fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383 
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Post by fearnot on Apr 2, 2019 9:50:44 GMT -5
acts 11:1-18
Peter Explains His Actions
11:1 The apostles and the believers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God.
v.2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him
v.3 and said, “You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them.”
v.4 Starting from the beginning, Peter told them the whole story:
v. 5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision. I saw something like a large sheet being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to where I was. v.6 I looked into it and saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, reptiles and birds.
v.7 Then I heard a voice telling me, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’
v.8 “I replied, ‘Surely not, Lord! Nothing impure or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’
v.9 “The voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’
v.10 This happened three times, and then it was all pulled up to heaven again.
v.11 “Right then three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea stopped at the house where I was staying.
v.12 The Spirit told me to have no hesitation about going with them. These six brothers also went with me, and we entered the man’s house.
v.13 He told us how he had seen an angel appear in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter.
v. 14 He will bring you a message through which you and all your household will be saved.’
v.15 “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning.
v.16 Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’
v.17 So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?”
v.18 When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, “So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.”
The story of the Gentiles conversion gets told yet again. The Jews ( even Jewish believers) were convinced (wrongly) that salvation came only to the Jews, so it was very hard for them to break that prejudice mindset!
Most people in one way or another, think they are better or superior, than other people.
It might be due to education, class, wealth, race etc etc.
So did the circumcised Jewish believers, feel that they were special. so much so, that God would only save the Jews.
So they call Peter to task about going into a Gentile home and eating with them.
The Jews felt Peter was defiled and unclean by his actions.
Peter has to defend his actions.
Peter states the facts, beginning with his praying.
He continues with explaining his vision, what God said to him, and how he argued with God.
However, God's command came 3 times.
Then the Gentiles showed up! God's divine timing was impeccable!!
God the Holy Spirit, told Peter to go with them (peter was done arguing with God!!)
Well, if it was okay for an holy angel to be at this Gentile home, it was ok for Peter and the other 6 believing Jews.
Also Peter tells of the angelic message to Cornelius...that Peter would tell Cornelius and others how to be saved.
Then God gave His approval by sending the Holy spirit to these Gentiles, and then Peter baptizes them.
Peter pointed out who was he to stand in God's way.
When the Jews heard all this, they glorified God.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 3, 2019 8:13:36 GMT -5
Acts 11:19-30
The Church in Antioch
v.19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. v.20 Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus.
v.21 The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.
v.22 News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.
v.23 When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.
v.24 He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.
v.25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul,
v.26 and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
v.27 During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch.
v.28 One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.)
v. 29 The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea.
v. 30 This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
The gospel continues to spread further to the Jews, but some began to speak to the Gentiles.
We don't know who they were, but they can be an example to us, in that we don't seek recognition for our selves, but give all the glory to God.
Many people believed thru this missionary/evangelism efforts.
The news about this reached Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to see if these were true conversions ( just my thinking, it does not really say that was exactly the reason).
Barnabas did see changed lives and gifts of the Holy Spirit. ( Antioch was a pagan city).
He rejoiced, and encouraged them to persevere.
Then, he leaves to look for Saul ( and now Saul/Paul comes back into the picture after what seems like God had set Paul aside to equip him for the rest of his life).
Barnabas finds Saul and brings him back to Antioch and they work together for a year....and taught many people. ( This is when believers were first called Christians).
So then some prophets came, and a lot of people think that means their main purpose was to tell the future (like a fortune teller etc.) but I think it is concerning telling God's Word.
In this case ( before scriptures were closed in any case)
Agabus predicts of a famine, and the believers determined to do whatever they could to help, as best they could according to their means.
Having done so, they send what they could, to Jerusalem by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.
This also is an example for believers today.
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Post by Cindy on Apr 3, 2019 8:56:55 GMT -5
Acts 10:39-48
v.39 “We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a cross, v.40 but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen.
v.41 He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.
v.42 He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. v.43 All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
v.44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message.
v.45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles.
v.46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.
Then Peter said,
v.47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.”
v.48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.
In almost any court of law, witnesses are essential to proving the truth.
Peter and the other apostles were first hand witnesses of Jesus, they spent 3 years with Him, so they would be able to know the truth about Jesus, having witnessed all Jesus said and did.
Peter then speaks of Jesus death and resurrection on the 3rd day ( which is what Jesus had prophesied).
Jesus only appeared to the believers. It might seem, if He had appeared to the unsaved, many might have believed. However, that is not true, Jesus had already done miracles, spoke like none had ever spoken, and they did not believe but killed Him.
Luke 16:31
‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’
Peter then says that Jesus commanded them to preach the Gospel, and that Jesus was appointed Judge of the living and dead.
That can be good news or bad news...I hate to even think of the bad news, it is so sad ( but yet justice is served) but the good news, is amazing, those whosoever, believes in Jesus and what He has done for them, can receive forgiveness of sins and be saved. And this was all predicted by the prophets long before Jesus came to earth.
Then an incredible thing happened....
the Holy Spirit fell on these Gentiles....
but then...
God is no respecter of persons.
This happened immediately, there was not a waiting period.
The Jewish believers that came with Peter were amazed.
And so Peter had them baptized and stayed for a few days.
acts 11:1-18
Peter Explains His Actions
11:1 The apostles and the believers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God.
v.2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him
v.3 and said, “You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them.”
v.4 Starting from the beginning, Peter told them the whole story:
v. 5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision. I saw something like a large sheet being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to where I was. v.6 I looked into it and saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, reptiles and birds.
v.7 Then I heard a voice telling me, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’
v.8 “I replied, ‘Surely not, Lord! Nothing impure or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’
v.9 “The voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’
v.10 This happened three times, and then it was all pulled up to heaven again.
v.11 “Right then three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea stopped at the house where I was staying.
v.12 The Spirit told me to have no hesitation about going with them. These six brothers also went with me, and we entered the man’s house.
v.13 He told us how he had seen an angel appear in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter.
v. 14 He will bring you a message through which you and all your household will be saved.’
v.15 “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning.
v.16 Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’
v.17 So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?”
v.18 When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, “So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.”
The story of the Gentiles conversion gets told yet again. The Jews ( even Jewish believers) were convinced (wrongly) that salvation came only to the Jews, so it was very hard for them to break that prejudice mindset!
Most people in one way or another, think they are better or superior, than other people.
It might be due to education, class, wealth, race etc etc.
So did the circumcised Jewish believers, feel that they were special. so much so, that God would only save the Jews.
So they call Peter to task about going into a Gentile home and eating with them.
The Jews felt Peter was defiled and unclean by his actions.
Peter has to defend his actions.
Peter states the facts, beginning with his praying.
He continues with explaining his vision, what God said to him, and how he argued with God.
However, God's command came 3 times.
Then the Gentiles showed up! God's divine timing was impeccable!!
God the Holy Spirit, told Peter to go with them (peter was done arguing with God!!)
Well, if it was okay for an holy angel to be at this Gentile home, it was ok for Peter and the other 6 believing Jews.
Also Peter tells of the angelic message to Cornelius...that Peter would tell Cornelius and others how to be saved.
Then God gave His approval by sending the Holy spirit to these Gentiles, and then Peter baptizes them.
Peter pointed out who was he to stand in God's way.
When the Jews heard all this, they glorified God.
Acts 11:19-30
The Church in Antioch
v.19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. v.20 Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus.
v.21 The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.
v.22 News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.
v.23 When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.
v.24 He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.
v.25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul,
v.26 and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
v.27 During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch.
v.28 One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.)
v. 29 The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea.
v. 30 This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 3, 2019 11:10:41 GMT -5
My post for today is waaaay above because I guess I was writing and you posted first or something.....
anyway, when that happens, would you prefer I copy it and put it below so you do have to scroll all over trying to find it? I did not do that today but I could if it would make it easier for you???
I was not worried at all you were not here, only...that I hoped you were not feeling really badly!!
I am so glad you mentioned about our past sins and the slate being wiped clean! I sometimes start feeling, like yes my sins are forgiven.....but not forgotten by God. I know that is not true, but I guess, because I remember them, I start thinking that God is saying to me, I forgive you, but those were really bad sins.
So that was a great reminder, thank you!!!
And likewise, what you said about one's family. I sometimes am like a wave tossed to and fro. I can feel encouraged one day, and the next, I grieve, that it doesn't seem likely anyone is saved or will be in my family, and then back again feeling hopeful.
So once again, your words were a great encouragement.
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Post by Cindy on Apr 4, 2019 10:06:20 GMT -5
Acts 11:19-30
The Church in Antioch
v.19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. v.20 Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus.
v.21 The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.
v.22 News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.
v.23 When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.
v.24 He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.
v.25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul,
v.26 and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
v.27 During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch.
v.28 One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.)
v. 29 The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea.
v. 30 This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
The gospel continues to spread further to the Jews, but some began to speak to the Gentiles.
We don't know who they were, but they can be an example to us, in that we don't seek recognition for our selves, but give all the glory to God.
Many people believed thru this missionary/evangelism efforts.
The news about this reached Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to see if these were true conversions ( just my thinking, it does not really say that was exactly the reason).
Barnabas did see changed lives and gifts of the Holy Spirit. ( Antioch was a pagan city).
He rejoiced, and encouraged them to persevere.
Then, he leaves to look for Saul ( and now Saul/Paul comes back into the picture after what seems like God had set Paul aside to equip him for the rest of his life).
Barnabas finds Saul and brings him back to Antioch and they work together for a year....and taught many people. ( This is when believers were first called Christians).
So then some prophets came, and a lot of people think that means their main purpose was to tell the future (like a fortune teller etc.) but I think it is concerning telling God's Word.
In this case ( before scriptures were closed in any case)
Agabus predicts of a famine, and the believers determined to do whatever they could to help, as best they could according to their means.
Having done so, they send what they could, to Jerusalem by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.
This also is an example for believers today.
Yes, what you said about prophets is true. There main job was knowing and explaining the scriptures and confronting sin. Much like a biblical counselor today, they would confront sin in people's lives and explain the scriptures concerning it and how the person or people needed to change in order to be in God's perfect will. The Apostles also did this of course and the two - apostles and prophets - were much alike in that way. God did at this time still occasionally give the prophets a message for the people, like that about the famine. That's mainly because as scripture says, they were laying the foundation for the church. That foundation has been laid for a long time now, and once it was, and the Bible was fully written, there was no longer any need for that kind of prophecy, and it has ended until the Tribulation and Millennial Kingdom, when it will once again appear for a time.
My post for today is waaaay above because I guess I was writing and you posted first or something.....
anyway, when that happens, would you prefer I copy it and put it below so you do have to scroll all over trying to find it? I did not do that today but I could if it would make it easier for you???
I was not worried at all you were not here, only...that I hoped you were not feeling really badly!!
I am so glad you mentioned about our past sins and the slate being wiped clean! I sometimes start feeling, like yes my sins are forgiven.....but not forgotten by God. I know that is not true, but I guess, because I remember them, I start thinking that God is saying to me, I forgive you, but those were really bad sins.
So that was a great reminder, thank you!!!
And likewise, what you said about one's family. I sometimes am like a wave tossed to and fro. I can feel encouraged one day, and the next, I grieve, that it doesn't seem likely anyone is saved or will be in my family, and then back again feeling hopeful.
So once again, your words were a great encouragement.
I'm glad I was able to help some hon. I was thinking along those lines today as I was studying in Leviticus about various sacrifices. You realize that in the OT there was no sacrifice for an intentional sin. The penalty for intentional sin was death. There was only one way that the penalty for an intentional sin could be commuted, and that was through confession and repentance, which is what David did. When the person confessed their sin and repented of it, that changed it to a sin that could be forgiven through a blood sacrifice. Of course the sacrifice of our Lord is much stronger than any animal sacrifice could ever be! That's why all our sins are forgiven - because we confessed we are sinners and have trusted the Lord's sacrifice to cleanse us of our sins. We need to really focus on the part that tells us that we've been cleansed of our sins. When something dirty is washed clean, it's no longer dirty. When you wash a plate, it's clean enough to eat off of again. When God washes us clean from our sins, we are completely clean, without spot or blemish! This is one reason Jesus washed the feet of His disciples. He told them that they were already clean from the Word He had spoken to them, (John 15:3) and that they'd understand what He was doing later. He told Peter that if he didn't let Him wash his feet, then Peter could have no part with Him. (John 13:7–10) That's because Peter had been forgiven already and washed clean, (although Jesus knew he would intentionally sin again that night), so Peter and all the disciples, just like us, would need a daily cleansing to keep the dirt of sin off of them. They wouldn't need a full bath - they got that at salvation just as we do - they just needed the dirt of the day washed off. We get that daily cleansing by simply asking the Lord to forgive us our sins each morning. Then we start the day off with a clean slate all over again. That's always one of the first things I do each morning, after which I ask Him to guide me in His Word and teach me what He has for me to learn that day.
