STEPHEN: THE MAN, THE MARTYR
#777 STEPHEN: THE MAN, THE MARTYR
Scripture Acts 6:9 – 7:59, NIV Orig. 3/2/1980
Rewr. 10/28/1987
Passage: 9 Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia—who began to argue with Stephen. 10 But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke. 11 Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, “We have heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God.” 12 So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. 13 They produced false witnesses, who testified, “This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. 14 For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs Moses handed down to us.” 15 All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.
Stephen’s Speech to the Sanhedrin
7 Then the high priest asked Stephen, “Are these charges true?” 2 To this he replied: “Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Harran. 3 ‘Leave your country and your people,’ God said, ‘and go to the land I will show you.’[a] 4 “So he left the land of the Chaldeans and settled in Harran. After the death of his father, God sent him to this land where you are now living. 5 He gave him no inheritance here, not even enough ground to set his foot on. But God promised him that he and his descendants after him would possess the land, even though at that time Abraham had no child. 6 God spoke to him in this way: ‘For four hundred years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own, and they will be enslaved and mistreated. 7 But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves,’ God said, ‘and afterward they will come out of that country and worship me in this place.’[b] 8 Then he gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision. And Abraham became the father of Isaac and circumcised him eight days after his birth. Later Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of the twelve patriarchs.
9 “Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him 10 and rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh king of Egypt. So Pharaoh made him ruler over Egypt and all his palace.
11 “Then a famine struck all Egypt and Canaan, bringing great suffering, and our ancestors could not find food. 12 When Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent our forefathers on their first visit. 13 On their second visit, Joseph told his brothers who he was, and Pharaoh learned about Joseph’s family. 14 After this, Joseph sent for his father Jacob and his whole family, seventy-five in all. 15 Then Jacob went down to Egypt, where he and our ancestors died. 16 Their bodies were brought back to Shechem and placed in the tomb that Abraham had bought from the sons of Hamor at Shechem for a certain sum of money. 17 “As the time drew near for God to fulfill his promise to Abraham, the number of our people in Egypt had greatly increased. 18 Then ‘a new king, to whom Joseph meant nothing, came to power in Egypt.’[c] 19 He dealt treacherously with our people and oppressed our ancestors by forcing them to throw out their newborn babies so that they would die. 20 “At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child.[d] For three months he was cared for by his family. 21 When he was placed outside, Pharaoh’s daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. 22 Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action. 23 “When Moses was forty years old, he decided to visit his own people, the Israelites. 24 He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. 25 Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. 26 The next day Moses came upon two Israelites who were fighting. He tried to reconcile them by saying, ‘Men, you are brothers; why do you want to hurt each other?’ 27 “But the man who was mistreating the other pushed Moses aside and said, ‘Who made you ruler and judge over us? 28 Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?’[e] 29 When Moses heard this, he fled to Midian, where he settled as a foreigner and had two sons. 30 “After forty years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai. 31 When he saw this, he was amazed at the sight. As he went over to get a closer look, he heard the Lord say: 32 ‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.’[f] Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look.
33 “Then the Lord said to him, ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. 34 I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free. Now come, I will send you back to Egypt.’[g] 35 “This is the same Moses they had rejected with the words, ‘Who made you ruler and judge?’ He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36 He led them out of Egypt and performed wonders and signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea and for forty years in the wilderness. 37 “This is the Moses who told the Israelites, ‘God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people.’[h] 38 He was in the assembly in the wilderness, with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our ancestors; and he received living words to pass on to us.
39 “But our ancestors refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt. 40 They told Aaron, ‘Make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who led us out of Egypt—we don’t know what has happened to him!’[i] 41 That was the time they made an idol in the form of a calf. They brought sacrifices to it and reveled in what their own hands had made. 42 But God turned away from them and gave them over to the worship of the sun, moon and stars. This agrees with what is written in the book of the prophets:
“‘Did you bring me sacrifices and offerings
forty years in the wilderness, people of Israel?
43 You have taken up the tabernacle of Molek
and the star of your god Rephan,
the idols you made to worship.
Therefore I will send you into exile’[j] beyond Babylon.
44 “Our ancestors had the tabernacle of the covenant law with them in the wilderness. It had been made as God directed Moses, according to the pattern he had seen. 45 After receiving the tabernacle, our ancestors under Joshua brought it with them when they took the land from the nations God drove out before them. It remained in the land until the time of David, 46 who enjoyed God’s favor and asked that he might provide a dwelling place for the God of Jacob.[k] 47 But it was Solomon who built a house for him. 48 “However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands. As the prophet says:
49 “‘Heaven is my throne,
and the earth is my footstool.
What kind of house will you build for me?
says the Lord.
Or where will my resting place be?
50 Has not my hand made all these things?’[l]
51 “You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit! 52 Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him— 53 you who have received the law that was given through angels but have not obeyed it.”
The Stoning of Stephen
54 When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” 57 At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.
59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
Purpose: An in-depth look at a major passage from Acts with a specific purpose of isolating a man, his message, and martyrdom.
Keywords: Bible Study Word of God Christ as Saviour
Surrender Commitment Truth
Timeline/Series: Acts
Introduction
We are aware that the Jewish people have paid a particularly high price over the centuries to maintain their national entity. The Bible gives permanent record to some of these exceedingly unpleasant experiences. Any competent history of Palestine will tell the rest of the story.
Just since the time of Christ, we know of the grim four-year war between Jews and Romans about 70A.D. Half-century later, the Bar Kokhba revolt with a 3 year independence. There were battles with the Persians in the 7th Century, and with the Muslims, soon after. (614, 638) In the 10th/11th Centuries the Crusaders entered the Holy Land in an effort to restore the land of Christ to the followers of Christ. Christians, Jews, and Muslims were dying by the thousands in these confrontations. Time hardly permits discussion of more current expulsions that reveal persecutions from Spain to Russia, and even of death camps in Germany and Poland. The word “ghetto” comes from a district in Venice where Jews were forced to live under stringent privation.
Christians have also suffered, but for different reasons. Over the centuries, the single most constant threat against believers was their attachment to Christ. They have been imprisoned, scourged, impaled upon crosses. They have been denied right to property, redress of grievances, for no other reason than their faith in Christ.
The history of Christendom over the first three centuries was written in the blood of the martyrs. In Rome you can still visit the Colosseum where so many died, and walk through the catacombs where they hid from their tormentors. Leonard Griffith wrote, “Every dictatorship of the past nineteen centuries, including totalitarian regimes in part of the world today, has singled out the church as the number one enemy to be crushed and exterminated.”
No doubt, it started with Christ himself, but Stephen was the first human fodder that fed these flames of extermination. Thus, we review, “Stephen: the Man, the Martyr.”
I. The Man. 6:8, “Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people.” Back up briefly to the prior verse. The word increasing. Disciples multiplying. Suddenly, there is confrontation. See v9. May be weeks/months between v7 and v8 [chapter 6].
Stephen was a natural leader, made moreso by his allegiance to Christ. 6:8 indicates he was chosen deacon (?) not in the text 6:1 service 6:2 serve. That he was a man “full of faith, Holy Ghost.” He, with six others chosen for tasks, not for honor; singled out to serve not to be served. As Amos Wells says (B32p267) “when the deacons had more to do than pass the contribution box on Sunday.” The ministry to be sustained was the benevolent care of those without support, mainly older women without children.
Not only was he a natural leader, he was a man of charity. Actually, 6:5 pisteos is different from 6:8 charitos, “grace.” The word is “unmerited favor.” He was given to helping those who couldn’t repay favors. How many people have we helped who can never return the favor? The danger of the deacon-business is in coming to think this is their bailiwick. He wanted to help, and he wanted no plaudits or praise. He added to his monumental duties, the care of the Hellenist Jewish so that the apostles were free to preach.
After chapter 7, mentioned only three times: 8:2 his burial; 11:19 persecution; 22:20 Paul’s testimony.
II. The Man and His Message. 7:1, “The High Priest asked him, ‘Are these charges true?’ To this he replied, ‘Brothers and fathers, listen to me.’” Fifty-nine verses go on to declare what he believed. He does not directly answer the High Priest. False witnesses were claiming that he was preaching Christ would destroy the temple: The charge brought against Jesus; Mark 14:57f, “I will destroy temple.” Perhaps they heard him quote Jesus and interpreted Him loosely. We do that.
He answers with a discourse on history. There was the call of God to Abram 2-7. Without either Temple or Law, off the sacred soil of Palestine. The true Israel not bound to a scheme or a place. Then he reminds them of Patriarch and of covenant 8-12. Calling attention to the covenant with Abraham he noted that they had then moved against one of their own (Joseph), but God’s sovereignty dispelled faithfulness. With this he turns to Joseph, 13-19. Their history is of God’s providence. It is a history cheapened by their outrageous rejection of deliverers whom God had sent (Redeemer/Messiah). Breach of covenant resulted all of their struggles to survive, even in Egypt, and through to Assyria/Babylon. There is disparity in numbers. Genesis 46:26 (66), 27 (70 + Jacob/Joseph/2 sons), Exodus 1:5 (70), Acts 7:14 (75).
