Tag: miracle

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Acts: On the Way to Jerusalem

Read: Acts 21:1-16

Luke provides a dramatic story of their journey from Miletus to Jerusalem. He begins by enunciating the emotional departure from the Elders as they began their journey through several cities. They stayed in Tyre for a week and ministered to the church in this challenging city. As the story unfolds, I’m swept away by the depth of the bond these people had for Paul, those who were disciples, and for the young Church.  How I long for this sense of deep connection in the Church today. Take a look and see the highlights Luke provides for us.

Tyre for a Week

Luke writes himself into this story, he is with them on the journey as they sail to the metropolis of Tyre, the huge port city. Tyre has a significant history in the Bible. Notable names like Joshua, David, Solomon, Nehemiah, to name a few, come from the Old Testament. Jesus traveled there as well and many from Tyre witnessed His teaching and miracles. Suffice it to say, it was an important city.

We sought out the disciples there and stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go on to Jerusalem. When it was time to leave, we left and continued on our way. All of them, including wives and children, accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray. Acts 21:4-5

In my imagination, the video switches to slow motion as the group leaves. Men, women, and children all walking out with Paul and his team. The music is melancholy. There is a heaviness about this visit that is unexplainable except to say they knew in their hearts this was Paul’s last visit. And they cared.

Maybe it’s just me or perhaps you feel the same longing for a community of faith that is this close. Lord, help us to be a people that are moved by this story. Show us how we can become people that love You with all our heart and love our neighbors as well. Make this the new normal.

Agabus the Prophet

From Tyre they traveled to Ptolemais then to Philip’s house (one of the Seven) in Caesarea where Agabus had a message to deliver.

Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.’” Acts 21:11

This is the second time on this journey that Paul has been warned to stay away from Jerusalem. His response is a testimony to his desire to follow Christ, no matter what.

Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.” Acts 21:13-14

As I’m typing this post, I received an email from The Voice of the Martyrs with the subject: How You Can Pray for and Help 10,000 Displaced Christians. I’m reminded that Paul’s example of obedience is repeated by many throughout the world today. We have many brothers and sisters who have found themselves in danger for the sake of the Gospel.

This is not a plea to go and look for trouble. Far from it. It is, however, a recognition that this is a very real possibility in our world today. One of the initial questions in Multiply asks what it might cost you to become a disciple of Christ. Paul knew the answer. How about you?

The early disciples risked much to pursue their faith in Jesus. As I sit in my home to reflect on this passage I have to wonder if I’m a bit too comfortable. As I said above, I don’t think Jesus is calling us to look for problems, but I’m pretty sure He didn’t call us to sit in rocking chairs and be content in our own private little worlds.

Lord, help me to see that which is right in front of me and move me to action. Stir in my heart that which stirs Yours. Do not allow me to be content and complacent. Light the fire that is the beacon of hope for the lost, the least, and the lonely.

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Acts: Sunday Gatherings Begin and the Eutychus Miracle

Read: Acts 20:1-12

As we read many details of Paul’s travels in this chapter, we are given some significant insight into his way of encouraging leaders of the first century Church. He encourages them through teaching well into the night and even through a miraculous healing without missing a beat. We need to read his letters to the churches he planted to get a better understanding of what he must have discussed, but Luke’s focus here is to capture the broad perspective of his vast ministry.

Paul the Encourager

After the riots in Ephesus, Paul lets things settle down a bit.

When the uproar had ended, Paul sent for the disciples and, after encouraging them, said goodbye and set out for Macedonia. Acts 20:1

In Paul’s day, Macedonia included Thessalonica, Philippi, Berea, and other cities where he planted churches. The group was comprised of men from Berea, Thessalonica, Derbe, and the province of Asia. When you look at the map, this is a rather extensive area to draw from in an age where it was difficult at best to communicate over great distances. It’s no wonder that Paul chose to write letters to these churches to keep in touch and consistently teach across cultural boundaries.

Luke joins the group at some point during these travels. Notice that he inserts phrases like “we came together,” “where we stayed,” etc. This personal touch is quite interesting to me. I guess it’s why I was diverted yesterday when I wrote The Miracle of the Bible. It’s a fascinating collection of writings I hope we can all appreciate.