Have you ever wondered why God chose to call us Saints, and uses words like "holy" and "blameless", etc to describe us? Obviously, that's what our goal is to be like, but it's more than that because God already sees us that way. Remember, “for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.” (Philippians 2:13) God is not bound by time, right? When He tells us something will happen, it will, because for one thing, it already has as far as God is concerned! Because He isn't bound by time, He's already seen the conclusion of matters. He is already fellowshipping with us in eternity! We already have our new bodies and no sin nature!!! We're already pure and holy, and enjoying eternity with our Savior!!! How often have you thought that if you could just go back in time and tell yourself what was going to happen, what a difference it would make? I know I've thought that! Well, in a way, we can do that! We know absolutely for sure what our future holds. We know that we have no sin nature and have a brand new body, that we're pure, holy, spotless, and blameless. That Jesus is going to present us to Himself along with our brothers and sisters,“as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.” (Ephesians 5:27) We have all this because God “has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—” (Colossians 1:22) “who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:8–9)
We don't "feel" holy or pure. We "feel" dirty, sinful, evil. (and we know what God has said about our feelings!) But our God has spoken and declared us Holy and that's exactly what we are becoming here and now, and what we can be sure we will be before much longer! Because this WILL happen either when this body dies, or at the rapture, whichever comes first. Speaking of which, it's because God isn't bound by time that we will receive our new bodies right away. The dead aren't lying around in heaven waiting for them, they already have them! There is no time for God! And knowing that, we can understand another reason why we can count on the fact that we are pure and holy even right now as far as God is concerned! So the next time you start to feel bad, reflect on this. In fact it would be a good idea for you to write about this in your notebook so you'll always be able to remember it. You can put it in your own words.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 4, 2019 11:12:53 GMT -5
I will write it somewhere, but I also remember you told me once where I could 'keep' it on FH somehow, but have since forgotten :-(
That was such an uplifting post ( I cried happy tears at one point).
I wish other FH folks were here to read your uplifting posts!!
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 4, 2019 11:18:47 GMT -5
Peter’s Miraculous Escape From Prison
Acts 12:1-7
v.1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them.
v.2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword.
v.3 When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread.
v.4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.
v.5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
v.6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance.
v. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.
Now we come to King Herod. I guess the fact that Christianity was spreading rapidly and allowing Gentiles in also (God's plan, not man's necessarily)...that turned the persecution now towards political as well ( and Christians were seeing how they must count the cost).
This Herod ( there were others) had James killed by the sword, and so followed in the footsteps of his Father and grandfather.
Apparently, it seems to me, he was a major, 'people pleaser, not a God pleaser)...
because when he found out the Jews were pleased that he had killed James, he then seized Peter.
But because he wanted to kill Peter also, he had to wait until Passover was over.
However, he made as sure as humanly possible, that Peter would NOT escape.....but he did not factor in God, nor God's praying saints!
Prayer seemed to be their very first response, as it should be ours ( mine).
I don't think that their prayers had an immediate effect tho, which is also a lesson to me, to keep praying, even tho, it may seem like God is not listening, or has said NO....He may have just said WAIT, not yet.
Their prayer was specific. Sometimes we may give a laundry list or a shopping list of a very generalized prayer ( which is not wrong in itself), but I do think that in general, God prefers, a heartfelt, specific prayer.
Peter seems to be peaceful about the whole thing, and was sleeping the night of his miraculous release.
Then Peter was touched by an angel....more like poked because Peter was sleeping so soundly! LOL
The angel tells Peter to get up quickly and the chains fall off ( just like our chains of sins.)
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Post by Brother Mark on Apr 4, 2019 18:03:46 GMT -5
Peter’s Miraculous Escape From Prison
Acts 12:1-7
v.1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them.
v.2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword.
v.3 When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread.
v.4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.
v.5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
v.6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance.
v. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.
Now we come to King Herod. I guess the fact that Christianity was spreading rapidly and allowing Gentiles in also (God's plan, not man's necessarily)...that turned the persecution now towards political as well ( and Christians were seeing how they must count the cost).
This Herod ( there were others) had James killed by the sword, and so followed in the footsteps of his Father and grandfather.
Apparently, it seems to me, he was a major, 'people pleaser, not a God pleaser)...
because when he found out the Jews were pleased that he had killed James, he then seized Peter.
But because he wanted to kill Peter also, he had to wait until Passover was over.
However, he made as sure as humanly possible, that Peter would NOT escape.....but he did not factor in God, nor God's praying saints!
Prayer seemed to be their very first response, as it should be ours ( mine).
I don't think that their prayers had an immediate effect tho, which is also a lesson to me, to keep praying, even tho, it may seem like God is not listening, or has said NO....He may have just said WAIT, not yet.
Their prayer was specific. Sometimes we may give a laundry list or a shopping list of a very generalized prayer ( which is not wrong in itself), but I do think that in general, God prefers, a heartfelt, specific prayer.
Peter seems to be peaceful about the whole thing, and was sleeping the night of his miraculous release.
Then Peter was touched by an angel....more like poked because Peter was sleeping so soundly! LOL
The angel tells Peter to get up quickly and the chains fall off ( just like our chains of sins.)
I have been reading your comments on this study. I understand that back in that time, that prayers are and will always be essential in our everyday lives. What I am a bit confused about is when you said, " but I do think that in general, God prefers, a heartfelt, specific prayer. ". I feel that anyone praying to God, for whatever reason, He is always listening. He may not answer right away, but we continue to pray to receive the answers we need. No matter what he decides. Whether it's specific or not. ( Just my opinion). |
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 5, 2019 9:37:11 GMT -5
Oh Mark, I didn't mean that God does not listen to a rote prayer that one says over and over every day ( like maybe memorized from a book)....I did say that they are not 'wrong'.....
but I do think, that in a 'relationship' specific concerns are appreciated also.
Like for example, if your wife only and ever said to you the rest of your life: "I thank you Mark, for provided my food to eat, and paying the bills, and protecting us". And never ever, said anything else, until one of you died....
I am sure you would hear her each day, and love her....
but because you are married, you might also wish to hear other words. Like:
"Honey, I am concerned about so and so because they are getting into this or that ( sin),
or your wife might say to you:
"I know mom is really not feeling well, so if you could find time could you go and uplift her spirits",
or she might say:
"Bob down the road is lonely because his wife died, maybe we could invite him for dinner?" etc. etc.
In other words, there is nothing wrong saying, "Thank you God for this food and save all our family and friends, amen....every day, day after day,
year after year,
decade after decade,
and that is our ONLY prayer ever....
yes God would hear that.....
But since we have a real relationship with our Lord and Savior....
like in a marriage or with our friends,
a deeper conversation could be also appreciated, I am thinking.
Sometimes all we can manage to say to God is one word: "Help!!!!"
In fact, in great pain or fear, we might be only able to say:
"please help me",
or even only say :
"Jesus"
over and over,
and nothing more for days or more on end.
I think God in His tender mercies and amazing love, will most certainly hear that!!!
But sometimes we might be in prayer for an hour or more, pouring out all our heart and and give many detailed specifics.
I am thinking the Lord listens to ALL our prayers (even rote ones or one memorized from a book of prayers, which could be great prayers),
but it just seems to me that a memorized prayer from a book, said over and over and never anything else ever,
is not AS deep a relationship, as it could be.
Plus, I think that speaking God's language ( His Words from the Bible) words, that are so impressed on our hearts,
as we speak to Him in prayer
( as much as we can, have time, and have learned from spending time in His Word), shows God respect and love.
If we have memorized a prayer from a book of prayer, we might find it in our hearts to memorize a verse in scripture to repeat back to Him ( in honor and love of Him).
Because His Word (the Bible):
"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword,..."
has Divine power
We don't HAVE to do that.....it just seems to me, that its a way to honor Him while asking/petitioning/begging Him to do this or that for us.
Also, counting our blessings He has bestowed on us, is a nice thing to do in prayer, and giving Him glory and honor.
I just meant sometimes I am so hung up on saying Lord please save our son, daughter and grandchildren.
I do not think it is wrong to ask that for 50 years every day ( if they still show zero interest in God...in fact, I think it more than fine to do....so yeah that would be a rote prayer....
But I could also say, thank you for the air I breath, for the beautiful day, for a roof over my head, for promising to never leave me or forsake me, and to be with me unto the end etc. Thank you for dying for me on the cross and paying for all my sins. Help me to do ( obey) what You would have me do today, let me know what you wish for me to learn and apply to my life from your Word, the Bible, today etc etc etc.
I am sure Cindy could most likely explain better ( if I am on the right track that is).
What do you think? Did I explain it better or????
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 5, 2019 9:43:20 GMT -5
Acts 12:8-16
v.8 Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him.
v.9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.
v.10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.
11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.”
v.12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying.
v.13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer the door.
v.14 When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!”
v.15 “You’re out of your mind,” they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “It must be his angel.”
v.16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished.
I guess because Peter was so sleepy and not really yet understanding what was happening, the angels tells Peter to get dressed. Peter obeyed, even tho this was an incredible supernatural event, ordinary things still had to be done.
But as I have often noticed in my own life, God often waits until the last minute. What that has done for me is to prove it was of God. It is after we ( or I) have tried everything to get out of some fix, and there is absolutely nothing left to try...all hope is gone so to speak, that when a check ( for example) arrives in the mail ( perhaps having gotten so lost and/or delayed we had totally forgotten about it etc etc.), or perhaps at the very last minute someone wants to buy something ( we might have tried everything to sell it, and no longer have had it for sale for weeks or months) etc etc.....that we know, it was from the Lord.
It may not always be about money either, those we just a few examples but there are tons, in my life ( escaping death and so on...at the very last minute).
So this is just before Peter is to be killed.
God does not 'need' our prayers to act, but He allows us the privilege and honor to work thru them often. However, in this case ( as I am sure often in my own case) I am not sure the believers actually thought there was any real hope God would answer their prayers and save peter from what seemed like certain death considering the circumstance ( prison, chains, guards etc.)
Because it is true, that sometimes God's answer is No.....but until God makes it clear, the answer is NO,
we ( I), need to pray knowing/trusting that God can do the impossible should He choose.
Another example for us (me) is to follow God even if we (I) am not sure of the outcome. As long as we are certain it is God leading then we ought to follow, as sleepy Peter did the angel.
Peter was not even sure he was awake (sleep walking maybe? or a supernatural vision?), but he obeyed!
Turns out there were even gates that had to be opened in order to escape!! Talk about how hard it would have been ( like impossible) for a mere human to escape.
God's Holy angel did not have any such problem tho. or rather the gates opened automatically ( but I think God most certainly had something to do with it, not some strange glitch happened exactly at that moment).
Then the angel left ( he did what Peter could not do by himself, but now Peter came to his senses ( it was all really real) and he knew what to do from that point on.
He goes to the house of Mary and knocks at the door of the gate.
Rhoda, a servant girl came to answer and recognized Peter's voice.
Nevertheless, she did not immediately let him in, but ran back to tell the others.
But are they thrilled, that God answered their prayers ( which is why, I am thinking, that even tho, they were in fact praying, they seemed to be expecting a NO answer)
So they were not thrilled......not right off,
instead, they say: you are crazy ( at best, they think it might be Peter's angel).
Nevertheless, Peter kept knocking ( would not an angel just appear right where they were, instead of knocking)?
Peter gets out of high security soldiers, chains, gates etc. but can't get into or past, his friend's gate.
Finally, they let him in and are amazed, which again shows they may have believed God 'could' but not that God 'would'.
I am afraid I am waaaay to much like them, in my prayers, and I needed this lesson!!
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Post by Cindy on Apr 5, 2019 11:17:29 GMT -5
I will write it somewhere, but I also remember you told me once where I could 'keep' it on FH somehow, but have since forgotten :-(
That was such an uplifting post ( I cried happy tears at one point).
