament as by the laying on of hands.) However, as today’s quote clearly indicates, Cornelius and his family received the Holy Ghost during the time they heard the gospel of Jesus Christ being preached. 

    Another fact that is established in the quote, is that salvation requires nothing more than hearing the gospel of Jesus Christ and believing it. We can be assured of that fact because the house of Cornelius received the Holy Ghost when they heard the word and ,obviously, believed it. Remember, the Holy Ghost could only be bestowed upon those who believe in Jesus Christ. That fact was made evident when Peter rebuked Simon the sorcerer. A man who obviously had not yet fully believed.

    In the quote, Peter further said, “Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, WHICH HAVE RECEIVED THE HOLY GHOST AS WELL AS WE? 

    It is evident that Peter was referencing a baptism with water as the medium into which the baptism was to occur. He also implied that water baptism could come AFTER a person had believed and had received the Holy Ghost. That is one of the confusing parts of today’s quote.

    That question is totally baffling to me because the water baptisms that John the Baptist administered, according to the laws of the Jews, always preceded a spiritual ritual such as repentance or the offering of a sacrifice. They were never administered AFTER a spiritual ritual such as occurred in the house of Cornelius.

    There will be more discussion of these issues as our lesson continue.~

Lesson 3645

 (Lesson 3645)(12-28-21) Acts 34-43

    “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.”

    Today’s lesson centers on what Peter said referring to John the Baptist and what John “preached”. 

    “That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John ”PREACHED”.

    The New Testament contains many references to “the baptism of John”. There is also, however, much confusion as to what all is implied by that phrase. For example, as written in today’s quote, “the baptism of John” was not only a ritual immersion in water, but also the message that John taught. If “the baptism of John” was not also implicative of a message as well as physical water immersion, it could not have been preached. One CANNOT “preach” a water baptism.

    In today’s quote, Peter clearly referred to the “baptism of John” as the message John brought, “throughout all Judea”. John himself said, “I indeed baptize you with water”, meaning that he did indeed oversee ritual water baptisms according to the old law of the Jews. But his primary “baptism” was an immersion, of those who heard him, into the knowledge that the Messiah, Jesus Christ, was soon to come.

    This subject will appear again as our study continues. Maybe this lesson will help us to better understand what is meant by the phrase as it is applied in future lessons.~

Lesson 3644

 (Lesson 3644)(12-27-21) Acts 34-43

    “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.”

    In today’s quote, Peter, a Jew, explained why he felt comfortable in the home of a Gentile. That was because God had made it clear that all things made by His hands were clean.

    The quote also makes it clear that remission of sin comes from faith, or belief, in Jesus Christ, NOT from water bapism, “To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.”~

NOTE: Today’s quote contains another important point that should be made. We will cover that point tomorrow. 

Lesson 3643

 (Lesson 3643)(12-26-21) Acts 25-33

    “And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me? And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.”

    Today’s quote explains the visions that both Peter and Cornelius had. It also explains why Peter, a Jew, was in the home of a Gentile.~

Lesson 3642

 (Lesson 3642)(12-25-21) Acts 17-24

    “ Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them. Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come? And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee. Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and he had called together his kinsmen and near friends.”

    Today’s quote relates that Peter travelled to the house of Cornelius, a Gentile. That was something that would have been totally unacceptable under the laws of the Jews.~

Lesson 3641

 (Lesson 3641)(12-24-21) Acts 9-16

    “On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending upon him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.”

    Today’s quote relates that God, knowing how Peter, a devout Jew, would resist going to the home of a Gentile because they were, in his mind, considered unclean, sent a vision to Peter demonstrating that nothing made by the will of God was to be considered unclean.

    Today’s Jews still adhere the to old law and will not eat certain foods.~

Lesson 3640

 (Lesson 3640)(12-22-21) Acts 10:1-

    “There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.”

    Today’s quote describes Cornelius, a Gentile, as a man who was recognized for his devotion to God and to his fellow human being. I see Cornelius as a perfect example of one who obeyed the second “great” commandment.    

The quote relates that an angel of the Lord appeared to Cornelius and told him to send for Peter in order to receive the Gospel of Christ.~

Lesson 3640

 (Lesson 3640)(12-22-21) Acts 9:31-43

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

    Today’s quote relates how Peter continued in the work of the Lord and how he, with the power of the Holy Ghost, worked many miracles. He, through prayer, raised a woman from the dead.

    There is another lesson that can be taken from this quote that supports what Jesus said in Matthew 6:6 wherein he instructed his followers that they should not make a public spectacles of themselves by praying in public. Rather, they were to pray without an audience. Matthew 6:6 paraphrased, ‘But you, when you pray, go into your closet, close the door and pray in secret’. How we should pray was verified in today’s quote when Peter ordered all the people out of the room before he prayed for the life of the dead woman.