Sunday Gatherings

Paul routinely went into synagogues everywhere he traveled to preach the Gospel to Jews gathered on the Sabbath. We see this pattern repeated often. In this case, and probably in many future cases, we see the day to gather moves from the seventh day (Saturday) to the first day (Sunday).

On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Acts 20:7

I don’t want to overstate the significance of this detail, but it is quite interesting to note. It’s logical as well. Gentiles would not have a habit of going to the synagogue on Saturday, it certainly wasn’t the Sabbath for them! Sunday made more sense and it allowed Paul to continue his appeal to the Jews and the Gentiles.

Sidenote on Gathering

In these days weekends are often filled with sports and other activities that make Sunday worship seem more like an event that gets checked off of a list than an opportunity to gather and worship. So much to do and so little time. We should still get together on Sunday, no doubt, but perhaps we should gather at another time like Friday nights. It’s funny that this is often the time many look forward to for fun because there are far fewer limitations. Babysitters are easy to arrange and places are open late to serve. Our society has figured this out, how about us?

What if we gathered together to sing, share communion, fellowship, laugh, eat, and learn without the finite boundaries of time on Sunday morning. What would happen if we invested time in developing deep relationships with other Christ-followers in homes where we might actually have time to get to know one another? It’s risky. We wouldn’t be able to hide in the back row. I am suggesting the risk is worth the reward. Just a thought.

Eutychus Raised from the Dead

Eutychus was a young man among many that were drawn to Paul’s teaching. More than just a sermon, Paul keeps on talking well into the night. Luke lets us know that the room was well lit, but Eutychus gets sleepy nonetheless. He chose to listen while seated in a window on the third story of a house.

I’m not sure it matters, but in Europe, the third story is what we would refer to as the fourth floor. The ground floor doesn’t get numbered. I’m suggesting this to emphasize the height of his perch and the distance he would have fallen. Be assured, Eutychus didn’t survive the fall.

I wonder if Paul was watching him nod off during his talk. Not merely falling asleep in church, this was flat out dangerous. Suddenly, Eutychus slips out of sight.

When he was sound asleep, he fell to the ground from the third story and was picked up dead. Paul went down, threw himself on the young man and put his arms around him. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “He’s alive!” Acts 20:9-10

Remember that Luke was a medical doctor. When he says he was “picked up dead” there is no doubt, Eutychus was not alive. Paul’s reaction is crazy. Don’t be alarmed. Seriously? He wastes no time in running to the scene and the Holy Spirit works through him miraculously.

What does Paul do after this miracle? Does he teach on healing ministry or take time to mention how Eutychus was healed? Or perhaps take up a collection? Nope. It doesn’t appear that this event was even discussed. The group heads back upstairs to share communion and continue talking until daylight. The important thing was still the most urgent — teach disciples what they need to know.

As we’ll learn in the rest of this chapter, Paul’s focus was on ministry, on spreading the Gospel. His energy was not on getting his name on a placard somewhere. Just the opposite, he was there to teach an encourage others to do the same. He modeled the behavior that we should emulate.

Christ came in human flesh, served people, and showed us we should do the same. Go. Make disciples. Spread the incredible news that Jesus paid the price once and for all. Eternity includes yesterday, today, and tomorrow. May every conversation reflect this sense of urgency.

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The Miracle of the Bible

As I was reading Acts 20, I couldn’t help but stop and wonder about Luke, the author, and the Bible itself. I don’t want to forget the human element that is part of the divine inspiration which we believe is the result of this thing we call the Bible. Luke is the author who is inspired by God to narrate the story for future generations. This is incredibly remarkable when you stop and think about it. His careful selection of events that included himself, as in this chapter, and others that he knew about provide a timeless narrative that gives us direction today. I would suggest this concept should be known as The Miracle of the Bible.

It’s a book that is beyond fascinating. It captures the imagination of generations before and after Jesus’s appearance on earth. It’s not meant to be idolized, put on a shelf and worshiped, or cherry-picked apart to support our individual positions for or against anything. It is, rather, an invitation to hear the voice of God in narrative form.

One analogy I’ve used recently is to suggest reading the Bible is like getting a phone call from a dear friend, perhaps your best friend. I hope you have someone in your life that is so significant to you that you would answer the phone at all hours of the day or night, allow them to interrupt meetings, or drop everything to help you out anytime.

