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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 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 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 false religions that were 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)

 

Lesson 13

Making Lemons into Lemonade

Acts 8

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 this early date is to watch the robes while the others did the dirty work of stoning Stephen. Secondly, with the death of Stephen there is 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 comes 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)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stephen Beyond the Box

Lesson 12

Acts 6:8-7:60

As I reflect on my life up to now I have to wonder how many opportunities I have missed by failing to prepare my heart and mind for all that was open to me. In some ways it is too late to say, “If I had only ________________ .” (There are probably too many things to go in the blank) Having said that, it still amazes me the things that God has allow me to accomplish.   It has been a difficult lesson to learn that there is a world of difference between actual strengths and perceived weaknesses which are sometimes self-imposed. If someone had told me thirty some years ago that I would be writing, teaching and speaking as I am able to do I would have said there is no way that any of that would happen. The question I have to ask myself, who knows what I can do if I avail myself of working at the gifts that God has given me?

How often do we hinder ourselves and the church by hiding behind our supposed inadequacies? We fail to recognize that God has given each of us spiritual gifts to grow His kingdom and glorify him. We come up short because we do not want to spend the time and effort first to discover what those gifts are and then to mature them through study and service. We hold on to what is comfortable because we are not willing to pay the price of taking risks that may cause personal discomfort by will grow God’s kingdom. We need to remember it is not about us but God.

Stephen will be our focus for the lesson this Sunday. His ministry was short-lived but had great impact on the events that followed in the book of Acts. He was first introduced to us as one of the seven men in Acts 6:5 as a man “full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” The rest of chapter six and all of chapter seven will show how these characteristics manifested themselves in a greater way than the administration of the distribution of food.

Acts 6:8

As Stephen stepped onto center stage we are told of two other characteristics that he possessed. He was full of grace and power. It is easy to understand what is meant by power. Grace presents a little more of a challenge. The Greek work use here is charis. It is the word from which we get charisma. Some of the possible meanings are God’s favor, kindness and gifts. The context would indicate either God’s favor or His hand was upon him. How else would he have been able to perform the great wonders and signs mentioned this verse.

 

 

Acts 6:9-10

The fact that the men of the Synagogue of the Freedmen began to dispute with Stephen would indicate that he was also proclaiming the gospel. His audience was probably made up of the Hellenistic Jews. They would be a perfect fit for a Hellenistic Christian like Stephen. It would be questionable if he would have had much success among the home grown Jewish population.

So who were the Freedmen to which this verse refers? These men were either first generation or the descendents of those who had been enslaved by the Romans and then given their freedom. Although they had migrated to Jerusalem they had come from present day Libya (Cyrene), Alexandria in Egypt, and parts of present day Turkey (Cilicia and Asia minor) In the case of Paul who was from Tarsus in Cilicia, we know that the families were also given Roman citizenship.

Although they tried the Bible tells us that they were “unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking.”

1. What would have been the difference between what Stephen was sharing and the arguments that the Freedmen put forth?
2. What does it say about the position of each of them?
3. Why could the Freedmen not refute the arguments of Stephen?
4. In what ways does Matthew 10:19-20 apply to this situation which reads, “But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for it will be given to you in that hour what you are to say. For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.”
5. When we get into a discussion about our faith are we like Stephen or are we more like the Freedmen?
6. In what ways are we like either of them?

Acts 6:11-14

The actions of the Freedmen along with those they enlisted were very predictable. When the defense of their position failed the Jews resorted to twisting of the truth and personal attacks. Their claims consisted of the same old arguments made against Jesus and the apostles used before.

• Breaking of the Law of Moses thus blaspheming God
• Destruction of the Temple and the Law

 

1. What generally happens when a person is backed into a position he or she cannot defend?
2. As we have asked before who was really on trial here?
3. What do the accusations made by the mob indicate about them?

Acts 6:15

What a contrast Luke shares in this verse. Most of us have been on the receiving end of a look was described as “fixing their gaze on him.” Compare the intensity of their stare with the way Stephen appeared to them. His appearance was “like the face of an angel.” How many of you have been around someone who just seems to radiate with the Holy Spirit?

1. What does the gaze of the Council indicate about them?
2. How different were they from Stephen?
3. What could expected to happen at the trial?

 

Acts 7:1

The high priests gave Stephen the opportunity to respond to the charges.

Acts 7:2-53

For the next 51 verses Stephen gave his answer to their question. Instead of defending himself he began to share a short version of the history of Israel. We will deal with each section by first making one point about each of person then give a short explanation of the events of their lives as they interacted with God.

Abraham – God established His covenant with a people beginning with Abraham.