Next comes a lengthy treatment of Moses. A deliverer chosen, rejected, (40y). In Midian, chosen, returned, Exodus, rejected in wilderness, become idolaters. V40, “Make us gods to go before.” V37, Reminding them of Messianic promise “prophet like unto me.” Above from Deuteronomy 18:15, 18. Then, Stephen delivers a stunning blow of the inadequacy of the temple, vv.44-50. Jews believed SHEKINAH glory there. They worshipped place rather than the God of the place. He delivers a scathing denouncement: “resist the Holy Ghost” (v51), “persecuted prophets, . . . murdered Jesus” (v52); he is persistent in their guilt, but distressed over their unbelief.
III. The Martyrdom of the Man but not the Message. V58, “They dragged him out of the city and began to stone him.” He has moved deliberately through discourse. An eternal truth about abode of God: V48, “The Most High does not live in houses made by men.” I Kings 8:27, “Will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, the heaven, and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee, how much less this house that I have built?” Jeremiah 23:23, “I am a God at hand, saith the Lord.” Perhaps, between 50 and 51 hecklers.
Sensing the mood, he perhaps knows his time is short. This crowd won’t be back next week. Their history is one of resistance. The Law has not failed, they have failed to do it justice. V53, You have “received the law . . . and have not kept it.” Next, the Holy Spirit gives Stephen a vision of the heavenly court, and Jesus. Not seated as if at rest, [but] “standing” at God’s hand suggesting intercession. Deuteronomy 13:6f was their proof text. Convinced he enticed them from Jehovah, they took final action. Perhaps even to Golgotha. Without consent of Roman officials. To what purpose did he die? 8:1, “And Saul was consenting unto his death.”
Conclusion
Is there anybody in your life that you just can not forget? Parent, family member, teacher, whose influence remains? Has there been a thing done in the name of Jesus that just does not pass beyond recall? Stephen’s death was that and more to Saul of Tarsus. Stephen: the Man, the Martyr.
LINKS/REFERENCES
Griffith: https://www.yorkminsterpark.com/blog/rev-dr-a-leonard-griffith-1920-2019/
A NEW DAY FOR THE CHURCH
#776 A NEW DAY FOR THE CHURCH
Scripture Acts 6:1-7, NIV Orig. 2/24/1980
Rewr. 11/21/1987
Passage: In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews[a] among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3 Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
5 This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6 They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
7 So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
Purpose: Using this study from Acts to give impetus to the church at a time when consideration is being given to the selection of deacons.
Keywords: Bible Study Holy Spirit Priorities Deaconship
Vision
Introduction
A day of grave concern has come over the followers of Christ. As a church, they have faced external crises before. Now, they are faced by concerns that are internal. Things are happening that are stimulated by the people themselves.
They had been forewarned that Satan was their enemy. That he would seek to unsettle their fellowship. Satan, of course, thought that those external rumblings would be sufficient. Now he understands that new forces must be called forth if he is to succeed and the church is to fail. So, the next line of attack will be from within the family of faith.
One of the truly insightful authors of contemporary Christian books is C.S. Lewis. It was he who wrote The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. One that hasn’t made it to television was a book [(The Screwtape Letters)] which came out as a series of articles written for Saturday Evening Post. Mr. Lewis was commissioned to write a series of so-called letters from the devil. Satan, called “Screwtape,” is writing one of his henchmen, here called “Wormwood.”
I quote, “My dear Wormwood, I note with grave displeasure that your patient has become a Christian. . . . We must make the best of the situation. There is no need to despair; hundreds of these adult converts have been reclaimed after a brief sojourn in the enemy’s camp and are now with us. All the habits of the patient, both mental and bodily, are still in our favor. One of our great allies at present is the church itself.”
He goes on to explain this in acceptable terminology. People often fail to live their faith clearly.
I. The New Day Was a Day of Vision. Acts 6:1, “There arose a murmuring on the part of the non-local Jews (Hellenists) because some of their widows were being neglected.”
It was visionary because it brought insight concerning one of their problems. Ephesians 5:13, “But everything exposed by the light becomes visible.” It is important for Christians of any era to be open, honest, forthright. Too much sensitivity, and directives, needed for growth, go lacking. Pride causes too many, rather than being honest, [to show] artificiality about our faith.
The text speaks of “murmurings.” There are two kinds. There is the murmuring of the malcontent. There is the murmuring of concern: The Greek here seems to suggest a very private outcry, rather than a public one; it is directed toward the apostles; it seems that they were doing everything needful.
Vision has its inception when we see a need and seek to meet it. Every significant mission project begins thusly. Church in Slidell beginning preaching point in truck stop.
Churches must reckon with their communities and reach out in Christ’s name. The apostles were being leaned on heavily. Limits had been reached. What other people were uniquely fitted to serve these needs? Not a separation of clergy/laity. Jesus taught them a prayer lesson. They were to commit themselves and pray.
Every believer has a place of service. Find it. Engage it loyally.
Vision brought the local congregation to the place of expansion. It is expansion for service. It is acknowledgment of faithfulness.
II. This New Day Was Also a Day of Visitation. Acts 6:3f, “Brothers, choose seven men from among you who have proven themselves to be full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom; we will turn this responsibility over to them, and give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
To these early believers, the leadership of God came in a spectacular way. A problem arose. They faced it honestly and forthrightly. God used the inner, spiritual resources of the people themselves to solve the problem. What it boiled down to, was a variance in the church among those who were natives, and those who were not. The homefolks continued to expect ministry from the primary leaders. Others, who had moved in from Roman towns, though they were Jews, were not being ministered to at all. The leaders could not get to it all. Some thought these not entitled to this ministry. Sounds familiar.
It was divine intervention calling believers to ministry, to a place of service. Many churches face perplexing internal rifts. Fortunate is the church that is able to settle the problems honorably. They can disagree without being disagreeable. Their murmurings are the murmurings of concern. Words spoken about the church are spoken in love. When limitations are recognized, how important it is to be a part of the cure rather than the problem. Offer help to those who are overextended. Faithfully pray for staff, and offer sincere assistance. “All his money is tied up in mops.”
God’s most significant work with His people is with the whole of the people. Second year in wilderness: Numbers 2:17. Left Sinai: “Every man in his place by their standards.” They didn’t stay. Centuries passed. Hebrews have returned from captivity. The Samaritans had controlled their homeland for half-century. Tough times ahead: Nehemiah 4:6, “the people had a mind to work.” “We made our prayer to God and set a watch against them.” V16, “Half the people wrought in the work; others held spears, bows, etc.”
We see here in Jerusalem an endeavor of cooperative faith.
III. As it Was a Day of Vision and Visitation, it Was also a Day of Victory. V7, “And the word of God grew, and the number of disciples in Jerusalem multiplied greatly, and a great crowd of priests obeyed the faith.”
The Bible didn’t get thicker; the people were now better able to deliver its message. The seven chosen were men best able to serve the needs of Hellenist Jews. Others were serving Palestinians. These all had Greek names, and thus shared a cultural purpose. It is reasonable that other needs would be met by other selected people. They were not chosen primarily as proclaimers, but as practitioners. Simeone: “An idea is not yours until it comes out of your fingertips.”
What were the qualifications? (a)Men; (b)reputable; (c)believers; (d)spiritual; (e)wise. How often are we guilty of selecting people on basis of popularity rather than proven service? How important that people not withhold themselves from opportunities of service.
Note please that the Word had to begin to grow in effectiveness before other good things could happen. Deuteronomy 8:3, “Man does not live by bread alone . . . but by every word of God.” Psalm 119:130, “The entrance of thy words giveth light.” Ephesians 6:17, The battle “gear” for the believer is topped off with the “sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.”
Conclusion
Back in the seventies, some people were spotlighted who were unwilling to take up arms to defend the homeland. Some even burned their draft cards. It is not unlike the case of believers who for all practical purposes have burned their “commitment” cards.
OPENED DOORS AND CLOSED MINDS
#775 OPENED DOORS AND CLOSED MINDS
Scripture Acts 5:17-42, NIV Orig. 2/17/1980
Passage: 17 Then the high priest and all his associates, who were members of the party of the Sadducees, were filled with jealousy. 18 They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. 19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. 20 “Go, stand in the temple courts,” he said, “and tell the people all about this new life.”
21 At daybreak they entered the temple courts, as they had been told, and began to teach the people.
When the high priest and his associates arrived, they called together the Sanhedrin—the full assembly of the elders of Israel—and sent to the jail for the apostles. 22 But on arriving at the jail, the officers did not find them there. So they went back and reported, 23 “We found the jail securely locked, with the guards standing at the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside.” 24 On hearing this report, the captain of the temple guard and the chief priests were at a loss, wondering what this might lead to.