I wish other FH folks were here to read your uplifting posts!!  I'm glad you thought so Barbara  The only thing I can think of is that i suggested you could send yourself a PM of something you wanted to keep....Peter’s Miraculous Escape From Prison
Acts 12:1-7
v.1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them.
v.2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword.
v.3 When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread.
v.4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.
v.5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
v.6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance.
v. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.
Now we come to King Herod. I guess the fact that Christianity was spreading rapidly and allowing Gentiles in also (God's plan, not man's necessarily)...that turned the persecution now towards political as well ( and Christians were seeing how they must count the cost).
This Herod ( there were others) had James killed by the sword, and so followed in the footsteps of his Father and grandfather.
Apparently, it seems to me, he was a major, 'people pleaser, not a God pleaser)...
because when he found out the Jews were pleased that he had killed James, he then seized Peter.
But because he wanted to kill Peter also, he had to wait until Passover was over.
However, he made as sure as humanly possible, that Peter would NOT escape.....but he did not factor in God, nor God's praying saints!
Prayer seemed to be their very first response, as it should be ours ( mine).
I don't think that their prayers had an immediate effect tho, which is also a lesson to me, to keep praying, even tho, it may seem like God is not listening, or has said NO....He may have just said WAIT, not yet.
Their prayer was specific. Sometimes we may give a laundry list or a shopping list of a very generalized prayer ( which is not wrong in itself), but I do think that in general, God prefers, a heartfelt, specific prayer.
Peter seems to be peaceful about the whole thing, and was sleeping the night of his miraculous release.
Then Peter was touched by an angel....more like poked because Peter was sleeping so soundly! LOL
The angel tells Peter to get up quickly and the chains fall off ( just like our chains of sins.)
You're right that we do have to wait for our answer at times, but that doesn't mean that our answer is necessarily delayed or that God isn't actively doing something to answer our prayer. The one thing I'm sure of is that even when we do have to wait, God uses even that to make us more like Jesus!
James became the first of the Apostles to be martyred. When you consider his death in the light of Matthew 20:20–28, it takes on special significance. James & John, with their mother, had asked for thrones, but Jesus made it clear that there can be no glory apart from suffering. “Can you drink the cup that I am going to drink?” He asked (Matt 20:22). Their bold reply was, “We can.” Of course, they did not know what they were saying, but they eventually discovered the high cost of winning a throne of glory: James was arrested & killed, & John became an exile on the Isle of Patmos, a prisoner of Rome (Rev 1:9).
Note that they didn't replace James as they had Judas (Acts 1:21–22). As long as the Gospel was going “to the Jew first,” it was necessary to have the full complement of 12 Apostles to witness to the 12 tribes of Israel, but that was no longer the case.
LOL I don't know how you can stop at a place like here. There's no way I could have stopped till I read the rest! 
Peter’s Miraculous Escape From Prison
Acts 12:1-7
v.1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them.
v.2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword.
v.3 When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread.
v.4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.
v.5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
v.6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance.
v. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.
Now we come to King Herod. I guess the fact that Christianity was spreading rapidly and allowing Gentiles in also (God's plan, not man's necessarily)...that turned the persecution now towards political as well ( and Christians were seeing how they must count the cost).
This Herod ( there were others) had James killed by the sword, and so followed in the footsteps of his Father and grandfather.
Apparently, it seems to me, he was a major, 'people pleaser, not a God pleaser)...
because when he found out the Jews were pleased that he had killed James, he then seized Peter.
But because he wanted to kill Peter also, he had to wait until Passover was over.
However, he made as sure as humanly possible, that Peter would NOT escape.....but he did not factor in God, nor God's praying saints!
Prayer seemed to be their very first response, as it should be ours ( mine).
I don't think that their prayers had an immediate effect tho, which is also a lesson to me, to keep praying, even tho, it may seem like God is not listening, or has said NO....He may have just said WAIT, not yet.
Their prayer was specific. Sometimes we may give a laundry list or a shopping list of a very generalized prayer ( which is not wrong in itself), but I do think that in general, God prefers, a heartfelt, specific prayer.
Peter seems to be peaceful about the whole thing, and was sleeping the night of his miraculous release.
Then Peter was touched by an angel....more like poked because Peter was sleeping so soundly! LOL
The angel tells Peter to get up quickly and the chains fall off ( just like our chains of sins.)
It's like the tricks that psychics or tricksters use against gullible people - they'll "predict" something that's very general. Then the person hearing it, puts what they said together with whatever happens in their life and makes it mean what they want it to mean, believing the person really was psychic. If the psychic says they'll meet a tall, dark, handsome man, then when they see a man that meets their idea of handsome, and their idea of tall, they think the psychic was right. But if the psychic had said, "you'll meet a man who's 5 foot 6, weighing about 170 pounds, with blond hair, and brown eyes, who's name is George", they'd have a much harder time finding someone to match that prediction.
Let me share what MacArthur says about this: Christians sometimes pray vague, general prayers that are difficult for God to answer because they do not really ask for anything specific. That’s why specific prayer is so important. While general requests can be appropriate in certain instances, it is through His answers to specific prayers that we see God put His love and power on display. Jesus promised, “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it” (John 14:13–14).
Those believers who continually seek the Lord have specific concerns. If you are not alert to the specific problems and needs of other believers, you can’t pray about them specifically and earnestly. But when you do, you can watch for God’s answer, rejoice in it when it comes, and then offer Him your thankful praise. MacArthur, J. F., Jr. Alone with God. MacArthur Study Series
An example of specific prayer would be when the disciples prayed asking God who should replace Judas, and they received a specific answer. There are many examples of specific prayers in the Bible, especially Paul's in the NT; such as in Rom 1:10 when he prayed he'd be able to go to them. (and he did!) I was going to list some, but there's so many I don't want to get started lol. One thing I've specifically prayed about numerous times in many different ways is the weather. My wedding day dawned grey and full of big rain clouds. In fact it was raining. I asked God to give me a sunny day, right then and there. And within 5 minutes, the clouds were gone and sky was bright. But according to the weather man, it was supposed to rain all day. Other times I've prayed against tornadoes, hurricanes, high winds, etc, and have seen them turn away before they arrived. Those are specific prayers. I've never asked for money in general, but have asked for enough to pay my bills, and have seen that answered many times. Or prayed for enough to get a friend a bible, and got the exact amount needed, right down to the penny!
Finally, Jesus Himself tells us to pray specifically at least at times: ““I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:23–24) James, after telling us to pray for each other, reminds us of Elijah who prayed specifically for rain and was answered. (James 5:17–18)
Again, it's not wrong to pray "in general". Not at all. Nor is it wrong to have conversations with God. I do that all the time. I also pray in general. But especially when something is important, I pray specifically for that thing.
Oh Mark, I didn't mean that God does not listen to a rote prayer that one says over and over every day ( like maybe memorized from a book)....I did say that they are not 'wrong'.....
but I do think, that in a 'relationship' specific concerns are appreciated also.
Like for example, if your wife only and ever said to you the rest of your life: "I thank you Mark, for provided my food to eat, and paying the bills, and protecting us". And never ever, said anything else, until one of you died....
I am sure you would hear her each day, and love her....
but because you are married, you might also wish to hear other words. Like:
"Honey, I am concerned about so and so because they are getting into this or that ( sin),
or your wife might say to you:
"I know mom is really not feeling well, so if you could find time could you go and uplift her spirits",
or she might say:
"Bob down the road is lonely because his wife died, maybe we could invite him for dinner?" etc. etc.
In other words, there is nothing wrong saying, "Thank you God for this food and save all our family and friends, amen....every day, day after day,
year after year,
decade after decade,
and that is our ONLY prayer ever....
yes God would hear that.....
But since we have a real relationship with our Lord and Savior....
like in a marriage or with our friends,
a deeper conversation could be also appreciated, I am thinking.
Sometimes all we can manage to say to God is one word: "Help!!!!"
In fact, in great pain or fear, we might be only able to say:
"please help me",
or even only say :
"Jesus"
over and over,
and nothing more for days or more on end.
I think God in His tender mercies and amazing love, will most certainly hear that!!!
But sometimes we might be in prayer for an hour or more, pouring out all our heart and and give many detailed specifics.
I am thinking the Lord listens to ALL our prayers (even rote ones or one memorized from a book of prayers, which could be great prayers),
but it just seems to me that a memorized prayer from a book, said over and over and never anything else ever,
is not AS deep a relationship, as it could be.
Plus, I think that speaking God's language ( His Words from the Bible) words, that are so impressed on our hearts,
as we speak to Him in prayer
( as much as we can, have time, and have learned from spending time in His Word), shows God respect and love.
If we have memorized a prayer from a book of prayer, we might find it in our hearts to memorize a verse in scripture to repeat back to Him ( in honor and love of Him).
Because His Word (the Bible):
"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword,..."
has Divine power
We don't HAVE to do that.....it just seems to me, that its a way to honor Him while asking/petitioning/begging Him to do this or that for us.
Also, counting our blessings He has bestowed on us, is a nice thing to do in prayer, and giving Him glory and honor.
I just meant sometimes I am so hung up on saying Lord please save our son, daughter and grandchildren.
I do not think it is wrong to ask that for 50 years every day ( if they still show zero interest in God...in fact, I think it more than fine to do....so yeah that would be a rote prayer....
But I could also say, thank you for the air I breath, for the beautiful day, for a roof over my head, for promising to never leave me or forsake me, and to be with me unto the end etc. Thank you for dying for me on the cross and paying for all my sins. Help me to do ( obey) what You would have me do today, let me know what you wish for me to learn and apply to my life from your Word, the Bible, today etc etc etc.
I am sure Cindy could most likely explain better ( if I am on the right track that is).
What do you think? Did I explain it better or????
Acts 12:8-19
v.8 Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him.
v.9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.
v.10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.
11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.”
v.12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying.
v.13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer the door.
v.14 When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!”
v.15 “You’re out of your mind,” they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “It must be his angel.”
v.16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished.
v.17 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.
v.18 In the morning, there was no small commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter.
v.19 After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed. |
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Post by Cindy on Apr 5, 2019 11:43:28 GMT -5
My reply to your other posts is before this one.
Acts 12:8-19
v.8 Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him.
v.9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.
v.10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.
11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.”
v.12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying.
v.13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer the door.
v.14 When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!”
v.15 “You’re out of your mind,” they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “It must be his angel.”
v.16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished.
v.17 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.
v.18 In the morning, there was no small commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter.
v.19 After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed.
I guess because Peter was so sleepy and not really yet understanding what was happening, the angels tells Peter to get dressed. Peter obeyed, even tho this was an incredible supernatural event, ordinary things still had to be done.
But as I have often noticed in my own life, God often waits until the last minute. What that has done for me is to prove it was of God. It is after we ( or I) have tried everything to get out of some fix, and there is absolutely nothing left to try...all hope is gone so to speak, that when a check ( for example) arrives in the mail ( perhaps having gotten so lost and/or delayed we had totally forgotten about it etc etc.), or perhaps at the very last minute someone wants to buy something ( we might have tried everything to sell it, and no longer have had it for sale for weeks or months) etc etc.....that we know, it was from the Lord.
It may not always be about money either, those we just a few examples but there are tons, in my life ( escaping death and so on...at the very last minute).
So this is just before Peter is to be killed.
God does not 'need' our prayers to act, but He allows us the privilege and honor to work thru them often. However, in this case ( as I am sure often in my own case) I am not sure the believers actually thought there was any real hope God would answer their prayers and save peter from what seemed like certain death considering the circumstance ( prison, chains, guards etc.)
Because it is true, that sometimes God's answer is No.....but until God makes it clear, the answer is NO,
we ( I), need to pray knowing/trusting that God can do the impossible should He choose.
Another example for us (me) is to follow God even if we (I) am not sure of the outcome. As long as we are certain it is God leading then we ought to follow, as sleepy Peter did the angel.
Peter was not even sure he was awake (sleep walking maybe? or a supernatural vision?), but he obeyed!
Turns out there were even gates that had to be opened in order to escape!! Talk about how hard it would have been ( like impossible) for a mere human to escape.
God's Holy angel did not have any such problem tho. or rather the gates opened automatically ( but I think God most certainly had something to do with it, not some strange glitch happened exactly at that moment).