Reading the Bible is like one of those calls. When the phone rings, flashes, or vibrates, I’m eager to answer it. Depending on circumstances, I might answer with some anxiety if I sense something is wrong. If it rings at 2 am, I’m pretty sure something is amiss! There are many stories in the Bible that read like this. Stories of despair, anger, hostility, revolt, or just plain bad news. Other stories are exciting and encourage me to tell others.

This blog has been growing for some years now. What I’ve found is the more I read and write about what I’m learning, the more interesting the Bible becomes. Each time I learn something different. It might be a new angle or perhaps a gap was filled from some other source. Sometimes just doing life with another person exposes some Scripture that I seem to have missed in the past.

All I know is this: the more I read, the more I grow. The more I grow, the more I’m able to help others. Oddly enough, my definition of love has grown deeper. My patience for others is extended beyond my own understanding. My joy for hearing from God is difficult to explain. I’m not anywhere close to being done, but I have a peace in my heart that is there to share with others. I pray that I’m becoming kinder and gentler, but I have a lot of work to do in this regard.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

It’s not good enough for me to be encouraged or uplifted by God’s Word in the Bible. It’s only useful if it is shared with others. Dig deep, my friends. Find the treasure that’s buried within the inspired Word of God for all people and for all time. It’s amazing! It is The Miracle of the Bible.

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Acts: Tragedy and Triumph

Read: Acts 12:1-24

In this passage we are provided with two extreme examples: one is tragic and the other is triumphal. James is executed while Peter is saved. The miraculous events surrounding Peter’s release from prison give us hope. And while the death of Herod might be cause for celebration, we are not invited to gloat. There are so many lessons in this text! The one that weighs on my heart this morning is that we need to be a people of great faith, trusting that God’s answer to our prayers is sufficient, whether or not it’s what we desire.

James Executed

Every time I read these words, tears begin to well up. I’ve come to know these men so well as I’ve studied this year that I have a real sense of loss. Among the first called by Jesus (Matthew 4:18-22), James, the Zebedee brother, paid the ultimate price for his faith. So sad.

Lord, my faith is like a grain of sand compared to these incredible saints. Though I may never be as strong or as bold as the founders of our faith, strengthen me in these days to be the catalyst You desire for this day. May Your church grow as a result and many people come to know You fully through simple acts of faith.

Power of Prayer

Our Sovereign God hears the prayers of His people, though the answers are not always what we desire, I am convinced He answers every prayer.

Perhaps the execution of James led to the deep prayer surrounding Peter’s abduction. There are many examples where God is moved by the earnest prayers of His people. Prayer matters.

The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16

Or perhaps it wasn’t time for Peter’s death, the work before him was not yet accomplished. One day, perhaps, we’ll understand. For now, we can merely observe what happened and come to appreciate God’s sovereignty over all things.

Tell James and the Brothers and Sisters

Before Peter goes underground to avoid certain execution and retribution against his friends, he tells them to spread the news:

Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. “Tell James and the other brothers and sisters about this,” he said, and then he left for another place. Acts 12:17

It’s as if Peter was telling them to remember this deliverance during the Passover festival, a new day is dawning. This is evidence for them to consider. James in the quote above must be Jesus’ brother, his ministry was significant, but we remember it wasn’t always that way. Tell James and the others, yes, including the women, but it’s important to keep this quiet until uproar settles down.

Herod’s Death

Herod interrogated the guards, but they had no explanation that made any sense so he had them executed. Perhaps it was his frustration in losing Peter that led to his departure, or maybe it was time to simply conduct business elsewhere. Whatever the case, Luke describes an important meeting in two significant cities where Herod is pictured as the hero in silver robes. He accepts their praise as a god and was suddenly infected with worms. The commentaries indicate he died after five days of being eaten from the inside out. This Herod will no longer suppress the growing body of Christians.

But the word of God continued to spread and flourish. Acts 12:24

Faith

May we have faith beyond explanation, go where God is leading, boldly proclaim that which we know is true, even though the world does not understand.

“King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” Daniel 3:16-18

Even if the answer to prayer means my death, I will not turn from Jesus.