    Sadly, in almost every “Christian” worship service today, someone will stand and pray aloud publically in spite of Jesus’ explicit instructions against it.~

Lesson 3639

 (Lesson 3639)(12-21-21) Acts 9:19-30

    “ 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 the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.”

    As is related in today’s quote, after Saul was converted and had received the Holy Ghost, he began to preach the gospel of Christ in Damascus and Jerusalem, to whomever would listen.

    When the Jews heard what had happened to Saul, they set about to kill him.~

Lesson 3638

 (Lesson 3638)(12-20-21) Acts 9:10-12

    “ 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 Jesus sent Ananias to visit Saul so as to restore his sight and to fill him with the Holy Ghost.

    That latter part of the quote tells us that after Ananias did what the Lord had told him to do, Saul did indeed receive his sight and was “filled” with the Holy Ghost.

    The last five words of the quote tells us that Saul “arose, and was baptized”. Seeing that their is NO scriptural record of any of the other apostles having been baptised in water, I believe that the baptism that Saul received at the hands of Ananias was a baptism with the Holy Ghost. Water was not, in my opinion, the medium for Saul’s baptism.~

Lesson 3637

 (Lesson 3637)(12-19-21) Acts 9:1-9

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

    Today’s quote relates how Saul, (later called Paul the apostle), was struck down and blinded by Jesus as he travelled toward Damascas. That incident would lead to Saul becoming one of God’s most fervent workers for the cause of Jesus Christ.

    As was earlier established, Saul was both a Jew and a Roman citizen. Saul was a respected and powerful authority among the Jewish hierarchy who despised and constantly tormented the followers of Christ, wherever he found them. The Christians feared Saul greatly.~

Lesson 3636

 (Lesson 3636)(12-18-21) 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.”

    To me, today’s quote creates more questions than it answers. The text of acts 8:26-40 contradicts almost the entirety of what the apostles taught as the gospel of Jesus Christ.

    The quote also appears to contradict the very reason why the office of deacon was established in the first place. 

    Remember, deacons were selected to stay near home and see to the needs of the church in the absence of Peter and the other apostles as they travelled to preach. 

    Philip was, at the time, a newly selected deacon of the church of Jerusalem. Why would he have been chosen to leave Jerusalem and neglect the very job he was chosen to accomplish? 

    Consider this also, the eunuch, a neutered slave to Candace the queen of Ethiopia, would have had to travel approximately 2500 miles, apparently alone, in a chariot from Ethiopia to Israel to “study” yet he was “studying” sitting alone in a desert. 

    I am open to any suggestions that might help to clarify or verify the seeming discrepancies  this quote. 

    Seeing that the Roman Catholic church controlled virtually ALL access to the written word for many centuries, could it be that the Roman Catholic church added these few verses to the original text in an attempt to codify their penchant for pomp and ritual? 

    Help me with this?~

Lesson 3635

 (Lesson 3635)(12-17-21) 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 the power of the Holy Ghost and was strongly rebuked by Peter.

    Today’s lesson appears to be more confusing about how the Holy Ghost and His awesome power are bestowed, and to whom. 

    It is my belief that that to Holy Ghost comes automatically to those who believe in Jesus Christ. Such as was the case with the household of Cornelius. This matter will be further discussed in Acts 10.~

Lesson 3634

(Lesson 3634)(12-16-21) Acts 8:13-17

    “Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.”

    There is some strangeness to today’s quote concerning recieving the Holy Ghost. For the Samarians, it required having Peter and John touch and pray for them. We know that, today, and in most instances then, receiving the Holy Spirit did/does not always require and apostlse’s prayer, or the laying on of hands. That fact is made evident in what was said in Acts 8:44 wherein the author writes that as Peter was preaching to the house of Cornelius, they that believed received the Holy Ghost: “While Peter yet spoke these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.” To me, this and other references, prove that today, the Holy Ghost is sent immediately to those who accept “the name of Jesus Christ” without the laying on of hands.

    Note: We study this further and confirm that the confusion within today’s quote will be repeated as we continue our lessons.~

Lesson 3633

 (Lesson 3633)(12-15-21) 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 introduces Simon the sorcerer. The rest of his story will be told later in tomorrow’s lesson. Today’s quote also contains a lesson that won’t be found by the vast majority of those who “study” the bible.

    We should make note that the author said Philip was “preaching” the name of Jesus Christ. (“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.”)

By doing so, the author established that “the name of Jesus Christ” is a message within itself and is something that is capable of being “preached”, or taught.

