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Lesson 35

Best Laid Plans – Different Results

Acts 19:21-41

 Back when I was working a strange dynamic would sometimes occur.  There would be meeting that would be held to deal with issues that would affect the section in which I worked.  We would sit down before the meeting and discuss exactly what we were going say and what would be our position. When we got into the meeting our lead person who had been privy to all of the planning would flip-flop and take the side of the opposition.  I would come away from the meeting trying to figure out what happened.  I would be both disappointed and frustrated with the decisions that were made, because they certainly would not been what I expected.

We have all probably experienced this sort of thing in the church.  The church will do a lot of planning and have all kinds of discussions on some direction to be taken.  Everyone will seem to be excited by what is happening and seem to be on board.  Then because of some opposition to the idea it is scuttled.  We then find ourselves in the same position that we were before the idea was ever put forth.

Acts 19:21

Paul sensed that his work was done in Ephesus.  As will be noted in the next chapter he had established a strong vibrant church with good leadership in the form of elders.  His plans upon leaving there was to once again travel through Macedonia and Achaia on his way to Jerusalem.  Once that was completed, he wanted to go to Rome.  See Romans 1:11-14 and 15:20 for the reasons he wanted to travel to Rome. 

1. As the Scripture says, “what things were finished?”
2. Why did Paul plan to leave Ephesus?
3. Why would he want to go back through Macedonia?
4. What did he hope to accomplish in Rome?
5. Why was that city so important in the mind of Paul?

Acts 19:22

Paul did not leave immediately but sent Timothy and Erastus ahead of him.  He then remained in Asia for some time.

1. Why did Paul send Timothy and Erastus into Macedonia and Achaia ahead of him?
2. For what reasons did Paul remain in Ephesus?
3. Why would he go back into Europe from Asia before going to Jerusalem?

Acts 19:23-27

Before Paul could leave trouble ensued concerning Christianity.  One of the silversmiths named Demetrius made statues of Artemis to sell.  This trade was profitable for all of the craftsman who were engaged in the business.  He determined that Christianity, and the work of Paul in particular was detrimental to their business.  According to Demetrius Paul was stating that gods made with hands were not gods at all.  Demetrius saw three outcomes if the trend of more and more people becoming Christians was allowed to continue.

• Their business would be gone.
• The temple of Artemis would be “regarded as worthless.”
• The goddess who all of Asia worshipped would be dethrone and lose “her magnificence.”

1. What happened in Ephesus that immediately altered Paul’s plans?
2. What affect would Christianity have on the trade of Demetrius?
3. What did he fail to acknowledge in his evidence shared with the other craftsmen?
4. Which of the three trends would be truer than the others?
5. In what ways can gods or goddesses like Artemis be dethroned?

Acts 19:28-31

What started out with the outrage of a few angry artisans soon grew into a full scale riot involving the whole city.  One of the first acts of the mob was to drag two of Paul’s travelling companions, Gaius and Aristarchus into the theater. The theater mentioned here has been excavated by archeologists and was able to hold over 20,000 people. When Paul tried to go into the meeting his friends including the Asiarchs prevented him from doing it.

1.  What was the true underlying reason that Demetrius and the others started the riot?
2. Why did they use religion to mask what really upset them?
3. Why would the mob drag the companions of Paul into the theater?
4. Why did Paul’s friends keep him from going into the assembly?
5. What would he accomplish by doing so?

Acts 19:32-34

What took place in the theater was a scene of mass confusion.  Because most of the people there had not heard the accusations of Demetrius they were swept along by the mob mentality.  Each of them had a different story and no one knew why they were there.  The crowd decided that Alexander the coppersmith was responsible and put him forth to explain what was taking place.  His defense was to distance himself and his fellow Jews from Paul and those with him.  When the crowd determined he was a Jew making him part of the opposition to Artemis they began to shout him down. For two hours the people continued to shout one thing. “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians.”

1. Why does a scene like is seen here result in one of mass confusion?
2. What are some clues that indicate that the people did not know what was taking place?
3. What did Alexander try to explain to the people?
4. Why would he be considered the opposition even though he was not a Christian?
5. Going back to the previous verses how did the Asiarchs prove to be wise?
6. What was the advantage to those who had been dragged into the theater because of the crowd’s confusion?
7. What was the rallying cry of the mob?
8. Out of all the confusion how could they know why they were shouting for Artemis?
9. When may there have been times when you have been swept up in what became a crowd and did not really know what was going on?

Acts 19:35-36

The town clerk was finally able to restore order.  Once they were quiet he gave a defense of Artemis that would satisfy them.  His points were

• Everyone knows that Ephesus is the guardian of the temple of Artemis and the statue that fell out of heaven.
• Since that was an undeniable fact there was no reason for their actions.

1. How was the town clerk able to calm the situation?
2. What were the points that he used to get them thinking about what they were doing?
3. How is this a pattern that can be used to diffuse many volatile situations?

Acts 19:37

His actions showed his impartiality in this situation.  He first defended the Paul and those with him.  His words indicate he was aware of what was going on in the city.  Paul and the others did not need to defame Artemis.  All they needed to do was preach Jesus.  The natural outcome would be that people would turn from the false goddess to the one true God and His Son.   The town clerk was right they had committed no crime. 

1. In what ways did the town clerk show his impartiality in this situation?
2. What was the one thing of which Paul could be accused?
3. In what ways did fact that the town clerk understood the real issue indicate that the Romans did not see Christianity as a threat at that time?

Acts 19:38-39

After addressing the crowd he brought clarity to the real issue.  It was not about religion at all.  Pointing out that Demetrius was behind the riot indicated that it was all about economics.  The craftsman had couched their accusations in religious issues knowing that that was the only way that they could get the reaction they wanted.  The town clerk saw through their ploy and basically called them on the carpet.  It is interesting that he had said that Paul had not committed a crime and if Demetrius really had a case it should have been tried in the proper courts not in the court of public opinion where the facts could be skewed.

1. How do we sometimes muddy the water in our discussions?
2. Why do we need someone like the town clerk in the church?
3. Why do we beat around the bush with the statements we often make?
4. How was it that the town clerk was able to see clearly the situation?

Acts 19:40-41

The greatest fear that the town clerk had was that the Romans would accuse them of rioting.  One thing that was not tolerated was that kind of unruly mob activity.  The Romans prided themselves on being a law abiding orderly society.  The second concern was there had been no legitimate reason for the outburst.  The town clerk also could have lost his position if he could not maintain a peaceful environment and the city may have been brought under martial law.  There were no objections when he dismissed the crowd.

1. What was the greatest fear of the town clerk?
2. Why should he have been concerned?
3. What would have happened if he had not been able to regain control?
4. What would have happened to the city?
5. When a business section in the church gets out of hand what could result?
6. What are the real consequences when we act like the Ephesians?
7. What are some things over which we get worked up that do not have validity in the ongoing activity of the church?
8. In what way did the town clerk show that he was the one with a cool head and right perspective on the situation?
9. What lessons can be learned from the attitudes of the players in this narrative?

You-

1. Before making a decision be sure that you have all of the facts.
2. Never let yourself get caught up in a mob scene.
3. Think of ways that you can diffuse destructive conversation and actions in the church?
4. Learn to be the person who displays wisdom by keeping a cool head and the right perspective.
5. Make sure that any discussion reflects the kingdom purpose for the church.

We do need to learn that there are at least as many different opinions in the church as there are members, and maybe more.  The problem does not lie with opinion itself but the ways we try to influence others to our way of thinking.  As was seen in the lesson today, Demetrius saw a problem that needed to be addressed. Rather than being straight-forward he attempted to twist the truth.  He knew that the ephesians were proud of and sensitive of the goddess Artemis and the temple in the city named for her. He used this issue rather than the economic one to try to dismantle the work by Paul thus drawing his customers back to him. 

We do need to be very careful that we always present the facts in a clear and truthful way.  If the church does this it can be sure that God will honor the decisions that are made.  The last thing that any of us want is to bring confusion and divisiveness to the Church.  Let us take the difficult road that leads to a Christ-like attitude that He will be glorified.

Additional Notes:

C-Timothy and Erastus were sent ahead into Macedonia while Paul remained a while longer in Ephesus. (Acts 19:22)

C-Demetrius, a silversmith, became upset because his business was being affected because many of the Ephesians were turning to Christ and were no longer buying the idols be made in the image of the goddess Artemis.  He was able to convince others to join him.  These men became an angry mob who tried to stop Paul from continuing preaching to the people. When Paul could not be found they dragged Gaius and Aristarchus, his travelling companions into the theater where the assembly was taking place.  Fortunately, the town clerk was finally able to quell the riot. (Acts 19:23-41)

GC-We are to be so concerned with the spiritual welfare of others that we take every opportunity to persuade them to turn away from meaningless gods m ade by men.       (Acts 19:26)

RT-There are those who will follow the crowd even if they have no idea where it is going or for what it stands. (Acts 19:32)

Lesson 34

The Powerful Impact of the Gospel

Acts 18:23-19:20

Teaching is such a privilege.  With it however comes a great responsibility. To me the responsibility is how do I impact the lives of those I teach?  Because I have such a passion for God’s word my greatest challenge and desire is to pass on what I have learned so that the next generation of believers will also share in that desire to share what they have learned.

I do not know how my teaching has affected the many over the years that have sat in classrooms in two different churches.  Only God knows if anything that has been said has taken root.  It is not for me to know what will occur in the lives of those individuals.  I am to be faithful to the task to which God has called me.

I believe that we as a church are very close to losing a whole generation or more because we have not taken seriously our responsibility to truly mentor those who would follow us in the faith.  A number of books have been written by men who are concerned that the church has drifted in emotionalism and entertainment and left behind the intellectual pursuit of knowing God.  Unless we, like Paul, recognize the need to raise up a whole new generation of godly leaders who know God’s word and are able to teach it we are in deep trouble.  The Scripture in Deuteronomy 6 gives us the model we are to use in making sure that the Church continues strong in the face of the onslaught of a godless society.

The main focus of the study will be about the people of Ephesus.  Paul had left Aquila and Priscilla there.  It was to that city that Apollos came to share what he knew about Jesus.

Ephesus was:

• A primary market city in that part of Asia Minor.
• A city where the Roman governor often tried cases of importance
• The place where the Pan-Ionian games were held.  To be chosen to organize these games were a great honor.  The title of these organizers was Asiarchs.
• The home of criminals. The Temple Artemus located there was considered a refuge for any criminal who could reach its grounds, thus the city was full of those fleeing from prosecution.
• Center of pagan superstition. Parchments called the Ephesian Letters were supposed to bring good luck to those who possessed them.  They were so popular that they were purchased by people from all over the world.
• As mentioned, the location of the Temple of Artemus in Greek and Diana in Latin.  Artemus was the goddess of fertility.

This is the place in which Paul was to have success and his some of his greatest challenges.

Acts 18:23

After spending time at Antioch, Paul went on the road again.  Taking a different route he traveled through Galatia and Phrygia with the main purpose of strengthening those who had become followers of Christ.

1. Why did Paul feel it necessary to take a third missionary trip?
2. What was he trying to accomplish as he went through Galatia and Phrygia?
3. By strengthening the brethren what did he expect to happen in those regions?
4. What does his example say to us about our responsibility to those in the church?

Acts 18:24-25

In these verses a new figure appears on the Scene, Apollos of Alexandria.  Some say that the church in Alexandria was started by John Mark.  How ironic that the one rejected by Paul would be instrumental in the conversion of Apollos, who would in a way become a co-worker of Paul. 

For a moment let’s look at this city that produced Apollos.  Alexandria would be a city described as:

• A port city on the Mediterranean Sea on the northern coast of Africa in present day Egypt. 
• An important commercial center because of its location in the Roman Empire.
• Having a large population of Jews.
• The place where the Greek translation of the Old Testament was begun.
• A city of scholarship with one of the largest libraries in existence at that time with over 60,000 volumes.
• Home of some of the earliest church fathers like Clement and Origen.
• The city where allegorical interpretation of the Old Testament began.

Having the opportunities available to him Apollos was described as:

• A man of learning
• Mighty in the Scriptures
• One who had been instructed in the way of the Lord
• Fervent in Spirit
• One who accurately spoke and taught about Jesus
• One who was only familiar with the baptism of John.

1. Why is it important to know about the place from which Apollos came?
2. In what way could that type of environment shape a young man like Apollos?
3. How did he differ from the men of Athens?
4. What are the qualities that most stand out about him in your mind?
5. Why are they important to you?
6. What was the one thing he was lacking?

Acts 18:26

With his background, Apollos was able to begin speaking immediately in the synagogue.  His message was presented with the authority of one who knew the Scriptures and was able to present the facts of Jesus with all boldness.  When Aquila and Priscilla, the couple left by Paul in Ephesus, heard him speak they began mentoring him giving him private sessions.  Luke tells us that they, “Explained the way of God more accurately.”  Apollos had his facts straight about Jesus, head knowledge, but was lacking the infilling of the Holy Spirit, heart knowledge.  He was like so many in church today that think that because know who Jesus is, they are fine but, in fact have not given their heart to Him.  Aquila and Priscilla realized that Apollos was living under an incomplete understanding of salvation, thinking that the baptism of John for the remission of sins was enough. 

1. What was the message of Apollos before he met Aquila and Priscilla?
2. What did the couple see missing from his message?
3. Why is it important to have people like Aquila and Priscilla in the church today?
4. What is their role?
5. How effective can a church be without them?
6. What did Luke mean by the statement “they explained the way of God more accurately?”
7. In what ways was Apollo like so many in the church today?
8. What is missing in the lives of so many people?
9. How effective can the ministry be of those who only have head knowledge of Jesus?
10. What will have to those who are not totally committed to Jesus when life challenges come their way?