1. He was called to leave from Ur then Haran and move into Canaan. Acts 7:2-4
2. He did not receive an inheritance in the land into which he moved. Acts 7:5
3. He was promised that although the land would be his inheritance his descendents would be slaves in a foreign country for four hundred years and then they would return to the land.

Acts 7:5-7

4. The covenant of circumcision was given to Abraham at that time. Acts 7:8
5. Finally, the son of promise was born to Sarah and him. Acts 7:8
6. Isaac became the father of Jacob who became the father of the 12 patriarchs. Acts 7:8

Joseph- Through Joseph, the Israelites were preserved in Egypt during the time of the famine. Joseph   told his brothers that, “God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant in the earth, and to keep alive by a great deliverance. Gen. 45:7

1. Joseph was sold into slavery in Egypt. Acts 7:9
2. God intervened in his life and he finally became governor of Egypt, second in rank to the Pharaoh. Acts 7:10
3. Joseph’s brothers came to Egypt to purchase grain during the seven year famine. Acts 7:11-12
4. It was on the second trip to Egypt that Joseph revealed himself to his brothers. Acts 7:13
5. Joseph brought his whole family to Egypt to preserve them. Acts 7:14-15
6. After the patriarchs died they were buried in Shechem. Acts 7:16

The next verses set the stage for the coming of Moses who would bring about the redemption of the children of Israel out of slavery in Egypt.

1. The people multiplied into a great nation during the 400 years of slavery of Egypt that God prophesized to Abraham. Acts 7:17
2. An important factor was that a Pharaoh came into power who forgot all that Joseph had done for Egypt. Acts 7:18
3. The Pharaoh treated the people harshly. Acts 7:19

Moses- The person who God chose to redeem His people out of Egypt came on the scene.

1. Moses was born and saved from destruction. Acts 7:20
2. He was raised as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. Acts 7:21
3. He was educated as a prince in all the field of learning available in Egypt. Acts 7:22
4. He murdered an Egyptian and had to flee for his life. Acts 7:23-29
5. After spending forty years in the exile, God called him out of the burning bush to lead the nation of Israel out of Egypt. Acts 7:30-34
6. He became both ruler and judge to the Israelites to deliver them out of bondage. Acts 7:35
7. He led them through the desert for forty years. Acts 7:36
8. Moses told the people at one point that “God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brethren.” Deut. 18:15 and Acts 7:37
9. Moses received the living oracles from God to “pass on to the people.” Acts 7:38
10. While Moses was on the mountain the people were disobedient to God’s commands and wanted to return to Egypt and asked Aaron to make an idol for them to worship. Acts 7:39-40
11. God turned His back on them. Acts 7:41
12. During the forty years they worshiped the false gods Moloch and Rompha. Acts 7:42-43
13. The tabernacle was build according to the instructions given Moses in the desert and carried into the Promised land by Joshua. Acts 7:44-45

David and Solomon provided a permanent place for worship. David planned for the temple and Solomon actually built it. Acts 7:46-47

As we look back on what has been shared there are some questions to be answered.

1. Why did God use those particular men to do His work?
2. What were their strengths?
3. In what ways did they have to overcome their limitations?
4. What obstacles did they face in the journey prepared for them?
5. What hope does their story provide for us?

Acts 7:48-50

From Isaiah 66 Stephen shares the transcendent nature of God. Heaven is His home not any building that can be fabricated by men. He was the creator of all things. In the last verse of the passage from Isaiah there is a very important question asked, “Was it not My hand which made all these things?”

1. What was God asking the Jews with this question?
2. What was Stephen trying to emphasis by using this particular verse?
3. If God had done all of the things that Stephen had shared what more did He have in store for them?
4. How would you answer the question
5. Why it important for us to acknowledge what God did for the Jews in the past?
6. How did all of those things affect us today?

Acts 7:51-53

All that had been said before was preparation for the charges that Stephen was going to make in the following verses. He said of the Jews that, they:

1. Men who were stiff-necked meaning they were stubborn and determined to go their own way.
2. Men who were uncircumcised in heart. Their relationship with God was only external and not real.
3. Resisted the Holy Spirit.
4. Were persecutors of the prophets.
5. Killed those who prophesied of the coming Messiah.
6. Were those who betrayed and murdered the Righteous One.
7. Had received the law through Moses but had not kept it from the time it was given.

Acts 7:54-60

Rather than repenting they actually confirmed the words of Stephen by their response to him. Accused of these things we can understand the reaction of men who were guilty of each of them. What a contrast we have here between the anger of the men who had heard the words condemning them and the peace of one who was “full of the Holy Spirit.”

While they were:

1. Being cut to the quick.
2. Gnashing their teeth at him. We can almost imagine them growling.

Stephen was:

1. Gazing intently into heaven and seeing the glory of God.
2. Seeing Jesus at the right hand of God ready to receive him and possibly speaking on his  behalf before the Father.
3. Describing what he saw to his accusers.

