2019, Baptism of Holy Spirit, Book of Acts Series 2019, Christianity, Gifts of the Spirit, Inspiration

The Ministry of Saul

Preaching at podium

In my previous blog post, we looked at the amazing change that took place in Saul’s life. He went from being a persecutor of the early church to a follower of Jesus Christ. In this blog post, I would like to look at another portion of the ninth chapter in the Book of Acts regarding the preaching Saul did.

Saul Starts Ministering

Starting with Acts 9:20-21 (NKJV) it tells us, “Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God. Then all who heard were amazed, and said, “Is this not he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?””. Saul starts preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, this causes the people to be amazed. We must keep in mind these people are used to Saul being a driving force for the persecution of the followers of Jesus. Now Saul is a follower of Jesus. Acts 9:22 (AMP) continues, “But Saul increased in strength more and more, and continued to perplex the Jews who lived in Damascus by examining theological evidence and proving [with Scripture] that this Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed).”. Saul continued to grow in his ability to preach. This caused the Jews to be perplexed because his preaching had strong theological evidence and was based upon scriptures. I think it would be safe to assume he referred to certain Old Testament scriptures that pointed to Jesus Christ. Not only did he use theology and scriptures, but he used his testimony in action. Sometimes ministering to someone is not about how knowledgeable you are in theology and how well you have scriptures memorized, but your evident testimony. Often it is out testimonies that will lead others to Jesus Christ, along with Biblical truth.  

Saul is Now a Target

Acts 9:23-24 (AMP) tells us, “After considerable time had passed [about three years or so], the Jews plotted together to kill him, but their plot became known to Saul. They were also watching the city’s gates day and night so they could kill him”. The Jews begin to plot to kill Saul, this is not simply a punishment from God, but something that can happen when one is spreading the Gospel. Acts 9:25-26 (KJV) goes on to say, “Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him and believed not that he was a disciple.”. Saul gets to Jerusalem and the group of disciples do not believe his claim to be a follower of Christ, simply because they originally know Saul as a persecutor of the church. Sometimes we might even be surprised when someone we know of comes to Christ. Maybe someone that bullied you in high school became a minister and their life is different because of Jesus Christ. The same Jesus that changed you and me, is the same one that can change the other people around us regardless of their background.

Saul is Brought to the Apostles

Acts 9:27-29 (NKJV) continues, “But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. So, he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out.  And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him.”. Barnabas eventually convinces the other disciples about Saul’s conversion. As Saul is with the disciples of Jerusalem he continues to preach with boldness. Saul can preach with boldness because number one he received the infilling of the Holy Spirit at his conversion, and he is becoming obedient to the Holy Spirit. If you are like me, you should be able to distinguish a minister who flows in the Holy Spirit and one who does not flow in the Holy Spirit. The Jews are still attempting to kill Saul because of him spreading the message of Jesus. I find it awesome to know that Saul continues preaching despite the threat of persecution. I think this is more amazing given the fact that he was a leader of the persecution before he came to Christ. This just shows us an example of true conversion.

Saul Goes to Caesarea and Tarsus

Acts 9:30 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus.”. Saul then goes to Caesarea and Tarsus, which I have a map below to show you for a visual. Acts 9:31 (AMP) continues, “So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace [without persecution], being built up [in wisdom, virtue, and faith]; and walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort and encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it continued to grow [in numbers].”. As Saul continued with his ministry many people were added to the church. This happened simply because he was a minister for Jesus Christ who yielded to the Holy Spirit. This also resulted in the people he ministered to being edified through his teaching and testimony.

Map of Caesarea and Tarsus
Source: https://www.biblestudy.org

Final Thoughts

After looking at these few verses in Acts chapter nine I find it amazing to see the transformation that took place in Saul’s life. This is also a reminder that God can call on anyone to be a minister for Him. It doesn’t matter what the person’s background was before their encounter with Jesus Christ. Romans 2:11 (GNV) reminds us, “For there is no respect of persons with God.”. When Saul had his encounter with Christ, when the light shined down from Heaven, he could have become angry with God and been blind the rest of his life, but he chose to surrender to Jesus Christ.

This Weeks Challenge

What about you? What took place in your life when you fully surrendered to Jesus Christ? I would like to encourage you to find one person this week to share your testimony with. Please share your testimony with anyone whether they are a believer or unbeliever. Luke 8:39 (CSB) tells us, “Go back to your home, and tell all that God has done for you.” And off he went, proclaiming throughout the town how much Jesus had done for him.”. So, I challenge you this week to share your testimony with someone, and if God leads you to someone who needs Jesus in their life, minister to them, ask God to lead you with that person. Ministering to a person might be a one-time event, or it might take several times to work with that individual. We must be patient when we do personal ministry on a one on one basis. Also please feel free to share your testimony in the comment section below.

2019, Book of Acts Series 2019, Christianity, Salvation, Testimony

Saul is Converted

Light shining on body of water near mountains.

This is now my sixteenth teaching from the Book of Acts. This series has lasted longer than I expected, but that is okay because I am flowing with this as the Lord leads me. I hope that these blog posts have been a blessing to those of you who have been following. In this blog post, I want to cover the first part of Acts chapter nine which shows us a major change in the life of Saul. Now from previous chapters, we know Saul was very involved with the persecution of Early Christians. However, many of us who are truly born-again believers know that God can grab a hold of anyone and change them.

Saul Has an Encounter with Jesus

Let’s start by reading Acts 9:1-2 (NKJV) which says, “Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest  and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.”. At the beginning of chapter nine Saul is still involved with persecution, he is a very strong driving force behind the persecution of the early church. Continuing Acts 9:3-4 (NKJV) tells us, “As he journeyed, he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”.  A light came to Saul from Heaven, when this happened Saul fell to the ground because of the presence of Jesus. Just to digress for a moment let’s look at the aspect of Saul falling because of the presence of Jesus. There are many instances when people fell or were shaken by the presence of God in both the Old and New Testaments. When God’s presence comes on someone very strongly one can fall or be shaken. Some people refer to falling in the Spirit as ‘slain in the Spirit’. I have personally seen the presence of God manifest at different churches where people did get slain in the Spirit, and some miracles took place. Many people will argue with the notion of being slain in the Spirit as not Biblical. If you take the time to study the Bible you will see the presence of God can cause someone to fall or be shaken. This can still happen today simply because of Hebrews 13:8 (AMP) which says, “Jesus Christ is [eternally changeless, always] the same yesterday and today and forever.”. In one of my future blog posts, I will cover this subject in more detail. It is also important to note that some people do abuse certain Gifts of the Holy Spirit, and this can happen with being slain in the Spirit. Again, this is a topic I will cover in more detail in a future blog post!