Then the angel left ( he did what Peter could not do by himself, but now Peter came to his senses ( it was all really real) and he knew what to do from that point on.
He goes to the house of Mary and knocks at the door of the gate.
Rhoda, a servant girl came to answer and recognized Peter's voice.
Another thing that makes Peter's rescue so ironic is that the Sadducees, did not even believe in the existence of angels! I bet the story of his rescue really upset them!
yes, even when Peter came to the door, the girl refused to believe it was him! She knew God could answer their prayers, but wasn't sure He would. That's like many of us, and like the man who said: “Lord, I believe; help Thou mine unbelief!” (Mark 9:24) God graciously honors even the weakest faith! Their fear and superstition reminds me of Peter and the disciples when Jesus walked on the water toward them. They had a similar reaction! MacArthur and others say that Jewish superstition believed that each person had their own guardian angel who could assume that persons form, which explains why she thought it was an angel that looked like Peter.
I love Acts 12:18 that says the soldiers were all confused and couldn't understand what happened. I can just imagine what must have been going through their minds. I'm sure they thought of what happened with Jesus and His body after the crucifixion exactly a year earlier and probably about Stephen as well. Plus, their lives too were at stake since they had lost a prisoner (again!). I'm sure there was a great commotion among the soldiers and probably talk all over town about it too! (which the Sanhedrin would be trying to keep quiet lol.
And the guards did lose their lives. Let's see that means 16 men lost their lives because of Peter's escape. We can only hope that some or all came to faith in Jesus before they died!
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Post by Brother Mark on Apr 5, 2019 21:46:53 GMT -5
Barbara and Cindy , Thank you for your comments. I meant no harm to anyone. Just a bit confusing but you both explained everything that just did not sink in the first and second time I read the discussion. Please continue Barbara , looking forward to your explanations on the Study. Take care, and even though I may not be posting all the time in this thread, I am always reading.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 6, 2019 10:27:03 GMT -5
I certainly did not think you meant harm Mark!!!!!!
Just ask Cindy....for years and years, I am always asking her such questions, because I am really trying to understand.
And, she is always asking me questions too.....like did you really mean to say this or that, or was that a typo?
Plus, she knows, I 'sometimes' ( maybe, more like 'often'), have such a strange way of wording something,
or
not really stating clearly,
or
writing in full what I mean....that she HAS to ask....
what DO I mean???? LOL
Plus, I thought it was great you asked, because, like you said
( you may not always be posting but reading)
There may be other people who are ONLY reading,
and so,
for them,
it is a good thing to have asked like you did!!!
Because, you may have had a pretty good idea what I was trying to say
( maybe not as successfully as I would have liked...sniff),
but you just wanted clarification
But perhaps even in a 'reader's...only,
mind....
(that we may never know or hear from in this life),
was helped in understanding, from your question,
because they were really confused by my statement.
So tho we are talking to each other here, there may be others just only reading .
Cindy has said in the past to me:
"you ( meaning me),
might already know this,
but in case someone else is reading,
they may not know this,
therefore, I will add this to what you said, or explain it this way etc etc.
So when you can ( when you have time)
please ask more questions,
or
post your thoughts,
keeping in mind, that it may be just what someone else needed
( besides me....because that helped me).
besides, it also helps me, to get it stronger in my own mind
it helped me, as that they say 'teaching or explaining something'.....
(NOT that I was teaching you anything at all :-)
But......
I do have grandchildren, and in trying to explain it better on here, because you asked, it helped me ( for me to understand better in my own mind),
to think a bit more deeply,
and, so that, when it comes up with our grandchildren,
I will have a better understanding of how I need to give them examples etc.
Sooo thank you sooooooo much for your input Cindy.
I kind of wished you had included a few more verses LOL
but then...
I need to do the work myself, and not be lazy and rely on you
:-(
Oh and you asked about stopping.....
sometimes, if I have been reading commentaries etc for 3 hours or so,
I just get way too tired, and cannot concentrate another minute
:-(
Also, I did go for that MRI yesterday.
I mainly did it, in case, they did, in fact, spot suspicious stuff.....that they might think was potential cancer....
if so, it might .....
operative word is 'might
help in continuing to give me pain meds
because this whole opioid 'crisis' could mean that docs will stop giving pain meds.... except maybe for things like 'cancer'
It was not because if they found anything I would do chemo and or radiation
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 6, 2019 11:13:53 GMT -5
Acts 12:19-24
Herod’s Death
v.19.....Then Herod went from Judea to Caesarea and stayed there.
v.20 He had been quarreling with the people of Tyre and Sidon; they now joined together and sought an audience with him. After securing the support of Blastus, a trusted personal servant of the king, they asked for peace, because they depended on the king’s country for their food supply.
v.21 On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people.
v. 22 They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.”
v.23 Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.
v.24 But the word of God continued to spread and flourish.
So Herod goes to Caesarea.
I get the feeling, he was often quarreling and angry, in any case, its now with the people of Tyre and Sidon.
So the people try to get to meet with him and they do this through Blastus, a trusted servant of Herod ( having to do with the food supply).
so Herod dresses in his splendid royal robes, which were perhaps quite dazzling. It seems that he had a big big big problem with pride ( as do many or most people...and as did and does satan).
He wants to be worshiped by men. This is also, true of many or most humans, and certainly of the devil.
Those seated on his throne, he gives a speech, to wow and impress, the crowd ,
and give glory, only, praise and worship to himself.
And so the crowd give him excessive flattery saying, his voice is the voice of a god and not a man. Of course, its likely the main reason for this, is they wanted food and to appease this angry tyrant !!!
Sadly, I too am yet to this day, not humble like I ought but rather I often bask in praise, without giving God the glory. Lord, help me to be humble and give you all the glory!!
The other half of this terrible equation is I fall into giving too much praise and flattery.
It is hard for me to know sometimes what is just a normal ability and what is very good.
However, I am sometimes remembering to say to ( grandchildren, children etc.) that whatever I am saying was well done etc. that it is a gift from God.
The results were horrifying in Herod's case.....because along with accepting praise that belong to God only....
He 'gained' and angel...
that struck him down to be eaten of worms!!
It seems to me these worms much have continued to grow, cause more and more pain, and eventually killed Herod. It is clear that it does not pay to fight against the Lord, or take praise reserved only for Him. Not everyone will be eaten by worms while alive, but we all we die
( unless raptured) and they will be consequences ( either in this life or the next)
But something else continued to grow....God's Word....praise the Lord!!!
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 7, 2019 16:55:21 GMT -5
Acts 13:1-9
v.1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul.
v.2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
v.3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
On Cyprus
v.4 The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus.
v. 5 When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper.
v.6 They traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos. There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus,
v.7 who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God.
v. 8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith.
v. 9 Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said,
.
I am sure you have heard the saying before about history...
it is His-story
( meaning Jesus' story).
But now we are getting the his-story of Saul/Paul's history and missionary history.
The church at antioch was well equipped with teachers, pastors and the apostle Paul.
They were worshiping the Lord.
Then God the Holy Spirit gave Paul and Barnabas the command and instructions to go on the missionary journey. Then the church prayed, fasted, laid hands on them and sent them on their way.
They go to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus.
they began to proclaim the gospel to the Jews first, which seems to have been the pattern throughout...to the Jew first, and then the Gentiles.
They also had John as their helper.
As to be expected, when things are going well and the gospel is being preached, its time to expect satan and evil to show up.
This time in the form of a magician.
Sergius, an intelligent man, yet, nevertheless like most great men of that time period, he kept a private wizard on hand, a fortune-teller who dealt in magic and spells.
But he wants to hear the word of God.
And so this magician opposes Paul and Barnabas ( which can be counted on that satan will do!!) so he makes repeated attempts to turn Sergius away from the faith ( besides being satan's man, he also would lose his life of ease),
Paul in confronting this evil man, was filled with God's Holy Spirit, and therefore could look straight at him, and not be afraid and speak truth with boldness.
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Post by Cindy on Apr 8, 2019 11:31:39 GMT -5
Barbara and Cindy , Thank you for your comments. I meant no harm to anyone. Just a bit confusing but you both explained everything that just did not sink in the first and second time I read the discussion. Please continue Barbara , looking forward to your explanations on the Study. Take care, and even though I may not be posting all the time in this thread, I am always reading.  I didn't think you did Mark, and I apologize if I gave that impression. It can be confusing when you're reading something. Don't feel badly though, as I often ask questions about what Barbara writes and she asks questions about what I write lol. I've noticed too that when we did a study with a person we weren't familiar with, that we hadn't read much of their stuff before, we asked even more questions. So I suspect that as we get familiar with how a person writes, we tend to understand a little better. Plus, I think it also has to do with how much pain we're in that day. I know my brain doesn't work as well when I'm in a lot of pain. I certainly did not think you meant harm Mark!!!!!!
Just ask Cindy....for years and years, I am always asking her such questions, because I am really trying to understand.
And, she is always asking me questions too.....like did you really mean to say this or that, or was that a typo?
Plus, she knows, I 'sometimes' ( maybe, more like 'often'), have such a strange way of wording something,
or
not really stating clearly,
or
writing in full what I mean....that she HAS to ask....
what DO I mean???? LOL
Plus, I thought it was great you asked, because, like you said
( you may not always be posting but reading)
There may be other people who are ONLY reading,
and so,
for them,
it is a good thing to have asked like you did!!!
Because, you may have had a pretty good idea what I was trying to say
( maybe not as successfully as I would have liked...sniff),
but you just wanted clarification
But perhaps even in a 'reader's...only,
mind....
(that we may never know or hear from in this life),
was helped in understanding, from your question,
because they were really confused by my statement.
So tho we are talking to each other here, there may be others just only reading .
Cindy has said in the past to me:
"you ( meaning me),
might already know this,
but in case someone else is reading,
they may not know this,
therefore, I will add this to what you said, or explain it this way etc etc.
So when you can ( when you have time)
please ask more questions,
or
post your thoughts,
keeping in mind, that it may be just what someone else needed
( besides me....because that helped me).
besides, it also helps me, to get it stronger in my own mind
it helped me, as that they say 'teaching or explaining something'.....
(NOT that I was teaching you anything at all :-)
But......
I do have grandchildren, and in trying to explain it better on here, because you asked, it helped me ( for me to understand better in my own mind),
to think a bit more deeply,
and, so that, when it comes up with our grandchildren,
I will have a better understanding of how I need to give them examples etc.
Sooo thank you sooooooo much for your input Cindy.
I kind of wished you had included a few more verses LOL
but then...
I need to do the work myself, and not be lazy and rely on you
:-(
Oh and you asked about stopping.....
sometimes, if I have been reading commentaries etc for 3 hours or so,
I just get way too tired, and cannot concentrate another minute
:-(
Also, I did go for that MRI yesterday.
I mainly did it, in case, they did, in fact, spot suspicious stuff.....that they might think was potential cancer....
if so, it might .....
operative word is 'might
help in continuing to give me pain meds
because this whole opioid 'crisis' could mean that docs will stop giving pain meds.... except maybe for things like 'cancer'
It was not because if they found anything I would do chemo and or radiation
Acts 12:19-24
Herod’s Death
v.19.....Then Herod went from Judea to Caesarea and stayed there.
v.20 He had been quarreling with the people of Tyre and Sidon; they now joined together and sought an audience with him. After securing the support of Blastus, a trusted personal servant of the king, they asked for peace, because they depended on the king’s country for their food supply.
v.21 On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people.
v. 22 They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.”
v.23 Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.
v.24 But the word of God continued to spread and flourish.
So Herod goes to Caesarea.
I get the feeling, he was often quarreling and angry, in any case, its now with the people of Tyre and Sidon.
So the people try to get to meet with him and they do this through Blastus, a trusted servant of Herod ( having to do with the food supply).
so Herod dresses in his splendid royal robes, which were perhaps quite dazzling. It seems that he had a big big big problem with pride ( as do many or most people...and as did and does satan).
He wants to be worshiped by men. This is also, true of many or most humans, and certainly of the devil.
Those seated on his throne, he gives a speech, to wow and impress, the crowd ,
and give glory, only, praise and worship to himself.
And so the crowd give him excessive flattery saying, his voice is the voice of a god and not a man. Of course, its likely the main reason for this, is they wanted food and to appease this angry tyrant !!!