25 Then someone came and said, “Look! The men you put in jail are standing in the temple courts teaching the people.” 26 At that, the captain went with his officers and brought the apostles. They did not use force, because they feared that the people would stone them.
27 The apostles were brought in and made to appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. 28 “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.”
29 Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings! 30 The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from the dead—whom you killed by hanging him on a cross. 31 God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins. 32 We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
33 When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. 34 But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. 35 Then he addressed the Sanhedrin: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. 36 Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. 37 After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. 38 Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. 39 But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
40 His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.
Purpose: To teach the message of the Book of Acts, that we as God’s own people are to be faithful to Him above all of the other events of our lives.
Keywords: Bible Study, Acts Testimony Faithfulness Trust
Timeline/Series: Acts
Introduction
One of the interesting early stories out of the Olympic Games was that of the Taiwanese. You will recall that it had its inception years ago, when a small colony of Chinese took up their positions on the island fortress of Formosa, and with America’s firm resolve, dared the red Chinese military machine to do anything about it. They referred to themselves as the true republic of China, and flew the flag of their homeland.
But in more recent days, the doors of communication and commerce have opened between China and America. In an effort to keep that door open, earth-shaking decisions had to be made about that national entity and flag that have sent Taiwanese/American relations reeling.
The Taiwanese try to enter the ’76 Olympics under the name and flag of their heritage. They were denied. They tried again at Lake Placid, and for these simple, sincere people, the lake wasn’t very placid. They wanted to enter as the appropriately recognized people of the Republic of China. That distinction had been given to the athletes of mainland China. Their pleas were rejected by the Olympic committees, and even by the Supreme Court of the State of New York. The Committee, in an effort to placate, offer to enter them under a neutral flag bearing the Olympic symbol. They refused. The members of the American team offered to give them quarter under the American flag as brothers and sisters in sport. Again they refused. If they could not participate as the national entity to which they felt they were entitled, they would not participate at all.
How strongly do we wear the badges which identify us? To what degree would we go to let the world know how deeply we are moved by love for our country? More important! How faithful to the task of being believers in an unbelieving world are we? What price are we willing to pay so that all may know that we are followers of the “King of Kings”? Tonight we examine the faithfulness of the early church to stand for the things that matter.
I. Setting the Tone. V12, The apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders among the people. . . . More and more men and women believed in the Lord. . . . Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem.
Note the commonality of consequence with what has happened in Acts 4:1-31. After a busy day, apostles are arrested:
· Peter and John [and other] apostles (Mark 13:9);
· A night spent in jail;
· A warning from the religious leaders (Acts 4;19, Judge what you would do—we obey God, and Acts 5:29, We choose to obey God rather than you). Recall the similar circumstances of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: “Even if our God does not deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, be it known that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image”;
· Their release—natural, supernatural;
· An enlarged enthusiasm for the believers.
Note also, the reasons for the religious leaders’ concern. Note first, what they are. They are the priests and the Sadducees, the people of wealth and power who have the most to lose in an upsurgence. They are the security people who have a job to do, no matter that some heads get broken. They are the Pharisees who are the “separatists.” They keep the law, and they don’t care what happens to those who don’t. Note, additionally, what the believers were. They were a people in whose lives miracles were working. Can’t argue with a miracle. They were a people in total unanimity, v12. Growing numbers were being added to the faith.
II. Squelching the Testimony of the Saints. Acts 4:18, commanded . . . not to speak or teach at all; 5:18, arrested and put in a public jail; 5:40, They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus.
There is a developing pattern of sameness that not only frustrates but frightens the religious leaders. The believers are not intimidated. They are not afraid—frankly, they are acting a little too much like Jesus acted, and they could see themselves losing. It almost seems that these people are enjoying this; joy is the quality of the Christian life that Satan can’t handle.
Then, the worst conceivable thing happens, and they are inexplicably linked to Christ and His death. These Jewish leaders went through the farce of a trial, the agony of a crucifixion, and there was Jesus. They have threatened these men, they have put them in jail—coerced and intimidated and hated. You will indeed drink of my cup and be baptized with my baptism, Matthew 10:39. Now, like Jesus, they are out there walking around, teaching. V19, someone (angel, messenger) who knew his way around this prison, and the will of God, led them out and sent them on their way to speak “in the temple.” Can you imagine the rage of these men when they were informed? “They are not there. They have been spirited away.” The doors were closed. The guards were on duty. Sounds almost like a repeat scene from the “garden tomb.”
III. Sounding their Trust. V29, . . . “We must obey God rather than men.” The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead. . . . We are witnesses of these things.
This harassment had not intimidated their faith. Undauntedly, at dawn’s early light, they move back to the scene of prior victory. Acts 2:46, 3:11, 5:12. V20, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people . . . all the words of this life. Life: not just a new gloss to an old law; not different answers to the same tired rhetoric; not a bandaged up hope to replace the fragmented one; a new life. They moved back to that place to proclaim the message that had brought healing and freedom. Remember, Acts 2:22, identified Peter as the first Christian apologist, and identified his message. “Jesus, who was one of you, proved his credentials, but you, by wicked hands, crucified and killed, whom God raised up.”
The siege guns of legalism are being brought into place but the believers continue to show the way to those who will follow. They still care even about these persecutors. V28, You have filled Jerusalem with this teaching and now try to bring this man’s blood on us. Blood on the Jew, Matthew 27:25.
#157, Alas, and did my Saviour bleed, And did my Sovereign die. #158, What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. #159, Would you be free from the burden of sin? There’s power in the blood. #162, Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing power? Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb? #164, Dark is the stain that we cannot hide. What can avail to wash it away? Look there is flowing a crimson tide; whiter than snow you may be today.
They know that only this message will bring peace with God. V30f, The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him God exalted with his right hand to be a prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of Sins.
IV. Stating the Terms of the Confrontation. V38f, . . . . Work be of madmen, it will come to naught: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.
Position, power, and wealth have said we will broach no quarter with these teachings. The most difficult responsibility the Christian gospel has today is to make inroads in a self-centered, sadistic, sophisticated society.
The theologically learned say that they will broach no quarter with these new teachings. Jewish history tells us about Gamaliel, a Pharisee (separatist), perhaps one of the most highly respected of all teachers. Chances are it will fail—Theudas, Judas/Galilee; outside chance it is of God; I wonder if we have ever been kept from doing something foolish because one man kept his senses about him.
The followers of Jesus say, “We’ll go on our way preaching the Word, rejoicing in any wounds that come in his name.” They were a people with singleness of purpose, to obey the commission of their Lord. It has been clearly fixed in their minds that there are limits on the Christian’s duty to the State, but none on their duty to Jesus. Aware of the Rightness of their position simply because God’s Holy Spirit affirms by His presence. V32, We are witnesses of these things; and so also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
They have already discovered that there are going to be some problems in their midst that the best technique for remedy is to let God handle it. Because, Brother, you may be wrong.
They have also discovered that joy in suffering is a unique New Testament experience. Punished like Jesus, Luke 22:63, to take skin off. I Peter 4:13, But rejoice inasmuch as ye are part in Christ’s sufferings. Philippians 1:29, For unto you it is given, . . . not only to believe . . . but also to suffer for him.
DRIVEN TO DISCOVERY
#770a DRIVEN TO DISCOVERY
Scripture Acts 4:23-37, NIV Orig. 1/27/1980
Rewr. 10/19/1989
Passage: 23 On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them. 24 When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. 25 You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David:
“‘Why do the nations rage
and the peoples plot in vain?
26 The kings of the earth rise up
and the rulers band together
against the Lord
and against his anointed one.[a]’[b]
27 Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. 28 They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. 29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.
The Believers Share Their Possessions
32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need. 36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.
Purpose: To remind my people that it is often out of some prescribed opposition that we are driven to the greatest discoveries about ourselves and our capabilities.
Keywords: Faith Opposition Prayer Resources
Timeline/Series: Acts
Introduction
On the football field, encroachment is nothing more than over-eagerness on the part of an occasional defensive player. For people living in the third world nations where there are desert lands it is a life-and-death situation. What little arable land there is, is being lost to encroachment by the desert sands.
Ancient people also had to learn to live with the desert. Their lands also were bordered by it. Their fertile fields were encroached upon. We can remember that the desert marched right up to the gates of Jerusalem itself. The desert was a breeding ground for fierce, nomadic tribes.
Even before, the desert became training ground for the people God. Upon their failure to move steadily into the promised land, it was necessary for them to endure forty years training in the desert. From slaves of Egypt’s passions, they had to be disciplined to become a nation of God’s people.
Great men of God had flowered in the womb of the desert. Not only Moses, but Elijah, Amos, and Jeremiah also. John the Baptist, reared as he surely was by the Essenes, came out of a community of believers who lived with the desert. It was there that the Essenes established their ethic, and left evidence in the form of the “Dead Sea Scrolls.”