Acts 18:27-28

After receiving instruction from those in the church in Ephesus Apollos left Asia Minor and crossed over to Achaia in Greece.  He was sent off with a letter of recommendation. Notice the change in him.  When he arrived in Achaia, he was an encouragement to those who had believed in Jesus by grace alone.  He continued the work started by Paul, refuted the inaccuracies of the arguments of the Jews by showing that Jesus was the Christ according to the Scriptures.

1. What was the result of the instructions of Aquila and Priscilla?
2. Why did the disciples give him a letter of recommendation?
3. What is the evidence that showed that he understood salvation by grace alone?
4. What is the best evidence that he had had a life changing experience in Ephesus?
5. What was different about his messages to the Jews in Achaia than what he had shared in Ephesus?

Acts 19:1-7

After Apollos had moved on to Corinth, Paul once again came to Ephesus. He found some disciples who were in the same spiritual condition as Apollos had been previously.  They were believers but had only been baptized in the baptism of John and not of the Holy Spirit.  As has been stated this was a baptism for repentance of sins, not salvation.  To be truly saved one must receive Jesus as Savior through the work of the Holy Spirit.  These men had not received the sealing of the Holy Spirit. Paul explained that Jesus to whom John pointed was the One who had brought salvation to mankind.  When they heard it, they were then baptized in, “The name of the Lord Jesus.”  Paul then laid hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit as evidenced by the speaking in other languages.  They also began to prophesy.

1. How is that so many only go part way in their understanding of salvation?
2. Why were these men so receptive to Paul’s message to them?
3. Why will John’s baptism never bring salvation to man?
4. Why did the Holy Spirit cause these particular men to speak in other languages and prophesy when there is no evidence that this occurred in the life of Apollos?
5. What does it mean when men are sealed by the Holy Spirit?  (See Ephesians 1:13-14)

Acts 19:8-10

Even though Paul had been called to minister to the Gentiles he once again went to the synagogue of the Jews.  There is no need to once again discuss the reasons.  Suffice it to say that the results were similar to what took place in previous cities.

Paul spent his first three months reasoning with the Jews in the synagogue trying to convince them about the real kingdom of God.  As has been seen before, eventually they refused to listen to his message and began speaking against Christ.  He then moved in the School of Tyrannus where he continued to teach the disciples for about two years. Both Jews and Gentiles from Asia came to hear the message of Christ.

1. Why would Paul expect different results than he had previously experienced?
2. How did what happen help him begin a new church in the city?
3. Why was it important for him to have a place like the School of Tyrannus as his base of operation?
4. What does it say about what Paul did there that he was able to remain for two years?

Acts 19:11-12

Not only was Paul able to teach, but God began to perform miracles through him.  God used even part of Paul’s personal items like aprons and handkerchiefs to bring about the healings. In addition to physical cures demons were also exorcised from the people.

1. Why did Luke give more emphasis to miracles here than previously discussed in other cities?
2. Why did God use Paul’s personal possessions to bring about the healings?
3. Why was demon possession specifically mentioned?

Acts 19:13-16

Some Jewish men claimed to be exorcists.  When they attempted to cast an evil spirit out of a man using the name of “Jesus whom Paul preaches” the demon turned on the seven sons of Sceva and wounded them.  The demon knew Jesus and he knew Paul, but he did not know those seven men and responded based on that fact.

1. Why did the seven sons of Sceva invoke the name of Jesus?
2. What indicated that they did not have the power of Paul?
3. What might happen in the city when what Paul had accomplished was compared to the seven men?

Acts 19:17-19

The news of this event reached the ears of both the Jews and Greeks. Luke wrote, “Fear fell upon them all in the name of the Lord Jesus was being magnified.”  This became a time of confession and repentance for the people of Ephesus.  As has been mentioned they were a very superstitious people.  Many of them practice magic.  When confronted with true miracles and the actions of God in casting out evil spirits they brought the tools of their trade, books of magic and burned them.

1. Why would the actions of the demon possessed man have such an impact on the people?
2. Why did they become so afraid?
3. To whom did they give credit for all that had occurred?
4. What changes did the acknowledgement of what God had done make in their lives?
5. How much attention do we give to all that God is doing in our world?
6. What impact does all of the chaos have on us?
7. What have we done as a result of hearing the truth?
8. How has it changed our lives?

Acts 19:20

Ephesus at that point had to be an exciting place to be.  God’s word was being proclaimed and impacting the lives of the people in a mighty way.

1. What brought the people to the point that God’s word was growing in their hearts in a mighty way?
2. How far had these new believers come?
3. In what way did the patience and courage of Paul pay off?
4. What could happen in the life of a city where the gospel had such an impact?
5. What lessons can we learn from the actions of Paul?

From what we have seen in these verses:

1. Consider the ways your life has impacted others?
2. Have the things you have done drawn people closer to God?
3. Think about the ways you might impact the next generation so that from among them might come the next Timothy’s, Aquila’s, Priscilla’s and Apollos’ of the faith.
4. Consider ways that you might stir up your family and community for Christ.

 All too often we get stuck in a rut in our faith.  There needs to be evidence that we are change agents for Christ.  If we allow ourselves to continue in the same way that have operated in the past, we can only expect that the next generation that we are to impact will do the same.  We need to re-examine ourselves to see if we are a catalyst for Christ.  Without dynamic life-changing people the church will become not a place that brings fear of the consequences of sin but a place that condones what is taking place in the world.  Like the Ephesians let’s symbolically burn those things that hinder us from being the kind of Church God wants us to be.  We are not be blinded to what needs to take place in each person’s life to advance the kingdom of God. Immediate action is necessary to save us from mediocrity.  God please open our hearts and minds to what needs to be done.

Additional Notes:

C-Paul made a third missionary journey.  His travels took him through Galatia and Phrygia where he spent time strengthening the disciples. (Acts 18:23)

GC-Apollos displayed the qualities that each of us should possess.  He was:

1. Mighty in the Scriptures
2. Instructed in the way of the Lord
3. Fervent in spirit
4. Able to teach and speak accurately the things concerning Jesus.                        (18:24-25)

C-Apollos, a Jew, from Alexandria came to Ephesus teaching about Jesus.  He only knew about the baptism of John.  Priscilla and Aquila heard him speak.  They took aside and gave him instructions in order for him to more clearly understand the ways of God.    (Acts 18:24-26)

GC-We are to never reach the point that we are not willing to learn. (Acts 18:26)

GC-We must have the attitude of one who is teachable. Furthermore it is a reality that learning is a lifelong process. (Acts 18:26)

GC-There may be different needs but a believer should be ready to give help to other believers. (Acts 18:27)

GC-It is only as we gain knowledge of God’s word are we able to refute the arguments of the opponents of Christ by using the Scriptures to show that He is indeed the Son of God and the Messiah. (Acts 18:28)

C-After spending time with Aquila and Priscilla, Apollos wanted to go to Achaia.  The brethren provided him with a letter of recommendation.  When he arrived he began to help those who had believed through the grace of God.  He was able to refute the arguments in a powerful way. They were shown through the Scripture that Jesus was the Christ.  With people like Apollos, Aquila and Priscilla we are beginning to see the third generation of leaders come on the scene. (Acts 18:27-28) 

GC-RT-It is always with the word of God that arguments are destroyed.  God is always shown to be greater than any of His detractors. (Acts 18:28)

OC-The truth of Jesus will always overcome the doctrines of man. (Acts 18:28)

TM-There is only one source for convincing people that Jesus is the Messiah.  It is through God’s word that man learns of Jesus.  The Scriptures that Apollos used would have been the Old Testament. (Acts 18:28)

C-Paul travelled to Ephesus.  Some disciples who had only received the baptism of repentance heard the message of Jesus.  They were then baptized in His name.  Paul laid hands on them and the Holy Spirit came upon them.  Like many before them they began to speak in tongues and were prophesying.  (Acts 19:1-7)

DM-Paul did not continue to reason with and teach those who became hardened and disobedient to the word.  There were those who were not satisfied with just turning away but began, “to speak evil of the Way.”  It was at this point that Paul moved his teaching point to the school of Tyrannus.  There he spent about two years teaching the new disciples. (Acts 19:8-10)

C-When Paul arrived in Ephesus he entered the synagogue which was his normal practice.  For three months he spoke with great boldness, reasoning and persuading the Jews about God’s kingdom.  As is found wherever the gospel is preached there will those who harden their hearts.  Ephesus certainly was no different.  These men were disobedient and spoke evil about the Way.  Paul therefore left the synagogue and took with him the new disciples of the city.  He spoke daily after that in the school of a man named Tyrannus.  For two years he worked among the people of Ephesus.  We are told that during that time all who lived in Asia heard the word whether they were Greek or Jew. (Acts 19:8-10)

GC-Sometimes we can understand the qualities that we are to possess by looking at the opposite of those characteristics.  A follower of Christ is not to be:

1. One whose heart is hardened
2. Disobedient
3. One who speaks evil of Christianity
4. One who loses the opportunity to hear because the messenger has left and taken the good news to someone else. (Acts 19:9)

GC-Christ’s followers are to be in God’s word daily. (Acts 19:9)

C-Miracles such as had never been seen before in Ephesus were being performed through Paul. (Acts 19:11-12)

C-There were seven Jews who went about trying to perform exorcisms by invoking Jesus’ name through Paul.  The demons did not recognize the men and saw that they had no power and beat them badly.  As a result great fear fell on both Jew and Greek.  The name of the Lord Jesus was being magnified and many began to believe.  Those who had practiced magic brought the books they possessed to be burned.  “The word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:14-20)

RT-The gods and goddesses of this world have already been dethroned.  Their worshippers and adherents just have not realized it yet.  They keep trying to force their world view on the rest of us who do not hold to the humanist ideology. (Acts 19:20)

Lesson 28

Why Antioch?

Acts 15

One of the most fascinating studies that I have done was one a called critical moments.  As I have read through the Scriptures, I have tried to understand how the decisions made by the men and woman of the Bible affected the rest of their lives.  Of course, there were the devastating decisions of Adam and Eve, the selling of his birthright by Esau, the brothers of Joseph and myriad of others.  In my own life there have been times when I have made some poor decisions that impacted both me and my family.  There have been other times when with the help of God, He has kept me on a path of growth because I depended on Him.  As far as I am concerned the decision that has impacted my life more than any other, except for accepting Christ and my marriage, was to begin reading and studying the Bible on a consistent basis.

There have been times when I have not understood why God has given me such a passion for His word.  What I have learned was the road travelled was just preparation for the unexpected in my life.  If someone had told me that at this stage in my life that I would have the opportunity to write Bible Study material, be ordained and the myriad of other things that have occurred in my life, I would have thought them to be crazy.  The only things that God ever expects is for us to be faithful to the task and obedient to the call on our lives.

As in the individual life of each of us the church comes to those crossroads, those critical moments in its history that have tremendous impact on its future.  Sometimes looking back and determining what those decisions were will help us to make mid-course corrections in the direction God wants us to take.  If we look at the critical moment as an end itself, we may miss the greater blessing for what God has in store.  It may be only the intermediary step to something more exciting and challenging. Depending on how we respond, we will either find success and the church will grow. If we choose to leave God out and make our own choices, then we can almost assuredly expect failure.  The earlier church came to such a crossroads.  Let us turn now to a critical moment in the life of the earlier church and see how it all turned out.

Acts 14:27-28

What took place in these two verses set the stage for the events to come. Paul and Barnabas returned to Antioch after only spending a relatively short time in districts in Cyprus and then Asia Minor.  Upon coming back to the church at Antioch they encouraged the believers by telling them:

• How God had used them in the spreading of the Gospel
• How God had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles

We are then told that they spent a long time with the disciples there in Antioch.  Their return came at a time when the church would need to be strengthened in light of the testing of its faith that would soon come upon them. This was crucial time for the church.  What the disciples heard and were now taught by the two men would be needed to face men who were about to come from Jerusalem.

When Paul and Barnabas were called back in chapter 13 to the task to which God had appointed them it might be assumed that the work was to be as long-term missionaries.  What if the first missionary trip was to prepare the two men for greater ministry opportunities by showing them the work that God wanted to do in the hearts of the Gentiles they met along the way.

The fact that He brought them back to Antioch so quickly may indicate that the real task lay ahead for them.  What if they returned for the purpose of preparing the church in Antioch for the confrontation with the men from Jerusalem. It is questionable that those in that church would have been able to deal with the false statements coming out the mouths of the Judaizers without Paul and Barnabas.

1. By the things shared with the church at Antioch what had God taught Paul and Barnabas as they travelled?
2. Why do I say that the first missionary trip was not the final task for which God had called them out?
3. Why was it important that the church heard what Paul had to share with them?
4. Why did the two men spend so much time with the disciples there and not go back on another trip?

Acts 15:1

Men from Judea came down to Antioch and began teaching a false gospel.  They challenged the validity of becoming believers without being circumcised.  The men were trying to once again enslave the Gentiles saved by grace with the requirements of a worn out and failed religious system.  Without the teaching of Paul, the church may have been impacted in a negative way.  The requirements the men tried to thrust upon them may have been enough to rip the church apart and destroy their new-found faith.  Often in his later letters Paul would deal with this issue stating over and over the salvation is based on faith alone. One can only surmise why these men came to the church at Antioch anyway.  The fact that the Scripture refers to them as men would indicate that they had no official authority to make such demands on the church.  So why had they come to Antioch?  What was their motive?  It is possible that the influence of the church in Antioch was reaching further and further into the Gentile world.  Evidently some in Jerusalem thought that it needed to be reined in before there would be more Gentile believers than Jewish.  In the minds of those individuals anything taught contrary to the law would have been heresy.  It is interesting that this subject had not been brought up with the conversions of the Samaritans and Cornelius.

1. Why would the things taught by the men from Judea be considered a false gospel?
2. What would indicate these men had no formal authority?
3. Why after all this time did the men suddenly began to question the salvation of the Gentiles?
4. What was the true fear of these men being expressed in their demand?
5. What could have been the effect on the church after listening to those who had come from Judea?
6. Why was the teaching of Paul and Barnabas key in helping the church to be victorious in the face of this challenge?
7. What restrictions do we sometimes imposed on those who want to become followers of Christ?
8. How do our prejudices sometimes come through on these occasions?   