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Acts: Peter Meets Aeneas and Dorcas

Read: Acts 9:32-43

In this marvelous passage, Luke provides two examples of miraculous healing as Peter does what he was told to do: ministering to the sheep of Christ’s flock. The first few words of verse 32 show us that Peter is actively moving about, going from place to place is nothing new, it’s just what he does. The notes indicate that Lydda is 25 miles from Jerusalem and Joppa is another 10-mile jog away. It’s just interesting to think who much distance is covered when the primary mode of transportation involved sandals. The real story, in this particular case, is about some exceptional miracles that happened which resulted in many more coming to Christ.

Aeneas is Healed

In a Vineyard video that Ben Eaves shared with me, a pastor told of a story where he discovered that the gift of healing is indeed relevant today, it’s not just a story we read about. The Holy Spirit still has the power to heal. In the video, John Wimber related how he learned an amazing truth about the prayers for healing: they’re amazingly short. Peter follows this model in what we read here:

“Aeneas,” Peter said to him, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.” Immediately Aeneas got up. Acts 9:34

Aeneas was heal from his physical problems, that’s great but even greater was the reaction from the town and surrounding area:

All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord. Acts 9:35

Dorcas is Revived

Well “revived” puts it lightly, she was raised from the dead! Luke draws our attention to a disciple, one who is known for doing good and helping the poor, who happens to be female. Tabitha (Dorcas) became sick and died. Dead.

her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. Acts 9:37

The disciples in the area heard that Peter was around so they put her body in a room in anticipation that she was not quite ready for burial. It’s a bit confusing, and somewhat troubling, that they felt like only Peter had the ability to resurrect Dorca. Perhaps it was because they were all still new to the faith, had doubts that clouded their minds and inhibited the Spirit from working somehow. I don’t know why, but they knew Peter was close, so they sent for him.

When he arrived, the other widows showed off her amazing work, the robes and other clothing she made for others. Dorcas was obviously a wonderful woman, greatly loved and respected by others.

Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Acts 9:40

There is a real power in prayer. The text doesn’t say he prayed and fasted for hours, no sign of anything beyond a truly devoted follower of Christ clearing all distractions and praying for this dearly loved servant.

Peter presented her to the people, especially the widows, as one who is alive. It seems that Dorcas’ days are not yet done, she still has work to do before her life on earth is complete.

Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive. This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord Acts 9:41-42

Some Thoughts

It’s wonderful to read these stories, to see how Peter’s obedience and dedication to Jesus resulted in healing and reviving. I can’t help but wonder why this doesn’t happen more often today. Sadly I have to believe it’s because my heart is not completely in tune with the Spirit.

Most of the time I hear about healing ministries it’s attributed to those who seem to profit from the results. From my tainted perspective, it seems the purpose of miraculous healing is for spreading the gospel. The examples here show us that people knew it was not about Peter, it was all about Jesus. If we get that right, perhaps the Spirit can work through us even today.

Lord, increase our faith in little things to strengthen us for the troubles that seem to pursue us in this life. May we continue to grow in faith and see You work in those who know You and those who do not. All for Your glory.

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Acts: Saul’s Conversion

Read: Acts 9:1-19

Incomprehensible. Or perhaps unbelievable. The man named Saul was methodically and completely eliminating Christ-following disciples, gaining trust from synagogue to synagogue as he went along from town to town seeking and ridding the population of the cancer they defined as Christians. Suddenly, everything changed. These few verses attempt to capture what is perhaps the most significant event after the resurrection of Jesus in the course of history. Luke begins by telling us Saul is actively seeking to arrest Jesus followers and wraps up this section with his baptism. It’s difficult to wrap my mind around these events, but here goes!

Collecting Letters

Saul gains support from synagogues by getting official approval to seek and capture followers of “the Way,” early Christians.

so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. Acts 9:2

Luke consistently inserts “men and women” within his narrative to remind us that gender is not a basis for judgment, though it’s men that are typically cast as the worst of the worst. Think about that for a minute.

Struck By Light

A light from heaven knocks Saul to the ground, those around him heard a sound but saw no one. Perhaps it was a clear, normal day going around arresting people when a mysterious light stops them in their tracks.

“Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” Acts 9:4-6

Blind Saul is helpless. The very One he is seeking to discredit spoke directly to him. In my imagination, my ears are ringing as the shell-shock event leaves me speechless. On the ground out of nowhere, now unable to see a thing while hearing the voice of the very man I’m trying to erase from the planet. For Saul, this was explosive! For those traveling with him, riding his coattails, this makes no sense. They lead him into Damascus to a house that is no doubt deep within the Jewish sector, inaccessible to Christ followers. For three days he did not eat or drink anything. This is a complete gamechanger.

Ananias

One of those Saul was seeking, Ananias, there in Damascus hears the voice of Jesus telling him to heal Saul. Ananias is not being disobedient when he asks for clarification, he just wants to make sure he heard the message correctly. There’s no doubt in my mind that Saul was surrounded by layers of security. He was a man with a mission, climbing the Jewish ladder of fame. I’m sure he had a significant band of supporters that created a gauntlet for Ananias to traverse. Jesus tells Ananias:

Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name. Acts 9:15-16

While the message is clear, it’s ridiculous! How can this Christian killer be Your instrument? But Ananias is faithful. There is no report of fear in his heart or mind as he does what Jesus commanded.

Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit. Acts 9:17

From hiding, through the band of Jewish followers, directly to his archenemy, Ananias does was he was told to do, says what he was told to say.

Lord, this is the kind of faith I pray for. Ananias heard You clearly because he was focused on You above all else. The message was not tainted with self-serving righteousness, he heard exactly what You said, even though it made absolutely no sense. These are the ears I long to have.

Saul is Baptized

For three days Saul replayed the event in his mind. No food. No drink. Just sounds and smells of his surroundings as he sat and contemplated what happened. When Ananias laid hands on him he knew this was real. It probably seemed like a nightmare, but the reality of the moment came crushing in just as the flash of light knocked him down.

Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized Acts 9:18

His first reaction to regaining his sight is to be baptized! Wow! What a miraculous sequence of events. The weight of this moment is hard to express. The wretched history of our Jewish forefathers is captured in the Old Testament in stories we don’t like to read. The divided kingdom which led to captivity and annihilation was the result of kings following self-made gods. In Saul’s mind, he was trying to prevent this from happening again, he was completely justified and supported by wise men that were trying to preserve their way of life. Everything was in Saul’s favor.

He was justified by men, yet convicted by Jesus.

Lord, help me to seek Your face, hear Your voice, follow Your ways. I long to do this with a company of others who do the same but do not let us fall into the trap of pleasing ourselves over following your commands.

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Acts: The Samaritan Pentecost

Read: Acts 8:5-25

Stephen’s death at the hands of the Sanhedrin caused many to flee from Jerusalem. This scattering of disciples served to spread the gospel to distant places, as well as some that were not so distant. Before Saul’s conversion, we are invited to read an account of Philip’s successful ministry in the evil place called Samaria. This area is discussed throughout the gospel narrative as a place of all kinds of religions and beliefs. They were despised by the Jewish people, yet Jesus ventured there without hesitation.

Samaritan Evangelism

Philip was moved to preach and perform miracles in Samaria. We don’t read a lot about his ministry, except to see it must have been pretty amazing.

When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said. Acts 8:6

Luke reports there is great joy in Samaria as a result of Philip’s work.

The focus shifts to Simon the Sorcerer, a man who was admired by many for his amazing works. The mention of sorcery alongside the miracles of Philip provides a sharp contrast for us to consider. I’m convinced there are many battles fought in spiritual realms, but I have little understanding of how, when, where, or who conjures up such warfare. The prevalence of casting out spirits in the New Testament leaves little doubt that their presence exists. It’s just not something we see in our everyday walk or ministry. Maybe this is an indication of a problem?

How all that works out is a mystery to me. What we do read is that Simon, and others, respond to Philip’s altar call and accept Jesus.

Simon himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw. Acts 8:13

Samaritan Pentecost

The news of the gospel spreading in Samaria reached the apostles, so they sent Peter and John went to see. The words don’t indicate they were sent to validate Philip’s ministry, but their actions are interesting, to say the least.

When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. Acts 8:15-17

How is it that the Holy Spirit had not come on any of them? Philip preached, they believed and were baptized, but in this case, it wasn’t complete until the apostles showed up. In looking at commentaries and other wild opinions about what was happening here, I’ve come to the conclusion that Peter and John’s mission was all about uniting the Samaritans with the rest of the Christ followers. Their appearance, laying on of hands, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, was the key affirmation our forefathers needed to see for the benefit of spreading the gospel, even to the dreaded Samaritans.