The desert also saw the fledgling ministry of Jesus amidst wild animals and ministering angels. To the desert, Saul of Tarsus would be consigned to ready him for his tasks. One is more apt to recognize and appreciate blessings when they are seen objectively.
I. First, We See God’s People Driven to Their Knees. V23, “And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. 24. . . They lifted up their voice to God with one accord.”
We need, of course, to be reminded that it was partly their success to blame. They had forthrightly spoken the word, and people had responded. It was their success that had disquieted their enemies. From 120 they ministered and 3,000 (2:4) are saved. Shortly after, 5,000 (4:4). The religious bureaucrats were angry. The priests were becoming sensitive to acceptance of the gospel by Jews. The temple police were more interested in their authority than they were in religious freedom. The Sadducees had some vested interests to protect.
Thus, this success-generated opposition puts them on their knees in alarm and concern. They are convinced that God will honor His word to them. They remembered David. Psalm 2:1, “Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?” 1:2, “In his law doth he meditate day and night.” IMAGINE/MEDITATE hagah (Hebrew, Strong’s, 1897). The word for “rage” suggests the excitement of show animals. Why should we imagine in vain things when we can meditate in God’s word. They stand in marked allegiance to Jesus. V24, “Lord, thou art God . . . (creation).” Word chosen is despota. Despot, sovereign master. Other kings (Herod, Pilate) railed against Him.
In success or in failure, the Christian’s posture is kneeling. Again and again we have witnessed it. 1:14 UR/1:24 LOT/2:42 PENTECOST/2:47 Daily. Before Pentecost, such as happens here would have done them in. The living Lord is with them. They know that God can turn this opposition to bless them. They pray, not for protection, but for boldness, v29, parrésia—freedom. Acts 28:31, “boldness, unhinderedly.”
II. Next, We Glimpse God’s People Demonstrating Their Faith. V29, “And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word.”
We might expect them to be on the raw edge of despair. They are misunderstood, abused, accused. Their most noble efforts go lacking. Such voices can be found. “He trusted in God that He would deliver him.” “We trusted that it would be He who delivered Israel.”
In the place of despair there is discovery and distinction.
I prayed to see the face of God,
Illumined by the central suns.
Turning in their central track;
But what I saw was not His face at all.
I saw His bent figure on a windy hill,
Carrying a double load upon His back.
We hear them pray, and their prayer is as those who are slaves to God’s purpose. To be a slave is to delight when chosen to serve the honored guest. He will delight also when chosen to pluck foulness from the barnyard nest.
So, it was not deliverance they sought, but boldness. We find no pretense of strength here. They offer only empty vessels, to be filled by Him who has no lack. Ephesians 4:10, “The One who descended to the deepest level of man’s emptiness, reacted also to the supreme heights of God’s fulness, that he might be the supplier of every need.”
They learned, what we have been taught, but fail to claim. It is better in the darkest pit with Jesus, than anywhere without Him.
For all your days prepare,
And meet them ever alike;
When you are the anvil, bear . . .
When you are the hammer strike.
III. Finally, It is Herein that God’s People Discover Our Resources. V31, “And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of God with boldness.”
Their need, then as now, is in what God would supply for them. God does not give of His Spirit randomly. John 3:34, “For God giveth not the Spirit by measure.” Because of leaky vessels we need constancy in renewing. Matthew 26:41, “The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” I Thessalonians 5:19, “Quench not the Spirit.” Galatians 5:16, “Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.”
There is also the resource of the people of God gathered together. They are drawn away from the majestic to the practical. Prayer, if it is, takes wings to lift up hands of help. Northern California needs Red Cross/Salvation Army; we can help through hunger relief. They share a concern for each other. Deeper understanding of stewardship. There is a new spontaneity in sharing. Communism: Not new (Essenes)/doesn’t abolish private property. Not required, they gave voluntarily/consequence of inner working of Holy Spirit, to meet needs. Works in conjunction with end-time, or unlimited capital.
Conclusion
From this, five important lessons are to be learned: 1-We are to be convinced of God’s power to redeem His Word; 2-We are to recognize the futility of man’s rebellion; 3-We must establish a relationship of remembrance of Jesus; 4-We are to pray; 5-We are to be open to Holy Spirit.
Links/references
Perkins: https://www.poetryexplorer.net/poem.php?id=10114763
Markham: https://www.yourdailypoem.com/listpoem.jsp?poem_id=3149
THEY HAD BEEN WITH JESUS
#770 THEY HAD BEEN WITH JESUS
Scripture Acts 4:1-22, NIV Orig. 1/6/1979
Passage: The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. 2 They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. 3 They seized Peter and John and, because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day. 4 But many who heard the message believed; so the number of men who believed grew to about five thousand. 5 The next day the rulers, the elders and the teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. 6 Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and others of the high priest’s family. 7 They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?”
8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! 9 If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, 10 then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. 11 Jesus is
“‘the stone you builders rejected,
which has become the cornerstone.’[a]
12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” 13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. 14 But since they could see the man who had been healed standing there with them, there was nothing they could say. 15 So they ordered them to withdraw from the Sanhedrin and then conferred together. 16 “What are we going to do with these men?” they asked. “Everyone living in Jerusalem knows they have performed a notable sign, and we cannot deny it. 17 But to stop this thing from spreading any further among the people, we must warn them to speak no longer to anyone in this name.” 18 Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! 20 As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” 21 After further threats they let them go. They could not decide how to punish them, because all the people were praising God for what had happened. 22 For the man who was miraculously healed was over forty years old.
Purpose: To continue our study of the Book of Acts calling attention to the boldness, and the Christ-centered message of the early church.
Keywords: Bible study Healing
Timeline/Series: Acts
Introduction
There are all kinds of changes that can take place in the lives of people. We regularly hear of the effect of physical changes that enable people to live different lives. There are kidney transplants that effectively remove people from the prison of dialysis. We hear of corneal transplants that enable people to see again, after they have lost perhaps our second most significant physical attribute. We hear of heart transplants which become extensions of life to some recipients. One of our own men has this week had the implantation of a pacemaker, which will extend and give to him a more normal life.
On the negative side of the summary sheet, we hear of the highly problematic sex-change procedure. It is hard for us to grasp what is happening in that person’s life as they deliberately attempt what is beyond the comprehension of most of us. We cannot help but wonder if the person so miserable in his birth gender, is going to be any less miserable in a cosmetic gender.
We also know about those attempted changes in personality adjustment. Some of these are good. They are deliberate efforts on the part of people to compensate for some of their own recognized weaknesses. Others, however, are efforts to control people under the strong influence of other people.
But the changes that take place in the lives of these disciples are overwhelming. The same men, who had been victimized and intimidated by their religious overlords, are suddenly men of strength and vision and fearlessness.
If Christ is Man and only Man,
I say, I shall follow Him,
Shall follow Him always.
If Christ be God and the only God,
I swear, I shall follow Him through
The earth, the sea, the air. Author unknown
In essence, this is what has happened. Christ has become, in them, in the disciples, all that He claimed that He would. The claim continues apace for your life and mine. Observe what happens in the lives of these people who “have been with Jesus.” Changes that are significant for us today as well.
I. There is an Attempt at Intimidation. V1f, And as they spake unto the people, the priests and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them, Being grieved that they taught the people, . . . And . . . laid hands on them, and put them in hold. . . .
First, we must go back and see what was happening in the lives of the disciples. Occasionally they were in and about the temple. A need arises in relation to an infirm man, and the disciples become instruments of God. There is the initial healing. As a crowd gathered in excited curiosity, Simon Peter spoke to them explaining their faith in Jesus as the Messiah/Lord. They were here in the very place that Jesus had spoken to the people of Himself, and of their doubt. The people were made to face the stark reality of the crucifixion. They are called upon to give renewed consideration to the resurrection. 3:13, . . . the God of our Fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus, . . . . V16, And his name, through faith in his name hath made this man strong, . . . hath given him this perfect soundness.
We must just as well remember that it has been only a few weeks at most since Jesus was crucified. The disciples have not greatly changed, except in their own inner being. They were instructed (Acts 1:4) that they “should wait for the promise of the Father.” Started with 120, Acts 1:15. Added 3,000, Acts 2:41. Another 5,000 resulted from the healing, Acts 4:4. From here it will become increasingly difficult. The officials quickly gathering here are the same ones who brought sentence upon Jesus. They intended to deal with Jesus in gory enough a fashion that it would intimidate His followers. Suddenly, they are forced to consider these followers of the hated Nazarene (2:22, 3:6, 4:10). Priests—the religious power structure; temple captain—high priest’s chief of staff; Sadducees—wealthy aristocrats who didn’t believe in resurrection; not upset vested interests.
II. There is an Actualized Opportunity. V4, Howbeit, many of them which heard the word believed, and the number of men was about 5,000. V13, Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, . . . they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
It has always been so that when we are faithful to proclaim, God is faithful to bless. Acts 6:4, We will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. Colossians 5:19, God . . . hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. II Timothy 4:2, Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season.