Sadly, I too am yet to this day, not humble like I ought but rather I often bask in praise, without giving God the glory. Lord, help me to be humble and give you all the glory!!
The other half of this terrible equation is I fall into giving too much praise and flattery.
It is hard for me to know sometimes what is just a normal ability and what is very good.
However, I am sometimes remembering to say to ( grandchildren, children etc.) that whatever I am saying was well done etc. that it is a gift from God.
The results were horrifying in Herod's case.....because along with accepting praise that belong to God only....
He 'gained' and angel...
that struck him down to be eaten of worms!!
It seems to me these worms much have continued to grow, cause more and more pain, and eventually killed Herod. It is clear that it does not pay to fight against the Lord, or take praise reserved only for Him. Not everyone will be eaten by worms while alive, but we all we die
( unless raptured) and they will be consequences ( either in this life or the next)
But something else continued to grow....God's Word....praise the Lord!!!
Commentators say the disease that killed Herod was likely appendicitis, poisoning, or an intestinal blockage.
While God gives us each a certain amount of intelligence and various talents to differing degrees, as well as spiritual gifts, it's not wrong to tell someone that they did a good job. For example, when my grandchildren do well in school, I tell them they've done well. I've told them before that God gives us these things and we're to use them to our best ability in order to bring God glory. So when they do use their mind well, I tell them so. Or sometimes I might also say that I'm sure the Lord is pleased with how well they're doing with the intelligence He gave them. But honestly, most of the time, I just tell them they're doing well.
There's a huge difference between something like that (telling someone they did well) and telling them they "have the voice of a god". The reason Herod was killed was because He didn't immediately tell the people there is only One God and it wasn't him! If the people had simply said, "you gave a great speech and we loved it", and Herod had accepted that praise, nothing would have happened, because he wouldn't have stolen glory from God.
If you'd like to know what Josephus says about this incident, let me know and I'll post it for you. It's very close to the Biblical account.
There's another interesting point about these passages though. They point to the Antichrist and the world and people today. Herod is like the Antichrist who will want to be god and rule the world, and we know that's exactly what he's going to try and do. He too will persecute God's people. But just as God judged Herod and rescued Peter, our God will judge the Antichrist and rescue His people at the end of the Tribulation.
The world in the time of Herod lived for pleasure and praise, force and flattery, instead of faith and truth. They thought of themselves as their own god, just as people do today. They'd do anything to get what they wanted, and so people do today. And they'll want the antichrist too, and God will let them have him for a time. But in the end, the people of the world will be judged as the Antichrist will be.
Acts 13:1-9
v.1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul.
v.2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
v.3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
On Cyprus
v.4 The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus.
v. 5 When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper.
v.6 They traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos. There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus,
v.7 who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God.
v. 8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith.
v. 9 Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said.
I am sure you have heard the saying before about history...
it is His-story
( meaning Jesus' story).
But now we are getting the his-story of Saul/Paul's history and missionary history.
The church at antioch was well equipped with teachers, pastors and the apostle Paul.
They were worshiping the Lord.
Then God the Holy Spirit gave Paul and Barnabas the command and instructions to go on the missionary journey. Then the church prayed, fasted, laid hands on them and sent them on their way.
They go to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus.
they began to proclaim the gospel to the Jews first, which seems to have been the pattern throughout...to the Jew first, and then the Gentiles.
They also had John as their helper.
As to be expected, when things are going well and the gospel is being preached, its time to expect satan and evil to show up.
This time in the form of a magician.
Sergius, an intelligent man, yet, nevertheless like most great men of that time period, he kept a private wizard on hand, a fortune-teller who dealt in magic and spells.
But he wants to hear the word of God.
And so this magician opposes Paul and Barnabas ( which can be counted on that satan will do!!) so he makes repeated attempts to turn Sergius away from the faith ( besides being satan's man, he also would lose his life of ease),
Paul in confronting this evil man, was filled with God's Holy Spirit, and therefore could look straight at him, and not be afraid and speak truth with boldness.
Elymas was a sorcerer, a black-magician, someone who engages in witchcraft, so his master was obviously Satan who certainly didn't want to lose his influence over Sergius.
Yes and it's true for us too that when we're living our faith, we can expect to be attacked. After all, when a person isn't living their faith, then Satan has no reason to attack them.
Looking forward to the next part too!
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 8, 2019 13:03:45 GMT -5
Acts 13: 10-15
v.10 “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord?
v. 11 Now the hand of the Lord is against you. You are going to be blind for a time, not even able to see the light of the sun.”
Immediately mist and darkness came over him, and he groped about, seeking someone to lead him by the hand.
v.12 When the proconsul saw what had happened, he believed, for he was amazed at the teaching about the Lord.
In Pisidian Antioch
v.13 From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem.
v.14 From Perga they went on to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue and sat down.
v.15 After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the leaders of the synagogue sent word to them, saying, “Brothers, if you have a word of exhortation for the people, please speak.”
Paul did not mince words when speaking the truth to this man.
A man who had gone so far in sins, that hell would be his destination unless he turned around. I don't know if he ever did.
But to sugar coat his sins at that point in time, would not have helped him, or the people he had been deceiving.
There is a difference between 'judging' and telling the truth....
And God IS a God of love but also judgement.
Elymas was blinded like Paul said ( Paul actually knew a little about being blind also (both physical and spiritual blindness).
There was an immediate blessing for at least one person due to Elymas going blind.....The proconsul believed when he saw what had happened ! God used the miracle to get the attention ( of both men). When there is a confrontation of light and darkness, be assured, that either immediately or in the future, the Kingdom of light will win over darkness.
Notwithstanding, more than the miracle, it was the teaching about Jesus that caused him to believe.
of course, disputes are always going to happen, it just seems sadder when it's Christians.
John leaves ( and it seems he went back home to mom?)
In any case, it surely disappointed Paul.
So now the going gets tough.
They went on to Pisidian Antioch...no easy feat ( I read the mountains they had to cross were over 3,600 feet ( a 'bit' of a sacrifice......... to do all that long walking (for weeks?) on foot).
It doesn't seem to me Paul tried to present the gospel, changed to fit the culture of the day....like perhaps using only hip-hop slang today. Nor does he seem to have been worried about making sinners feel guilty ( because they were, as was and am I when they sin).
Today, we are all about instilling "pride'....and look at how that's working ( not).
Anyway, on the Sabbath, they go to the synagogue, and the leaders of the synagogue politely ask the visiting 'rabbi' to teach......I have a feeling, not knowing what was coming!!
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Post by Cindy on Apr 9, 2019 11:03:16 GMT -5
Acts 13: 10-15
v.10 “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord?
v. 11 Now the hand of the Lord is against you. You are going to be blind for a time, not even able to see the light of the sun.”
Immediately mist and darkness came over him, and he groped about, seeking someone to lead him by the hand.
v.12 When the proconsul saw what had happened, he believed, for he was amazed at the teaching about the Lord.
In Pisidian Antioch
v.13 From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem.
v.14 From Perga they went on to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue and sat down.
v.15 After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the leaders of the synagogue sent word to them, saying, “Brothers, if you have a word of exhortation for the people, please speak.”
Paul did not mince words when speaking the truth to this man.
A man who had gone so far in sins, that hell would be his destination unless he turned around. I don't know if he ever did.
But to sugar coat his sins at that point in time, would not have helped him, or the people he had been deceiving.
There is a difference between 'judging' and telling the truth....
And God IS a God of love but also judgement.
Elymas was blinded like Paul said ( Paul actually knew a little about being blind also (both physical and spiritual blindness).
There was an immediate blessing for at least one person due to Elymas going blind.....The proconsul believed when he saw what had happened ! God used the miracle to get the attention ( of both men). When there is a confrontation of light and darkness, be assured, that either immediately or in the future, the Kingdom of light will win over darkness.
Notwithstanding, more than the miracle, it was the teaching about Jesus that caused him to believe.
of course, disputes are always going to happen, it just seems sadder when it's Christians.
John leaves ( and it seems he went back home to mom?)
In any case, it surely disappointed Paul.
So now the going gets tough.
They went on to Pisidian Antioch...no easy feat ( I read the mountains they had to cross were over 3,600 feet ( a 'bit' of a sacrifice......... to do all that long walking (for weeks?) on foot).
It doesn't seem to me Paul tried to present the gospel, changed to fit the culture of the day....like perhaps using only hip-hop slang today. Nor does he seem to have been worried about making sinners feel guilty ( because they were, as was and am I when they sin).
Today, we are all about instilling "pride'....and look at how that's working ( not).
Anyway, on the Sabbath, they go to the synagogue, and the leaders of the synagogue politely ask the visiting 'rabbi' to teach......I have a feeling, not knowing what was coming!!
Barnabas’ greatness is displayed by his willingness to let Paul be the leader. What caused Mark to desert is open to speculation: (1) Perhaps he was disillusioned with the change in leadership. After all, Barnabas, the original leader, was John Mark’s cousin. (2) The new emphasis on Gentiles may have been too much of an adjustment for a Palestinian Jew like Mark. (3) Possibly he was afraid of the dangerous road over the Taurus Mountains to Antioch which Paul was determined to travel. (4) There is some evidence Paul became quite ill in Perga, possibly with malaria, as the city of Perga was subject to malarial infections. Furthermore, Paul preached to the people of Galatia “because of an illness” (Gal. 4:13). The missionary party may have gone inland to higher ground to avoid the ravages of malaria & Mark in discouragement over this may have returned home. (5) Some think Mark was homesick. His mother may have been a widow (Acts 12:12); perhaps Mark became lonesome for her & home. Whatever the reason, Paul considered it a defection & a fault (cf. 15:38). The Bible Knowledge Commentary
Whatever reason John Mark gave for leaving, Paul didn’t accept it (15:38). While his desertion did not hamper the mission, it did later create dissension between Paul and Barnabas (15:36–40). This was finally resolved (cf. Col 4:10; 2Ti 4:11). The MacArthur study Bible
“When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying.” (Acts 12:12)
John … Mark. Cousin of Barnabas (Col 4:10), acquaintance of Peter in his youth (1Pe 5:13), he accompanied Barnabas & Paul to Antioch (v. 25) & later to Cyprus (13:4, 5). He deserted them at Perga (13:13) & Paul refused to take him on his 2nd missionary journey because of it(15:36–41). He accompanied Barnabas to Cyprus (15:39). He disappeared until he was seen with Paul at Rome as an accepted companion & coworker (Col 4:10; Phm 24). During Paul’s 2nd imprisonment at Rome, Paul sought John Mark’s presence as useful to him (2Ti 4:11). He wrote the gospel that bears his name, being enriched in his task by Peter (1Pe 5:13). The MacArthur study Bible
Yes, Paul never minced words or tried to make sin sound less than it was - a serious problem that ends in death and hell. He never tried to make the Gospel fit in with the culture he was preaching to. He simply spoke the Truth from God's Word and let it take affect. Any part of any culture that doesn't go against God's Word, is fine, and can be continued, but anything that goes against God's Word, must be done away with; not politically, but by the new Christian in their own life. I've tried to tell this to people even in our day, such as one Goth who came to our old board. They tried to tell me that they were a Goth and they were saved. I explained to them that wasn't true. They could be one or the other, but not both. When we are saved, we become a new creature - it's not something that's added on to our old nature. It's brand new. Therefore he needed to do away with the old. I asked him how death - which is what Goth represents, could have anything to do with Life, which is what Jesus is. He didn't like that and went away sad. I only hope that the seeds planted bore fruit later for him. This is true too of homosexuals, thieves, transgenders, etc. As with any sin, it must be repented of, and turned away from and the new man put on.
Personally, I've come to believe that we do our children a huge disservice when raising them when we don't point out their sins as sin. Instead we say they're disobeying us, or that they've done something wrong. How can they learn what sin is if we don't tell them? When they complain, we should point out the story of when the Israelites complained in the desert and how God told them they were really complaining about Him, and make sure they understand why they're really complaining about how God rules the world when they complain about something in their life, and why that's a sin against God. When they disobey us, or don't obey right away, we should show them how that is a sin because God tells us to obey those in authority over us and tells children especially to obey their parents. We need to explain to them how our family is a picture of how God interacts with us, and that He wants us to act the way Jesus would so that the world will see how He treats us and what He expects from us. When they're selfish, we need to show them how that's a sin and why and what God says about it. When they're showing signs of depression or just being down, we need to explain to them what God says about that being a sin too and how He commands us to deal with it. And so on..... When I look at children now, I can see why they are the way they are as they have no understanding of God at all. I wish I'd know all this when I was raising my kids, but I didn't and that's the way the Lord allowed things to work out. Therefore I have to believe that He had a very good reason for it and that it will all work for their good. I keep remembering that those who have been forgiven much, love Him more, and perhaps that's what He wants for them too.