Acts 15:2

Paul and Barnabas actively opposed these men.  Paul and Barnabas both understood the Jewish religion and its failure to lead men to God and the Gentiles who were alive in Christ without the restrictions of Judaism. When there was not resolution it was decided that the two men along with some others would go to the leadership made up of the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for a final decision.

1. Why did Paul and Barnabas take front stage in the dispute with the men from Judea?
2. In what ways had God prepared them for this important task?
3. In what ways were they more qualified than any of the others in the church to have the discussions with the Jewish Christians?
4. If Paul and Barnabas already understood that salvation comes by grace to all who believe, why was it necessary for them to go up to Jerusalem?
5. Why did they take a number of men with them?
6. Who made up the leadership of the church in Jerusalem?

Acts 15:3

The group from Antioch left immediately for Jerusalem taking the shortest possible route.  Although the issue was of upmost urgency as they travelled, they continued to share the good news to the Phoenicians and Samaritans of what God was doing in the lives of the Gentiles.  They did not wait for the final decision from Jerusalem because they knew what they were doing was within God’s plan for the world.  God would not have called them to do something totally opposed to His purpose for the people.

1. Why did the group from Antioch leave quickly for their journey to Jerusalem?
2. Why did they not wait for a decision from the leaders in Jerusalem before continuing to teach the people of Phoenicia and Samaria as they travelled?
3. What was the reaction of the people to news that was being shared with them?
4. What does this say about the evangelistic effort of these men?
5. In what ways did their activities indicate they believed that they were serving out God’s purpose for their lives?

Acts 15:4-5

Upon arriving in Jerusalem, they went straight to the leaders of the church.  They met with the apostles and elders and began to share what God had done among the Gentiles. It did not take long for the opposing views to be brought out into the open.  The believing Pharisees immediately expressed the same argument that had been put forth in Antioch.  Up to this time circumcision had not been an issue because most of those who made up the early church had come from a Jewish background. At the end of the day the question that was before that collective and diverse group of men which had to be answered, was the Law of Moses or grace going to be the standard by which future actions would be decided?

1. What was the true desire of the Pharisees?
2. Why would they desire for the law to take precedent over salvation by grace?
3. What would have happened to churches like the one at Antioch if this was true?

Acts 15:6

The fact that the leaders came together to discuss this matter showed that the decision could have gone either way. This was new territory for them. They wanted to make sure they got it right. The whole future of the church would be determined by the decision they made.

1. Why did the leaders find it necessary to meet?
2. What was the importance, down to the present day church, of that meeting?
3. What do we need to do when we are dealing with new territory in the church?
4. Why was the whole church not involved in this council?
5. Who were the representatives who met, and what insight does it give us as we decide the direction of Bethany Place?

Acts 15:6-12

After much lively give and take (a debate) Peter stood up and gave an account of his ministry to the Gentiles, particularly Cornelius, in the first years of the church. From everything he had experienced he had come to three conclusions:

• No one could keep the law not Jew of Gentile, so why put that burden on the Gentiles which circumcision represented.
• Salvation comes through the grace of Jesus Christ.
• The Jew could not be saved by the law but by grace.

The fact that they listened carefully meant the words he was speaking were striking at the heart of the issue.  The Pharisees who had started the discussion were silent. It would indicate that these were godly men were open to what God was doing in the lives of all people everywhere.

1. Why after the initial debate, do we not hear from the Pharisees again?
2. When is a healthy debate good? When is it destructive?
3. Why was it important for Peter to speak first? (He had first opened the door to sharing the gospel with someone who was a Gentile.)
4. What was his message to those gathered there?
5. In what ways should his message resonate with us?
6. When people like the council are willing to listen, what does it say about the things being spoken by someone like Peter?
7. What does it say about the attitudes of all the participants including the Pharisees? 

Acts 15:12

When Peter had finished Paul and Barnabas began to speak to the gathering.  The Bible does not tell us the exact words of Paul and Barnabas.  There is also no indication that they said anything to inflame the situation. They only spoke of the signs and wonders God had done through them as they ministered to the Gentiles.

1. How did Paul and Barnabas handle their opportunity to speak to the leadership of the church?
2. From what is read in Scripture what was their approach to the issue?
3. How does this differ from the way we often handle difficult issues?
4. How did what Peter, Paul and Barnabas say have an impact on the decision that was made by the council?

Acts 15:13-21

Peter, the early leader of the apostles, had spoken how God used him.  Then representatives from the church in Antioch, Paul and Barnabas along with their travelling companions shared how God had reached out to the Gentile world through them.  Now the leader of the church in Jerusalem, James the half-brother of Jesus, spoke.  His words  affirmed the words of Peter by using the prophecies found in the Old Testament. Specifically, he recalled the words of Deuteronomy, Amos, Isaiah, Jeremiah and others. 

The proposal he presented to the group contained three elements to it:

• Do not eat meat offered to idols
• Abstain from sexual immorality
• Do not eat meat with the blood in it or which had been strangled.

The leaders along with the whole church accepted these and decided to send a letter with these proposals to the church in Antioch.  Paul, Barnabas, Judas called Barsabas and Silas were chosen to carry it and read at Antioch.

1. Why did the church respond to the words of James?
2. What had the others left out of their testimony?
3. What do you think of the ideas proposed by James to the leaders?
4. Why do you think of the decision?
5. Why was it important to send others with Paul and Barnabas to testify to what the church at Jerusalem had decided?

Acts 15:22-29

The letter contained encouragement for the church to continue in what they were doing previously.  It also called the church to live by the items decided on by the church in Jerusalem.  The issue of salvation coming only to those who had been circumcised became a non-issue.  The door had been opened to all who came to Jesus by faith to be saved.

1. How do the ideas written in the letter impact us today?
2. Why is what was left out of the letter more important to us today than what it contained?
3. Why did they include the admonishment not to eat meat offered to idols?
4. If we were faced with a similar situation what might be some of the non-issues upon which we spend too much time?
5. In what way did the letter encourage further evangelization of the Gentile world?

Acts 15:30-34

The church in Jerusalem having finished its business sent the Paul and those who had witnessed the events in Jerusalem to Antioch.  Notice on this trip there was no side trips to Samaria and Phoenicia.  The matter decided was far too important for the church in Antioch for the men to delay in delivering the account of all that had occurred.

Upon arriving they called the church together and shared the good news with them.  As one might expect they were greatly encouraged by the news resulting in a great rejoicing among the disciples.  Silas and Judas, both prophets in their own right, reinforced the words of Paul.  They spent time encouraging and strengthening the church.  When it came time for the men to return to Jerusalem, Silas decided to stay there in Antioch.

Paul and Barnabas both remained there also.  This additional time was spent in teaching and preaching the word.  They shared the preaching with many others in the church.

1. Think about the critical decisions that you have made and how they have impacted your life.
2. What do you consider is the most important decision you have ever made? How did it change your life?
3. How have you prepared for the challenges that may face you as we saw in the text found in Acts 15?
4. Think how your defense of a position might have influenced the decisions in the church or organization to which you have belonged.

 As we have seen in the material above, we never know when we may be thrust into a situation which calls for wisdom and knowledge to bring about a beneficial conclusion. We are facing our own critical moment at Bethany Place as we try to make decisions today that will help us deal with the challenges of tomorrow.  We need to make sure that every discussion that takes place and decision made will bring encouragement to the body and strengthen our faith.  The claims made by the men from Judea and the Pharisees in Jerusalem could have destroyed what had already been accomplished  without people like Paul and Barnabas who brought the experience and knowledge of how God had already brought the Gentiles into His kingdom.  May we approach everything we do with the same kind of knowledge and wisdom possessed by the men in the early church.

Additional Notes:

OC-The church overcame the barriers between Jew and Gentile, between law and grace.  Grace was triumphant. (Acts 15:1-21, 31)

RT-The council at Jerusalem is a good example of a group of people trying to hold on to old traditions.  Paul and Barnabas realized that the new Gentile believers who were coming into the Church were not like the Jews and therefore were entering into the fellowship by faith and not works of the Law. (Acts 15:5, 7-9)

C-For Jew and Gentile alike, salvation comes only by the grace of God.  This was the lesson Peter learned and shared and shared with the whole church when he was sent to the home of Cornelius.  It is strange that after all that transpired that the Pharisees would now called for the ritual of circumcision as a requirement to be a part of God’s kingdom. Circumcision had not brought about the change in their own lives and would not make any difference in the lives of the Gentiles. (Acts 15:7-11)

RT-The church cannot expect to lay the old traditions onto new believers who have come to the knowledge of Jesus by the same faith by which each person is saved.                 (Acts 15:10-12)

DM-There was a call by Pharisees who had become believers that everyone who became a follower of Christ still needed to be circumcised and follow the Law of Moses.  It was Paul’s and Peter’s position that God had saved Gentiles without them having to be circumcised, therefore it was not necessary for salvation.  The council at Jerusalem agreed with Paul, Peter and James.  A crisis had been averted in the still young church.   (Acts 15:5-22, 28-29)

GC-One never burdens (weighs down) or troubles others with rules, traditions or practices that they we ourselves are unable or unwilling to bear in our own lives.  Our only yoke is to be the yoke of Jesus that fits each of us perfectly. Acts 15:10, 19, 28)

GC-The only thing that each person must understand and accept is that we are saved by grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This is the only means for salvation.         (Acts 15:11)

C-After much debate it was determined by the leadership in the Jerusalem that the Gentiles, who were coming to Jesus would not be required to be circumcised.  They were only asked to keep from eating things with blood, things offered to idols and to keep themselves morally pure. (Acts 15:13-21, 28-29)

GC-True believers are able to come to an agreement on controversial subjects that may tear the church apart.  We are to become of one mind on those things that are non- negotiable in our faith. (Acts 15:22, 25)

GC-One of the virtues that was agreed to by both the Jerusalem church and the church at Antioch was the whole idea of sexual purity.  This was a radial concept for those coming out of a pagan background.  It is one that must be emphasized in the promiscuous society in which we live today. (Acts 15:29)

 RT-The Pharisees were trying to hold onto a failed institutional tradition laden system. For that reason they had difficult time accepting the Gentiles into the body until the body until they had performed all of the correct rituals beginning with circumcision. (Acts 15)

RT-Even when dealing with a controversial subject as the one faced by the early church concerning circumcision, they were able to send instructions to the Gentiles which stated, “It seemed good to us having become of one mind.” (Acts 15:25)

C-Silas one of the men who went back to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas decided to remain there rather than returning to Jerusalem. (Acts 15:34)

Lesson 27

The Call Is Never Easy but It is Ongoing

Acts 14:1-28

I cannot number the times when it would have much easier to quit than to persevere.  Some of the most difficult times have been in church.  Like most of you I have seen things occurring that are just unacceptable.  Probably the most difficult is when I have seen leaders just being excoriated without any recourse.  I have been a firm believer that a man of God should only be asked to leave for reasons that would disqualify him from the ministry, but I have seen men attack others because of their own agendas.  This is hard to accept and has caused me to consider leaving the church more than one time. 

As is obvious I have not followed through because I do believe the God established the Church to be His body and bodies are not perfect.  Therefore, I have chosen to strive to do everything I can to help the church grow. 

Not unlike so many churches we are not seeing a harvest because we are part of a church that God cannot use. Until we begin to actually hear His call to impact our world things will never change.  We know that we do not have a clear picture of the kind of church that God wants us to be because we spend so much time focused on ourselves and allowing issues to become a crisis that cause people to walk away from the church.  When we decide to focus on the important things every church should be doing, then we will see a different result. God has called us to follow His Instruction Manual and to reach out into a world in chaos.

Paul and Barnabas could have quit at any time because things did not go their way, but they chose the higher road to travel.  In this chapter will be seen what they experienced after being driven out of Pisidian Antioch.

Acts: 14:1

Iconium was another Roman outpost located some 90 miles east of Pisidian Antioch.  Paul and Barnabas continued on their missionary trip going deeper into the world where the worship of false gods was prevalent.  According to their previous practice whenever Paul and Barnabas entered a city, they began their ministry in the synagogue.  Iconium was no different.  As they began to proclaim the gospel the words resonated with the Jews and the Greeks and many of them became believers.

1. Why did Paul and Barnabas not turn back after their experience in Pisidian Antioch but continued further into Asia Minor?
2. How was the response in Iconium like that of the previous city?
3. In what way was it different?

Acts 14:2-6

Here comes the opposition again.  It seems it is those who were supposedly the most religious were the very ones who refused to hear the good news.  It was not enough for them to reject it but they even built an alliance with the Gentiles to oppose Paul and Barnabas.

We can only imagine how the Jews twisted the truth to get the Gentiles to join them.  The word blasphemy is now used here. It is used of those who turn against the One of whom the gospel speaks, therefore is to reject the very God who sent Him.  Because the opposition only came in the form of words at this point, Paul and Barnabas saw no reason to leave Iconium.  They stayed there quite awhile and as the Scripture says they were, “Speaking boldly with reliance upon the Lord, who was testifying to the word of His grace.”  Unlike before, they were now able to perform miracles.

Even with all that was taking place the city was still divided. Some were for the apostles and some against.  Finally the opposition had had enough and was planning to stone them so they left Iconium and went on to the district of Lycaonia into the cities of Lystra and Derbe.

1. What was it in the message of the apostles that would cause such different reactions?
2. What evidence is present that the opposition the apostles faced in Iconium and Pisidian Antioch were different? (The people of Iconium planned to stone them. In Pisidian they were driven out of town.)
3.  Why did Paul and Barnabas decide that they could remain in Iconium in the face of opposition and flee like they had from the previous city?
4. Why was it that God allowed them to perform signs and wonders in Iconium? 
5. Why do we not have a record of any miracles occurring in Pisidian Antioch?
6. What actions should we take when faced with opposition like that of the apostles?
7. In a situation like the one just described above when is discretion the better part of valor and you decide to leave? 