Saul is Blinded

Continuing with Saul’s encounter with Jesus Acts 9:5-6 (NKJV) tells us, “And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” So, he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”. Saul is confronted by Jesus regarding the persecution and then is instructed to go to the city of Damascus. Notice where he said “Lord, what do you want me to do”, he was surrendering to Jesus at this point which is part of Saul’s conversion. Acts 9:8 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened, he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus.”. Saul is now blinded and has other people help him into the city of Damascus. Acts 9:9 (GNT) tells us, “For three days he was not able to see, and during that time he did not eat or drink anything.”. Saul’s struggle with blindness was a few days long, also since he had nothing to eat or drink, we can expect him to naturally lose some strength.

Ananias Instructed to Step Out of His Comfort-Zone

Acts 9:10 (NKJV) continues, “Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”. Ananias is a disciple who will play an important role in the change in Saul’s life. Acts 9:11-12 (NKJV) goes on to tell us “So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision, he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him so that he might receive his sight.” God instructs Ananias to go to Saul and lay hands on him and pray for him to receive his eyesight in the name of Jesus. Acts 9:13-14 (NKJV) continues, “Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem.  And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”. Ananias knows of Saul’s persecution and does not think well of Saul, but God is still instructing Ananias to go to Saul and pray for him. Acts 9:15-16 (NKJV) tells us why God is doing this with Saul, “But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.  For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”. We all know that God is not a respecter of persons. Acts 10:34 (GNT) tells us, “Peter began to speak: “I now realize that it is true that God treats everyone on the same basis.”. The Message Bible translates it as “Peter fairly exploded with his good news: “It’s God’s own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open.”. We also know as followers of Jesus Christ we are to pray for all people. In 1 Timothy 2:1 Paul tells us, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people”. Often in life, we will encounter unbelievers that we will have problems getting along with, whether that be at work, the store, or even your friends and family. We often must realize that the reason we have problems with certain individuals who are unbelievers is because of the spirit behind them. 1 Corinthians 2:14 (NKJV) says, “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them because they are spiritually discerned.”. So, I encourage you to pray for all people, and do spiritual warfare! I would also like to remind you that God will sometimes call us to do things that we are uncomfortable with, however, we are to be obedient to what God leads us to do. If God is leading you to do something out of your comfort zone, ask Him for strength and wisdom.

Sauls Healing

As we read on, we do find out that Ananias does lead by example and goes to Saul as the Lord instructed him. Acts 9:17-18 (NKJV) tells us, “And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”  Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once, and he arose and was baptized.”. Saul was healed and received the Holy Spirit and was baptized. Isn’t it amazing to see someone who was heavily involved in persecution convert over to accepting Jesus! This should be an encouragement to us believers as we pray for our unsaved loved ones! Acts 9:19 (NKJV) goes on to say, “So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.”. Saul did spend some time with the disciples after he converted. This shows us the importance of personal ministry with new believers and ensuring they get a strong foundation.

A Challenge for You This Week

I encourage you to take some time this week and ask God to reveal to you one person that you can minister to this week. Whether it be an unbeliever or a believer. Maybe you know someone who never accepted Jesus, or maybe you know someone who did accept Jesus but is struggling. Let’s lead by example from this passage from the Book of Acts I shared with you this week and do some personal ministry with someone as God leads us!

2019, Christianity, Healing, Testimony, Wisdom

A Word on Perseverance

mountains with snow on top

Instead of making a post on the Book of Acts, I felt led to discuss the subject of perseverance. We must admit that life will never be easy, whether you are a believer or unbeliever. At some point, we will deal with a situation that will catch us off guard. Whether that would be an illness, job loss, or loss of a loved one. A life-changing situation can either make or break us personally, the choice is up to us.

Cast Your Cares to God

Often in life when we are in times of trouble, we can become so invested both mentally and physically in our circumstances and forget to truly seek God full-heartedly in the middle of our situation. Are you going through something in life that you have become so invested in and haven’t truly given the situation to God? Psalms 55:22 (NKJV) tells us, “Cast your burden on the Lord, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.”. The Amplified Bible translates it as, “Cast your burden on the Lord [release it] and He will sustain and uphold you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken (slip, fall, fail).”. Have you truly cast your burden(s) to God? We should always know our God, can do what is considered impossible in man’s eyes. As we are here on Earth for a short period of time, we spend most of our time in the natural realm. God operates in the supernatural realm. That is why Romans 12:2 (NKJV) instructs us, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”.

My Own Struggle

So, are you spending more time concerned about your circumstances in the natural realm, or are you spending more time in God’s presences and seeking Him to do the supernatural? I myself was in a situation when I could have sought God more seriously on a situation that is going on in my life. Four years ago, right before my nineteenth birthday, I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. My body’s immune system was perversely attacking the insulin-making cells of my pancreas.  The doctors told me I would need several insulin injections daily for the rest of my life, and I would have to check my blood sugar levels four to eight times a day, along with eating my meals at certain times and counting carbs. I grew up in the faith, I accepted Jesus Christ as my savior at a young age at a Spirit-filled church. However, I became more focused on learning how to manage my disease, rather than seeking God to baffle the doctors. At the time I was also a full-time college student and working full time, I had a lot on my plate. Type 1 Diabetes is a very time-consuming disease. I take currently four to five insulin injections daily. Insulin injections are nothing to be taken lightly, it has a very narrow therapeutic range. You could do one thing today and have great blood sugar readings, then do the same exact thing the next day and have totally different results. Not only can it be a very time-consuming disease, but it can also be a very frustrating disease. When you have Type 1 Diabetes you not only think about your blood sugar levels for today but what will your future be like with the disease, because there are many complications that can take place no matter how well you manage your blood sugars. Type 1 Diabetes is also known as a silent killer, people can experience low blood sugars that can be deadly if not dealt with. This is something that is very serious at nighttime when one is asleep, I have read of several people who had died from low blood sugars overnight.

Is Breakthrough Always Instant?

With as horrible as this disease sounds, do I give up on my faith in the Lord? With as much that is involved with the disease, I could easily pull that as my excuse. I have been prayed over many times by many great ministers, and I have yet to be told by the doctors I am in total remission of Type 1 Diabetes. Do I give up on God? No! Some people would do that. Some people think when you get prayed for you should be healed instantly. The Bible never tells us that we will be healed instantly, but that we will be healed. Sometimes healing is a process. In my personal time with the Lord he revealed to me an example of gradual healing that was done by Jesus in Mark 8:22-25 (NKJV) “Then He came to Bethsaida; and they brought a blind man to Him and begged Him to touch him. So He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the town. And when He had spit on his eyes and put His hands on him, He asked him if he saw anything. And he looked up and said, “I see men like trees, walking.” Then He put His hands on his eyes again and made him look up. And he was restored and saw everyone clearly.”.  The first time Jesus laid hands on this blind man, he could only partially see, then the second time he was totally healed. Sometimes a miracle won’t take place the first time we pray, sometimes it will be a process. Maybe God wants to focus on some emotional healing first before your physical healing. It is often said that emotional problems can lead to physical problems. Therefore, we all need intimate time with the Lord and to soak in His presence. We need to come to Him empty-handed and fully surrendered to Him. 1 Chronicles 16:11 (NKJV) tells us, “Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face evermore!”.