We immediately take note that God sustains His Word. In this simple proclamation of the Word, 5,000 men had become believers. Women who became believers are not numbered. They may not have been present. You can be sure that these 5,000 men went home to wives and children who became believers.
But what about God’s promise to the proclaimer of the Word? These men wound up in jail. But this confinement was itself a blessing and a promise. Two men, Peter, who had spoken out of turn a few times to Jesus, and later regretted it, who had also been intimidated to the point of fear and betrayal by these very men who have arrested him. And John. The one who loved people so deeply. The one, who, on the spur of the moment may not be able to speak an admonishing word. But that night, in a cell, they experience their Lord’s presence with power. Simon is to be the spokesman and he is to repeat the message that he spoke at Pentecost and in the Temple. He is to talk about the One whom God sent. Localize him. 15 or more times in John, Jesus speaks of God as “the one who sent” him (apostelló). That the Jewish fathers crucified the Lord, and that he arose from the dead. That this deed resolves sin by faith.
It must immediately and forever be noted that what the world waits to see is the presence of Christ in you and me.
“Be like Jesus, this my song;
In the home and in the throng.
Be like Jesus, all day long,
I would be like Jesus.” James Rowe, 1911
Some say, “They took note” as the IRS notes.
The Word says, “They marveled at these ignorant, unlearned men, [and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.]”
III. There is an Eloquent Impediment. V18f, And being commanded not to speak or to teach in the name of Jesus, Peter and John answered, . . . “we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.”
The impediment, of course, is the determination of the word that such a message as this will be silenced.
· The commercial world says, “Let’s talk about Santa Claus rather than Jesus.”
· The political world says, “It’s against the law to discuss anything that the State cannot bring under its control.”
· ACLU says, “We’ll get people the right to smoke pot or jeopardize industry, but you can’t talk about Jesus.”
· Madalyn Murray O’Hair says, “I want to be free to teach people to worship humanity, but I don’t want anyone to teach others to worship God.”
· The religious world says, “Let’s define a religious system that should be acceptable to all, and then outlaw everything else.”
The eloquence is that they may stop the music, but they never have been able to stop the song.
Links/References
“Be Like Jesus,” https://hymnary.org/text/earthly_pleasures_vainly_call_me_i_would
Rowe: https://hymnary.org/person/Rowe_James
THE MINISTRY OF HEALING
#763 THE MINISTRY OF HEALING
Scripture Acts 3:1-11, NIV Orig. 11/25/1979
Passage: One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. 2 Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. 3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. 4 Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” 5 So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. 6 Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” 7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. 8 He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. 9 When all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
Peter Speaks to the Onlookers
11 While the man held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to them in the place called Solomon’s Colonnade.
Purpose: To continue the series from the book of Acts, calling attention to the insights the early church had gained from the teaching of Jesus, and their determined efforts to continue these teachings.
Keywords: Healing Bible Study Faith Ministry
Timeline/Series: Acts
Introduction
Matters related to Christian healing are matters that too many of us had just as soon avoid. In the first place, we do not need it in the 20th century as it was needed in the 1st century. As little as 50 years ago, even the most visionary practitioner of medical science could not foresee the strides that would be taken in medicine in the mid-20th century.
It probably is fair to say, however, that far more remains to be done than has been accomplished. It is most certainly true that diseases are prevalent on the world scene that were totally unknown a century ago. We who live amidst the fair practice of medical skill are not much encouraged to give consideration to healing as it was practiced by Jesus.
There is another reason why this expression of the charismatic gifts has been down-graded in importance. We see it carried on today in the “pin-striped” suit of big business. It is associated almost entirely with fund-raising escapades that are near charlatan level in their intensity. Or, we see it carried on on the level of the mundane. Growing hair on a bald head, or the lengthening of a leg, are not very meaningful expressions of healing when a few minutes away reside the hopeless intractables of the Home for Incurables. One has to make but one visit to any cancer ward of any hospital to discover a need that is overwhelming.
There is one other point for consideration. Jesus healed because He believed absolutely in the power of God to heal. The disciples were able to carry on this healing ministry because they too were able to believe, not only that God did the healing, but that He was the only one who could. It is at this point that our faith generally breaks down.
Great good was done in the early church by experiences of miraculous healing. It would be a shame if it were God’s purpose to bless the church of the 20th century with such a gift, and we were too proud to accept it.
I. First, We Need to Consider the Circumstances as it Was Happening. In Chapter two, we walked with Simon through an opportunity to proclaim the gospel to searching hearts. He reminded them of a new day in human history. He related that new day to the life and ministry of Jesus. He declared the supremacy of that new day of grace over the old of law. He invited them to personally discover its truth.
Now another opportunity has come, and Luke here records how it was used as an opportunity to proclaim the gospel. First, a quick consideration of the Jewish day. For the devout Jew, there were three special hours of prayer. The day began at 6a.m. 3rd—9a/6th—12n/9th—3p. Any hour was a prayer hour, but these three times were special. And if that prayer time [was] spent in the temple, then all the more significant. It is timely for our consideration to note the continuation of habits learned in childhood, held onto through the influence of Jesus.
Now, consideration of the scene as it related to this first recorded healing. The afflicted man: Lame from birth. Ward of public generosity: he did have friends who brought him; or if they failed or if times were bad he had no income. R.W.E. Jones, “If your income doesn’t exceed you outgo, your upkeep is gonna be your downfall.”
It is likely that the disciples have passed this man before but did not see. Suddenly their eyes are opened to a need not seen before.
II. We Have Looked at the Circumstances of this Event—Now Let’s Look at its Character.
Look at the diversity of the Temple and the Beggars. Of white marble in grand design, started by Herod about 20 B.C. No temple ritual was interrupted. The Inner Court, sacred to the priests, was completed by 1,000 of them. Finished in 64 A.D. John 2:20 mentions “46 years” in construction. Amidst all of this beauty lay the beggar. He was there because, obviously, people in a worshipful mood stood to be the ones willing to give.
The beggar did not know who these men were, and was not asking to be healed. The disciples, who had no wealth, had something better. Remember, at this time, the common fund was in operation.
The healing was accomplished in the name of Jesus. “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” In Acts 2:22f great care was made to link the name of Jesus with what Peter was preaching. Again, the same is done.
The miraculous was instantaneous and complete. From a Greek word stereoō “to make firm.” It was another of Luke’s medical terms, though I can not link it with finality to a current medical practice.
III. Next, We Consider the Consequences of this Miracle. First, we have a man who was filled with joy. He did not have the experiences of other believers to compare with his own. How much happier all of us would be if we did not try to work at duplicating the Christian experience. Luke 1:14, Remember the angelic announcement, “Thou shalt have joy and gladness, and many shall rejoice at his birth.” John 15:11, “These things I have spoken unto you that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.”
God received the praise of this man’s outspoken witness of his faith. Luke 2:13, Listen in again on the commotion upon Jesus’ birth. “Suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God.” Hebrews 13:15, Speaking of Jesus, the Hebrew writer puts all of us in the camp with this beggar. “By him, therefore, let us offer the praise to God continually.” Herein may be the one clearly defined determination of healing. Who is the one who stands most ready to lift his voice in praise of the Healer?
Such a scene emerged that a crowd quickly gathered here at the Temple colonnade known as Solomon’s porch. John 10:23, Jesus was in this very place when the Jews questioned [Him] about being the Christ. “The miracles I do in my Father’s name speak for me, but you do not believe.”
This brings about the opening into the last part of the chapter and Simon Peter’s gospel witness.
IV. In Conclusion, Let’s Try to Define Healing from the Mind of Jesus. We discover the compassion of Christ for all hurt things. The Latin word for compassion is a compounding of two other words that mean “to suffer with.” Matthew 8:17, “He took our infirmities and bare our weaknesses.”
Jesus seems clearly to have considered pain and disease as intruders. James S. Stewart calls it to our attention that there is no instance where Jesus turned anyone away saying, “I am sorry, friend, but I can not heal you, because God wants you to suffer.”
The healing potential of Jesus was directly related to His sinlessness, His moral perfection. If we were more like Jesus, perhaps our works would be more like His works. Matthew 17:20, the epileptic boy whom the disciples could not heal. “Because of your lack of faith.” The mighty works of Jesus were the Father’s answer to the faith of His Son. In Jesus, the power of God was present and unimpeded. John 4:34, GNV, “The one whom God has sent speaks God’s words, because God gives him the fulness of His Spirit.”
As Christians, we must relate ourselves to a world, torn, not only by sin, but also by pain and disorder, and disease. Healing of the body must always be a vital ministry of the faith. Such healing portends a larger healing of the broken spirits of people.
Conclusion
A religious magazine recently shared a word of witness of one who remembered hearing a Scottish minister tell of a dream that he had had. “One night he dreamed that he saw a new shop on High Street and, going in, he found an angel behind the counter. What did the shop sell? “Everything your heart desires,” the angel said. “Then I want peace on earth,” cried the minister: “An end to sorrow, famine, and disease.” “Just one moment,” smiled the angel, “You haven’t quite understood. We don’t sell fruits here, only seeds.”