Acts 14:7

No matter where they went, these two men continued to preach.  They did not allow circumstances keep them from their assignment. Often commitment to the task is hard to maintain in the face of great adversity.  Although not written they received encouragement from the Holy Spirit and the results they had experienced both in Pisidian Antioch and Iconium.  In both places, yes there had been strong opposition, but they had also seen many come to salvation through the message they had preached and the teaching that had occurred. 

1. Why did Paul and Barnabas continue to preach?
2. How would they have viewed the opposition that had occurred?
3. From what sources did they receive courage to continue?
4. How would they have compared the results of changed lives to the opposition faced?
5. What was the importance of staying a long time in Iconium even after the opposition began?

Acts 14:8-10

Notice when they arrived at Lystra they did not go to the synagogue.  This fact would indicate that there was a lack of Jewish men in that city.  In order to have a synagogue there had to be at least ten adult male Jews in that location.  Paul began to speak in the open air.  Luke tells us that there was a crippled man there listening to what was being said.  Paul realized that his words were having an impact on the man and that he had the faith to be healed.  He told the man to get up.  The man responded by leaping to his feet.

1. What would indicate that there was no synagogue in Lystra?
2. What did it take for the Jews to start one?
3. What kind of message does it take to have people to respond as did the lame man?
4. How did Paul know that the man had faith to be healed?
5. What would it take for us to have that same kind of discernment?

Acts 14:11-13

The reaction of the crowd should not be surprising even though it caught Paul and Barnabas off guard.  The people acknowledged that something out of the ordinary had occurred in their midst that could not been accomplished by mere mortals. Therefore, they began praising the two men as Zeus and Hermes.  Barnabas possibly because of his bearing was called Zeus and Paul the spokesman, Hermes.

The priest of the temple of Zeus located outside of the city brought oxen to the gates to offer as sacrifices to the gods.

There is a legend which will possibly explain this over reaction to the healing. The story goes like this.  At some point in the history of Lycaonia that Zeus and Hermes came down to earth to visit mortals. There was no one in the land that offered them hospitality except and old couple named Philemon and Baucis.  As a reward their humble abode was changed into a temple of which they were made guardians.  When they died they were transformed into two trees, an oak and Linden.  The rest of the people were destroyed.

Even if the legend was not true the people believed it and wanted to make sure that they did not make the same mistake again.  Believing that the two men were gods, they were going to do everything in their power to make them welcome.

1. What do you think about the reaction of the crowd?
2. Why would they believe that Paul and Barnabas were gods?
3. If you were in their position what would you have done?
4. Why does the writer of Hebrews 13:2 encourage us to be hospitable? Also see 1 Peter 4:9.
5. What may be some instances in your life when you wish now that you had been more hospitable?

Acts 14:14-15

It took a short time for Paul and Barnabas to realize what was happening because they did not understand the Lycaonian language.  The two men showed their distress over what was happening by tearing their clothes and trying to stop the celebration. Paul immediately began to try to convince the people that they were just men like everyone else. The good news was being spoken in their presence was to help men turn away from the vain worship of false gods.

1. Why did Paul and Barnabas not understand what was taking place?
2. What was their reaction?
3. When he finally gathered himself what was his message to them?
4. What clear and to the point message did Paul share in all of the confusion that was taking place?

Acts 14:16-18

The living God of whom Paul spoke in verse 15 had been at work throughout history.  Up until this point in time He had

• Permitted nations to operate as they pleased
• Witnessed of Himself by doing good, giving them rain from heaven and “fruitful seasons,” and “satisfying your hearts with food and gladness.”

Their lack of response shows how difficult it is to change the minds of those who believe in what they are doing.  The people may or may not have understood what Paul was saying.  One thing for sure he was having trouble getting through to them.

1. Why did God allow the nations go their own way for so long?
2. What would the term gospel have meant to the people?
3. In what ways is it difficult to get the message of the gospel across to people today?
4. What has been God’s ways to draw men to Himself even before they knew Him?
5. What had changed that removed any excuse for man to continue down the road on which he was travelling?

Acts 14:19

If things were not difficult enough, Jews had showed up from Iconium. Why they came to Lystra cannot truly be known.  Maybe they were following Paul to make sure he did not spread the gospel any further.  They may have travelled there for some other reason.  How they got there is not really important, but one thing is certain they quickly influenced the people who in turn stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city.  He was taken out of the city because what they had done was illegal and if the Roman authorities found about it they would be in trouble.  They thought they had done away with the one who was a threat to their way of life. 

1. If the Jews were following Paul and Barnabas the question is why?
2. How were they able to influence the people so quickly?
3. What happened to those who were only a short time before calling him a god?
4. What does it say about the hearts of the people?
5. What does this say about us that we are willing to believe something negative about others?
6. Why were they willing to violate the law in order to get rid of Paul?
7. To what extreme do we sometimes go to eliminate those with whom we disagree?
8. What kind of attitude does Jesus call us to have?

Acts 14:20

It is amazing that Paul survived the stoning especially when the mob believed that he was dead.  You can imagine the shock and impact on the disciples standing there when he got up and went back into the city.  The following day he left for Derbe.

1. Why did Paul survive the stoning?
2. What does it say about Paul that not only did he go back into the city but stayed there for another day?
3. What kind of courage does it take to go back into the enemy’s camp?
4. What kind of message is there in this account for us when we face difficult situations?

Acts 14:21-22

After Paul and Barnabas preached the gospel in Derbe, they retraced their steps going back through Lystra, Iconium and Pisidian Antioch.  In each church they:

• Strengthened the souls of disciples
• Gave them encouragement to be steadfast in their faith
• told them that the road to the kingdom would full of tribulations that must be faced.

1. Why did return to the places where he had faced opposition and was stoned?
2. What did he do in each church?
3. In what way are these words applicable for us today?   

Acts 14:23

There was one more crucial thing he did.  He appointed elders in each church.  The question may be if elders are supposed to be godly men how could he find such men who were brand new Christians?  The answer lies in the fact that there godly men coming out of the Jewish faith who would have the attributes that would qualify them to be spiritual leaders in the church.  Paul then prayed for and fasted in each church.  By doing all he could he was then leaving them in the hands of the Lord.

1. Why was important for him appoint those who would have oversight of each church?
2. What qualities did these men possess that would qualify them to lead?
3. In what way are these same attributes needed in the church today?
4. What did it mean after Paul prayed and fasted with the church that he stated that he was commending them into the hand of Lord?
5. In what ways do we show that after praying and fasting that we trust God to work out the details and give guidance to the church and in our own lives?

Acts 14:24-26

Notice on their return trip that Paul stopped in Perga and shared the gospel.  Remember on the journey inland they had pretty much just passed through the city.  It is possible that by this time Paul had recovered sufficiently from his illness to be able to spend a short while there.  Leaving there the two men ended their first missionary trip by returning to the church that had sent them out.

1. Why did Paul stop in Perga on his return trip and not preach there the first time he was in the city?
2. Why did the two men end the first missionary trip at this point and return to Antioch?
3. Why must the church have a strategy to reach the lost world?
4. When do we know that we have completed the first steps of that strategy?
5. In what ways do we sometimes bite off more than we can handle?
6. When we do who is in control?

Acts 14:27-28

The first thing they did when they arrived was to call the church together to give a report.  The news was simple and straightforward.  They shared, “All things that God had done with them and how He had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. This verse indicates that for a while Paul and Barnabas’ travelling was put on hold as they spent an extended period of time with the church at Antioch.

1. Why was it important for the church at Antioch to hear all that Paul and Barnabas had done?
2. To whom did Paul give credit for what had occurred on the first missionary trip?
3. Why do we not see any mention of the opposition the two faced in each city?
4. What are the positive things that you share with those at church?

You

1. Look to Paul as the example for the way to handle adversity in our lives.
2. Look for ways you can encourage those around you.
3. Prepare your heart for the things that may occur in the future by doing the task to which God has called you with all of your energy.
4. Be ready to always give God the glory for the successes that you experience.

We

We may not be called to go to the Pisidian Antioch’s, Lycaonia’s, Iconium’s, Lystra’s and Derbe’s of the world, but we are to give our best efforts to the work to which God has called us.  There will always opposition to be faced and to be overcome with the help of God.  Finally let us learn to wait on the Lord.  Paul was willing to go back to Antioch and wait until God gave him further instrument.  We too must learn to wait on God.

As we continue with the story of Paul’s ministry Luke will show us in Acts 15 why God had Paul back in Antioch.  His work at that church and the places he had travelled prepared for the next challenge he would face in Jerusalem.

Additional Notes:

DM-From the very beginning the pattern of Paul’s ministry was the same in every city.  He would approach the people in the Synagogue and then after they rejected his message he turned to the Gentiles. Many of the Gentiles believed when they heard the good news.  The main opposition usually came from the Jews, some Gentiles stirred up by the Jews, merchants affected by loss of business, or the local authorities.                                                                                (Acts 14:1-2, 5, 19; 17:1-9, 11, 13)

C- In Iconium many Jews and Greeks believed upon having heard the message from Paul.     (Acts 14:1-3)

DM- Paul was determined to speak out boldly in every place he visited.                                    (Acts 14:3, 7; 19:8; 20:27)

C- The people of Iconium were divided.  Some were with the Jews while others sided with Paul and Barnabas.  When an attempt on their lives was became known to the Apostles they left the city and went to Lycaonia, Lystra and Derbe.  They continued to preach the gospel in all of these new cities. (Acts 14:4-7)

C- Paul healed a man in Lystra who had been lame since birth.  Nothing like this had ever been seen in the city.  This healing caused the people to believe the two men were Hermes (Paul) and Zeus (Barnabas) mythological gods. The apostles had a difficult time convincing people that it was God who had brought about the miracle. (Acts 14:8-18)

 GC- Man finds healing when he is faithful. (Acts 14:9)

RT-The preaching of the word of God is to turn man from the vain things of this world.        (Acts 14:15)

TM- The purpose of teaching and preaching is to be constantly seeking to turn people from the vain things of this world to the eternal truths found in God’s word. (Acts 14:15)

GC- We must never forget we are just men sharing the good news of Christ. It is not our message but His. We can only do this under the power of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 14:15)

C- Things changed quickly as Jews arrived from Antioch and Iconium and turned the people of Lystra against Paul.  They stoned Paul and left him for dead.  He survived and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas went to Derbe. (Acts 14:19-20)

GC-The responsibilities of all believers are to:

1. Strengthen the souls of others
2. Encourage others to continue in the faith
3. Develop others into true disciples

(Acts 14:22; 15:15, 32; 16:5, 40; 18:23; Rom. 1:12; 15:1; 1 Thess. 3:2)

GC- Through many tribulations we enter into God’s kingdom. (Acts 14:22)

C- On their return journey to Antioch they appointed elders in every church.  (Acts 14:23)

RT- Even though many of the places Paul visited would have been mostly pagan, in a number of them there appeared to be a small Jewish presence.  Evidently, there were at least ten men which was required to have a synagogue in the city.  From these men there would be those who would receive the gospel because they truly believed the Old Testament prophesies.  Paul certainly would have appointed the wisest and the most fervent to be elders. (Acts 14:23)

GC- Every separate body needs to have a group of men who are able to lead, protect the flock from the enemy and teach others to become like Christ. (Acts 14:23)

GC- We are to pray and fast with fellow believer, but ultimately all of us are placed in the Father’s hands for safe-keeping. It is the act of commending, committing and entrusting each person to the Father. (Acts 14:23; 20:32)

Lesson 26

The Journey Continues

Acts 13:13-52

One of the decisions that I made before my first trip to Russia was that I would accept whatever living conditions in which I found myself.  I did not know what to expect.  It did not matter because I believed I was where God wanted me to be at that point.  I knew that wherever I might find myself, it would be different than home.  The food would be different, I would not understand the language, nor would I know anything about the city, but none of those things made any difference.

The primary reason that I chose to go to that foreign land was because it was a place that needed to know Jesus.  It so impressed me that I returned three times staying with the same people, eating the same food and meeting all kinds of great people.  If I had been able I would have returned time and time again.  Shortly after I went the last time the Russians shut down the work in that area and expelled the workers with whom I had worked.

When God lays His hand on each of us and calls us into His service, it is for life.  There will be times when that is real joy to be found in His work.  At other times the work will be difficult.  We are to dedicate our lives to His work and are to never turn back.  We will see both examples in our lesson today.  Which of the men in this story are we to imitate with our lives, John Mark or Barnabas and Saul?

Acts 13:13

There is a shift in that takes place in this verse.  Up to this point Barnabas has always been listed before Saul. Now the Scriptures say, “Paul and his companions put out to sea.”  Paul by that time had taken over the leadership role of the small band of men travelling together.

The next sentence tells of another change that occurred.  It says, “John left them and returned to Jerusalem.  There has been much conjecture of the reason he left Paul and Barnabas.  Some of them are:

• He became jealous for Barnabas as Paul began to become the acknowledged leader.  As has been mentioned before he was a kinsman of Barnabas. While this may be true, we do not see any evidence that Barnabas felt the same way.
• He had not bought into any mission beyond Cyprus.  
• He became homesick.

If I may interject another thought, John Mark was not called out by the Holy Spirit for the work to which Barnabas and Saul had been commissioned.  For whatever reason when the travel became more dangerous, he had not committed to or was ready for the rigors which Paul and Barnabas would face.

1. Why did the Barnabas and Saul spend so little time in Cyprus?
2. Why did Luke begin to put Saul ahead of Barnabas and call him Paul?
3. How does the name change indicate a new direction for their ministry?
4. Why did John Mark leave the team in Pamphylia?
5. What will be the result for us when we try to do something to which God has not called us or equipped us?