Currently in my Struggle

Since I have pressed on in my faith with the Lord for total healing of Type 1 Diabetes, I have seen a substantial and consistent decrease in my insulin doses. I have also been blessed with great people of likeminded faith in my life, who are continuing to agree with me for full healing.  I am trusting in the Lord for the full healing to be manifested. The testimony will be for Gods glory!

Persevere and Fully Surrender

No matter what it is you are going through in life right now, cast your cares to the Lord, seek Him full-heartedly, and fully surrender to Him. One last scripture I would like to leave you with is Romans 5:3-5 (NKJV) tells us, “And not only that but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.  Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”. We are to persevere during our trials, which means to do something despite difficulty or opposition. I encourage you to take some time this week and fully seek the Lord and fully surrender your situation to Him. Whatever you need a breakthrough for, come to Him full-heartedly, and don’t let your own understanding get in the way, let God do His work in the supernatural. Whether the results are instantly or slowly, the glory is always given to God. Do not become discouraged if nothing happens right away, persevere! Sometimes things might get worse after doing some serious prayer, often that can be opposition from the enemy, and we need to keep pressing on. No matter what keep on pressing on in faith in the name of Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today and forever!

2019, Baptism of Holy Spirit, Bible Study, Book of Acts Series 2019, Christianity, Inspiration, Salvation

Acts Ch. 8: Persecution from Saul

In this teaching, we are going to look at the persecution that Saul did against the early church. When I was working on this teaching, I was hoping to cover both chapters eight and nine, but I decided to cover each chapter individually. As always, I do encourage you to take some time and read chapter eight in its entirety and study on it yourself.

The Start of Great Persecution from Saul

I have already gone over the subject of persecution from the Book of Acts several times, and we are now going to look at another example of it. As we look at chapter eight, we will not only see some persecution, but also some important revelation knowledge that plays out regarding true salvation and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. In my last teaching, we talked about the deacon Stephen’s death from chapter seven. As we begin chapter eight, we will see how things rapidly progress. Acts 8:1 (NKJV) tells us, “Now Saul was consenting to his death. At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.”.  Stephen was stoned to death in chapter seven for blasphemy against God and the law. Following his death, a great time of persecution comes on the early church.  Acts 8:3 (NKJV) continues, “As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.”. At the end of my previous teaching, I mentioned we will see Saul’s importance play out regarding persecution. Saul was the main driving force behind the persecution of the church, however as we continue in the Book of Acts, we will see a great turn of events occur for Saul.  Acts 8:4 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.”. Because of the persecution taking place, the people become scattered and go and preach the word in different areas outside of Jerusalem. I feel it is inspiring to see that the people here did not let the idea of persecution stop them from spreading the message of Jesus Christ. This should be inspiration to all of us!

Philip Goes to Samaria

Acts 8:5 (NKJV) continues to tell us, “Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them.”.  Samaria was an area that was looked down upon by the Jews. By Philip reaching out to Samaria and ministering to their people, this became a big step for the early church. Acts 8:6-8 (NKJV) tells us, “And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.  For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed, and lame were healed.  And there was great joy in that city.”. These few scriptures just briefly describe the signs that took place during Philip’s ministry in Samaria. As a reminder signs through the manifestation of the Holy Spirit (tongues, healing, prophecy, miracles, etc.) are sign’s for unbelievers, hence why every believer needs to be baptized in the Holy Spirit! These signs that take place in Samaria will be what causes many people to accept Jesus Christ. Acts 8:9 (NKJV) goes on to tell us of a problem that Philip encountered, “But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously practiced sorcery in the city and astonished the people of Samaria, claiming that he was someone great,”. Philip was encountering someone involved with sorcery, his name was Simon. Let me ask you a question, what would you do if you were ministering to a group of unbelievers and one of them turned out to be a practicing witch? Would you give up, or would you allow the Holy Spirit to use you to minister to that person? Acts 8:10-11 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the great power of God.”  And they heeded him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time.”. Not only was Philip dealing with a sorcerer, but he had to deal with Simons followers too. This goes to show us that Philip did encounter some resistance while ministering in Samaria, but he continued because he had a power inside of him, and that was the Holy Spirit. Acts 8:12-13 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “But when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized.  Then Simon himself also believed; and when he was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done.”. Because of Philip’s ministry to the people of Samaria through the power of the Holy Spirit, many people accepted Christ, along with Simon. Just as a side note in these two verses the people believed and accepted Christ and then were water baptized. As we will read on, we will find a small issue arises with Simon, that is a great reminder to all Christians today.

Salvation and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit are Separate!

There are so many different denominations of Christianity out there today. Many churches today will argue on the idea of salvation and the baptism of the Holy Spirit (not water baptism) being two separate events in ones walk with the Lord. Churches not believing and practicing in the baptism of the Holy Spirit is the reason why many churches are weak today! Why are so many people sick in the church today? We have simply got caught up in our own self-made theology and traditions, rather than what the Word of God says. So, let’s take some time and clear this issue up by looking at an example in the Book of Acts. I am going to outline a few scriptures below, and underline some keywords:

  • Acts 8:13 (NKJV): “Then Simon himself also believed; and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done.”.

    Notice it says that he believed and then was baptized, this is a reminder that salvation and water baptism are two separate events.
  • Acts 8:14 (NKJV): “Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them,”.

    Notice it says they had received the Word of God, which is simply the message of Jesus Christ. Some synonyms for the word receive are: to be given, to be presented with, and to accept (my favorite one for this scripture)

These two scriptures above point us to salvation being its own event in ones walk with the Lord. This is also one of the most important events, because you must be born again to inherit the Kingdom of God! Romans 10:13 (NKJV) says, “For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”.  So now let’s look at another event that takes place that is separate from their salvation and water baptism in Samaria.

  • Acts 8:15 (NKJV): “who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit.”

    The Apostles pray over them so that they might receive the Holy Spirit, just like the Apostles did in the Book of Acts, when they were in the upper room.
  • Acts 8:17 (NKJV): “Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.”.

    Again, the Apostle lay hands on them and pray for them to receive the Holy Spirit. Notice this takes place after they receive and accept the Message of Jesus Christ.

If you go back to the Gospel of John and read chapter twenty you will see this is where the Apostles had received their salvation and were able to go out and continue the ministry of Jesus. However, as we get the Book of Acts, they receive the Helper, the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:4 (NKJV) tells us, “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”. This infilling of the Holy Spirit came after they received their salvation. This brings another important point up about context in the Bible, it is important to know the order of events in the Bible so you can read the Bible in a clearer context.