Links/references
Jones: https://www.gram.edu/academics/majors/arts-and-sciences/music/band/history.php
Stewart: https://www.preaching.com/articles/past-masters/james-s-stewart/
FELLOWSHIP SET AFLAME
#762 FELLOWSHIP SET AFLAME
Scripture Acts 2:40-47 Orig. 11/11/1979
Rewr. 2/9/1982
Passage: 40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
The Fellowship of the Believers
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Purpose: In a series from The Book of Acts, to declare the great message of the early church as it discovers its potential to become the people of God.
Keywords: Bible Study Faith Fellowship Outreach Revival
Timeline/Series: Acts
Introduction
Acts describes “fellowship” form the New Testament perspective. We are able to see for ourselves what it is like in the 20th Century. Perhaps a view of the fields of the 17th century will help us to determine if we have lost something of a great significance. From The Memorable Works of a Son of Thunder by Francis Howgill. (Editor correction: Edward Burrough, 1634-1663)
The Kingdom of Heaven did gather us and catch us all as in a net, and His heavenly power at one time drew many hundreds to land. We came to know a place to stand in and what to wait in; and the Lord appeared daily to us, to our astonishment, amazement, and great admiration, insomuch that we often said one unto another with great joy of heart: “What, is the Kingdom of God come to be with men? And will He take up His tabernacle among the sons of men, as He did of old? Shall we, that were reckoned as the outcasts of Israel, have this honor of glory communicated amongst us, which were but men of small parts, and of little abilities, in respect to many others, amongst men? And from that day forward, our hearts were knit unto the Lord and one unto another in true and fervent love, in the covenant of life with God; and that was a strong obligation or bond upon our spirits, which united us one unto another. We met together in the unity of the Spirit, and in the bond of peace, treading down under our feet all reasoning about religion. And holy resolutions were kindled in our hearts as a fire which the Life kindleth in us to serve the Lord while we had a being, and mightily did the Word of God grow amongst us, and the desires of many were after the name of the Lord. O happy day! O blessed day! The memorial can never pass out of my mind. And thus, the Lord, in short, did form us to be a people for his praise in our generation.”
I. Such Fellowship Meant a Gospel Proclaimed. V40, “With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, ‘Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.’”
The middle verses of chapter 2 establish gospel. Announcement of “day of the Lord.” V17, “And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God.” It is affirmation of basic aspects of Jesus’ life. V22, “. . . Hear what I have to say. Jesus lived among you, He died because of you, and for you, but He lives because God came to you in Jesus” (the Skinner short version of 22-25.)
What a joy to view the perspective of the land of Jesus. There is such a wealth of material available in book, on tape, in video. Too much time is spent watching unseemly TV soap operas.
The gospel authenticated the superiority of grace over law. David was dead. A great leader, but dead. His tomb was nearby. But Jesus was alive. Oh, how Satan sought to create a delusion of His death. It is still the first defense for the skeptic.
The gospel must make every attempt to call people to decision. See v21, “Whosoever shall call”; see v36, “Let all the house of Israel know”; see v38, “Repent and be baptized, every one;” see v40, “He did exhort saying, ‘Save yourself.’”
This gospel proclamation is central to our faith and must never change. There is such worth and encouragement in the evangelist who lives the life and exhorts decision. There may be variant program interests. The contemporary may show persistent differences. God help us to be faithful to proclaim the gospel and to call people to decide.
Ultimately, it is the gospel that relates sin to the cross. The human condition has not changed. The unbelieving contingent is in greater jeopardy for all the so-called Christians who do not take sin seriously. See v23—sin put Jesus on the cross.
It is the gospel that demands adjustment in the life of the believer.
It is the gospel that portrays God’s forgiveness. Forgiveness means that estrangement is gone. It means we are at peace. It means that the offending iniquity has been resolved. It does not mean that sin is gone from the extensions of our lives.
It is the gospel that forecasts the Holy Spirit’s resolve in the believer’s life.
II. Such Fellowship Meant United Purpose. V41, “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized; and the same day there were added unto them about 3,000 souls.”
There are three interrelated action words.
“Received”-- apodexomai—not the normative word for belief (pisteuó) or “to trust.” This word is mental credence and more. It is unreserved submission to a new life orientation.
“Baptized”—since you are Baptists, you know what it means. You know that only “immersion” translates the Greek. The people here being “baptized” were doing what was repugnant to them. They were Jews, God’s people. This ritualistic form meant them to be separated from their covenant God by their own sin. No person truly comes to Christ who does not deal with their own sin. Why age of accountability is so important. Also why “koinonia” Bible study, etc., are, and this brings us to the third “action” word.
“Added”—prostithémi—“to place beside.” Those who believe come to a place of equality. They take their place in the fellowship of believers. They perceive of themselves as “babes” in the faith who need to be nourished to grow.
It is interesting that medical science has taken this word, literally, to name a rapidly changing sphere of developmental medicine. “Prosthetics” is the science of artificial body parts, that which is “added.” Ask anyone who has lost a hand, arm, leg, breast, what this has “added” to their lives.
III. Finally, Fellowship Means, for All of Us, Growing, Changing in Our Faith. V42, “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”
Of what did the early church consist? Firstly, it was a learning church. The word means they persisted in hearing what the apostles had to say. The apostles were not motivators, or promoters, they were proclaimers. We are waiting for some self-styled motivator to come along to get us to do what we don’t want to do. Too many are steadfastly looking for some reason to excuse ourselves from the koinonia.
It was a church of fellowship. “Steadfastly . . . in the fellowship” says text. It is a noun. We tend to view “fellowship” as a verb. It is not what we do, it is what we are. It is the fellowship that produces harmony, that produces success. It will be interesting, after the “strike” is over, if split teams can “win.”
It was a praying church. Jesus has taught them this. They were learning more in practical experience. We are dealing with this very thing in prayer meeting. “Caring” people will want to share.
It was a reverent church. V43, “And fear came upon every soul.” The idea of reverential awe. And fear came before the “wonders and signs.” I remind you this morning the contemporary mission consequence was birthed on the concept of “expect great things from God, attempt great things for God.”
And it goes without saying further that it was a giving (sharing) church.
Conclusion
Using Dr. Helen Falls’ (NOBTS) story of Miss Alice Barnes of Maryland WMU. Miss Falls worked for her. Saving reusable material with a flourish “All right, Miss Annie.” Alice had worked for Annie Armstrong as Helen was working for Miss Alice. Limed funds. One year 127,000 pieces of material to Maryland WMU. They walked the streets of Baltimore to save the 2 cents it then cost to mail a letter. Alice Barnes could not break the covenant, though Annie Armstrong was long dead.
Links/References
Howgill https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/quakers/biographies/howgill_biog.html
Burrough https://www.friendslibrary.com/edward-burrough/life
Memorable Works: https://quod.lib.umich.edu/e/eebo/A30510.0001.001/1:102?rgn=div1;view=fulltext
Burrough, E. (1671). The Memorable Works of a Son of Thunder, E. Hookes.
A WITNESSING CHURCH
#059/762a A WITNESSING CHURCH
Scripture Acts 2:38-47, NIV Orig. 8/12/1962
Rewr. 2/8/1982
Passage: 38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”
40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
The Fellowship of the Believers
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Purpose: To share with my people an intense statement from the church as presented in Acts, a measure of these characteristics that define the church today.
Keywords: Church Education Worship Fellowship Ordinances
Introduction
Dr. Earl Guinn, former President of Louisiana College, speaking at the Louisiana Evangelism Conference (1982), raised a question relative to our authority for preaching the gospel to a lost world. It is obvious from many quarters that the lost world itself is not interested, and to a large degree does not want to be bothered. Can it then be a measure of our responsibility to force something down the throats of other people that they really don’t want? Is our authority within ourselves? Is it simply that we have something that we want to give away? Can it be that only in this way can we improve life upon the earth?
Dr. Guinn answered the question he asked by reminding us of some of the other authority for doing some of the things we do. As never before in world history, there is a major emphasis upon feeding the hungry people of the world. Thousands upon thousands of people are involved. Huge sums of money are being spent. Our authority for feeding hungry people is their HUNGER. Many, many people in the 20th Century are included in the task of educating people in 3rd world nations and other places as well. Our authority for educating the unlearned people of Mother Earth is IGNORANCE. We need no further guideline. Many of our own missionaries are involved in medical missions. Our own government has agencies that spend millions of dollars every year in an effort to assist other nations with medical emergencies. Other denominations, and other governments, are just as concerned as we. Our authority for involving ourselves in the intimate medical needs of people whom we do not know is LIFE-THREATENING ILLNESS.
Our speaker that day at the Evangelism Conference wasted no more time making his point. If anyone ever raises a question about our authority for evangelism, for witnessing, then just remind him of the LOSTNESS of people without Christ.