Acts 13:14-15

Paul and Barnabas did not spend any time in Perga but went on to Pisidian Antioch, which was a Roman colony in the southwestern corner of what is now present-day Turkey in Asia minor. Some have written that Paul possibly contracted malaria upon arriving in Pamphylia and moved on inland to recover from that disease.  This would account for Paul’s later mention in 2 Corinthians and Galatians of the thorn in the flesh and other lingering effects of his illness.

Upon arriving in Pisidian Antioch he followed a pattern that would be used for the rest of the first missionary journey.  He went into the synagogue because it was the Sabbath and partly because he knew that there he would at least find people who had a knowledge of the Old Testament.  This would provide him with a foundation upon which he could build in sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and the salvation that had been extended to the Jews and to the Gentiles alike.   

These verses give a picture of one of the customs of the synagogues of that day. If a travelling rabbi was to be in attendance, he would often be asked to share a word with the congregation.  Jesus early in His ministry went to the synagogue in Nazareth and was given an opportunity to speak.  He then shared with them the prophecy out of Isaiah 61:1 and claimed that He had come to fulfill the word He had just read. (Luke 4: 16-21)  Paul was asked if he had a word of encouragement for the men there. 

1. What was the pattern that Paul used when he came into a new city?
2. Why did he always, at least on his first missionary journey, first go to the synagogue in every city he visited?
3. What other example do we have in Scripture where the people of the synagogue worshipped in this way?
4. How is it so different from the way we worship today?

Acts 13:16-22

It is interesting that the events that Paul shared with the people began not with Abraham and his descendants but with the exile in Egypt.  God did several things for the Israelites during the span of time which would cover about 800 years. 

• In verse 17 He not only chose them as His people but built them into a great nation.  Not only did they grow in number, but He preserved and protected them during the total of 430 years they were there in Egypt. The evidence of this fact can be found in the first chapter of Exodus. 
• He then led them out to bring them into the Promised Land. (vs 17)
• But He had nothing but trouble with them during the entire 40 years they were in the desert. Luke tells us that God actually “put up with them.” (vs. 18)
• It took ten years and the destruction of 10 nations for the Israelites to receive their inheritance in the land of Canaan.  The 450 years mentioned would have been the 400 years of oppression, the 40 years in the desert and the 10 years to conquer the land. (vs. 19)
• Because of the rebellion of the people He provided judges who were instrumental in helping the people live in obedience to God.  The leadership of the Israelites was often in the presence of military leaders who helped the people overthrow their oppressors. (vs. 20)
• The last judge Samuel was both a judge and prophet.  He led the people from being led by judges to the selecting of a king to rule over them and lead them militarily. (vs. 20)
• Saul was the first king of Israel.  That selection did not turn out well.  He was for the better part of his reign self-centered and disobedient to the commands of God through Samuel.  When he was removed David became king in his place. (vs. 21)
• Finally, David, a man after God’s own heart and from the tribe of Judah was anointed and. Now the pieces were in place. Through his descendants the messiah would come came on the scene.

1. Why did Paul begin with an overview of the history of the Jewish nation?
2. What was his reasoning for choosing only a few of the events that had occurred?
3. What does it say to us about the importance of knowing God’s word when it comes time for us to share with a non-believer?

 Now can be seen why Paul shared the history of his people as he did.  God had chosen, preserved, built Israel in a mighty nation, brought them out of Egypt, put up with them in the wilderness, gave the land of Canaan to them for an inheritance, and gave them different kinds of leaders to fulfill His promise of having the Messiah come from the line of Israel, the line of Judah and the descendent of David.  Without that narrative what he was about to say in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch would make no sense.

1. What did Paul indicate that God had done for the people?
2. What was the importance of the particular events?
3. How did they point to the coming Messiah?

Acts 13:23-25

Paul then transitioned to tell the people that God had fulfilled His promise in Jesus Christ the Savior.  He used the same evidence that Jesus Himself had used in His defense before the Jews. John the Baptist, of whom the people of Pisidian Antioch had heard, bore witness to Jesus as the coming Savior of the world. Paul quoted John’s words found in both Matthew and John.

1. Why did Paul share about the witness of John the Baptist?
2. Why did he use the words spoken by John the Baptist that he quoted to the people?
3. How would they have known about this incident that had occurred a number of years earlier?
4. What does this say about Paul’s knowledge of the events of the life of Christ?  How did know these things if the Bible had not yet been written?

Acts 13:26

The first recipients of the gospel were the Jews and those who feared God. This would refer to those that adhered to the Mosaic Law, but had not become fully Jews.  What a privilege they had of hearing that Christ had come to fulfill the prophecies that had been given to them for hundreds of years.

1. Why was the gospel first proclaimed to the Jews?
2. Who were those identified as ones who feared God?
3. Why did Paul state that Jesus was the one who fulfilled the prophecies in the Old Testament?

Acts 13:27-29

Paul continued his narrative explaining what the Jewish religious leaders and Roman had done to Jesus. They had fulfilled the Scriptures by condemning Him to death and carrying out the execution.

1. Why did Paul feel there was a need to explain what had happened to Jesus at the hands of the Jewish religious leaders?
2. Why was it important for Paul to declare the innocence of Jesus?

Acts 13:30-31

Paul finally got to the heart of his message.  Jesus was alive having been raised from the dead by God.  As proof of that fact he continued by telling of the number of people that saw Him after the His resurrection. Not only had they seen him, but those who were witnesses began sharing it with others.  Although Paul may have emphasized his own conversion experience he chose not to do so but included himself in with all of the others who were telling the story.

1. Why was it important that there be multiple witnesses to the resurrection?
2. Why proof do we have today that they believed that it was true?
3. Why did Paul not emphasize his own experience?
4.  How important is this verification to us today?

Acts 13:32-39

Paul returned to the emphasis on Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture. God had indeed spoken of His Son as is seen in Psalm 2:7; Isaiah 55:3; Psalm 16:10. Since all of these Scriptures were fulfilled by Jesus then they could be assured of the forgiveness of sins and freedom that was not obtainable through the law.

1. Why did Paul, like Peter, return to some of the same Scripture verses?
2. What was the importance of the fulfillment of those particular ones?
3. What were the promises to the people who believed what Paul had shared?
4. What do these promises mean to us?
5. What is the one word that would be used to describe what Paul shared in verses 38-39? (See also John 8:32)
6. How do you know that you have discovered the meaning of those verses?

Acts 13:40-41

After all of the good news there was one more thing Paul had to share.  It was a warning from Scripture to those who might reject all that had been told to them. He referred to Habakkuk where the prophet said, “Behold, you scoffers, and marvel and perish; for I am accomplishing a work in your days, a work you will never believe, though someone should describe it to you.” (Hab. 1:5) Just as the people in Judea had not listened to God and had been sent into exile, Paul was trying to keep the people who heard his word from a worse fate. 

1. Why did Paul feel it was necessary to give a warning to the people?
2. Why do people reject the gospel when it has been so well verified?
3. What will happen to those who totally reject all of the evidence and the Savior to which it points?

Acts 13:42-43

There is no evidence that any were totally won to Christ on that first Sabbath. The people however did indicate that the message had resonated with them because they wanted to return the next Sabbath to hear more of what Paul had to say.      Verse 43 indicates that there was a variety of people who wanted to know more.  There were Jews and proselytes.  As this group followed Paul, He continued to admonish them to, “Continue in the grace of God.”

1. Why does the Scripture not speak of any converts as Paul and Barnabas was leaving the gathering?
2. What indication is given that the people had not rejected the words of Paul?
3. What was Paul’s main concern at this point?
4. In what ways does his admonition indicate that he sensed that many were ready to commit themselves to Christ?

Acts 13:44

News had gotten around the whole city so that most of those living there showed up to hear what Paul had to say.

1. What does this response say about the people of the city?
2. What does it tell us about what the ones who had heard from Paul had been doing during the week?
3. What would get us excited enough to do the same?
4. How different was their attitude than what might be expected today if it was announced that someone was going to share about Jesus and Salvation?

Acts 13:45-47

It did not take long for opposition to come.  The Jews were not concerned until they saw the whole city gathering to hear Paul and Barnabas.  They became jealous and try to contradict what was being said.  Desperation set in, driving them to the point of blasphemy.  From the way the Scripture reads they began to turn the others away from listening to Paul. He condemned their actions going so far as to tell them that they had disqualified themselves from receiving eternal life.  Because they refused to listen he spoke out with boldness stating that he would begin working with the Gentiles.  He confirmed his intentions by quoting from Is. 42:6 and 49:6 which clearly states that the Messiah is to be a light and bring salvation to the Gentiles.

1. Why did the Jews oppose Paul and Barnabas?
2. Why would Paul not been surprised by their actions?
3. What did actions say about them when they were willing to resort to blasphemy to prove their point?
4. What did they lose in the process?
5. What was the benefit for the Gentiles? (See Romans 11)
6. In what ways do we sometimes react like the Jews?

Acts 13:48-49

As would be expected, upon hearing the encouraging words of Paul and Barnabas the Gentiles began to rejoice greatly.  Many became followers of Christ and took the word into all of the region around Pisidian Antioch.

1. Why did the Gentiles respond differently than the Jews?
2. Why would Paul be willing to begin minister among the Gentiles?
3. Why did the word about Jesus spread so quickly in the region around Pisidian Antioch?
4. In what ways are the Gentiles of that day an example for us?

Acts 13:50

As the gospel spread the opposition became more intense.  The Jews now stirred up two different groups to begin to persecute the two men. They were able to gain the support of

• Devout (Jewish) women of prominence
• Leading men of the city

Their final act was to drive them out of the district. 

1. Why did the Jews go to so great links to stop Paul?
2. What was their religion lacking that the Gentiles would be drawn to Christianity?
3. What did they hope to accomplish by driving the two men out of the district?

Acts 13:51

Paul and Barnabas responded by shaking the dust of the city off their sandals.  Jesus had given these instructions to His disciples as He sent out into the cities to teach and heal.  He told them to shake the dust off of any city that would not listen to the message they brought. (Matt. 10:14)  Instead of turning back the two men went further into Asia Minor to the city of Iconium.

1. Why did Paul and Barnabas shake the dust of the city from their sandals?
2. What did this say about the cities that they left?
3. Against whom were they protesting with the act?
4. What would be the easiest thing for them to do at this point?
5. What does making a decision to Iconium say about them?

Paul and Barnabas provide us with the example of what godly men do when faced with difficult situations.  As you reflect on this lesson

• Consider which of the characters in this chapter are you most like.
• Consider to whom or what are you committed
• Think about the way you have handled adversity in your life.  Have you done it in a Christ-like way?
• Pray continually that no matter the circumstances that your commitment to Jesus will be steadfast.

 We live in a world not unlike the one in which Paul and Barnabas ministered.  As the day of Christ’s return approaches the world will become more skeptical.  People like Richard Dawkins, the author, evolutionist and atheist have devoted followers.  They take every opportunity to demean Christians and blaspheme our God.  We must decide now how we will deal with that type of individual and the circumstances that do not in any way affirm Jesus. 

Times are going to become difficult.  Are we going to have the attitude of John Mark and retreat and give up of the church?  Paul and Barnabas set the standard high.  Are we willing to commit ourselves to continue on when the going gets difficult?  We are at just a time at BP.  We have been called to minister in the area surrounding the Church.  Are we prepared and are we committed enough to see the ministry carried through to completion?

Additional notes:

Paul and Barnabas were allowed to speak and shared the gospel with all the people.  Those who heard the words of Paul asked him to return the following Sabbath that they hear more of what he was proclaiming.  (Acts 13:14-42)

GC-Those who respond are recipients (those who listen) of the word of salvation that has gone forth from the mouths of God’s witnesses. (Acts 13:26; 28:28)

GC-One who loves the Lord preaches (proclaims) and teaches the good news of the promise made to us concerning Jesus. (Acts 13:32-33)

GC-Everyone who has committed themselves to Christ are free from the bondage of the Law. (Acts 13:39)

OC-True freedom comes from belief. (Acts 13:39)

C-There in that city many of the Jews and God-fearing proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas as they left the synagogue. (Acts 13:43)

C-Nearly all of the city of Perga came to hear Paul and Barnabas speak.  When the Jews saw the large crowds they became jealous and began contradicting the words of Paul.  They went so far as to begin blaspheming.  The two men did not let those things deter them but continued to share the gospel boldly.  It was at this point that they began their ministry to the Gentiles because the Jews attempted to repudiate the message of Jesus Christ. (Acts 13:44-47)

 GC-There is to be no jealousy found in the life of the believer. (Acts 13:45)

DM-By repudiating the word of God, the Jews judged themselves unworthy of eternal life. (Acts 13:46)

DM-It was the Gentiles of Pisidian Antioch who rejoiced when they heard that God was willing to accept them into His kingdom.  Many of them believed and found eternal life. (Acts 13:48)

C-The Gentiles began rejoicing and giving glory to God for the message they were hearing through Paul.  As a result many of them became believers. (Acts 13:48)

GC-In each life there is rejoicing and glorifying when he hears the word of God.  It is the message of salvation and eternal life to those who believe. (Acts 13:48; 16:34)

C-Through the ministry of the missionaries the word of the Lord began to be spread throughout that whole region. (Acts 13:49)

GC-The one who has come to Christ can expect persecution from those who oppose the Gospel, sometimes it will come in the form of verbal abuse and at other times it will be physical in nature. (Acts 13:50; 14:5, 19, 22; 16:19-24; 17:6, 13; 26:21; 1 Cor. 4:12-13: 1 Thess. 2:2, 14-15; 3:3-4)

C-The actions of the Jews would become a pattern in all of the places in which Paul would share the gospel.  Each city had its own group of those who persecuted the missionaries but it occurred over and over again.  In Perga the Jews incited prominent women and the leading men to turn against Paul and Barnabas.  They were driven out of that area.  As commanded by Jesus when He sent His disciples out, the two men shook the dust of that city off their feet and went on to Iconium. (Acts 13:50-51)

GC-Disciples are filled continually with the joy of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 13:52)

Lesson 17

On the Road with Peter

Acts 9:32-43

 I have often discovered that the best laid plans often do not work out as I expected.  In Proverbs 16:9 the writer says, “The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.”  This certainly does not mean that we are not to prepare for the future or stop learning or just wait around to see what is going happen.  For many years as I studied the Bible, I could not figure out why God had given me such a passion.  It seemed that I was doing it for my own growth.  What I learned that in order to teach or lead or whatever God is calling us to do that He gives the person the drive to know all that he needs to know to carry out the task.  I do not know what God has planned for my future, but I do know that I want to be ready when He says this is the next step for you to take.