By the way, whenever I start going down memory lane about all the things I did wrong raising my kids or whatever, I immediately repeat a portion of scripture to myself, and keep repeating it until I have something I can replace it with in my mind. The portion of scripture I repeat is: "Forgetting what lies behind." Or sometimes i say, "Forgetting what's in the past". It's from this passage:“Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what lies behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13–14)
It doesn't take much to turn a person to a false god or even to simply making themselves their god and being atheists. I watched my oldest granddaughter when she was in middle school, sing at a school concert that I almost walked out of. The chorus teacher made the kids sing a song in Arabic that was praising Allah. They gave the English translation to us when we came in to see the concert. I couldn't believe it when I heard her sing that song, and there were more about Allah besides that one! I felt sick to my stomach and couldn't understand why my daughter didn't forbid her to sing it. I'd have felt better having her miss the concert completely rather than sing those songs. Or just stand there and not sing those. Either way would have been fine. But apparently her mother, my daughter, didn't do anything, probably because singing was very important to Cassandra. Later, as Cassandra continued to sing, and began to act as well, (In high school) she became friends with some homosexuals which I met at her birthday parties. I again knew something was very wrong when it was obvious that neither she or anyone in her family had confronted these kids and told them the truth about their sin. I wasn't sure, but I thought they were now believing the lie that being homosexual was ok with God. That too made me feel sick to my stomach as they obviously didn't really love those kids or they wouldn't have wanted to see them go to hell. Now, at the ripe age of 20, Cassandra has let me know she doesn't believe the Bible, she's all for "pro choice", etc. She most obviously isn't saved, and I'm afraid that her mother, my daughter isn't either. I think she's been pretending all these years and just relying on her own strength. So I'm glad I never stopped praying for her salvation (or that of any of my children or grandchildren for that matter!) and have been praying harder then ever for them all.
At this point, only one of my children, Jennifer, is living for God and not herself, as does her husband and their children, Elijah and Grace. They show the fruit of the spirit and I see them growing in their faith. I really couldn't say that for sure about any of my other children. Oh I saw good things now and then, but no pattern of consistent growth. And when hit with a crisis, they always responded in their flesh. But when Jenn and her family are hit with a crisis, they respond in faith. (and they've been hit very hard all through the last year!) And yes, I still include them when praying for the salvation of all my children and grandchildren, even though I'm pretty sure they're saved. When praying for them separately though I thank the Lord for their salvation and ask Him to make them stronger in their faith etc. I pray for them all the things Paul prayed for in his prayers.
I also pray for the salvation of your children and grandchildren as well as for the children and grandchildren of others that are family from Fresh Hope.
It's hard being part of the generation that's living through the great falling away, the apostasy of the church. But at the same time, but at least we know that we're not the only ones left like some of the prophets thought at times.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 9, 2019 12:53:11 GMT -5
Acts 13:16-22
v.16 Standing up, Paul motioned with his hand and said: “Fellow Israelites and you Gentiles who worship God, listen to me!
v.17 The God of the people of Israel chose our ancestors; he made the people prosper during their stay in Egypt; with mighty power he led them out of that country;
v.18 for about forty years he endured their conduct in the wilderness;
v.19 and he overthrew seven nations in Canaan, giving their land to his people as their inheritance.
v.20 All this took about 450 years.
“After this, God gave them judges until the time of Samuel the prophet.
v.21 Then the people asked for a king, and he gave them Saul son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled forty years.
v.22 After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’
’
Now Paul will look at the history of Israel, in a synagogue, to mainly Jewish men (with maybe some Gentiles present also).
I am thinking this might be a summary or a longer sermon.
It reminds me of Stephens, and I wonder if this rehearsing the History of Israel was not ( and to some extent, still is), something in the Jewish culture more than in other cultures?
Nevertheless, Paul will use this history to make the case of God's promised messiah ( Jesus)
and the prototype King David.
God saved Israel from slavery in Egypt, (for the most part, the people often turned their back on God, were complaining or scornful etc). Yet, God was working and His plans will prevail.
In the desert they were a rebellious people but God remained faithful, loving, patient.
Then Paul moves to the 2nd generation, when God had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, ( and none of those names are named today, but Israel is still here).
Then comes the time of the judges (approx 350 years), who preserved Israel from destruction. It was times of repeated sin and rebellion, repentance and restoration.
(kind of exactly like my life). But god was and is faithful.
Until...Samuel, the last judge and a prophet.
The people did not want God the true king, they instead wanted a human king, like the other nations.
So God gave them Saul who was King for 40 years.
Then when God had removed Saul, he raised up David to be their king.
What struck me was when the people asked for a king 40 years previous, they said that Samuel had grown 'old'....well, ummmm he was still around 40 years later!!!
A man after God's heart, did not mean David was sinless, as we well know, but his heart was tender towards God and his goal so to speak, was to sin-less and less, and to hate sin.
He had faith in God, and loved God's Word. He would repent when he did sin.
But through David's many glaring sins, we see the forgiveness and love of God.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 9, 2019 14:36:16 GMT -5
Wow! that whole post made me cry....because it was so true!!!
I have never said to Hossanah that living with her fiancee is sin....so I am not even sure she knows it is.
And when you mentioned the gays your granddaughter hung out with....WOW! Kids today are getting indoctrinated at school, not just be tolerant of 'alternative' life styles, but to embrace them, and never ever ever 'judge' them ( which would also mean any discussion of 'sin' is becoming legally wrong)!!!
In fact, we have a 'situation' here. Two lesbians and their daughter are moving in next Tues.
That in an of itself, is overwhelming, but even beyond that...(they are by the way, legally a 'protected' class)
They have a stalker and domestic abuse situation ( perhaps the father of the child??)
They wanted our landlord to sign a legal agreement that if any kind of stalking, domestic abuse happened, he could not legally ask them to leave.
I told him, that might put any of the rest of us at risk. What if the father was so angry he came locked and loaded, and any adult, or child in his way were merely 'collateral damage'
( if he intended to grab his daughter and make a run for it?)
So our landlord agreed not to sign that...
he is not bound by law ( at this point) to have to sign that.
It could be a tricky situation also, in that Brian's daughter, looks to be about the same age as the young girl with the 2 lesbians....
we take 3 out of 4 of the kids to church each Sunday, so if the 2 girls become good friends......
the 2 woman, might be upset at what this girl may hear from Brian's children and our grandson.
I kind of don't think kids will talk about anything concerning church, but you never know.
These days if you even accidentally mis -gender a person you could be sued or go to jail, so yeah, end times it is truly beginning to be big time!!!
I know...don't look back ( but forward)....yet this whole situation, feels 'almost' like 'payback'....
think this is from satan...yes)
Because in college, I was walking one night with an art student friend.....I thought we might be becoming boyfriend and girlfriend
I was foolishly babbling that we as a country we dealing so much better with racism, but the last vestige, was gays etc. I have absolutely zero idea where I got that idea or why I was even saying it.
At this point, my friend said: " How did you know????????
Know what?, I dumbfoundly asked.
He replied, that I am gay?
I was soooo lost back then.
This is the 2nd gay couple in that very cottage...weird!
The other 2 were men tho, and no child.
So any prayers you might offer up for this situation would be greatly appreciated!!
But what you wrote that gave me much hope was this:
"I wish I'd know all this when I was raising my kids, but I didn't and that's the way the Lord allowed things to work out. Therefore I have to believe that He had a very good reason for it and that it will all work for their good. I keep remembering that those who have been forgiven much, love Him more, and perhaps that's what He wants for them too".
I am not sure either who is or might be saved in my family....that is so hard, it breaks my heart....but I cried reading what you wrote, it was so encouraging!
I thank you so much for that
How amazing God is, I had JUST asked Him about what verse should I memorized?
and Lo and Behold! you gave me one!! :-)
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Post by Cindy on Apr 10, 2019 9:55:16 GMT -5
Acts 13:16-22
v.16 Standing up, Paul motioned with his hand and said: “Fellow Israelites and you Gentiles who worship God, listen to me!
v.17 The God of the people of Israel chose our ancestors; he made the people prosper during their stay in Egypt; with mighty power he led them out of that country;
v.18 for about forty years he endured their conduct in the wilderness;
v.19 and he overthrew seven nations in Canaan, giving their land to his people as their inheritance.
v.20 All this took about 450 years.
“After this, God gave them judges until the time of Samuel the prophet.
v.21 Then the people asked for a king, and he gave them Saul son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled forty years.
v.22 After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’
’
Now Paul will look at the history of Israel, in a synagogue, to mainly Jewish men (with maybe some Gentiles present also).
I am thinking this might be a summary or a longer sermon.
It reminds me of Stephens, and I wonder if this rehearsing the History of Israel was not ( and to some extent, still is), something in the Jewish culture more than in other cultures?
Nevertheless, Paul will use this history to make the case of God's promised messiah ( Jesus)
and the prototype King David.
God saved Israel from slavery in Egypt, (for the most part, the people often turned their back on God, were complaining or scornful etc). Yet, God was working and His plans will prevail.
In the desert they were a rebellious people but God remained faithful, loving, patient.
Then Paul moves to the 2nd generation, when God had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, ( and none of those names are named today, but Israel is still here).
Then comes the time of the judges (approx 350 years), who preserved Israel from destruction. It was times of repeated sin and rebellion, repentance and restoration.
(kind of exactly like my life). But god was and is faithful.
Until...Samuel, the last judge and a prophet.
The people did not want God the true king, they instead wanted a human king, like the other nations.
So God gave them Saul who was King for 40 years.
Then when God had removed Saul, he raised up David to be their king.
What struck me was when the people asked for a king 40 years previous, they said that Samuel had grown 'old'....well, ummmm he was still around 40 years later!!!
A man after God's heart, did not mean David was sinless, as we well know, but his heart was tender towards God and his goal so to speak, was to sin-less and less, and to hate sin.
He had faith in God, and loved God's Word. He would repent when he did sin.
But through David's many glaring sins, we see the forgiveness and love of God.
Good!
Unfortunately although the NIV translation of verse 16 is accurate, it fails to show who the Gentiles were. The exact translation would be "God fearers" or "those who fear God". In other words, proselytes of Judaism. So the rehearsal of Jewish history was familiar to them, and it was important for they were teaching them why Jesus is the Messiah. Many today say the OT isn't needed any longer, much to their detriment, because it's very much needed. These Gentiles, like all Gentiles needed to know the OT in order to understand all about Jesus - why He came, and who He was, and what He came to do. It also taught and teaches us as well, about the heart of God.
Some commentators say that Paul adds Saul's lineage because he too came from that tribe and was also named Saul, but that's not true. He mentions Saul's lineage to show that Jesus did not come from that line, but came instead from David who replaced Saul.
Wow! that whole post made me cry....because it was so true!!!
I have never said to Hossanah that living with her fiancee is sin....so I am not even sure she knows it is.
And when you mentioned the gays your granddaughter hung out with....WOW! Kids today are getting indoctrinated at school, not just be tolerant of 'alternative' life styles, but to embrace them, and never ever ever 'judge' them ( which would also mean any discussion of 'sin' is becoming legally wrong)!!!
In fact, we have a 'situation' here. Two lesbians and their daughter are moving in next Tues.
That in an of itself, is overwhelming, but even beyond that...(they are by the way, legally a 'protected' class)
They have a stalker and domestic abuse situation ( perhaps the father of the child??)
They wanted our landlord to sign a legal agreement that if any kind of stalking, domestic abuse happened, he could not legally ask them to leave.
I told him, that might put any of the rest of us at risk. What if the father was so angry he came locked and loaded, and any adult, or child in his way were merely 'collateral damage'
( if he intended to grab his daughter and make a run for it?)
So our landlord agreed not to sign that...
he is not bound by law ( at this point) to have to sign that.