It is easy to perceive of the church’s role to witness as one that is gravely over-stated in the Scripture. Yet, there is such a tendency on our parts not to do, and not to be, what we must. The circumstance of the church in Ephesus is a case in point. In this book of symbolism, the church was represented by a candlestick. In the letter to Ephesus, the ultimate in God’s displeasure was stated in terms of removing the candlestick “out of its place.” It was not the idea of God turning “off” the light. It was the idea of a light that is not burning is serving no purpose. A lampstand that does not give off light is just something else to stumble over in the dark.
I. The Church is to Witness by Her Unity. V44, And all that believed were together.
The first goal of the Church is Community. Over the past ten or so years, 40 or 50 families of Mennonites have come into East Carroll Parish. They came from a state, Kansas, where it is against the law, outside of direct family units, to engage in family farming. Unity is the ultimate character of their church, socially as well as religiously.
The next, and perhaps the only other goal of a church is self-determination. (Now that we are together in unity, what are we doing to do with all this energy?) Baptists move on the cutting edge of effectiveness because of self-determination.
I continue to be dismayed and somewhat overwhelmed by how quickly news travels about churches in squabbles. I am convinced that nothing pleases Satan more than a disrupted congregation of believers.
II. The Church is to Witness by Her Fellowship. V46, And they, continuing daily . . . , did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart.
We must be careful to understand that of which our fellowship consists. People who are active in leadership and financial support. Others who have little to give and feel themselves unworthy of leadership. Perhaps even, some who do not even attend.
The link of fellowship is an experience in which Christ is made unquestioned Lord of our lives.
The last and least link in fellowship is the gathering of a small group of church members called “Fellowship.” We fellowship in groups, large and small, where the substance of our togetherness is our declared relationship to Christ who died for our sin.
III. The Church is to Witness by Her Organization. V47, And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
A reference was made under unity to the matter of self-determination. How do we minister to our constituency? Offering a program based on Bible education that will enable us to make Christ-honoring decisions.
How do we minister to other people? The basis has always been first through the Sunday School. The main emphasis is often on enrolment. We have based our organization on five great principles that remain unchanged: (1)Know your possibilities; (2)Enlarge your organization; (3)Provide needed space; (4)Enlist and train workers; (5)Go after the people.
IV. The Church is to Witness by Her Training. V42, And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine.
Every opportunity must be taken to train people for the tasks they are called to do. No time or inclination to talk about spiritual gifts, but keep people in areas of interest. Organized training studies: Jeremiah, census. Church training.
Every believer should desire to improve his knowledge. II Timothy 2:15, Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed.
V. The Church Must Witness by Her Place of Worship. V46, And they, continuing daily with one accord in the Temple. . . .
Much could be said about the place of worship. We must certainly do no worse by our Lord’s house than we do by our own homes. We should treat that building with the respect due. What is to be thought of a community of well-tended homes where the church building is in disrepair and is untidy?
VI. The Church Must Witness by Her Worship. V46f, And they continued daily with one accord in the Temple, . . . praising God, . . . . Acts 5:42, And daily in the Temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus the Christ.
It must be attended with dignity. It is to be winsome and compelling. Above all, it is to honor God.
VII. The Church is to Witness by Her Ordinances. V41, Then they that gladly received the word were baptized; . . . and they continued . . . in breaking of bread . . . .
We honor our Lord by every visit to the baptismal pool. It means that we are sharing our faith. Too often, however, we are only baptizing our own. It is greater honor to our Lord when we have reached out to the unbelieving and unsuspecting community about us. Baptism pictures our death to self and resurrection to life in Him.
We honor Him further by occasional forays at the table. We hold up the broken fragments of His life. We examine the nature of His blood, poured out at the cross. We glory in the reality that He is alive, and that we live through Him.
VIII. The Church is to Witness by Her Membership. V38, Then Peter said, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Water baptism is a living symbol of a larger experience of submergence in grace.
Membership in the community of faith, then, consists of three things: (1)Repentance—the initial act of faith; (2)Baptism—link of obedience and community; (3)Holy Spirit—the empowering agent for the Christ-honoring life in the world. Remember, we don’t have the Holy Spirit, as if He were a potion of some kind to help us get what we want. The Holy Spirit has us to use to magnify Christ in the world to the glory of God.
IX. The Church is to Witness by Her Name. This is really a part of the one above.
X. The Church is to Witness by Her Contributions. V45, And sold their goods, and parted them to all as each had needs.
Don’t let disdain for communism blind you to truth. These folks were not interested in ideology, they were interested in honoring Christ.
We too must give of our substance. (1)Money. (2)Goods. (3)Service. (SELF). Within the context of that cultural, social, political ideology that applies to us, we are to seek to honor Christ with what we are, and what we do, and what we have. This is not largely different from what happened in Jerusalem.
Link/References
Guinn: https://lcuniversity.edu/homage-to-dr-g-earl-guinn/
THE QUALITIES OF A CHRISTIAN
#773 THE QUALITIES OF A CHRISTIAN
Scripture Acts 4:36-37
Orig. 2/3/1980; Rewr. 10/26/1987
Passage:
36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.
Purpose: Using a biographical study of Barnabas to direct the attention of my people to the consideration of the qualities of the Christian life.
Keywords: Bible Study Good Works Biography, Barnabas Obedience
Timeline/Series: Acts
Introduction
In a desperate age, desperate measures are called for. The world aches to see qualities in Christian people that mark them as different. Mark it well, no matter that many show signs of worldliness, a life lived in expression of Christlikeness will win an audience anytime.
A Christian teacher was concerned about spiritual apathy on the part of his students. One day he came prepared for a lesson. He reached in his desk and pulled out a ball point pen. “What is this for?” he asked. A couple of students quickly responded, “It’s used to write.” Then he said, “And if it does not write, what is it good for?” One student blurted out, “Nothing.”
That was the right answer. He then pulled a knife out of his pocket. “What is this used for?” he asked. “It’s used to cut,” ventured several of the students. “And if it does not cut?” he continued. “It is good for nothing,” every student fairly yelled.
Then, unexpectedly, he asked what man was made for. One student remembered a line from a philosopher that they had studied a few days before. “For fellowship with God and to enjoy Him forever,” answered the student.
This was the line that the teacher was waiting for. “If we are not in fellowship with God, what are we good for?” Every student knew exactly the answer expected, but none responded. Like the pen that cannot write, and the knife that cannot cut, the person who does not fellowship with God “is good for nothing.”
Our message this evening features a man in fellowship with God. His name was Barnabas.
Consideration . . . is that this is a man who is “good for something.” He is one who lives his life in fellowship with God, and the way he lives toward other people is clearly affected by his life in relationship with God. Two things come through very clearly to us:
· A proper relation to God.
· A proven relation to people.
I. Barnabas First Teaches Us a Proper Relation to God. Acts 11:22f, “. . . and they sent forth Barnabas that he should go as far as Antioch . . . . For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith.”
Man in relation to God must reflect goodness. It was a word that had to do with consummate goodness. Matthew 19:16f, “The rich young ruler asked what good thing he could do to inherit eternal life. “Why do you come to me . . . about goodness? Only One is good.”
But it was a concept that would increase among the followers of Jesus. They had observed Jesus. They shared intimately among His followers. II Chronicles 6:41, “Let the saints rejoice in goodness.” Joshua 6:16, “Stand . . . and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and . . . find rest for your souls.” Galatians 5:22, “The fruit of the Spirit is goodness.” Romans 12:9, “Cleave to that which is good.” Matthew 25:21, “Well done good and faithful servant.”
Man in relation to God must reflect God’s Spirit. Man can only encounter God at this level. The Holy Spirit is the force for our understanding of God. He is beyond comprehension without Holy Spirit.
Without the Holy Spirit there would have been no church, no relation to God at all. Pentecost—“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit,” Acts 2:4. Gentile reenactment of Peter in Caesarea—“the Holy Ghost fell on all them that had heard the word,” Acts 10:44.
The things of consequence among the believers were Holy Spirit initiated. Acts 4:8, in custody, lives in jeopardy; Peter, “filled with the Holy Ghost said . . . .” Acts 4:31, back with believers “they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and spoke . . . with boldness.”
The rest that we know of this man was of his faith. II Corinthians 5:7, “We walk by faith.” Romans 1:17, “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 5:1, “justified by faith.” Galatians 3:26, “Ye are the children of God by faith.” I Timothy 6:12, “Fight the good fight of faith.” I John 5:4, “This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” The difference in faith is the difference in those who wear sunglasses or galoshes to a prayer meeting called to pray for rain.
II. Barnabas Next Teaches Us a Proven Relation to People. Acts 4:36, “And . . . Barnabas, . . . the son of consolation, having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.”
Note that he was called son of encouragement. Ask the poor people of the church in Jerusalem, Acts 4:36. Ask Saul of his journey to Jerusalem (9:27) after his conversion. Ask John Mark (15:37) when Paul determined to disassociate himself at Perga.