The Sorcerer — Again

In light of this amazing act, Simon the Sorcerer is highlighted again. Perhaps he wants to get some of this action to add to his magic show. His business sense takes control and he offers to pay the apostles to learn this new magic.

When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money and said, “Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” Acts 8:18-19

It’s interesting that though Simon had accepted the gospel (Acts 8:13), he wasn’t one that Peter and John laid hands on.

Peter sees straight through his act and knows his heart has not changed. Instead of a blessing, Peter rebukes him strongly:

Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. Acts 8:22

This is a good example of how to handle someone who is not properly motivated to help the local body of Christ. The rebuke is strong, but there is an opportunity to improve. Pray for forgiveness.

Simon’s response shows that he has truly not changed at all. His only concern is that nothing bad would happen to him. He could have asked for forgiveness. He could have asked that they pray for his sinful heart, but this is not the case.

The Gospel Spreads

Enough about Simon, the good news is that there is Great News! The Samaritans are welcomed into the family, those who truly repent and believe, and the word about Jesus continues to infiltrate men and women beyond the sacred walls of Jerusalem.

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Acts: Healing, Preaching, Prison, and Flogging — The Church Grows

Read: Acts 5:12-42

The deaths of Ananias and Sapphira resulted in great fear among the people, but these events did not slow the growth of the church in the least. The remainder of chapter 5 climaxes with Gamaliel’s assertion that the disciples should be allowed to follow their hearts and let God be the judge. His compelling speech satisfies the jealous Sanhedrin and propels the Gospel without taking sides. A brilliant political move. God’s church will grow!

What About Ananias and Sapphira?

No mourning over Ananias and Sapphira is reported. Did they have no friends? Did the church simply not care? These kinds of thoughts are serious distractions, whispers from the great tempter to distract us from the main story. Luke did not record these details because they are not the primary story. I’m not faulting anyone for having questions, merely redirecting the thoughts from that which would take away from the incredible story of the birth of Christ’s church.

Miracles of Healing

So much of the early church was fueled by miraculous events, signs, and wonders that drew spectators, the curious, and the serious.

The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. Acts 5:12

The reputation of Peter, in particular, grew to such heights that people wanted to be close enough to have his shadow fall on them for healing or restoration. There is no indication that Peter is paying attention to this notoriety, instead, he just keeps on preaching the gospel!

The Sanhedrin — Again

The incessant preaching and crowds of people gathering to hear and be healed cannot possibly go unnoticed. As expected, the religious leaders are greatly offended by their actions.

Then the high priest and all his associates, who were members of the party of the Sadducees, were filled with jealousy. Acts 5:17

With hearts bent against the disciples, the priests arrest them and put them in prison. During the night an angel of the Lord appears and releases them miraculously. The doors are still locked and the guards alert and present, but the disciples are simply not in the prison. It’s a mystery no one can explain, but they end up in the temple courts in the morning preaching again.

Then someone came and said, “Look! The men you put in jail are standing in the temple courts teaching the people.” Acts 5:25

The guards carefully “invite” the disciples into the presence of the Sanhedrin. They aren’t fools! If the disciples were transported to the courtyard miraculously, there’s no telling what might happen to them if they cause trouble. Remember Ananias and Sapphira? Let’s be careful!

We Must Obey God and Not Men

Peter and the other apostles, filled with the Holy Spirit, makes his consistent proclamation:

We must obey God rather than human beings! We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him. Acts 5:29, 32

This is key. These leaders of the early church were 100 percent sold out to their calling and completely immersed in the Holy Spirit. Completely. There is no hidden agenda, no secret desire for a big building, private office, or reserved parking space. They are on a mission to spread the great news about Jesus.

Wise Counsel from Gamaliel

I believe Gamaliel was inspired by the Holy Spirit to address the entire Sanhedrin. The strength of his argument, coupled with the sound logic, was exactly what was needed at the time.

…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. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God. Acts 5:38-39

There is no counter-argument. The disciples are flogged (nothing to laugh about in those days) and released.