Importance of True Salvation

Continuing on in the Book of Acts, Acts 8:18-19 goes on to say “And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money,  saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.””.  Simon’s true heart is shown here, he wants to only impress people with his impartation of the Holy Spirit. As we all should know having the Gifts of the Holy Spirit in your own personal ministry are not meant to impress people, but to bring people to Christ and help edify the church.  Acts 8:20-23 (NKJV) continues, “But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!  You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God.  Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.””.  Simon did believe in the message of Jesus Christ, but as we see from the previous verses he was not truly converted. This brings up another important point, which is true salvation. Often the church can get too distracted at trying to bring new people in that we forget about true conversion when one comes to know Christ. Too many churches have got it wrong today. They want to attract new people in by carnal means. So, if you bring people in using carnal means, and keep them attending your church by carnal means, are they truly saved? Do people truly love Jesus or do they just like how popular the church is on social media, or how good the music sounds, or how nice the stage looks during worship? The modern church today has lost its focus on true salvation. While all these other aspects of the church have their own role, there is nothing more important than a true and clear message of salvation that is consistently preached to the unbelievers, rather than the watered-down Gospel of Accommodation that is mainstream today. Colossians 3:5-11 (NKJV) reminds us, “Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them. But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds,  and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.”.  This is something that we always need to be constantly reminded of as we minister to people individually and look to grow our churches.

Final Thoughts..

If you continue reading chapter eight in the Book of Acts you will see that Simon does repent, and in verses 26-40 you will see that Philip goes and witnesses to an Ethiopian Treasurer, and that is another great testimony we see in the Book of Acts. In my next teaching, I will continue onto chapter nine, and we will look at a turn of events regarding Saul. Again, I encourage you to take some time to read chapter eight in its entirety, and please check back for my next teaching in chapter nine!

2019, Book of Acts Series 2019, Christianity, Old Testament, Salvation

Acts 6:8-7:60: A Teaching on the Old Covenant to the Council

bible by the lake on a table

It should be safe for you to assume from the title of this teaching that this will be one of my longer teachings. I am not going to quote every verse from Acts 6:8-7:60 but, I am going to point out several key items. In my last teaching, I discussed the first Christian Deacons, and one of their names was Stephen. Acts 6:8 (NKJV) tells us, “And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.”.  We know that Stephen did many great signs and wonders through the power of the Holy Spirit. A true minister will authenticity by having the Holy Spirit in them and results through flowing with the Spirit.

Stephen is Charged

Acts 6:9-12 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “Then there arose some from what is called the Synagogue of the Freedmen (Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and those from Cilicia and Asia), disputing with Stephen.  And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke.  Then they secretly induced men to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.”  And they stirred up the people, the elders, and the scribes; and they came upon him, seized him, and brought him to the council.”. The people of the synagogues accused Stephen of blasphemy of God, just like they did with Jesus. We will see why the people got upset with his teachings as we get into chapter seven. The people in the synagogues could not tolerate him so they took him to the Sanhedrin Council.  Acts 6:13-14 (NKJV) continues, “They also set up false witnesses who said, “This man does not cease to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the law; for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs which Moses delivered to us. ”. When he was brought to the council, they made up false witnesses against him. We also see that they are still more concerned about holding onto their religious customs from the Law of Moses. However, we know that Jesus was the perfect sacrifice and there is no need for any more sacrifices, Hebrews 10:14-18 (NKJV) reminds us, “For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified. But the Holy Spirit also witnesses to us; for after He had said before, “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them,”  then He adds, “Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.”  Now where there is remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin.”.

About Abraham

As we go into chapter seven, I would like to remind you that I am not going to elaborate on each verse, so I encourage you to take some time to read this chapter in its entirety. I would like to first look at Acts 7:1-3 (NKJV), “Then the high priest said, “Are these things so?” And he said, “Brethren and fathers, listen: The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Haran, and said to him, ‘Get out of your country and from your relatives and come to a land that I will show you.’”. When you look back in the Old Testament you will see that God called Abraham out of the City of Ur. The people in this city worshiped the moon, and handmade idols of the moon gods. God picked Abraham out and told him to leave this pagan land. This call on Abrahams life was the beginning of Israel.  Acts 7:6-7 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “But God spoke in this way: that his descendants would dwell in a foreign land, and that they would bring them into bondage and oppress them four hundred years.  ‘And the nation to whom they will be in bondage I will judge,’ said God, ‘and after that, they shall come out and serve Me in this place.’”.  God not only promised a blessing, but He did warn of a time of some suffering. As we continue to look at Stephen’s teaching, we will see how he shows us that God has been working since the beginning of creation. He shows us how the Old Testament Scriptures, Offerings, Tabernacles, High Priests all point to Jesus Christ. If your Bible has reference notes you will see many reference notes in Acts chapter 7 pointing to the Old Testament scriptures, I encourage you to take some time and look back on these as well!

About Moses

Skipping several verses to Acts 7:21-23 (WEB) tells us, “When he was thrown out, Pharaoh’s daughter took him up, and reared him as her own son. Moses was instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians. He was mighty in his words and works.  But when he was forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brothers, the children of Israel.”. Moses was born of Jewish parents, but Pharaohs daughter took him, and raised him in Egypt. He got educated from the Egyptians, yet God called on Moses to use him, God called on a non-Hebrew to become a follower of God. In Acts 10 we will see this take place as pagan people came to the early church and left their pagan ways. Acts 7:30 (WEB) also tells us, “When forty years were fulfilled, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in the wilderness of Mount Sinai, in a flame of fire in a bush.”. Moses had three periods in his life, each lasting about 40 years and those were:

1.    Time in Egypt

2.    Time in Midian

3.    Time in the wilderness

When God called on Moses, He knew that he would need a sense of belonging, and a reason to continue. So, what did God do? Acts 7:32 (WEB) tells us, “‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ Moses trembled, and dared not look.”. God revealed Himself to Moses as the God of his forefathers, this gave Moses a sense of belonging.

The Covenant of Circumcision

Skipping a few more verses, Acts 7:48-50 (WEB) tells us, “However, the Most High doesn’t dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says, ‘heaven is my throne, and the earth a footstool for my feet. What kind of house will you build me?’ says the Lord; ‘or what is the place of my rest? Didn’t my hand make all these things?’”. God does not dwell in temples made with hands. In the Old Testament God allowed the Tabernacle to be built by Solomon to accommodate the people to be able to approach God and fellowship with Him. The Tabernacle was the only way for the Hebrews to approach God in the Old Testament. However, because of Jesus, we do not need to go to a place anymore to seek God, because the Holy Spirit dwells in us! This now brings me onto my last point from chapter seven and that is the Covenant of Circumcision. Many people overlook the Covenant of Circumcision from the Old Testament, however, there is so much behind it that we do not realize unless we really study. Continuing Stephen tells us in Acts 7:51 (WEB), “You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit! As your fathers did, so you do.”. They are uncircumcised because they do not have the Holy Spirit in them like Stephen does, simply because they are not accepting Jesus Christ. Looking back Acts 7:8 (WEB) tells us, “He gave him the covenant of circumcision. So, Abraham became the father of Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day. Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of the twelve patriarchs.”. You can read about the Covenant of Circumcision in Genesis 17:9-14 and 21:1-5. To sum up circumcision, it was simply the seal of the covenant, and a covenant is a binding agreement between two people. In our covenant with God through Jesus Christ, our circumcision is the Holy Spirit that comes into us when we are born again. When the Holy Spirit comes into us when we are first born again, He does a work in us, and we are a new creation.  2 Corinthians 5:17 (WEB) tells us, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things have passed away. Behold, all things have become new.”.  The unbelieving Jews were more worried about outward signs rather than transformed hearts, and this was exactly what Stephen’s point was in Acts 7:51. Romans 2:28-29 (NKJV) tells us, “For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh;  but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.”. So, I would like to ask you, do you have the circumcision of the Holy Spirit? Or are you more concerned about your works? This is something that many people need to be reminded of.