It is a special word to all believers. John 14:16. Jesus promised the parakletos—comforter. Barnabas is called by that same name. Paul uses it Philippians 2:1, “any consolation in Christ.”
Note that he is indiscriminate in his willingness to share with less fortunates. Not wealthy, but of some means. Barnabas was sent by the church in Jerusalem (Acts 11:22) to assist the fledgling church in Antioch. A year later he went back to Jerusalem (Acts 11:29) with help to them from Antioch.
In this context, they began to search for a means of kingdom support. The return of Jesus is inordinately delayed. The believers began to admit to themselves that leaving financing the kingdom to the wealthy was a dead end street. Now they see God’s plan: the tithe.
Note that he believed in people. He came to Paul’s assistance with the apostles. He befriended John Mark before Paul; Colossians 4:10 refers to them as cousins; A.V. represents “nephew” but from a later time frame (E40p250). His effort in behalf of the church at Antioch was not to be remembered, not to be memorialized, but to reach out in Christ’s name to people.
Note then that he was a man worthy of trust. They bestowed on him apostleship. Acts 14:14, “. . . When the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard, they rent their clothes and ran in among the people.” Into his hands were placed the funds of assistance for other churches.
Note that he was a man of selflessness. Arriving at Antioch, the first order of business was to “encourage” them. Acts 11:23; same word as in 4:36; same as 9:31, “comfort of the Holy Spirit.”
While there he went to Tarsus for Paul. Acts 11:25; missionary relationship with Paul begins; interesting that Barnabas is here mentioned first. Also 13:7. But from 13:9 on, Saul becomes Paul and is the acknowledged leader. And Barnabas continues his service.
Finally, note that he is a courageous man. With John Mark, he went right to the work at Cyprus, in spite of the “sharp” words (paroxusmos)with Paul. God uses this disturbance and two mission teams are at work. Not a proof text for churches that spark and split. Barnabas and Paul remained good friends. Mentioned in I Corinthians, Galatians, Colossians.
Conclusion
If, and when, the times come that I must be a disagreeable Christian, may the dear Lord help me to disagree over worthy causes, and in a manner that calls attention to the causes and not to my disagreement.
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT PENTECOST
#758 ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT PENTECOST
Scripture Acts 2:1-13, NIV Orig. 10/4/1979
Rewr. 5/25/1990
Passage: When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.
5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. 7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? 9 Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia,[b] 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”
13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.”
Purpose: On the Sunday before a major anniversary, to remind my people of the true source of tenure for the local church.
Keywords: Bible Study Holy Spirit Church, Mission
Special Day, Anniversary
Timeline/Series: Acts
Introduction
You may remember the rather heated discussion between Huck Finn and Jim about why people talk the way they do. Huck asked what Jim would if someone said “Parley voo franzy?” Jim declared that he would bust him over the head. Huck then tried to use the logic that cats and cows don’t talk like men, neither do they sound like each other, therefore Frenchmen and Americans sound different.
Jim accepted the logic relative to cows and cats but no more. Jim said, “Is a cat a man? Or a man a cat?” Huck agreed with this. Then he asked, “Is a Frenchman a man?” Huck responded affirmatively. “Well, den, dad blame it, why don’t he talk like a man? You answer me dat!”
Does everyone you talk to understand everything you say? Do you have a problem communicating certain things to certain people? In this last decade of the 20th Century there is still a communications gap. We have all kinds of sophisticated equipment, but the problem persists. We have electronic typewriters with memory. We have access to fax machines that will speed the lengthiest of messages anywhere in the world in the briefest of time spans. We can listen to a thirty minute news program and learn every important thing that has happened in the world even as recently as two hours prior. We can read one page in the tabloid, U.S.A. Today, and learn selected news features from every one of our fifty states.
Yet, the world knows no peace, and families are still in trouble because they fail to communicate one with the other at an acceptable level. And we Christians are not able to make our beliefs known to others. Surely, with such a message, there is a means also.
I. The Question from Pentecost are All about the Holy Spirit. (Terminology). V4, “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
What means the expression “filled with the Holy Spirit” or “full of the Spirit”? Luke, who wrote Acts, found this to be a favored way to describe believers. Chapter 2:1-13 describes Pentecost; 2:14-39, Peter’s sermon to throng, v38 “name of Jesus”; 2:40-47, v47 “the Lord added daily.”
But it was not the Holy Spirit, but Jesus who is at the heart of this movement. Acts 7:55, Stephen faced martyrdom. “Being full of the Holy Ghost, . . . saw . . . Jesus standing at the right hand of God.”
John 16:14, “He shall glorify me.”
The meaning of the term addresses a yieldedness on the part of believers. 1:8, “Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost has come upon you . . . witnesses.”
The main association of this filling is not ecstatic speech but proclamation. 4:8, “Peter, filled . . . , spoke . . . rulers.” 4:31, “all filled . . . spoke with boldness.” 13:9, “Paul, filled . . . set his eyes on (Elymas).”
The Holy Spirit is the [energizing] means for us to share the gospel effectively. That’s what “being filled” means.
What about the term, “the baptism of the Holy Spirit”? If we are looking for a generic source we must go back to John the Baptist. Matthew 3:11/Luke 3:16, “I baptize with water, . . . but one is coming who will baptize with/in the Holy Spirit.” Note Jesus’ reference to this, 1:5. Peter 11:16 calls it to mind explaining gentile Pentecost, 10:44f.
It is a reference, not to what the Holy Spirit is doing, but what Christ has done. I Corinthians 12:13, “For by one Spirit were we all baptized into one body (Jews, gentiles, bond, free) . . . ye are the body of Christ” (27).
Then take note of “Gift” and “gifts” of the Holy Spirit. The Gift of the Holy Spirit is the Holy Spirit Himself. This is the anointing at Pentecost. It happens twice more: Samaria (Acts 8:14f) and Caesarea (10:44f) gentiles. Gifts of the Holy Spirit are the manifestations for service given believers. All believers. Some, many disallow every manifestation.
If you are wondering about “second blessing” it is not a Biblical term.
II. What Does Pentecost Teach Us Then, About the Holy Spirit? V1, “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.”
From whence comes concept of Pentecost? Judaic root from Leviticus 23:15f: Called Feast of Weeks, counted passing of 7 sabbaths.
Took place 50 days after Passover. By implication, a spiritual harvest, a harvest so vast that special harvest equipment was called for. River rising: 25 combines in field. Every male Jew within twenty miles of Jerusalem was required to participate. Many from far away would make this vigil back home.
We must also consider their unity. They waited for they knew not what. They knew a galvanizing joy when they were together. Their common and uncommon bond was Christ. Luke 22:12, Passover/Acts 1:13, Pentecost. Both involve “upper room.” The same??? Upper room 1:15 uses number 120 waiting. Streets. 2:14 uses 11, but 2:41, 3000.
The contemporary church must rediscover this awesome sense of togetherness. Begins with unbridled love for Jesus. Awaits the integrating leadership of Holy Spirit. Recognizes the power comes not to a person, but to the redemptive agency. John 17:11, that they may be one, as we are one.
Now, the question is “What happened at Pentecost?” V2, “Sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind.” Word for “wind” may be “spirit” also. Derivative here is “breathe” (gentle). The wind is never seen, only results. RL Maddox1: “God in the form of the Holy Spirit came upon the people. Did the curtains sigh under the weight of the first breath of wind? Did the lamps flicker? Did strands of their hair rustle like angel wings? Who knows, but they would talk about that day for the rest of their lives.”
Next came “cloven tongues of fire.” AS it appeared to them. In actual fact, we do not know. Exodus 13:21, “And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud; . . . and by night in a pillar of fire.” A cloud, pushed on by a wisp of wind to lead them by day. Fire to lead them by night.
When God does a thing so unique that there is no human valuation, he does not leave its course to chance. Thus come “filling” and “speaking.” V4, “They were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues.” The Lord’s presence is magnified. The need of believers to yield to God's will is amplified. The first function clearly is to free the church to proclaim the gospel. In response to the “pouring out,” ekcheo. Same word repeatedly in Revelation 16 “bowls of wrath.” Instead, it is the proclamation of “good news.”
A question must remain about this so-called “tongues” manifestation. The Holy Spirit does not have its inception at Pentecost. Nor does “glossolalia.” For some, ecstatic speech served and serves a useful purpose. But in no sense is it normative or Biblical.
Last Sunday was not my first at Charenton, Louisiana. Twenty years ago I went with the Baldwin pastor. He turned tongues, the church died, resurrected by the mission years later.
Conclusion
Pentecost happened because God would not leave His people ill-equipped for the most important task in the world. The Holy Spirit is the loud-speaker that takes every sincere believer’s witness and amplifies it before a lost world.
Links
Maddox https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Luke-Acts-Robert-Maddox/dp/0567292703
1 Maddox, R. (1985). The Purpose of Luke-Acts, T&T Clark.