Sometimes In the church we spend more time talking about what we are going to do than actually performing the tasks.  We have by-laws, constitutions and manuals of procedures which often times hinder us from following God’s leading.  We find ourselves having to try figure out what to do or how to work around man made rules to perform the ministries to which God has called the church.  In our lesson today and next week we will see a man who just went where God led him and found that the situations for service just came to him.  We must keep our eyes open to what is occurring around us.  If we do, we will be able to discern the reason that God has brought people and situations into our lives.

Acts 9:32

None of the events that took place in the life of Peter would have occurred if he had remained in Jerusalem.  Peter probably felt a freedom and the leading of the Holy Spirit to travel more since the hostility against the church had stopped for a while.  Prior to the incidents that follow, there may have been a sense that his leadership was not needed as much in Jerusalem to keep the church together in the face of the persecution that took place under Saul.  Now there was peace and Peter could leave the church in hands of other leaders like James. 

The healings in Lydda and Joppa opened the door to the real purpose God had planned for him.  There is no indication why he happened to be travelling through those regions west of Jerusalem. It would not appear to be a continuation of the trip he had made with John because he is the only one mentioned.

1. Why did Peter begin travelling more at this point?
2. What more could he accomplish by remaining in Jerusalem?
3. In what ways was it detrimental to the growth of God’s kingdom for him and others to continue to just serve in Jerusalem?
4. What was the challenge for him?

Acts 9:33-35

We do know what took place in Lydda.  He first healed a man named Aeneas.  This opened the door for many from Lydda and Sharon to become followers of Christ.  It is interesting that there was no call by the disciples for Peter to heal the man.   As a result of the miracle many in those two cities became followers of Christ? 

1. What did Peter appear to be doing in Lydda?
2. Why do we not see any reference to Peter preaching?
3. Just looking at the setting in which the healing occurred what does it tell us about what Peter hoped to accomplish?
4. What was special about Aeneas that God should heal him?
5. How is it people became believers without the sharing of the gospel by Peter?

Acts 9:36-37

In the nearby city of Joppa another drama was being played out that would affect Peter’s life.  There was a disciple there by the name of Tabitha or Dorcas in Greek.  Tabitha took her Christianity seriously.  It was said of her that she continually performed acts of kindness and charity.  As the narrative continues it is said that Tabitha died and was prepared for burial.  As tragic as this event was in the lives of those who knew her, there was a sense of hope.

1. What are the admirable qualities that are seen in the life of Tabitha?
2. Why was a person like her so important to those who knew her?
3. Why did they not bury her immediately, as is the custom in the Middle East?
4. Why was there, in their minds, hope for a different outcome?

Acts 9:38-39

Peter now enters the scene.  Rather that burying Tabitha on the day of her death they sent for him.  He was still in Lydda so two men were sent to ask him to come with them.  The Scripture does not mention that they asked him to raise her from the dead but only implored him to come with them.  Upon arriving he was confronted by those who had benefited from Tabitha’s kindness.

1. Why was Tabitha not buried immediately?
2. What did they hope Peter would be able to do?
3. Who would benefit by Tabitha being brought to life?
4. What thought was given to what it would mean for her to be raised from the dead? 

Acts 9:40-42   

Peter put everyone out of the room.  He then prayed.  Only then did he speak her name.  Upon hearing her name she opened her eyes and sat up.  Peter then extended his hand and she got up.  He then called all of the saints and widows “presented her alive.”

As would be expected the word of what happened went throughout the city.  Once again many who heard became followers of Christ?

1. Why were the widows showing Peter the things that Tabitha had made?
2. Why did Peter put all of the people out of the room?
3. For whose benefit was Tabitha raised?
4. What was the good that came out of this event?
5. What could be the witness of Tabitha from that point on in her life?

Acts 9:43

This is an important verse that should not glossed over. In it there is the continuing change taking place in Peter’s life.  The verse reads, “Peter stayed many days in Joppa with a tanner named Simon.” Why is this verse so important?  To answer one only needs to look at the way the Jewish religious would view such a man as Simon.  Because he constantly worked with the skins of animals he would have been considered unclean by the Jewish religious leaders and would not have been allowed to worship in the temple.  Peter puts aside all those rules and stayed with an unclean man.  He could not know it but, this time also was preparing him for what lay ahead which will be discussed next week.

1. Why would Simon be considered unclean according to the Jewish religion?
2. What did this mean in terms of his ability to worship in the temple?
3. What was happening in the life of Peter that he would not have any problem staying with such a man?
4. Why did Peter remain in Joppa?
5. Why are we not given any more information about Peter’s activities there? 

During the coming week as you think about this lesson, you should spend your time

• Praying that God would continue to provide unexpected opportunities for you to witness.
• Consider how you might use the gifts God has given you in service here at Bethany Place
• Put your own agenda, wants and needs aside and consider how you might encourage and help others.

We need to learn to seize every opportunity to serve wherever we find ourselves.  Although one of the primary ways to witness is through the spoken word we need to realize the smallest deed done in kindness can have tremendous affect on a person’s life.  As others see us acting in a Christ-like manner they will be drawn to the Savior we lovingly serve.  Let us use all the tools God has provided to us to advance His kingdom.

Additional notes:

C-Peter healed Aeneas of a paralysis that had kept him bedridden for eight years.  As a result of the healing many in Lydda and Sharon came to know the Lord. (Acts 9:32-36)

GC-A follower of Christ abounds with deeds of kindness and charity. (Acts 9:36)

C-Tabitha a disciple who lived in Joppa died.  When Peter came he prayed for Tabitha, Dorcas, and God brought her back to life.  This act brought many in Joppa to Christ. (Acts 9:36-42)

 C-Peter spent many days with a man named Simon.  He was a tanner.  Therefore, he would be considered unclean according to the Jews. (Acts 9:43)

Lesson 16

A New Life for Saul

Acts 9:19-31

Each of us needs encouragement along life’s journeys.  I have had three men who have had a great influence in my life.  These men challenged and encouraged me, each in his own way, to grow as a follower of Christ.  One was a minister I had when just a young person.  After I became an adult the minister of the church I was attending began to mentor me.  He was the person who was instrumental in getting me involved in studying the Scriptures in a systematic way.  It was at that point that I began to write what I was learning out of God’s word.  The third was a co-worker who challenged me to begin memorizing Scripture.  Although he already knew a great deal of the Bible, he and I worked together for several months on memorizing the book of Ephesians as we rode back and forth to work.  Even after we no longer travelled together I continued to memorize other books.  It only took the spark that he provided to start a fire in my heart to know God’s Word.  I would not be where I am today without each of them.  I thank God that He saw fit to bring such men into my life.

We as a church should know that the church will not continue if each generation does not impact the next one for Christ.  Deuteronomy six speaks of the importance of mentoring.  It tells us that the fathers, mature men and women, should teach the children, those younger people in the church, at every opportunity.  To do so, means that we have to spend time learning and growing also.  We cannot model or teach what we do not know.  Saul knew a great deal about the law but he needed others to help him along the way.  We need to be the church at Damascus to help the next potential Saul along the way.

Acts 9:19

This verse is one that most of us gloss over in our reading in Acts.  It, however describes a very critical time in the life of Saul.  Following his baptism Saul spent time with the disciples in Damascus before embarking on the task of proclaiming the gospel.  Although not was well known as Barnabas, Ananias never-the-less played an important role in Saul’s development as a new follower of Christ.  We have already read about his part in Saul’s conversion.  We are not told how he was instrumental in bringing the two parties together. Without his efforts we cannot say what would have happened.

1. Why were these several days so important to Saul?
2.  Who was instrumental in bringing Saul and the church together?
3. What does this say about the faith of Ananias?
4. What did Saul gain from this time?

Acts 9:20-21

After spending time with the disciples Saul began immediately to proclaim the gospel in the synagogues of Damascus. His preaching had a great impact on those who heard it because they knew why he had originally come to Damascus.  It is interesting that although the people were amazed at the preaching of Saul there is no mention of a great influx of new believers into the church.  There is a lesson to be learned.  Saul was faithful in doing what God had called him to do and was willing to leave the results to God. 

1. How was Saul able to begin sharing the gospel so quickly after being converted?
2. In what ways would his message be different from what the other apostles would preach?
3. Why was there not great additions made to the church at this time?
4. What would it take for Saul to begin to see results from his preaching?
5. How did the people view him at this point?
6. Why did he start in the synagogues?
7. What results might be expected from preaching in such a venue?

Acts 9:22

Even though there is no indication of many conversions, this time was not wasted.  Saul used it to hone his skills.  This verse tells us that he was “increasing in strength.”  He was definitely getting stronger in his ability to answer the questions that he faced from the Jews. He obviously used all of his training in the Old Testament in presenting his arguments.  As we have seen throughout our study of Acts that the apostles and now Saul continually referred to the Old Testament prophecies in proving that Jesus indeed was the Messiah to come.

1. What was the nature of the strengthening that Saul was acquiring?
2. In what ways did he confound the Jews with his preaching?
3. In what ways was he able to prove that Jesus is the Christ?

Acts 9:23-25

As has been seen over and over both in the gospels and now in Acts that when those who opposed the truth laid out before them could no longer refute the message they attempted to destroy the messenger.  We find that it is no different whether the preachers were lowly fishermen or a well known Pharisee the result was always the same.  Saul had been one of them, but because he brought a message they did not want to hear they attempted to kill him.  Fortunately, the plot was uncovered and the disciples were able to get him out of Damascus.

1. Why did the Jews want to kill Saul?
2. What does the willingness of the disciples helping him escape said about the relationships that had been built?
3. What actions by the Jews show their determination in getting rid of Saul?

Acts 9:26-28

These two verses show two different responses to Saul as he attempts to unite with the church in Jerusalem.  The first is the natural tendency to fear one who has caused great harm.  The disciples were wary of this sudden conversion of Saul and did not know whether to believe what he was telling them.

Barnabas, the encourager, becomes an ally of Saul.  He was willing to believe what Saul had told him and to give Saul the opportunity to become part of the body of Christ in Jerusalem.  Rather than jumping to conclusions he was willing to listen to the testimony of Saul and he himself shared those events with the church.  Based on the word of Barnabas, Saul was accepted by the disciples.

Saul took up where he had left off in Damascus.  He began to travel about the city and spoke out “boldly in the name of the Lord.”

1. What does this incident show about the attitude of the early church?
2. In what ways were they like the church today?
3. In what ways were they different?
4. What two traits possessed by Barnabas do you admire?
5. In what ways were both Ananias and Barnabas the same?
6. What affect did the actions of both men have on the church?
7. What events took place upon the acceptance of Saul into the church?  

Acts 9:29-30

Saul began sharing with the Hellenistic Jews.  These are the same people who opposed Stephen.  Remember that Saul was part of the group that had Stephen executed.  Now he was proclaiming Christ to them and arguing with them.  As they had with Stephen when they could not refute the things they were hearing they became determined to kill Saul also. 

To save him the disciples spirited him off to Caesarea.  He then returned to his home in Tarsus.  What happened there will be a lesson for another time.

1. Why did the Hellenistic Jews refuse to listen to one who had once been a part of them?
2. What was he sharing that they could not refute?
3. What did the actions by the disciples about the how they now regarded Saul?

Acts 9:31

A chapter that started speaking about the great danger to the church not only in Jerusalem but in all Judea, Galilee and Samaria ended with the people experiencing peace.  With the threat of persecution removed during this period the church continued to grow.  It was “going on in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit.”

1. Why was the church now experiencing peace?
2. How far had the church spread at this point?
3. Why would the church grow in this kind of climate?

This would be a good time at the beginning of the new year to give thought to which of the individuals in the narrative you would see yourself being. You might look at the characteristics of each of them and pick those you may to want to emulate:

• The transformed Saul
• The disciples of both the churches in Damascus and Jerusalem
• Ananias
• Barnabas

We need to be careful that we do not fall in the trap that we have seen in the church at Jerusalem.  They let fear cloud their judgment.  They were not willing to accept the fact that people can change.  God is in the business of changing people.

Our attitude should be that of the church at Damascus who saw the potential in Saul and were willing to mentor him correcting his theology where he was off track but also helping him to build on his strengths of teaching and preaching.  Because they were so open to see the positive in Saul they did not hinder his spiritual growth.  We too need to be constantly looking at others in our body and those who might come to the church for ways to help them grow and use how God has wired them for God’s kingdom. 

Just think if the disciples in Damascus had rejected Saul what would the church look like today.  We must not forget that each person in our midst may be another potential leader of the church with the impact on the world like that of Saul.

This process can start with each of us assessing how God can even use you or me.