Stephen’s Death

Acts chapter seven ends with the unbelieving Jews stoning Stephen to death. Because Stephen was a follower of Jesus Christ, he went up to Heaven. Acts 7:55-56 tells us, “But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, and said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!””.  Lastly, one of his last requests is ‘Lord receive my Spirit’. Acts 7:59-60 (NKJV) continues, “And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.” The Bible often describes one dying as falling asleep.

Looking Ahead

In my next teaching I will continue onto chapter eight, which will look at Saul who will persecute the church, he was also present during the stoning of Stephen. I encourage you to take some time and read Acts chapter seven in its entirety and really study for yourself Stephen’s teaching as he shows us that God was working from the beginning to make the Old Testament point us to Jesus Christ.

2019, Book of Acts Series 2019, Christianity, Gifts of the Spirit, Inspiration

The First Christian Deacons

small church building by mountain view

As I continue my series on the Book of Acts, I would like to look at the first part of chapter six. What we will see take place is something major in the early church and is something that is still done in many of today’s churches. This is the aspect of deacons, in chapter six we will see the very first Christian deacons who are chosen. I am sure all of us have been in a church or are in a church that has a deacon, or a few deacons depending on the size of the church. The word deacon comes from the Greek word diakonos which is also used in different forms for the words minister and servant throughout the New Testament. Look at 2 Corinthians 6:4 (NKJV) for example, “But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses,”. The original text for the word ministers in this verse is diakonoi, which stems from the Greek word diakonos. This teaching is not only to be a historical view on how deacons started in the early church but a reminder that all roles in the church are important.

Time for a Change in the Early Church

Acts 6:1 (NKJV) starts off saying, “Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.”. The church is continuing to grow, and due to the growth, there is now the realization that it is time for a change in the early church. Acts 6:2 (NKJV) tells us, “Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.”. This is now the start of the distinction of those who preach and those who are responsible for the distribution of food, which will be the duty of the first deacons. This verse also shows us the beginning of roles and responsibilities in the early church. Just like in today’s church we not only have people who preach and teach, but also people who do administrative duties, cleaning, cooking, and much more. It is important that we all realize that every duty in the church is important, that is why we each need to be willing to serve and bring glory to God.

Requirements of Deacons

Continuing on we find out the requirements of the first deacons in the church in Acts 6:3 (NKJV) which says, “Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business”. The goal was to find seven men who were of good reputation, wise, and filled with the Holy Spirit. However, as the New Testament was written, much more guidelines were given to us for designating deacons. 1 Timothy 3:7-13 (NKJV) which tells us, “Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. Likewise, deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience.  But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless.  Likewise, their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things.  Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.  For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.”. This scripture shows us the seriousness of giving someone the responsibility of a deacon, this seriousness also applies to all other duties in the church. Performing any duty in the church should be done for the glory of God and done by true believers of God. Often churches just want to fill positions quickly so they can get stuff done rather than test the individual and get to know them truly and their seriousness to serve God.

The Seven First Deacons are Appointed

Acts 6:5-6 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch,  whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.”. The Apostles laid hands on these seven men in recognition that God truly called them to be deacons. This is something we should all be doing in the church for when someone new begins to serve in a role or responsibility, and that is to pray over them for God to give them wisdom, knowledge, and strength to perform their duties for God’s glory. We should also continually pray for our pastors, Sunday school teachers, administrators, and other church staff regularly. 2 Timothy 1:6 (NKJV) tells us, “Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.”.

Continual Growth of the Early Church

Continuing Acts 6:7-8 (NKJV) says, “Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith. And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.”. The early church continued to grow due to the bold teaching through the power of the Holy Spirit. It is also known that there were some priests from the Temple who began to follow in the faith as well. This is something that may not have been expected from the start of the ministry of Jesus through the Apostles due to the strong rejection they had from the high priests. But with God all things are possible, and religious spirits can be conquered. The growth of the early church due to bold preaching that came through the infilling of the Holy Spirit is a reminder to us that our churches need the power of the Holy Spirit more than ever before. We are living in a late hour before Jesus comes again, and the church should not be this weak right now. It is my prayer that more churches cry out to God for a fresh and new infilling of the Holy Spirit and begin to yield to the works of the Holy Spirit. Acts 14:3 (NKJV) tells us, “Therefore they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.”.

Where Can You Be Serving?

In closing for this teaching, I would like to remind you that all roles in today’s church are all important. Whether you are preaching to the congregation, teaching Sunday School, making up the bulletin, leading worship, cleaning, or any other duty it is very important to the function of the church. And it is to be done for the glory of God. I would encourage you to take some time and see if there are any ways that you can be a help to your church for the glory of God. 

2019, Book of Acts Series 2019, Christianity, Salvation, Sin

Acts 5:17-42: Another Look at Persecution

gavel

I would like to finish off chapter five in the Book of Acts and take another look at persecution. A few weeks ago, I gave a teaching on persecution out of the Book of Acts. In this teaching, we are going to look at another instance of persecution of the apostles. We know that in today’s world many Christians face persecution daily, and the number is continuing to increase. Sadly, there is not much attention regarding this issue as there needs to be. I encourage you to take some time and pray for the Christians around the world being tortured and killed for their faith in Jesus Christ.

The Apostles Imprisoned

In my last teaching we discussed an instance of healing in the Book of Acts from Acts 5:12-16, in this teaching I would like to pick up at verse 17 and go all the way to the end of the fifth chapter. So, I hope you have time to read this post in its entirety because this will be a bit longer than usual! Acts 5:17-18 (NKJV) tells us, “Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him (which is the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with indignation,  and laid their hands on the apostles and put them in the common prison.”.  Notice in the scripture the word indignation, which means jealousy. The high priest and the council became jealous of the apostles. This issue was not only due to their unbelief but the growing number of crowds around the apostles. The apostles were getting attention from people, and the high priests did not like this because the apostle’s teachings hindered their tradition. Because of the jealousy of the high priests, the apostles were put in jail. Continuing on something awesome takes place in the next two verses, Acts 5:19-20 (NKJV) says, “But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said,  “Go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.”. An angel of the Lord appeared to them at night and freed them from jail, but also gave instruction to go to the temple and preach. Acts 5:21-24 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “And when they heard that, they entered the temple early in the morning and taught. But the high priest and those with him came and called the council together, with all the elders of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came and did not find them in the prison, they returned and reported, saying, “Indeed we found the prison shut securely, and the guards standing outside before the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside!”  Now when the high priest, the captain of the temple, and the chief priests heard these things, they wondered what the outcome would be.”. They discovered the apostles were gone from the prison and they are now wondering what will take place next. I am sure many thoughts were going through their minds because the high priest already had a previous encounter with the apostles regarding their teachings of Jesus Christ.