It could be a tricky situation also, in that Brian's daughter, looks to be about the same age as the young girl with the 2 lesbians....
we take 3 out of 4 of the kids to church each Sunday, so if the 2 girls become good friends......
the 2 woman, might be upset at what this girl may hear from Brian's children and our grandson.
I kind of don't think kids will talk about anything concerning church, but you never know.
These days if you even accidentally mis -gender a person you could be sued or go to jail, so yeah, end times it is truly beginning to be big time!!!
I know...don't look back ( but forward)....yet this whole situation, feels 'almost' like 'payback'....
think this is from satan...yes)
Because in college, I was walking one night with an art student friend.....I thought we might be becoming boyfriend and girlfriend
I was foolishly babbling that we as a country we dealing so much better with racism, but the last vestige, was gays etc. I have absolutely zero idea where I got that idea or why I was even saying it.
At this point, my friend said: " How did you know????????
Know what?, I dumbfoundly asked.
He replied, that I am gay?
I was soooo lost back then.
This is the 2nd gay couple in that very cottage...weird!
The other 2 were men tho, and no child.
So any prayers you might offer up for this situation would be greatly appreciated!!
But what you wrote that gave me much hope was this:
"I wish I'd know all this when I was raising my kids, but I didn't and that's the way the Lord allowed things to work out. Therefore I have to believe that He had a very good reason for it and that it will all work for their good. I keep remembering that those who have been forgiven much, love Him more, and perhaps that's what He wants for them too".
I am not sure either who is or might be saved in my family....that is so hard, it breaks my heart....but I cried reading what you wrote, it was so encouraging!
I thank you so much for that
How amazing God is, I had JUST asked Him about what verse should I memorized?
and Lo and Behold! you gave me one!! :-)
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072B7K8BZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_d_asin_title_o01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
As for the children (and even the adults!) I hope some at least are brave enough to tell the gays the truth about God. The main reason this world has gone so far down hill is because people haven't spoken up when they should have. Sadly God will hold us all responsible for that as well. I was listening to an awesome sermon by MacArthur and he spoke about just that. He reminded us about this scripture: “When I say to a wicked man, ‘You will surely die,’ and you do not warn him or speak out to dissuade him from his evil ways in order to save his life, that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood. But if you do warn the wicked man and he does not turn from his wickedness or from his evil ways, he will die for his sin; but you will have saved yourself.” (Ezekiel 3:18–19) As well as Ezekiel 3:20–21. He showed others from the NT as well. Anyway, it reminded me that God will hold us accountable when we don't warn people of what will happen if they don't turn from their sin, as we are all His watchmen. (well in NT terminology, we're all His priests and represent Him to the world, and are responsible for telling others about Him.) “remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins.” (James 5:20) “Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.” (Acts 20:26–27) ““ ‘Do not hate your brother in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in his guilt.” (Leviticus 19:17)
This is something that would be hard for me to do - I mean the situation you're in with the people who are moving into your apartments. In fact, I think the only way I'd be able to deal with it would be to leave a tract out for them or something Thankfully God doesn't care if we take the chicken way out, as long as they're told. Actually, I'd probably put together a little "welcome to your new home" package and include a tract in it. That way they'd most likely not do or say anything other than thank us for the gift, and perhaps later tell us they're not into the God thing lol. But, like I said, that's ok. All we have to do is tell them.
I recently had to talk to one of my daughters friends who's involved with witchcraft and the new age garbage and tell her that all that stuff is a sin against God, and also tell her that she's not saved. My daughter had already told her those things too, but she needed "back up". That wasn't too hard though as I know her and she's really a very sweet girl, just headed down a very dangerous path. She hasn't listened to us yet though, even though we've been working on her for quite awhile now. She has a lot of issues though.
But, I'll certainly pray for you about it. I'm glad your landlord didn't sign that paper though, that was a good decision for sure, although I'm sure they didn't think so! Wouldn't it be wonderful if the young girl did become friends with the other kids and came to Christ and then led the adults to Christ! That book I told you about talks about that too. It's funny, but my daughter takes several kids from her apartment building with her to church most Sundays, including her friends daughters. So they're learning the truth there, and Jenn shows them God's love every day. Her friend thinks she may die soon (and she could) and Jenn has told the daughters not to worry, that she would take them and raise them and love them if that happened. (I'm sure she would too, if the courts would allow it.) I think she got the idea of taking other people's kids to church from me as I was always taking other people, both children and adults to church with us lol.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 10, 2019 10:52:40 GMT -5
I am even chicken to do the welcome gift!
And yet, I am praying, that God will give me an opening some day.
I did once have a talk a looong time ago with a son ( both father and son lived here at that time in different cottages), who was anti-Christian ( and the dad was waaaay more anti-Christian).
I am not sure I had any positive effect, nor do I remember what I said, but it was about 1/2 an hour. However, that 'chat' took place after he had lived here about a year or more ( they both eventually moved out).
Even IF I could manage to get up enough never to leave a gift ( great idea tho thank you soooo much....I would never have thought of it on my own)
But money is an issue right now
Last Sat. Leonard hit a High School track boy, with our car.
There were 10 or more witnesses, and the police basically everyone) concluded Leonard was NOT at fault.
There was a track meet, and the young man just ran across the road.
He is OK ( well, he has a broken collar bone, so that is not exactly OK)
but he did NOT die, so that is a very good thing,
But in addition to the worry about him
( we prayed for him, and his parents, siblings etc. a LOT!!)
He hit the car window and it needs to be replaced ( about $350-$400)
It will be replaced tomorrow
( Hossanah will pay most tomorrow, and Leonard will also pay some towards it
then Leonard and I will pay her back)
plus other car expenses like fix an oil leak etc.etc.
But a few are dangerous and must be done immediately....
about a $1000 repairs altogether,
which again, Hossanah will help us with).
So not a good week for buying 'extras.
I am praying that God might make a way, an opening, ( like with Steve way back when), and I will be able to talk to one of them at least....of course, I could drop a track in the parking lot???
Leave in by the mail boxes, on top of the recycle garbage bin?
No?????
In any case, I am glad we have been able to take the kids to church, and the Lord willing, we may be able to continue to do so.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 10, 2019 13:04:58 GMT -5
aha!!! :-)
As I am studying today's passage, I came across this story....
maybe my drop the track in the parking lot wasn't soooo off LOL
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A young man in America was once at work upon his farm. He was careless about religion — indeed nobody had ever said a word to him about it; and as he had no Bible and only worldly friends, there seemed little chance of his ever hearing of Christ and salvation, and of heaven and hell.
On this particular day, it was a bright morning in early summer, he had to take his cart, drawn by oxen, along the high road. He was thinking of nothing except his daily work and his daffy bread. A gentle breeze was blowing, and as he went along it stirred a little piece of paper which had been lying by the roadside, so that it fluttered in front of him.
But on went the young man, the oxen and the cart, all the same. When he had gone a short way farther, however, a thought came over him, "I wonder what that bit of paper was — I've a great mind to go back and see." And, stopping his team, he did go back. He picked it up and read it as he walked along. It was a leaf out of the Bible.
The summer passed away with its flowers and sunshine, and the corn grew ripe, and was gathered into the garner; there was another harvest, too, standing ready for the sickle. The young man who had found the leaf lay upon a sick and dying bed.
A sore disease had smitten him, and his parents knew there was no hope of his life. They were stricken with grief, but he — oh, he was rejoicing!
And now his lips were open to tell them what he had never told before. The leaf out of the Bible had brought to him first the sense of sin and then the knowledge of a Saviour.
He sought for a whole Bible, and ever since it had been his constant companion, and now, though called almost suddenly away from life with all its happiness, he knew whom he had believed, and he was ready. He had an anchor, sure and steadfast, for the Lamb that was slain to take away sin had taken away his sin. And without a doubt or a fear he entered into rest.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 10, 2019 13:35:49 GMT -5
Acts 13:23-31
23 “From this man’s descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised.
v.24 Before the coming of Jesus, John preached repentance and baptism to all the people of Israel.
v. 25 As John was completing his work, he said: ‘Who do you suppose I am? I am not the one you are looking for. But there is one coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’
v.26 “Fellow children of Abraham and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent.
v.27 The people of Jerusalem and their rulers did not recognize Jesus, yet in condemning him they fulfilled the words of the prophets that are read every Sabbath.
v.28 Though they found no proper ground for a death sentence, they asked Pilate to have him executed.
v.29 When they had carried out all that was written about him, they took him down from the cross and laid him in a tomb.
v.30 But God raised him from the dead,
v. 31 and for many days he was seen by those who had traveled with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to our people.
Paul now makes the connection of a greater King (the king of kings) coming from the line of David, as God had promised such a Savior.
The Jews knew a prophet would announce the Messiah beforehand, and now Paul points to John the Baptist, as the one.
John is an example to finish the course/race, and to be humble.
Paul goes on to say that the Jews did not recognize Jesus nor even the fact that the prophets had described Him. Instead, they asked Pilate that Jesus be executed for absolutely no crime committed by Him. Jesus was completely and totally innocent.
Even so, God's plan and will was done.
Then comes the: But God!!!
But God raised Him from the dead!!!
Paul does not talk about philosophy or myths but actual things that happened (reality).
Eyewitnesses !!
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Post by Cindy on Apr 11, 2019 9:40:48 GMT -5
I am even chicken to do the welcome gift!
And yet, I am praying, that God will give me an opening some day.
I did once have a talk a looong time ago with a son ( both father and son lived here at that time in different cottages), who was anti-Christian ( and the dad was waaaay more anti-Christian).
I am not sure I had any positive effect, nor do I remember what I said, but it was about 1/2 an hour. However, that 'chat' took place after he had lived here about a year or more ( they both eventually moved out).
Even IF I could manage to get up enough never to leave a gift ( great idea tho thank you soooo much....I would never have thought of it on my own)
But money is an issue right now
Last Sat. Leonard hit a High School track boy, with our car.
There were 10 or more witnesses, and the police basically everyone) concluded Leonard was NOT at fault.
There was a track meet, and the young man just ran across the road.
He is OK ( well, he has a broken collar bone, so that is not exactly OK)
but he did NOT die, so that is a very good thing,
But in addition to the worry about him
( we prayed for him, and his parents, siblings etc. a LOT!!)
He hit the car window and it needs to be replaced ( about $350-$400)
It will be replaced tomorrow
( Hossanah will pay most tomorrow, and Leonard will also pay some towards it
then Leonard and I will pay her back)
plus other car expenses like fix an oil leak etc.etc.
But a few are dangerous and must be done immediately....
about a $1000 repairs altogether,
which again, Hossanah will help us with).
So not a good week for buying 'extras.
I am praying that God might make a way, an opening, ( like with Steve way back when), and I will be able to talk to one of them at least....of course, I could drop a track in the parking lot???
Leave in by the mail boxes, on top of the recycle garbage bin?
No?????
In any case, I am glad we have been able to take the kids to church, and the Lord willing, we may be able to continue to do so.
aha!!! :-)
As I am studying today's passage, I came across this story....
maybe my drop the track in the parking lot wasn't soooo off LOL
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A young man in America was once at work upon his farm. He was careless about religion — indeed nobody had ever said a word to him about it; and as he had no Bible and only worldly friends, there seemed little chance of his ever hearing of Christ and salvation, and of heaven and hell.
On this particular day, it was a bright morning in early summer, he had to take his cart, drawn by oxen, along the high road. He was thinking of nothing except his daily work and his daffy bread. A gentle breeze was blowing, and as he went along it stirred a little piece of paper which had been lying by the roadside, so that it fluttered in front of him.
But on went the young man, the oxen and the cart, all the same. When he had gone a short way farther, however, a thought came over him, "I wonder what that bit of paper was — I've a great mind to go back and see." And, stopping his team, he did go back. He picked it up and read it as he walked along. It was a leaf out of the Bible.
The summer passed away with its flowers and sunshine, and the corn grew ripe, and was gathered into the garner; there was another harvest, too, standing ready for the sickle. The young man who had found the leaf lay upon a sick and dying bed.
A sore disease had smitten him, and his parents knew there was no hope of his life. They were stricken with grief, but he — oh, he was rejoicing!
And now his lips were open to tell them what he had never told before. The leaf out of the Bible had brought to him first the sense of sin and then the knowledge of a Saviour.