Additional Notes:

RT-All that Paul had and all he had accomplished needed to be handed completely over to Christ.  By doing this he did not become less of a Jew, a Benjamite or learned keeper of the Law. One thing is certain he did not lose his passion for what he believed.  He, however, had been given a new direction and a new focus for using all God had given him.  Christ had made him new on the inside in order to take him to places among people he did not know with a new purpose.  Paul saw the world in a different light after the scales of blindness were removed. (Acts 9: Phil. 3:1-10)

C-From the time he became a follower of Christ, Paul, instead of persecuting the church at Damascus, began to proclaim the gospel of Jesus in the synagogues. (Acts 9:20-22)

GC-When one is able to present the truth he will confound the opponents of Christianity. (Acts 9:22)

GC-If you understand the Bible you will be able to use it to answer some of life’s most difficult questions for unbelievers as you witness to them. Remember to do it with all gentleness not haughtiness or false piety. (Acts 9:22; 1 Peter 3:15; Col. 4:6)

C-Those who had once been Paul’s compatriots were now plotting to kill him because he was now preaching Jesus. (Acts 9:23)

DM-The Jews continually tried to suppress the truth.  In this case it was Paul one of their own group that attempted to kill. (Acts 9:23-24, 29)

 C-Paul escaped from Damascus and went to Jerusalem where he tried to associate with the disciples.  Understandably they were suspicious of his intentions since only recently he had been a persecutor of the church. (Acts 9:25-26)

C-In Barnabas Paul found a needed friend who was willing to trust him and bring him into the fellowship of the believers. (Acts 9:27)

DM-Barnabas overcame any misgivings he may have had about Paul.  He took him under his wings and became his mentor.  Paul was even brought by Barnabas to meet the Apostles.  (Acts 9:27)

C-In the city in which he done the most harm to the Christians, Paul began to speak out boldly in the name of the Lord. (Acts (9:28)

C-Some of the Hellenistic Jews tried to put Paul to death after hearing the message.  He was sent away to Tarsus for his protection. (Acts 9:29-30)

RT-Things have not changed a great deal since the time that the book of Acts was written.  People are still trying to still the voice of those who move in their midst boldly proclaiming the name of Jesus.  If the world could only see that out of the proclamation of this word of truth, man can find life then he would not go to such great links to destroy it.  The primary difference between those of the early Christian era and the present day is that even with the tremendous opposition and persecution the followers of Christ experienced there were many who were willing to listen with a genuine anticipation to what was being promised to them.  Today even though the same truths are being taught there is less of a tendency to listen at all.  (Acts 9:28; 1 Peter 2:2)

C-For a time the churches throughout the areas of Judea, Galilee and Samaria experienced a time of peace.  They were being built up and went about in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit.  The churches under these conditions continued to grow in numbers. (Acts 9:31)

 GC-One continues to grow when he has the fear of the Lord and lives in the comfort of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 9:31)

Lesson 15

 Paul, A Man on Fire

Acts 9:1-19

For years I have been interested in studying motivation.  It is the whole idea of discovering what makes people do what they do.  I want to know what drives a person to accomplish all they do in their lifetime.  Why is it that some people are driven and some do not ever seem to have a desire to achieve anything of value.  I have especially try to understand why some followers of Christ seem to be on fire in their faith and others just want to drift along. 

What I have discovered which may not be universally true is that those who have lived lives in rebellion against God become dynamic Christians once they are transformed.  One example is a former fellow worker of mine who until he attended the Air Force Academy was an avowed atheist.  His conversion to Christianity came after reading C.S. Lewis’s “Space Trilogy.”  From that point on he became a dynamic believer, memorizing Scripture, becoming involved with the Navigators and become an encourager to people like me.  He actually helped me get started in memorizing Scripture and was willing to do it alongside me.

This is the way I see Paul.

One of our tasks is to look for those who have the potential to become leaders in our Church.  There are those who have a drive that needs to be guided by all of us in encouraging them in their spiritual growth.  For each of us we need to look within to see if somehow we are shortchanging God because of our apathy.  He desires that each us become a dynamic follower of Christ who will impact the world around us.  This cannot take place unless a true transformation has occurred in our own lives.

 Acts 9:1-2

Verse 1 provides us with a person who is totally consumed with the task he has set out to accomplish.  The idea of breathing threats seen here would indicate that all Saul thought about and talked about was ways to persecute the disciples.   His actions would indicative of man under the conviction of the Holy Spirit.  His treatment of the people was his way of recoiling from the work God was doing in his heart.  I am reminded of the scene in Quo Vadis when Nero became frustrated and angry because as the Christians were being martyred they were singing.  We can see this in the actions of Paul the more those he was persecuting acted as Stephen did the more he tried to stamp out Christianity.

Questions that may come to mind are:

1. What characteristics would see as admirable in Saul at this point in his life?
2. Why was Saul so fanatical and vehement about persecuting believers?
3. What impact do you think that the death of Stephen had on his continuing actions against the church?
4. Why did he not go after the apostles?
5. How was his actions possible preparation for what God was going to do in Saul’s life. 

For some reason Saul suddenly changed his strategy in attacking the Church.  He asked for permission to continue his persecution of the followers of the way in the synagogues of Damascus in Syria.

1.  Why did Saul suddenly shift from trying to destroy the church in Jerusalem to go into another country?
2. What did he hope to accomplish by going to Syria?
3. What does it say about the early disciples that Saul was going into the synagogues to carry out his mission?

Acts 9:3-9

 Unknown to Saul his request for a letter authorizing him to arrest Christians was to lead him to a defining moment in his life.  It was on his way to Damascus that he was confronted by Christ.  Let’s look at the sequence of events that took place.

• There was the blinding light that knocked Saul to the ground.
• Jesus spoke to him asking, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”
• Saul asked His identity but was given the answer, “I am Jesus whom you are persecuting.”
• He was then ordered to go into the city and wait for instructions.
• The men with him heard the voice but did not see the vision.
• It was only when Saul arose from the ground to proceed into the city did he realize that he was blind.
• He was led into the city and waited three days in the dark neither eating nor drinking anything.

Saul had finally met someone more powerful than he.

1. Why did Jesus ask Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”
2. Why was Paul willing to obey the instructions of Jesus?
3. Why could the men not see what Saul was seeing?

Acts 9:10-19

The Lord appeared to Ananias and commanded him to go to Saul and give him a message.  Saul was to be a witness to the Gentiles.  He was also to tell him that he would also face suffering for the Lord’s name’s sake. 

After having reservations he finally obeyed the command of the Lord and went to Saul.  When Saul heard the message he

• Received his sight
• Was baptized
• Stopped fasting and ate.

1. What happened to the men who had come with Saul?
2. What do you believe they thought of him now that he was blind and helpless?
3. As was asked above about Saul, What do you admire about Ananias?
4. How would you respond to a command like the one given to Ananias?
5. What does it say about Ananias that he was willing to obey the command of Christ?
6. What indication do we have that Saul was ready to hear what Ananias had to say to him?

 Think back to the time when you responded to the call of Christ. 

1. Why would God want us to be part of His kingdom?
2. What prompted you to become a Christian? 
3. What did that decision mean to you?
4. What responsibility do you have because of your decision?
5. If you were called to obey Christ in the way that Ananias was what do you believe you would do?

We must take our call to follow Jesus seriously.  God will do all that is within His power to reach us, but leaves the final decision to us.  We may never face the situation that confronted Ananias.  We should however always be open to listen to the Lord.  There may come into our lives when someone like Saul may appear to be beyond hope or who in our opinion would not fit into the church.  He or she may be the very person to whom God would want us to witness.  We can never be sure that the one God brings into our midst may be a chosen vessel of His to accomplish great things.  

Lesson 13

Making Lemons into Lemonade

Acts 8:1-23

 Over the years while working for the International Mission Board my boss would often encourage me to take an overseas mission trip.  My standard answers were.  First, I had not been called to serve as a missionary.  Secondly, I always fell back on the verse found in 1 Samuel 30:24 which talks about the two hundred men who watched over the baggage.  While others went to the mission field, I believed that my task was to stay at home with the baggage and lend support and encouragement to those going. 

All of the arguments disappeared as I was able to make four trips overseas, one to Venezuela and three to Russia from 2000 to 2003. I learned a great lesson from those experiences.  I must be prepared to be used by God to reach those who do not know His Son.

It is so easy for all of us to get wrapped up in whatever becomes our “baggage” to watch.  The kind of excuses I used can keep us from missing out on the exciting and challenges things God has for us to do.  Our lesson today will talk about men who were prepared to take on new tasks as God opened the doors of opportunities for them.  The question we might ask ourselves, Am I truly being sensitive to what God desires for me or am I closing my mind and heart by always staying by the stuff?

 Acts 7:58-8-1

There are a couple items to be addressed before beginning chapter 8.  In verse 58 Saul is mentioned for the first time. His task at that early event was to watch the robes while the others did the dirty work of stoning Stephen.  Secondly, with the death of Stephen there was a shift in the strategy in dealing with the church by the Jews.  Up until this point the apostles had been the focal point of all the persecution.  Now a new tactic came into play.  The Jews broaden it to include the seven and then the entire church in Jerusalem.

1. What did they hope to accomplish with this new tactic?
2. What influence did witnessing the trial and murder have on what Paul was about to do?
3. Why would one who had watched the robes become so involved in the persecution of the church?
4. Why did Saul agree so strongly with the actions of his fellow “Freedmen”?

Acts 8:1-2

The treatment of the apostles was tame in comparison to what took place against the church after the death of Stephen.  Luke described it as a “great persecution”.  It was so intense that many of the believers fled from Jerusalem and were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.  The one group that seemed impervious to what was taking place was the apostles.  Acts 8:1 tells us that they remained in Jerusalem.

1. Why did Saul and the other men who had killed Stephen leave the apostles alone?
2. Why did these twelve men not leave Jerusalem?
3. Why did God allow the persecution to take place in the first place? 
4. Why did the dispersed believers go to Judea and Samaria and not beyond those two regions?

One last thought as we leave these verses.  Let us consider the possibility that the day that Saul began to persecute the church set in motion the events which would very soon lead to his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus.

While havoc was taking place in the life of the church Stephen was buried by some men.

1. Why do their actions at the time of his burial seem strange?
2. How would you expect them to react?

Acts 8:3

The persecution of the church reach new heights as Saul now became the chief protagonist.  We are told that he ravaged the church.  In the Greek ravaging is to exercise brutal and sadistic cruelty.  These are actions we might expect of a madman or fanatic.

1. Why did Saul attack the church so viciously?
2. What impact did Stephen have on Saul in the way he faced death?
3. What impact did the history lesson Stephen presented have on a man like Saul?
4. In what way might a man of Saul’s education and religious background take the words of Stephen as a personal attack?
5. What did Saul and the others hope to accomplish with their treatment of the men and women who followed Christ?
6. What resulted from the persecution?

Acts 8:4-8

We begin to see the answer to the last question as we see the believers leaving Jerusalem and were preaching in all the places they went.  Even though Saul and others sought to destroy the church the persecution actually had just the opposite effect.  In verse 5 we find Phillip travelling to Samaria.  Remember this was part of Jesus’ command to the apostles to go into Judea and then into Samaria in an ever widening sphere where the gospel was to be proclaimed.  Phillip was a perfect candidate to bridge the gap between Jews and Samaritans since he was a Christian from a Greek background.  Thus he would not have all of the prejudices of the Jews to overcome as he shared the gospel. 

1. From their reactions to Phillip what could say about the kind of people that he encountered in Samaria?
2. How did the Samaritans respond to the good news that was brought to them?
3. What was the importance of performing signs and wonders among these people?
4. What did the types of signs help in his sharing about Jesus?
5. Why was it so important that the healing taking place go beyond just the physical?

Acts 8:9-11

Simon, the magician now enters the picture. He is described as one who claimed to be someone great.

1. What was the source of his supposed greatness?
2. How does an individual like Simon hold sway over people?

Acts 8:12-13

When Phillip began to preach and heal the people believed the message Phillip brought about the kingdom of God and Jesus Christ and were baptized. We are told that even Simon believed.

1. What was the difference between the two messages being presented to the people?
2. Why did they turn from Simon to the message of Phillip?
3. What was it about what Simon saw that convinced him to believe?
4. What might be some red flags for us when we see someone like Simon saying that they believe in Jesus Christ? 
5. What are individuals like him really believing?
6. What was still missing in the lives of all of the Samaritan believers?  Verses 14-17 will answer that question for us.

Acts 8:14

Only when the apostles heard that something was taking place in Samaria did any of them venture out of Jerusalem to see what was happening.  Peter and John, two of the leaders, were sent to investigate.  Notice upon the arrival of these two men that Phillip faded into the background.  His work, for the time being, was done. 

1.  Why did the apostles wait until someone else had done the ground work before deciding to leave Jerusalem?
2. What situation did the apostle find when they came to Samaria?
3. Why had Phillip not completed the task of helping them receive the Holy Spirit?
4. How can a person believe and baptized and not receive the Holy Spirit?
5. What did it mean for the people to finally receive the Spirit?

Acts 8:18-19

Simon is a prime example of one who may believe enough to be part of a fellowship.  They may even be actively involved in the work of the church but who have not genuinely been willing to totally commit themselves to Christ.  I am afraid that churches are full of people who think they are saved based on the fact that they are members and may have even been baptized but have never truly come to Jesus and accepted the Salvation He wants to give them.  The church does these individual a terrible disservice by allowing them to remain in their unsaved condition.

How do we know that Simon was such a man?  All we have to do is to see the reasons he joined the church in the first place and the fact that he was willing to buy the privilege of laying hands on others, probably for profit and power, that the selected people could receive the Holy Spirit.

1. What was the difference between what the apostles were doing and what Simon wanted to do?
2. What did Simon not seek?  There is no indication that he desired to receive the Holy Spirit himself.   
3. What was the real reason that Simon wanted the ability to give the Holy Spirit?

Acts 8:20-25

Peter responded to Simon very emphatically.  He told him:

• The gift is now for sale
• Your desire shows that you are an unregenerate sinner
• You are going to perish
• You need to repent
• You need to seek God’s forgiveness

Let us think about how Peter responded to Simon

1. What does it say about the character of Peter?
2. What could have been the worse thing he could have done in this situation?
3. Why did he leave it up to Simon to pray?
4. What do you think about Simon’s response to Peter in verse 25?
5. What did indicate about him?
6. In what ways do we need to be like Peter in his handling of this situation?

 Each of you know from your own experiences that difficult times have either already taken place in your lives or will at some point.  The question each of you need to answer is how will you respond to your situation?  Will you see difficult times when things are not going your way as an opportunity to be a witness for Christ or hide behind your problems?  Sometimes when you are going through trials it will open your eyes to all of the suffering and those who are lost who need what Christ has to offer to them.