Spirit of Religion Manifested

Acts 5:25-26 (NKJV) continues, “So one came and told them, saying, “Look, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people!” Then the captain went with the officers and brought them without violence, for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned.”. The high priests became informed that the apostles were teaching in the temple, the police of the temple go to confront the apostles with the high priests. Notice in the scripture they avoid violence around the crowd because the crowd that was listening to the apostles was responding positively to their message. The apostles are then questioned by the high priest in Acts 5:28 (NKJV), “saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!””. The high priests and council are more concerned with maintaining their authority rather than focusing on the truth. We know that Jesus is the truth, John 14:6 (NKJV) confirms, “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”.  The high priests and the Sanhedrin council had a religious spirit oppressing them, this even took place in the earthly ministry of Jesus. Some people refer to this as a Pharisee spirit, I would like to call it a spirit of religion where one is more concerned about traditions rather than Biblical truth. There are many churches today who still focus on tradition rather than the truth. But we know the truth is what sets us free, and Jesus is the truth. We know John 8:32 (NKJV) tells us, “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”.

A Bold Response from the Apostles

Continuing in the Book of Acts, the apostles begin a response to the high priests. We know from previous readings in the Book of Acts the apostles spoke boldly because they are filled with the Holy Spirit, hence why we all need the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Acts 5:29 (NKJV) tells us, “But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.”. The apostles bring up an excellent point here, we are to obey the law of the land, but when the law of the land conflicts with God’s Word we are to obey God’s Word. Just because Congress passes a law legalizing something does not make it Biblically correct. Just because the Supreme Court makes it legal does not mean it is fine with God. Lastly, just because the Pope says it is acceptable, does not change what the Word of God says. The apostles continue their response in Acts 5:30-32 (NKJV), “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree.  Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.”. As we know the apostles speak boldly because of the power they have from being filled with the Holy Spirit. In my previous teachings, I discussed how Peter’s teachings cut through the hearts of many people. Well, the teaching of the apostles in this instance did the same thing! Acts 5:33 (KJV) says, “When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.”. While we are to be loving and gentle, with the Word of God people will become offended at times, so do not be surprised when someone becomes offended when you quote scripture. Hebrews 4:12 (KJV) tells us, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”.

The Sanhedrin’s Response

While the Sanhedrin’s were upset over the apostle’s response a Pharisee rises and makes a statement. Acts 5:34 (NKJV) continues, “Then one in the council stood up, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in respect by all the people and commanded them to put the apostles outside for a little while.”. Gamaliel cools their rage and suggest for them to let the apostles alone. Acts 5:38 (NKJV) goes on to tell us, “And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it—lest you even be found to fight against God.”. Gamaliel was a Pharisee and they believed that if something was of God it would come to pass, so he suggested to see what God does with the apostles. However, Acts 5:40 (NKJV) continues, “And they agreed with him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.”. The apostles were beaten, and they are told again to not preach in the name of Jesus again. When the apostles departed, they still continued to preach in the temple regardless of what the high priests commanded them, Acts 5:42 (NKJV) says, “And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.”.  We are reminded that when we evangelize we may not be treated well, 1 Peter 4:13-16 (NKJV) tells us, “but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.  If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.  But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters.  Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.”.

Personal Evangelism

This teaching should remind us of the example and standard that the apostles set for going out and preaching the Gospel to others. They did not let persecution get in their way. Today with modern technology, we have fewer restrictions than they do. We are without excuse to evangelize. We are all to go outside of our church’s walls and witness to others, this is personal evangelism. There are a few tips I would like to give you when it comes to personal evangelism along with scriptures:

  1. Use Scripture:
    • 2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV): “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,”
  2. Lead by Example (Don’t fall for the sinful customs of the world)
    • 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (ESV): “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.  And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”
    • 2 Timothy 2:15 (ERV): “Do your best to be the kind of person God will accept, and give yourself to him. Be a worker who has no reason to be ashamed of his work, one who applies the true teaching in the right way.”.
    • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ERV): “You should know that your body is a temple[a] for the Holy Spirit that you received from God and that lives in you. You don’t own yourselves. 20 God paid a very high price to make you his. So honor God with your body.”.
  3. Bear Good Fruit (Nine Fruits of Holy Spirit)
    • Matthew 7:15-20 (NKJV): ““Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.  You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.  Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.  Therefore by their fruits you will know them.”.
    • Galatians 5:22-23 (AMP): “But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.”.
  4. Be Prepared to Answer Questions with Gentleness and Love
    • 1 Peter 3:15 (NKJV): “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;”
  5. Be Available, Not Limited
    • Mark 16:15 (NKJV): “And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.”.
    • D.L. Moody once said “I like my way of doing evangelism, better than your way of not doing evangelism”.

I encourage you to take some time and reflect on this teaching, ask yourself how you can reach out to people and bring the Gospel to them. It doesn’t mean you have to travel to another country, but maybe people in your neighborhood, school, workplace, or even Facebook friends. We all have many opportunities we can take advantage of to preach the Gospel to others.

Please be sure to stay tuned for my next teaching, which will be from chapter six in the Book of Acts.

2019, Christianity, Fruit of Spirit, Inspiration, Salvation

Having It All In Life…

beach view

I felt led to give a teaching on the common phrase ‘having it all in life’. Often, we get so distracted at the circumstances in our life, we often forget what is truly important. While spending time with loved ones, living a healthy lifestyle, having a roof over your head, and being financially stable are all important, there is something that is way more important than any of that. The most important decision one can make in life is to believe in and accept Jesus Christ the Son of God into your life as your savior. In this blog post, I am going to discuss why we need to focus more on the things of God rather than the things of this world.

Everlasting Life

A Bible verse everyone should know, John 3:16 (NKJV) says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”. If you really think about it, what more could you want other than the everlasting life that is only through Jesus Christ? Some synonyms for the word everlasting life that I would like you to think about are:

  • Eternal life
  • Never-ending life
  • Boundless life
  • Timeless life
  • Sustained life
  • Unbroken life

The Distraction of Social Media

Too often the enterprise system of this world wants us to invest so much of our time, energy, and money into things that are unnecessary and will not even benefit us in eternity. One of the traps that many of us can fall into is the trap of social media. You might think you are going to check Facebook for five minutes, and it turns into a full twenty minutes. When we are on social media, we will often see pictures of what other people are doing in their lives, and this can often make us jealous and compare what we have to others. Maybe you see a picture of someone getting a new car, and you think to yourself ‘I wish I had that. Or maybe you are still single and see all your friends getting engaged and married. Regardless, social media can make us focus our attention on comparing ourselves to others rather than focusing ourselves on how God sees us. Romans 12:2 (NKJV) reminds us, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”. While social media can be beneficial in its own ways, it does have its drawbacks.