 

These final statements caused the mob to

1. Holler
2. Cover their years
3. Rush upon him
4. Drove him out of the city.
5. Begin stoning him.

Stephen then asked to things

1. Lord Jesus receive my spirit
2. Forgive these men who do not know what they are doing.

And Stephen died.

During the coming week spend some time reflecting of those things that you think are limiting factors in your service to Christ. Begin to honestly look at your Spiritual gifts, passions, abilities, personality and experiences to see how they may be used in the Church.   If you have not taken class 301, which is available to you here at Bethany Place, consider participating in it. It will help you discover how God has wired you.

We need to look for those places in the Church where we may serve. At first they may not be comfortable because each will have with it a learning curve. We need to begin to understand that God has provided all of the resources for Bethany Place to minister in our community. We need to avail ourselves of all He has given and be willing to use them for His glory. We can make the whole greater than each individual part if we allow ourselves to operate under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Let Stephen be our example of those who have a can do attitude.

Additional Notes:

Looking at the brief history shared in these verses here are some random thoughts.

1. What role did the people play in all that took place?
2. Who were the primary players and what was their part?
3. Who was the Director?
4. How did all of the events play out according to His plan for His people?
5. How much of their history looks like what has occurred in our own lives?

We too have a history.

1. In what ways are we like the Jews to whom Stephen spoke?
2. In what ways are we like Stephen?
3. If all of the events about which Stephen spoke were part of a giant mosaic what are the pieces that he would have said were missing in the lives of the Jews and possibly us as well?
4. Why are these pieces so important?
5. What might be the consequences in not having all of them to complete the design?

Summary of what has been discussed above. (In my own words)

God gave you (The Jews) to be His children through the covenant with Abraham. You were preserved and kept safe beginning with Joseph. He used Moses to bring about your rescue and redemption out of Egypt. As His people you received the law and both the tabernacle and the Temple for the sacrifices for sin and worship. You have however rebelled continually throughout your history against the very God who has provided you everything you need.

If all that was not enough you have persecuted and killed the prophets who were sent to speak against your godless actions and bring you back to the Father and who spoke of the coming Messiah. The final act of rebellion was to take part in the killing of the Righteous One.

Stephen

Refuted the charges by using what God had said in His word. While we might be quick to defend ourselves with the old standard, I am not or I did not, he proceeds to build a case with his selective telling of the history of his people. Although on the surface it does not appear to answer the charges, with the telling of the narrative found in the Old Testament he accomplishes what he set out to do.

The Holy Spirit directed him to use those examples in making his defense. Stephen was not really the one on trial. The Jews once again were the ones who had defend their rejection of the Messiah. They attacked him to stop the spread of the evidence against all they had done.

1. Why did Stephen not openly defend himself? (The cause of Christ is greater than any man.
2. Why did he use the approach he did? They had already heard the gospel spoken by Stephen and had see the miracles performed and had rejected all of the evidence. What more could he say on his behalf?
3. What was he saying about the men with the evidence he presented? For all of the opportunities they had been given they had hardened their hearts to what was being proclaimed and were disobedient in the fashion of their ancestors.
4. Although the Jews claimed that Jesus and now Stephen spoke of the destruction of the law and the temple, they had already broken the law and their refusal to believe in the Messiah would bring the downfall of the nation and the destruction of the temple. Stephen saw no need to defend that which would ultimately take place.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Church of Genuine Teamwork

Lesson 11

Acts 6:1-7

I would consider myself the typical male. If it comes to things to be done around the house I will try almost anything including those skills for which I have had no training. There are some projects like painting , carpentry , some plumbing and simple electrical work that my wife will let me do. There are times however when she puts her foot down and calls in a professional. I don’t understand why, but I submit to her wishes even though I just know I could have done the job.

GPS’s were made for people like me who will not admit to be lost. Even with those things I still think I can get us there another way. When I do that I usually make a wrong turn somewhere and wind up having to back track or taking a longer route thus wasting precious time.

My experiences at home have been a good lesson for me at church. Quite often I have to realize that there are many things I cannot do, well maybe I could try them but the results would be inferior at best. I leave the leading of the music ministry, drama, finances and building and grounds for example to those who know what they are doing. I need all of the other people in my life to help things run smoothly and to carry on God’s work.

The experiences of the past number of years have shown us that the church is not a one man/woman show. There is just too many things to be done even on a daily basis for one person to think that they have the capability to do everything. This attitude leads to confusion, frustration and an apathetic spirit among the members. Each person truly wants to be part of something significant. Deep down we realize that each one of us is part of the greater body for a reason. We should gain some amount of comfort from knowing that we are not expected to accomplish the task all by ourselves. Not including others causes us to waste time and energy. Bringing others along on the journey makes for a pleasant trip and everyone then knows where we are headed.