The early church took advantage of a very bad situation and used it reach out to others.  As a result the church continued to grow in a way that could not have happened if all the believers had remained cloistered in Jerusalem. 

The final lesson that can be learned this morning is let all of us to begin to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit to be aware of those even among our members who may have never made a decision for Jesus Christ.  It is so easy for us to assume that those who have been a part of the fellowship truly have an understanding of what it means to be saved.  How can we as a church make sure that this does not happen?

1. Pray for discernment
2. Try to make sure that each person is involved in a small group
3. Provide a loving atmosphere where people are able to be open and honest  about their walk with the Lord
4. There should never be an attitude of condemnation but a willingness to guide others into a true relationship
5. We should also never condone false doctrine
6. We are to be willing to pray with someone, like to Simon, who is caught in the throes of sin.  Sometimes people may even feel incapable of praying for themselves because of a deep hurt in their lives.

Next week we will see Phillip at work again.  The Ethiopian will provide us with a contrast to Simon.

Additional Random Notes:

C-The Jews began from that point to persecute the church.  It was so severe that many of the believers left and went to other regions in Judea, Samaria and beyond even into Syria.    (Acts 8:1)

DM-The day Paul began to persecute the church set in motion the events that would lead to be his dramatic conversion. (Acts 8:1, 3; 22:4)

RT-Faced with being marginalized by society may the church use this subtle form of persecution to become insurgents into the world full of spiritual darkness.  It is to spread the word of God under of the authority of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 8:1-5)

C-Paul became an integral part of the persecution that was taking place as he ravaged the church and putting many of the believers into prison. (Acts 8:3)

RT-As persecution began against the church those who were driven out of Jerusalem “went about preaching the word.”  They were not defeated but spiritually energized.  As Paul would say later, “They knew whom they believed. (2 Tim. 1:12)  Philip, one of the seven, even carried the message to the despised Samaritans. (Acts 8:4-5)

C-Philip went to Samaria when the persecution came upon the church at Jerusalem.  He began preaching there.  The crowds were attentive to his words and he was able to heal and cast out demons.  “There was much rejoicing in that city.”  Not since the visit of Jesus had the people had such a reason for hope and joy as when they now heard the good news from the lips of Philip. (Acts 8:5-8, 12)

DM-Philip took to heart the command of Jesus to go into Samaria.  When he did he found people waiting to hear the good news and many believed. (Acts 8:5-8, 12)

GC-With the proclamation of Christ there is rejoicing in the lives of the people touched by His saving power. (Acts 8:5, 8, 39)

C-Simon, the magician, who had been viewed as someone great by the Samaritans also became a believer upon hearing the words of Philip and seeing the miracles he performed.  Somehow Simon understood that these acts were genuine and beyond anything he had been able to do with his slight of hand. (Acts 8:9-11, 13)

DM-To Simon salvation and the receiving the Holy Spirit was a greater magic than he had been able to perform.  He was so impressed that he was willing to pay money to have it.  Peter saw through his scheme and admonished him to repent of his sinful ways or perish. (Acts 8:9-13, 18-24)

GC-One who comes to Jesus turns away from what is false and believes in that which is true.  We believe when the word was preached and were baptized in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Acts 8:12, 37)

RT-John went from wanting to call down fire from heaven to destroy some of the Samaritans to proclaiming the good news of Christ to them. (Acts 8:14-15, 25)

C-The people who had believed received the Holy Spirit as the apostles laid hands on them. (Acts 8:15-17)

C-Simon, the magician, sought the authority to lay hands upon those he chose to bestow the Holy Spirit.  He offered Peter money to purchase this power.  Peter invoked a curse on him. Simon thought that what God gave as a gift could be bought like some commodity.  Seeing that his plan was a detriment to his own eternal destiny he pleaded with Peter to pray that he might receive forgiveness for his actions. (Acts 8:18-24)

RT-The request of Simon may make us wonder if he was truly saved.  We know by what is said about all of the Samaritans that he had not received the Holy Spirit. (Acts 8:15-17)

GC-The Holy Spirit cannot be purchased but is bestowed through God’s grace on those who truly commit themselves to Jesus. (Acts 8:18-20)

RT-Isn’t this what the whole idea of a religion based on works is all about, being good enough to buy God’s favor? (Acts 8:20)

GC-Our hearts are to be right before God. (Acts 8:21)

 GC-Peter’s reaction to Simon’s request was to admonish him to pray that the sinful intent of his heart be forgiven. (Acts 8:22)

GC-Because of his predicament Simon asked Peter to make intercession for him.  There may be instances when we might be called upon to pray for someone else or have them pray for us in this way because we may feel inadequate to speak to God at that time.    (Acts 8:24; 12:5)

Lesson 14

A Man Along Life’s Highways

Acts 8:25-40

 I can remember as a teenager deciding to read through the book of Isaiah.  Why that book was chosen has faded from my memory.  What I discovered was that it was not easy I thought it would be, especially when the only translation available to me was the King James Version.  After reading a few chapters I became so confused that I quit.  I could not tell who was speaking.  Was it God or Isaiah, I just could not tell.  Because of my confusion the task became overwhelming.  Having experience trying to understand I can identify with the Ethiopian Eunuch.

Even when I seriously began to study the Bible, I found that I needed to start with the easiest editions to  understand what was being said.  Some of the ones that helped me are no longer available.  The Good News for Modern Man and the Living Bible both aided me in understanding God’s word.  Even as I progressed into translations I often used the paraphrase Living Bible to get the meaning of the passage.

One of the reasons we do not feel comfortable and try to avoid situations like the one in which Phillip found himself is our lack of understanding of God’s word.  Many of us would have to trouble to explain almost and passage clearly.  We just do not spend the time in His word that it is obvious that the Jew and Christian did.  Because of our biblical illiteracy the church has suffered in its attempt to face the criticism and to be able to argue on Christ’s behalf.  The idea of arguing is to be able to defend truthfulness of the Scriptures against its opponents.  Believe me they are increasing and are being emboldened by our lack of knowledge.

Acts 8:25

Peter and John spent time in Samaria reinforcing what the people had been taught by Phillip.  They took advantage of the trip back to Jerusalem by preaching in other cities along the way.

Acts 8:26

Following his experience in Samaria Phillip was directed to go down to the Road leading to Gaza.

1. What did God not leave him in Samaria to help the church to grow?
2. How would you have responded to the strange command to leave a dynamic ministry to go to the road that descended from Jerusalem to Gaza?
3. What does Phillips obedience say about his character?

Acts 8:27-28

We begin to see the reason that Phillip was ordered to go to the Gaza Road out in the desert.  Let us look at what the Scripture shares with us about the Ethiopian Eunuch.

• He was probably from present day Sudan and not the country we now know as Ethiopian.
• His position with Candace was that of a treasurer.  Candace may have been a designation for the queen mother of his country and not a proper name.
• He had been to Jerusalem to worship and was returning home.
• His choice of reading would have been somewhat strange since the Jews did not accept the idea of a suffering messiah.

The narrative leaves us questions about this man.

1. Why would he have gone to Jerusalem to worship?
2. As a eunuch what could he expect his reception by the Jews to be?
3. Why would he have come to Jerusalem to take part in the Jewish religion?
4. What does this say about his relationship with God?

His pilgrimage to Jerusalem would indicate some things about him.  Like many he had probably become disenchanted with the worship of the false gods that was so pervasive in his country.  They left him empty thus causing him to turn to the religion of the Jews.  He was either proselyte or a God-fearer.  A proselyte would be a person, even though not a Jew by birth, who accepted the Law and was circumcised into the Jewish religion.  The person who was a God-fearer was one who did not accept the idea of circumcision or like the Ethiopian Eunuch who because of his physical condition would not be allowed to worship in the assembly of the Jews but believed in the God of the Old Testament.   

Acts 8:29-33

Other than the prompting of the Holy Spirit Phillip would have no reason to approach the chariot.  Phillip was commanded to “go up to and join the chariot.”  When he did he noticed the man was reading from Isaiah.  Notice his greeting to the man.  He said, “Do you understand what you are reading?”  What an odd to ask someone whom you have never met.

1. Why would the Ethiopian have chosen Isaiah 53 to read?
2. Why did Phillip feel comfortable asking the question that he did?
3. How would you have done in the same circumstances?
4. What does this encounter say about the spiritual condition of the man?
5. Why do you think he was he had or had not found answers in his search for a relationship with God?
6. What might this say about the Jewish religion and its abilities to meet the needs of man?

The man then answered Phillip with total honesty.  Having been to the seat of the Judaism he had not found the answers for which he was earnestly seeking. 

Acts 8:34-35

The question the Ethiopian asked opened the door for Phillip to share with him the full counsel of God.  The man asked an important question about the identity of the person about whom Isaiah was writing. We are told that Phillip began from Isaiah 53:7 and taught him about Jesus.

1. Why could the Jews not explain this passage to the Ethiopian?
2. What was Phillip able to tell him?
3. How could he go about convincing this man that Jesus was the fulfillment of this Scripture?
4. If this was the beginning point of his teaching what other evidences could Phillip use from the Old Testament?

Acts 8:36-39

1. What was the reaction to the teaching of Phillip?
2. How did the Ethiopian know about baptism?  All proselytes would have been baptized into the Jewish faith.
3. What further explanation was needed before the Ethiopian could be baptized?
4. What was his response that convinced Phillip that the man was truly a candidate for baptism?
5. If you were to judge what took place there in the desert would conclude that the new found faith was based on fact or emotion?  Why do you answer the question in the way you did?
6. What was the reaction of the man after being baptized?

Acts 8:40

Once again we see that Phillip’s task was complete as he was snatched away and found himself in Azotus.  He continued from that point and preached all the way over to Caesarea.   

Thoughts to contemplate over the next week

1.  How would you react if confronted with a like unexpected situation?
2. What are doing in your life that will prepare you for some a time?
3. Do you see yourself more like the Ethiopian with more questions than answers or Phillip who was able to answer the questions because he was prepared both in knowledge and sensitivity to the Spirit?
4. Look for someone who might begin to mentor you if you believe that you need to grow in your relationship with Christ?

As a church we need to take seriously the responsibility of discipleship.  We should never want to leave anyone in the position of the Ethiopian who left a time of worship in Jerusalem without the answers to life’s questions.  We can accomplish this kind of discipleship by providing solid Bible teaching in on campus and off campus small groups.  Those who are wise and mature in their faith should be willing to mentor those who need to grow in the faith.  What would our church look like if this was one of the essentials to be addressed by all of us?  We could then turn loose on the world Stephens and Phillips to be able to give answers for the fact of Jesus Christ and what He has done for us.  Are each of us ready to get in line to go to Samaria, Gaza, Azotus and Caesarea?  

Other Notes:

RT-A person may go to the very seat of a religion and still come away spiritually empty.  A religion can never satisfy the void in one’s life.  It will always leave one famished and thirsty.  Only when he has the truth come alive as revealed in God’s word can he experience the fulfillment which comes to him in Jesus Christ. (Acts 8:26-31)

C-After the events in Samaria Philip was directed by an angel to go to the road between Jerusalem and Gaza.  There he encountered the Ethiopian eunuch who was reading from the book of Isaiah as he travelled, having come from worshipping in Jerusalem.  Philip was told to go up to the man’s chariot where he began a conversation with the man by asking him what he was reading and did he understand it.  The eunuch invited Philip into the chariot.  Philip then explained the passage from Isaiah as it related to Jesus.  Upon hearing the interpretation the eunuch wanted to be baptized having become a believer.  He was baptized by Philip and went on his way home a new man. (Acts 8:26-38)

DM-Phillip was obedient to the instructions of the angel.  He encountered the Ethiopian.  He was the right man for the right time.  Because of his knowledge of the Old Testament prophecy he was able to answer the questions in way that led the Ethiopian to receive Christ. (Acts 8:26-38)

DM-As important as it was for Phillip to be there on the Gaza Road, God was already preparing the heart and mind of the Ethiopian to hear what Phillip would share with him.  He:

1. Had already been to Jerusalem to worship.
2. Was reading from the book of Isaiah about the suffering of the Messiah.
3. Was open to the interpretation of the Scripture given by Phillip.
4. Believed in Christ and was baptized.
5. Went on his way rejoicing at his new found faith.

(Acts 8:26-38)

S-Philip was sent down to Gaza.  There he would encounter the Ethiopian.  By this act of faith he was able to lead the Ethiopian to the Lord. (Acts 8:26-38)

OC-The Ethiopian eunuch had been to the very center of the Jewish religion.  He came away from Jerusalem with questions unanswered that is until he met up with Philip, one of the seven deacons.  Turning to the passage the eunuch was reading he used it to lead him onto the path to a new life. (Acts 8:27-37)

GC-People are to receive guidance in a way that they will understand what the Scripture  says.  This guidance implies a responsibility on everyone’s part to read and study on their own in order to gain understanding. (Acts 8:31; Rom. 15:4)

GC-Whenever we teach or preach about Jesus it should always from the background of the Scripture. (Acts 8:35)

GC-To be effective in our witness we must use the Scripture as our foundation to show Christ to the world. (Acts 8:35)

RT-The beginning point of every opportunity to witness is to be the Scriptures.  Even though the exact words may not be quoted, it is the source of the salvation narrative and the plan of God. (Acts 8:35)

C-The Spirit of God snatched Philip away and he found himself in Azotus.  He preached not only there but along the way until he came to Caeserea. (Acts 8:39-40)

S-What a way to be sent to a new mission field, Philip was snatch up after the Ethiopian was baptized and was plopped down in the middle of Azotus.  He immediately began to preach as he went on his way.  (Acts 8:40)

DM-Phillip preached wherever he was sent. (8:40)

GC-We are to share the gospel everywhere we go.                                                        (Acts 8:40; 13:5; Rom. 1:15; 15:19-20)