Joy in Suffering for Christ

Given the historical context, I don’t think the beating they received was any less than extremely painful, but we are not offered any insight here, instead, we read that they counted the beating as another sign that they are worthy of their calling.

rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Acts 5:41

How about us? Are we so heaven-bent on preaching the gospel that the world is beating us?

Lord, I pray we would get serious about Your great commission and preach through obstacles that hold us back. May we rely on You in times of difficulties, in a world that is desperate to know You, even if they don’t know.

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Reason for the Hope I have in Jesus Christ

Read: 1 Peter 3

For years I have encouraged others to write down their response to 1 Peter 3:15, to work through the words and develop a cohesive statement of personal faith. Here is my work in progress, some thoughts that help me respond to Peter’s exhortation:

15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 17 For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 1 Peter 3:15-17

My hope is wrapped up in many experiences in life. I can point to examples of divine provision, but you might think God is a magic genie if I leave you with the notion that asking and receiving is a precursor to faith. Believing without seeing is the definition of faith.

My apologetic reasoning goes something like this: the more I look at the complexity of life, the more I’m convinced it was no accident. I’m convinced it would take infinitely more faith to believe we were accidentally created than it does to believe there is a God who orchestrated the whole thing.

From this point, William Lane Craig and Tim Keller kick in. In Reasonable Faith, Craig provides scientific arguments that are compelling, to say the least. Keller’s book, The Reason for God, takes a more philosophical approach and really makes you think — if you have an open mind. There are scores of other resources if you’re interested in venturing into the halls of apologetics, all quite interesting.

I’m not a scientist, but if we can agree that there is a Creator God, we can begin to explore His character as revealed throughout the Bible as well as the countless examples of mere mortals throughout history. Once we begin this journey, I have no idea where we will land, but I am confident that if we allow the Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts and minds, wherever we arrive is a better place than where we began.

The Bible provides a snapshot of God’s consistent desire to have a relationship with His creation. It’s only a highlight reel for us to consider, but an important one to say the least.

All this to say I believe there is more to life than breathing in and out. As I have stopped to consider the possibilities and understand the nature of mankind, I must conclude the story of Jesus is more compelling than any other. I’m no scholar and certainly not well versed in every religion. What I do know makes sense, but more than that, I get a sense of peace from it all.

Mathematicians can explain harmony in musical notes, the meshing of frequencies that define a perfect triad. All I know is I can hear dissonance, I can feel the tension and know how to resolve the chord. Must I have a degree in Mathematics to convince you? I don’t think so. The only real requirement is an open heart and receptive mind.

From this perspective, the Spirit of God can and does perform miracles.

The reason for the hope I have in Christ is not because my Sunday School teachers said so, though they did. It’s not because I heard David Wilkerson’s convicting call to accept Christ when I was a teenager, but he most certainly did. It’s not because of the miracles I’ve seen in my life, those incredible coincidences that are unexplainable yet too real to refute, but I have seen many. It’s not because of these things, but it is these things have caused my mind to wander and wonder.

When I sit and listen, my heart is stilled by creation. A love that is unexplainable enters my mind. A peace that cannot fit into a formula comforts my heart.

And I smile.

Medically, the twitching muscles in my face respond to requests from my brain as electrical signals are transmitted to the exact nerves that fire and the skin on my face flex in an upward fashion on the left and right at the precise moment the thought entered my mind.

Or perhaps it’s the water that forms in the corner of my eye when I first saw our oldest child born — the first time I saw her breath. Then the second, third, and fourth child. Then every other child I’ve seen since.

And I cry.

Maybe it’s the funniest thing Tim Jones said, or just the expression on his face when he said it, I don’t know. He has a way of making ordinary words create a response inside me that’s hard to express. Or maybe the clown nose that Patch Adams donned to make his patients smile, along with his goofy antics.

And I laugh.

It could be that holding the one I love creates a sensation in me that is vulnerable, daring, comfortable, uncompromising, safe, secure, content, and warm. At the end of a long day or the beginning of a storm, this thing is irrefutable and unexplainable with scientific measurements, but there is no doubt:

And I love.

The reason for the hope I have in Christ is wrapped up in moments like these. I hope you’ll take time to examine your life to see what it is that means more to you than mere existence. I hope you’ll look for the source in the pages of an old collection of writings we call the Bible.