Invest More in the Word

Recent studies suggest that on average Americans spend more than 11 hours per day interacting with the media. This includes everything from watching, reading, and listening. My question to challenge all of us is if we can spend this much time a day invested in the media, why don’t we cut back a bit and invest it in God? Whether that is in prayer, reading the Word, or worship, we can all find areas where we can invest more time with the Lord. Maybe instead of listening to that secular music at the gym while working out maybe you can plug some headphones in and listen to the Bible. There are many areas in our life where we can find more time to spend in God’s Word, and in both prayer and worship. We spend so much time invested in the things of this world that will eventually be gone one day, rather than the Word of God. The Word of God will always be around. Isaiah 40:8 (NKJV) tells us, “The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.”.

Salvation and Good Works

One thing the world system will push on us is leaving behind a good legacy. While it is important to leave a good impression on others in life, good works will not get you into Heaven. We know our salvation comes through grace and not works. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV) tells us, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”. Additionally, true salvation should result in good works that we do for the glory of God, Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV) says, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”. I encourage you to find new ways in your life to serve God and do if for the glory of God. 1 Peter 4:10 (NKJV) reminds us, “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”.

Dealing with Trials

One last thing I would like to address is when we deal with problems during our short time on Earth. While we will certainly have trials, we can trust in the Lord to provide for us and get us through our trials. Romans 8:28 (NKJV) tells us, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”. If you are concerned about a situation in your life, trust in God and don’t let the circumstances steal your faith and joy in the Lord. When you are concerned about a circumstance in your life, remember what is the worst thing that can happen in your life on Earth, if you have everlasting life through your salvation in Jesus Christ? This is something that we often overlook in life, and need to be reminded of, everything on Earth is only temporary.

Give God All Your Life!

One last scripture I would like to leave with you for this teaching is Psalm 16:-5-11 (NKJV), “O Lord, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup; You maintain my lot. The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Yes, I have a good inheritance. I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel; My heart also instructs me in the night seasons. I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope. For You will not leave my soul in Sheol, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”.  As you go throughout life remember the following, and reflect on these items:

  • Focus on the everlasting life you have through salvation in Jesus.
  • Don’t invest any unnecessary resources in worldly things.
  • Spend more time in the Word than what you currently do.
  • Remember that we are not saved by works, but by grace.
  • Salvation should cause good works, what can you do to bring glory to God?
  • Reflect on Psalms 16:5-11à Have you truly let God all the way into your life?

I encourage you to take some time this week and reflect on these items I shared with you, and seek God to reveal any areas in your life you need to improve on so that you can be more of a light that shines for Him.

2019, Christianity, Discernment, Old Testament, Wisdom

Why Seek Wisdom and Knowledge?

guy looking at sunrise near lake

I felt led to teach about seeking God for wisdom and knowledge. As followers of Christ, we need to constantly be seeking God for wisdom and knowledge in every part of our lives. We also need to seek God for wisdom and knowledge as we read His Word. When you ask God for wisdom and knowledge when reading His Word, the Holy Spirit will teach you all things, Jesus said in John 14:26 (ESV) “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”.

Defining Wisdom and Knowledge

So, what do wisdom and knowledge mean? Let’s look at knowledge first, The Webster’s Dictionary defines knowledge as facts, information, and skills acquired by a person through experience or education. Some synonyms for the word knowledge are understanding, comprehension, grasp, and mastery. Now let’s look at what the word wisdom means, The Webster’s Dictionary defines wisdom as the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment. Some synonyms for the word wisdom are intelligence, understanding, insight, perception, and discernment. Now let’s look at both wisdom and knowledge together. Knowledge is when one has a bunch of facts and data that has been learned or experienced. On the other hand, wisdom is the ability to discern from the knowledge you have gained to make good decisions.

King Solomon’s Request

So now that we understand the meaning of the words wisdom and knowledge let’s look at someone in the Bible who sought God for wisdom and knowledge. King Solomon became king after his father David passed away. God revealed Himself to Solomon one night and gave him the opportunity to ask for whatever he would like God to give him. 2 Chronicles 1:7 (NKJV) tells us, “On that night God appeared to Solomon, and said to him, “Ask! What shall I give you?”. Right here Solomon can ask God for anything he desires. As we read on, we find out that Solomon asked for one of the best things, in my opinion, you could possibly ask from God. 2 Chronicles 1:8-10 (NKJV) continues and says, “And Solomon said to God: “You have shown great mercy to David my father and have made me king in his place.  Now, O Lord God, let Your promise to David my father be established, for You have made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude.  Now give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people; for who can judge this great people of Yours?”.  Solomon could have asked God for riches and fame, but he simply asked God for wisdom and knowledge to perform his duties as King.

God’s Response to King Solomon

We will find out God’s response to Solomon’s request in 2 Chronicles 1:11-12 (NKJV), “Then God said to Solomon: “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked riches or wealth or honor or the life of your enemies, nor have you asked long life—but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself, that you may judge My people over whom I have made you king—  wisdom and knowledge are granted to you; and I will give you riches and wealth and honor, such as none of the kings have had who were before you, nor shall any after you have the like.””.  God sees Solomon’s true heart in his request for wisdom and knowledge. We know that God will search our hearts and He will truly know our desires. Jeremiah 17:10 (ESV) tells us, “I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.”. So as God sees the heart of Solomon from his request, He grants him wisdom and knowledge, but He also gives him riches and wealth that no king before him ever had received. This also serves as a reminder to us that God can go above and beyond what we expect when we go to Him with a need.

A Biblical Approach to Knowledge

So now that we have a Biblical example of someone who asked God for wisdom and knowledge, let’s see what the Bible tells us about knowledge. Proverbs 18:15 (AMP) tells us, “The mind of the prudent [always] acquires knowledge, And the ear of the wise [always] seeks knowledge.”. A wise person always seeks knowledge, if you want to be a wise person of God then you need to seek knowledge and spend time in the Word. Additionally Proverbs 1:7 (AMP) tells us, “The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; But arrogant fools despise [skillful and godly] wisdom and instruction and self-discipline.”. As believers we need to truly worship God, tell others of His greatness, seek the Holy Spirit for teaching, and spend time in the Word each day, this will give us knowledge and that will result into wisdom.