    This demonstrates that the usage of the word “baptized”, as it is appears in today’s quote, is NOT a reference to water baptism. Rather, the usage is a reference to the baptism of the Holy Ghost which those people received when they BELIEVED in “the name of Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 3632

 (Lesson 3632)(12-14-21) 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 preached the gospel of Jesus Christ, and performed many miracles of healing in Samaria.~

Lesson 3631

 (Lesson 3631)(12-13-21) 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 committed them to prison. Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.”

   Today’s quote relates how Saul, (later called Paul) stood by in approval as the Jews stoned Stephen. The quote also relates how the Jews tormented the disciples of Christ as they preached His gospel throughout the region. Many were saved because of their message.~

Lesson 3630

 (Lesson 3630)(12-12-21) Acts 7

    “Then said the high priest, Are these things so? And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee. Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell. And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child. And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years. And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place. And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs. And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him, And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house. Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance. But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first. And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh. Then sent Joseph, and called his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, threescore and fifteen souls. So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he, and our fathers, And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem. But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt, Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph. The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live. In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three months: And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son. And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds. And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel. And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian: For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not. And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another But he that did his neighbour wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us? Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday? Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons. And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush. When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the Lord came unto him, Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of 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.”

    This chapter of Acts relates that Stephen recapped the history of the Jews from Abraham all the way to the coming of the Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth, Savior.~

Lesson 3629

 (Lesson 3629)(12-11-21) Acts 6:8-

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

    Today’s quote relates how the Jews falsely accused Stephen of blasphemy as He preached the gospel of Jesus Christ. They eventually stoned Stephen to death.~

Lesson 3628

 (Lesson 3628)(12-10-21) Acts 6:1-7

    “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.”

    In today’s quote the apostles chose the first seven deacons for the church. Their duties were to keep the order of the church and to tend the families of the apostles as they travelled to spread the gospel.~

NOTE: There will be more about deacons as these lessons proceed.

Lesson 3627

 (Lesson 3627)(12-09-21) Acts 5:34-42

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

    Today’s quote relates that the Jews decided not kill the apostles, but rather, they beat them and give them another warning.

     Peter and the others were glad at heart for having been punished in the name of Jesus, and continued to preach and teach the gospel.~

Lesson 3626

 (Lesson 3626)(12-08-21) Acts 5:17-33

    “Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned and told, Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within. Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow. Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people. Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned. And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, 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.”

    Today’s quote relates how the Jewish hierarchy, after an angel had broken the apostles out of prison, decided to kill them for preaching the gospel of Christ.~

Lesson 3625

 (Lesson 3625)(12-07-21) 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 tells us of the many wonderful miracles that were wrought by the Holy Spirit through the hands of the apostles. The miraculous work of the apostles brought many more members into the church.~

Lesson 3624

 (Lesson 3624)(12-06-21) 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 demonstrates the power of the Holy Ghost over those who attempt to decieve Him.

      The quote also demonstrates that the heart of mankind, in general, was just as deceitful then as it is now.~

Lesson 3623

 (Lesson 3623)(12-05-21) Acts 4:23-37

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

    Today’s quote relates that the apostles, after they were freed by the Jewish leaders, went and prayed to God for the power to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.

    The quote also relates that the believers in Christ continued to live in a comunal group wherein they shared all that they owned, making sure that the needs of the whole church were fulfilled.~

Lesson 3622

 (Lesson 3622)(12-04-21) Acts 4:14-22

    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 the Jews, after witnessing the healing of the lame man, threatened Peter and John. Warning them to never preach anything about Jesus. 

    Thank God, the apostles weren’t afraid and continued to spread the good news of God’s amazing grace.~

Lesson 3621

 (Lesson 3621)(12-03-21) Acts 4:13

     “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.”

    Today’s lesson teaches us that Jesus chose twelve “unlearned and ignorant” men to preach His word. He DID NOT choose from uber educated religious scholars.

    With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, you, me, or John Doe can better teach God’s word than some who are overeducated and who are prone to making the word more complicated than it actually is.

    “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.”~

Lesson 3620

 (Lesson 3620)(12-02-21) Acts 4:5-12

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

    In today’s quote, Peter let it be known to the leaders of the Jews that it was the power of God through Jesus Christ that had made the lame man to walk.

    Peter went on to say that the ONLY means of eternal salvation is through Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 3619

 (Lesson 3619)(12-01-21) Acts 4:1-4

    “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.”

    Today’s quote tells us how the Jewish hierarchy were angered by the apostles. So much so that they were taken and held overnight.

    This part of the narrative of the events that occurred on that day of Pentecost further confirms the impossibility of those twelve apostles having provided water baptism to three thousand souls. There simply wasn’t enough time. 

    Therefore the baptism that was said by Peter to be required of the repentant souls in Acts 2:38, was the baptism of the Holy Ghost, NOT an immersion in water.  

    “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance. But He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am unworthy to bear: He will batpize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire”. (Matthew 3:11)~