The more I look for answers in Christ, the more I’m convinced I made the right choice.

Live. Love. Cry. Smile. Laugh.
But mostly
Love

How about you?

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Acts: Thrown in Jail, Peter Preaches Again

Read: Acts 4:1-12

We spent this past weekend at Koinonia Farms just outside of Americus, Georgia and down the road from Plains, GA where President Carter lives. The farm is one of the places that stood out during the Civil Rights Movement, where people had to make a choice to stand with the status quo or open their eyes to see a new reality, a future that embraced men and women of all races working together in harmony. Choices were made. Some hearts became harder while others melted.

Peter and John, through the power of the Holy Spirit, healed a man who was lame and the status quo of their day was offended. Luke tells us that the chief priests, Sadducees, and the temple guards took action:

…while they were speaking to the people. They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. Acts 4:1-2

The Sadducees didn’t believe in the resurrection in principle, certainly not in practice, so they couldn’t stand for this kind of talk. Since they made up the majority of the Sanhedrin, their opinion was significant. Their authority would be undermined if all this talk about resurrection were allowed to infiltrate the minds of others, let alone the Pharisees that served alongside them.

It’s important to note that these men were not ignorant, their intellect is a key part of their rise to power. They see potential problems that would arise if these preachers are allowed to continue. For some evidence, Luke points out that those who believed are growing fast:

But many who heard the message believed; so the number of men who believed grew to about five thousand. Acts 4:4

Thrown in jail, the disciples are handled by the authorities. Though the cause is different, many were imprisoned during the Civil Rights Movement with the same kind of, “what do we do with them” thinking.

This is the same Sanhedrin that dealt with Jesus just a few weeks prior. Now they sense the need to quell the rebellion before it gets out of hand.

By what power or what name did you do this? Acts 4:7

Though the Sanhedrin is comprised of incredible scholars, they have never been able to do anything so wonderful, let alone heal a 40-year-old crippled man! They can’t deny the event — the man is walking and talking right in front of them! Perhaps some of them thought they could learn how to perform such wonders if they knew more about the power, the name behind the miracle that led to this event.

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power. Abraham Lincoln

But they, the over-educated, pious, superior, self-proclaimed elite, could not do that which these uneducated Galileans did. They are about to be schooled by men who didn’t go to school, who had no formal education. Peter restates the accusation in humble terms. He’s not boasting about his ability to do anything, as he will explain fully.

If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man… Acts 4:9

I like to think Peter paused after he restated the problem, that he looked around the room, made eye contact, and received some sense of agreement, “yes, this is why we arrested you–for your act of kindness…that’s not what we do around here!”

But before they could get defensive about these words, Peter immediately throws out the name they did NOT want to hear.

It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead Acts 4:10

Peter quotes Psalm 118:22-23 with a significant modification: “the stone the builders rejected” is offered as “the stone you builders rejected.” The Sanhedrin clearly hear the words:

You are not kind
You crucified Jesus
You are the builders
You rejected Jesus

Peter is just getting started. The Holy Spirit has empowered him to preach and nothing will stop the words penetrating this place at this time.

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12

Salvation

Much more than healing a physical infirmity, Peter is using this “simple” act of kindness as a preaching point to emphasize the greater need for salvation.

No One Else

Let’s be clear on this point: Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation. This is not a boast, but a clear statement of fact based on an eye-witness to the resurrection.

We Must Be Saved

More than works, greater than wisdom, beyond education and lofty titles, we must come to the point of salvation, we are all in need of being saved. These scholars knew the scriptures well. They understood the fall of mankind, the struggles of Abraham, Moses, David, Solomon, and the Prophets. They could quote them verbatim, yet they needed to be saved!

The scene is vivid and real in my imagination. Peter and John are doing nothing to draw attention to themselves. They are unafraid of these men, but shouldn’t they be a bit worried? Only weeks ago they had Jesus crucified. This fact is nowhere in their conscious thought. I believe they preached as if this was their last breath.

What would we do or say if we thought this was the last word we would utter before our human death? What would you want to be transcribed? As far as Peter and John were concerned, death was right around the corner so they seized the opportunity to be Christ’s witnesses.

Now it’s our turn.

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