He sought for a whole Bible, and ever since it had been his constant companion, and now, though called almost suddenly away from life with all its happiness, he knew whom he had believed, and he was ready. He had an anchor, sure and steadfast, for the Lamb that was slain to take away sin had taken away his sin. And without a doubt or a fear he entered into rest.
Acts 13:23-31
23 “From this man’s descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised.
v.24 Before the coming of Jesus, John preached repentance and baptism to all the people of Israel.
v. 25 As John was completing his work, he said: ‘Who do you suppose I am? I am not the one you are looking for. But there is one coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’
v.26 “Fellow children of Abraham and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent.
v.27 The people of Jerusalem and their rulers did not recognize Jesus, yet in condemning him they fulfilled the words of the prophets that are read every Sabbath.
v.28 Though they found no proper ground for a death sentence, they asked Pilate to have him executed.
v.29 When they had carried out all that was written about him, they took him down from the cross and laid him in a tomb.
v.30 But God raised him from the dead,
v. 31 and for many days he was seen by those who had traveled with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to our people.
Paul now makes the connection of a greater King (the king of kings) coming from the line of David, as God had promised such a Savior.
The Jews knew a prophet would announce the Messiah beforehand, and now Paul points to John the Baptist, as the one.
John is an example to finish the course/race, and to be humble.
Paul goes on to say that the Jews did not recognize Jesus nor even the fact that the prophets had described Him. Instead, they asked Pilate that Jesus be executed for absolutely no crime committed by Him. Jesus was completely and totally innocent.
Even so, God's plan and will was done.
Then comes the: But God!!!
But God raised Him from the dead!!!
Paul does not talk about philosophy or myths but actual things that happened (reality).
Eyewitnesses !!
When you said: "Paul goes on to say that the Jews did not recognize Jesus nor even the fact that the prophets had described Him." I'm sure you realize that it's saying that they refused to acknowledge that Jesus was in fact the Messiah. The Bible teaches that they knew exactly what they were doing the whole time they were questioning Him. They knew without doubt that He was the Messiah, but were afraid of what the Romans would do, and therefore had Him crucified. They knew that the prophets had described Jesus, but refused to admit it. That's why the committed the unpardonable sin, the sin of having all the revealed Truth and not acknowledging it, but instead saying that Jesus was doing those things through Satan. They didn't really believe that, they used it as their excuse though. As always, I just wanted to clarify that for anyone else that might be reading.
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 11, 2019 10:58:29 GMT -5
Acts 13:32-37
v.32 “We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors
v.33 he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm:
“‘You are my son;
today I have become your father.’
v.34 God raised him from the dead so that he will never be subject to decay. As God has said,
“‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’
v.35 So it is also stated elsewhere:
“‘You will not let your holy one see decay.’
v.36 “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed.
v.37 But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay.
Paul preached the gospel....God would send the Messiah ( as promised) and salvation would be obtained by Jesus death and resurrection.
In the second psalm, it is written: "Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee" (the resurrection, without which, there would be no good news).
Acts 13:32-37
v.32 “We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors
v.33 he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm:
“‘You are my son;
today I have become your father.’
v.34 God raised him from the dead so that he will never be subject to decay. As God has said,
“‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’
v.35 So it is also stated elsewhere:
“‘You will not let your holy one see decay.’
v.36 “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed.
v.37 But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay.
Paul preached the gospel....God would send the Messiah ( as promised) and salvation would be obtained by Jesus death and resurrection.
In the second psalm, it is written: "Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee" (the resurrection, without which, there would be no good news).
Psalm 16 says: ‘You will not let your holy one see decay.’
Jesus was in the tomb three days and yet His body did not decay However, David's body who wrote psalm 16, did decay.
Not only did Jesus' body, not decay, he was resurrected .
Sorry this is sooo short, but I did not sleep a wink last night, and not only am I super tired, I don't feel all that great.
Also, it's early day ( Devon will be home early today, ) I would like to eat, and take a nap, because my stomach is queasy.
Oh, I think I forgot to tell you...they know want me to get a sonogram for breasts because they saw 'something with the MRI ( don't they always???)
So, I will do that too.....because, IF they actually determine its cancer....then I just want the pain of that dealt with ( as best as possible).
I have no idea what they saw , it was in radiology language LOL
I tried searching as best I could, but it still was not clear sigh!
Maybe they don't even know, which is why they want a sonogram ( I am done with mammograms).
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 12, 2019 11:12:12 GMT -5
Acts 13:38-43
v.38 “Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.
v.39 Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.
v. 40 Take care that what the prophets have said does not happen to you:
v.41 “‘Look, you scoffers,
wonder and perish,
for I am going to do something in your days
that you would never believe,
even if someone told you.’”
v.42 As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people invited them to speak further about these things on the next Sabbath.
v. 43 When the congregation was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who talked with them and urged them to continue in the grace of God.
Paul has given them evidence thru the scripture and now comes to the most important conclusion....that they can obtain forgiveness of their sins thru Jesus.
And that we are justified by faith. The law only pointed out sins and that we could never perfectly follow the law in order to be saved ( or have our sins wiped clean).
Then Paul gives a dire warning, if people choose to reject this, because only God ( God's love and sacrifice) can save us, we cannot do it ourselves).
We all have a choice....we can believe and trust God
or
we can be scoffers and we will perish.
People today will sometimes scoff at God being a God of judgement.
They sometimes say: Well MY God is a god of love!!
Yes, God is love and a God of love.....
but we have to believe all that God has revealed about Himself and what He says in His Word.
Others are rebellious scoffers through and through, and insist that whatever they chose to do is fine,
and narrow minded, ignorant, bigoted, hating Christians and their God need to go away....
But rather than wanting Paul and Barnabas to go away, some the people begged them to come back the next Sabbath, some even followed and talked with them after, and urged them to continue in the grace of God .
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Post by Cindy on Apr 13, 2019 10:49:06 GMT -5
Acts 13:32-37
v.32 “We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors
v.33 he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm:
“‘You are my son;
today I have become your father.’
v.34 God raised him from the dead so that he will never be subject to decay. As God has said,
“‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’
v.35 So it is also stated elsewhere:
“‘You will not let your holy one see decay.’
v.36 “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed.
v.37 But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay.
Paul preached the gospel....God would send the Messiah ( as promised) and salvation would be obtained by Jesus death and resurrection.
In the second psalm, it is written: "Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee" (the resurrection, without which, there would be no good news).
Acts 13:32-37
v.32 “We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors
v.33 he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm:
“‘You are my son;
today I have become your father.’
v.34 God raised him from the dead so that he will never be subject to decay. As God has said,
“‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’
v.35 So it is also stated elsewhere:
“‘You will not let your holy one see decay.’
v.36 “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed.
v.37 But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay.
Paul preached the gospel....God would send the Messiah ( as promised) and salvation would be obtained by Jesus death and resurrection.
In the second psalm, it is written: "Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee" (the resurrection, without which, there would be no good news).
Psalm 16 says: ‘You will not let your holy one see decay.’
Jesus was in the tomb three days and yet His body did not decay However, David's body who wrote psalm 16, did decay.
Not only did Jesus' body, not decay, he was resurrected .
Sorry this is sooo short, but I did not sleep a wink last night, and not only am I super tired, I don't feel all that great.
Also, it's early day ( Devon will be home early today, ) I would like to eat, and take a nap, because my stomach is queasy.
Oh, I think I forgot to tell you...they know want me to get a sonogram for breasts because they saw 'something with the MRI ( don't they always???)
So, I will do that too.....because, IF they actually determine its cancer....then I just want the pain of that dealt with ( as best as possible).
I have no idea what they saw , it was in radiology language LOL
I tried searching as best I could, but it still was not clear sigh!
Maybe they don't even know, which is why they want a sonogram ( I am done with mammograms).
That's fine. I'm real tired too as I also didn't sleep last night. Hope you're feeling better now.
Sorry I wasn't here yesterday. I explained why over in chat. I'm not surprised they found something. They always do, at least for women like us. Don't allow yourself to start speculating on things that "could be" wrong. For one thing, it's a good bet that there's nothing wrong, and for another, God tells us not to borrow trouble that way lol.
Acts 13:38-43
v.38 “Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.
v.39 Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.
v. 40 Take care that what the prophets have said does not happen to you:
v.41 “‘Look, you scoffers,
wonder and perish,
for I am going to do something in your days
that you would never believe,
even if someone told you.’”
v.42 As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people invited them to speak further about these things on the next Sabbath.
v. 43 When the congregation was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who talked with them and urged them to continue in the grace of God.
Paul has given them evidence thru the scripture and now comes to the most important conclusion....that they can obtain forgiveness of their sins thru Jesus.
And that we are justified by faith. The law only pointed out sins and that we could never perfectly follow the law in order to be saved ( or have our sins wiped clean).
Then Paul gives a dire warning, if people choose to reject this, because only God ( God's love and sacrifice) can save us, we cannot do it ourselves).
We all have a choice....we can believe and trust God
or
we can be scoffers and we will perish.
People today will sometimes scoff at God being a God of judgement.
They sometimes say: Well MY God is a god of love!!
Yes, God is love and a God of love.....
but we have to believe all that God has revealed about Himself and what He says in His Word.
Others are rebellious scoffers through and through, and insist that whatever they chose to do is fine,
and narrow minded, ignorant, bigoted, hating Christians and their God need to go away....
But rather than wanting Paul and Barnabas to go away, some the people begged them to come back the next Sabbath, some even followed and talked with them after, and urged them to continue in the grace of God .
Jesus, crucified and risen, brings us remission. It means that the sins are sent away from the sinner forever. To see the last of your sin, shame, and guilt, to see it all vanish like vapor in the hot sun of grace and pardon in Jesus as though you had never sinned, is certainly blessedness and JOY to anyone who realizes what sin is!
Hope you have a good weekend!
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fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
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Post by fearnot on Apr 13, 2019 12:53:39 GMT -5
Acts 13:44-52
v.44 On the next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord.
v.45 When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy. They began to contradict what Paul was saying and heaped abuse on him.
v.46 Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles.
v. 47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us:
“‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles,
that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”
v.48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.
v.49 The word of the Lord spread through the whole region.
v. 50 But the Jewish leaders incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region.
v.51 So they shook the dust off their feet as a warning to them and went to Iconium.
v.52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
It seems like the good news has spread throughout the city, so many came the next Sabbath. They came to hear the Word of the Lord ( not Paul).
Nevertheless, When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy.
It was necessary the gospel go to the Jews first as Jesus had said.
But these Jews argued and heaped abuse on Paul and Barnabas,
So they (P and B) will now offer it to the Gentiles.
I guess there is a lesson for us, to not waste precious time, on those whose hearts are completely hardened, (which can be a temptation).
Because, in fact, the Jews were supposed to have been a light to the Gentiles in the first place, as God had told them, and so now Paul and Barnabas will do so. ( God's people were a bit slow in carrying out God's command's).
I read a comment by a new Pastor I don't really know, but I liked this quote:
"Election makes me a little bit wiser as a worker. It is the wise servant who prays, “Lord guide me to those You have already elected. Guide me to the place where You have already put it in someone’s heart to turn to You.”
The Gentiles were thrilled that God was willing to save them, and The word of the Lord was being spread through the whole region.
So the Jews incited persecution by devout women of prominence so they were expelled.
Paul and Barnabas responded just like Jesus instructed the disciples and shook the dust off their feet.
Another lesson ( especially for those like me) is they did not give up or go home ( saying: well I tried Lord, and you saw the result, so I am done!)
No, instead, they just moved on to the next city ( kind of like how they moved from one group....the Jews....to the next, the Gentiles).
The disciples were filled with joy continually. So instead of bringing defeat, the persecution brought joy.
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I'm glad you thought so Barbara 
The only thing I can think of is that i suggested you could send yourself a PM of something you wanted to keep....
I didn't think you did Mark, and I apologize if I gave that impression. It can be confusing when you're reading something. Don't feel badly though, as I often ask questions about what Barbara writes and she asks questions about what I write lol. I've noticed too that when we did a study with a person we weren't familiar with, that we hadn't read much of their stuff before, we asked even more questions. So I suspect that as we get familiar with how a person writes, we tend to understand a little better. Plus, I think it also has to do with how much pain we're in that day. I know my brain doesn't work as well when I'm in a lot of pain. 
!!