Before looking at the Scripture for today, let’s look at what brought the church to the situation found in today’s lesson of defining specific roles needed for the church to continue to grow.

• In Acts 1:8 the disciples were given the task of taking the gospel to the whole world.
• The day of Pentecost came and three were added to the church. These new converts needed to be discipled and become part of a new community. (Acts 2:41-42)
• An additional five thousand were added to the ranks after the arrest of Peter and John. (Acts 4:4)
• In Acts 5:14-16 we see the church continued to grow to the extent that the apostles could no longer minister the believers individually but that those who were sick had to be brought to the place where Peter might pass by to be healed.
• Finally we read that, “Every day, in the temple and from house to house, they kept right on teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.” (Acts 5:42)
• The lesson for today continues this theme of the growth of the church.

In each of the above examples there is a common thread that can be seen. The apostles were either teaching/preaching or healing.

1. What does this say to us about the ministry of the apostles?
2. What might be missing if these are their two primary responsibilities?

Acts 6:1

The ever increasing number of disciples caused a complaint to arise. It was not the numbers of new believers that brought on the problem, but the fact that now there were Jews with different cultural backgrounds involved.

1. Who were the two different groups?
2. What made them different?
3. Why would this lead to the situation in verse 1? The Hebrew Jewish Christians would believe they were superior because they had always lived in the homeland and maintained the Jewish traditions so they would expect preferential treatment. The Greeks were outsiders who had migrated to Jerusalem and brought the Greek culture with them and spoke Greek.

Acts 6:2-4

As leaders, the apostles stepped in to resolve the problem. They took a different approach than the church might have expected.

1. Why did the apostles not just go in and issue a decree to make sure the women received food?
2. What do you think of the approach they took?
3. What does the way they dealt with the problem say about them?
4. In what way was it a better solution?
5. What does this say to us about the way they now viewed the church?

As mentioned above the church had grown exponentially and it would was becoming more difficult if not impossible for the apostles to handle everything. They understood very clearly that to try to do too many things would not allow them to do any of them well. The church was therefore informed that they viewed their leadership roles as being the main teachers and the ones who would consistently pray for the church. This did not mean that they viewed any of these other ministry needs of the church less important.

The congregation was therefore called together to choose men to handle this ministry need. There are two important things happening here. First the congregation was given the responsibility of making the decisions of the church. Two, the men chosen were from within the body. Third, All of the men had Greek names. This means the congregation chose those who would have a clear understanding of the particular ministry need of the congregation.

Now there are three different roles in the early church.

• The apostles, who would be the teaching/preaching and praying leaders who cared for the entire church but not with a hands on involvement with every ministry. These men were the first church leaders who in our churches today would be the pastors, elders and overseers of the body.
• Those called Deacons in today’s church. A better term might be ministry team leaders. These men would administer the distribution of the food in Acts 6. After being selected they were affirmed by the apostles to carry on the work by the laying on of hands.

1. What kind of men did the congregation pick?
2. What were the outstanding qualities did they possess?
3. What was the significance that each of the seven had a Greek name thus indicating they were all Greek?
4. How would those attributes help them in the ministry to which they had been called?

• The congregation who would choose those who would lead, except for the apostles, and would participate in the ministry taking place at that time.

Acts 6:7

The apostles were allowed to continue to focus on God’s word in study and sharing of it. They were not shackled by everyday details, therefore the word kept spreading. Because the church dealt with the issue in a way that was God honoring, the church continued to grow.

All that was taking place finally began to break through the fortress of the law that the priests had built around them. Many of them became “obedient to the faith.”

Over the last two weeks you have heard explained in different ways what the biblical form of church leadership and the qualifications of those who would fill those positions. Now is the time for you to prayerfully consider the direction the church should take. You will be given ample opportunity to give your input on this matter. If is important that you participate in this study that could affect the church for many years to come. The more knowledge you have about church leadership the better decision you will be able to make.

Over the time period given to study leadership models we will come to understand what the New Testament from Acts through the Epistles has to say to us. We will notice that although given the model of leadership (form) that God’s word does not give us a set of rules by which we are to carry out the ministry of Bethany Place (function). What worked for the first century church in meeting the needs of the people may not and probably would not in our unique church setting and culture. Every church operates in a different environment and time.

Together we can determine what we want the church to look like under God’s guidance over the next few years. All of the details of how we will minister have been left to us to work out. Now is the time to possibly reshape who we are so that Bethany Place can be a viable part of God’s work in this community. We have the opportunity to impact the future in a meaningful way .