A Biblical Approach to Wisdom

So, what does the Bible say about the word wisdom? Proverbs 4:6 (AMP) tells us, “Do not turn away from her (Wisdom) and she will guard and protect you; Love her, and she will watch over you.”. We not only need wisdom as we go through our daily tasks, but we need spiritual wisdom.  People might have a hard time understanding what spiritual wisdom is because it is not natural, it is from God. Discernment and spiritual wisdom go hand in hand.  One of the synonyms for the word wisdom is discernment, The Webster’s Dictionary defines discernment as to the ability to judge well. Some synonyms for discernment are judgment, taste, enlightenment, and sensitivity. We are living in a period where there are many false minsters out in the world proclaiming the Word of God. There are many people who are demon possessed that we encounter daily. There are many people who might be oppressed by the enemy. The enemy is out there to kill, steal, and destroy, his objective is to get as many people to hell as he possibly can. Therefore, every Christian needs to seek God for discernment, because you may never know when the enemy is trying to get you to fall for one of his many traps without having discernment. Psalm 119:66 (AMP) tells us, “Teach me good judgment (discernment) and knowledge, For I have believed and trusted and relied on Your commandments.”. Also 1 John 4:1 instructs us, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit [speaking through a self-proclaimed prophet]; instead test the spirits to see whether they are from God because many false prophets and teachers have gone out into the world.”.

Final Thoughts and Reflection

I encourage you to take some time and ask God to open your spiritual eyes and give you a discerning spirit. Seek God for wisdom and knowledge in everything you do and ask Him for revelation knowledge as you read and study His word. Philippians 1:9-10 (NKJV) tells us, “And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment,  that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ,”. I also encourage you to spend more time than what you currently are spending in God’s Word. I feel God is wanting more people to invest more time in His Word, than in the things of this world. Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) says, “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”. Lastly, I would like to challenge you to a couple of questions:

1.    Do you make decisions off instinct or do you step back and seek God?

2.    Do you trust every piece of Christian literature and music just because it is labeled Christian, or do you discern what is really of God and what is of the devil?

3.    Are you letting any of the works of the enemy into your life? (secular music, secular talk shows, secular literature, witchcraft, Harry Potter, horoscopes, pornography, or any type of addiction)

As you seek God for a discerning spirit and stay in His Word, let Him reveal to you any open demonic doors in your life that the enemy could enter into or may have already entered into and deal with it accordingly in the name of Jesus. 

2019, Book of Acts Series 2019, Christianity, Inspiration, Old Testament, Sin

Acts 5:1-11: Lying to God

Person standing with large pointed out nose from lying too much

I would like to discuss a story in the Book of Acts that sheds light about two people who lied to God. Let me first be clear that we all will fall short from time to time in our walk with the Lord, and that is why we need to continually seek God. Romans 3:23 (KJV) reminds us, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”. The two people who end up lying to God are Ananias and Sapphira, it is believed that Ananias made a promise to God that he would give all proceeds of a future sale of his land to God. However, we will find out that Ananias will not follow through with how he is supposed to handle the proceeds of the sale, and his wife Sapphira will conspire this act with him.

The Act of Lying Committed and then Confronted

Let’s begin by looking at Acts 5:1-2 (NKJV), “But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession.  And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet.”.  So, they were supposed to bring the full proceeds to the church, but they didn’t. In this act, Ananias and his wife are both guilty of lying to God. Acts 5:3-4 (NKJV) continues, “But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself?  While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.””. Peter knew immediately that Ananias was lying not only to the church but to God. Peter was able to pick up on this lie only because he was filled with the Holy Spirit and had a discerning spirit.  Peter rebukes what Ananias has done and questions him as to why he let Satan filled his heart to lie to God. We know that Satan is the father of all lies, in John 8:44 (NKJV) Jesus told us, “You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”.

The Reaction of Ananias and His Wife

Many people, when confronted with a lie, will try to defend themselves, but because Ananias lied to God something different took place. Acts 5:5-10 (NKJV) continues, “Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things.  And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him. Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened.  And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.” Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.”  Then immediately she fell at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband.”. Ananias and his wife both fell and died when they are confronted, they knew that they did wrong to the Lord. Now there were other people around when this happened, and I don’t know about you but if I saw someone who fell and died after being convicted of a lie, I would be scared. Everyone has lied at some point in their life, and even probably after becoming a born-again Christian. We may all tell white lies from time to time or even bigger lies. No matter the size of the lie the Lord does not approve of it in any way. I am saying this because we can all be guilty of lying, along with other sins, even myself can be guilty. Therefore, we need to always be in an attitude of repentance to the Lord, because it is our inherited nature from Adam to sin.

What is a Vow to God?

Let me clarify, the example of lying we see in Acts chapter 5 is not comparable to the white lies we might tell people in our everyday life from time to time (even though those are still a sin). Their lie was to God, and it broke a vow they had obviously made to God on giving all the proceeds to the church of the sale of their land. God will not tolerate a broken vow that was made in His name.

Old Testament Scriptures on Vows to God

I would like to give you a few scriptures from the Old Testament regarding vows to God:

•    Deuteronomy 23:21 (NKJV): “When you make a vow to the Lord your God, you shall not delay to pay it; for the Lord, your God will surely require it of you, and it would be sin to you.”

•    Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 (NKJV): “When you make a vow to God, do not delay to pay it; For He has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you have vowed— Better not to vow than to vow and not pay.”

•    Numbers 30:2 (NKJV): “If a man makes a vow to the Lord or swears an oath to bind himself by some agreement, he shall not break his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.”

A Vow Must Be Kept!

It is made very clear that vows made to God must be kept, a broken vow to God would be considered lying to God. Oral vows made in the name of the Lord are the equivalent to a modern-day written contract. Here is an example we might be able to relate to if you have a contractor do a renovation to your house and if they don’t follow through on delivering something, they agreed to in their contract with you, they could get in legal trouble. So just like in our modern day written contracts, oral vows made to God are not taken lightly. If someone breaks a modern-day written contract there are consequences, just like there are consequences for breaking a vow made with God. Vows were usually made to the Lord in the form of service to be dedicated to the Lord or also could be a sacrifice in the act of worship towards the Lord.

Sin in the Church

Another take away from the story Ananias and his wife is that sin in the church is not tolerated by the Lord. Far too often today we see many well-known ‘ministers’ taking advantage of their funds coming into their ministry. We also see many people in church leadership misusing their authority. We could make a long list of the sins that take place in today’s churches. Instead of making a list, I would like to point us to Revelation 2:23 (NKJV) which says, “…and all the churches shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works.”.

Final Thoughts…

We all know that we will sin from time to time, and when we do, we need to repent. With how busy we can be every day we can often forget of sins that we have done throughout that day. We might label these sins as small, just like white lies. Regardless of what it is, we need to repent of it to God. When you repent of your sins to the Lord you will feel a weight come off your shoulders. I encourage you to ask the Lord to search your heart and reveal anything to you that you need to repent to Him about. This prayer is given to us in Psalm 139:23-24 (NKJV), “Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.”. As you repent of your sins, it can be expected for the enemy to try to rehash those sins that you already repented of back into to your memory. When this happens, just start praying in the name of Jesus and start reading the Word. Also, when Satan tries to put a lie into your heart, remember that he is the father of all lies.