(QUESTIONS)

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verse 2, “We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.”

1. Read 1 Thess. 1:1. See the map of the location of Thessalonica (picture below). How was the church in Thessalonia founded by the Apostle Paul? (Ac. 16:8; Ac. 17:1-4) When and where was Paul writing this letter from? What is the grace and peace we receive from “God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ”?

2. Read 1 Thess. 1:2-3. What kind of church was the one in Thessalonica? Why was Apostle Paul thankful to God and prayerful for them? Are there other churches that you know of which were or are like the Thessalonian church? Do you know of any churches unlike the Thessalonian church?

3. Read 1 Thess. 1:4-5. What do we learn in these verses about God’s election? In what sense is Paul saying that just vocalizing the gospel not enough? What does it mean “with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction”? (Ac. 1:8; Is. 55:11)

4. Read 1 Thess. 1:6-7. Whose lives and examples were the Thessalonians mimicking? How did they become a good example for other believers? (See the map for the location of Achaia below) What does it mean to you personally to be a little “copy” of Jesus?

5. Read 1 Thess. 1:8-9. How could their faith and spiritual reputation go ahead of them? (2 Cor. 8:1-5) What are some idols of today that people have or can turn away from to serve and worship the living God? (Jas. 5:19-20; Lk. 9:23)

6. Read 1 Thess. 1:10. What were the believers waiting for? What ought to be the ultimate hope for all believers, including us? (Ac. 1:11) What does Jesus’ resurrection and return save us from and how does it help us spiritually?

7. In light of this passage, what should we be most thankful to God for? How do you think that in our times people, even some believers, trivialize the meaning of Thanksgiving? How can we help people come back to the true meaning of Thanksgiving from Paul’s example?

Footnotes

1. 1 Thessalonians 1:1 Greek Silvanus, a variant of Silas

2. 1 Thessalonians 1:4 The Greek word for brothers and sisters (adelphoi) refers here to believers, both men and women, as part of God’s family; also in 2:1, 9, 14, 17; 3:7; 4:1, 10, 13; 5:1, 4, 12, 14, 25, 27.

(MESSAGE)

(QUESTIONS)

Acts 12:1-25 (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verse: 12:24, “But the word of God increased and multiplied.”

1.  Find out what you can about this “Herod the king.” What does he do (1b–3), and why? How is Peter’s imprisonment described, and what is Herod’s intention (4)? How does the church respond to this, and what can we learn from them (5)?

2.  What is the time, and how is Peter described (6)? What happens (7)? What does the angel tell him to do next (8)? How does Peter respond (9)? How does he get back into the city (10)? What does he realize (11)? What does all this tell us about God?

3.  Where does Peter go, and what is happening there (12)? Who comes to the door, what does she do, and why (13–14)? How is her interaction with those there described (15)? How does Peter finally get in (16)? What does he tell them, where does he go, and why (17)? What happens after Peter’s escape (18–19)?

4.  In Caesarea, what situation does Herod encounter (20)? How is the day he meets these people described (21–22)? What happens to him, and what does it tell us (23)?

5.  Read verse 24. What can we learn from this statement about God and his purpose in all these things? How can we experience God’s help and be a part of what he wants to do? How does the chapter close, and what does it suggest (25)?

(MESSAGE)

Key Verse: 12:24, “But the word of God increased and multiplied.”

How do you see the world? Sometimes our lives can get really messed up. Events, or our human situation, seem impossible to change. Usually, we calculate this and that and worry. We begin to give up, or fall into fear. A crisis or problem we go through exposes the way we really think. In today’s passage there’s a strong attack on Christians, particularly on their leaders. Believers react in a way that shows how they see the world. They pray to God. And what happens tells us some important truths about God. If we reflect on these truths, we get to know God better. Knowing this God changes the way we think about life and how we react to it. Really knowing God has a vital impact on our lives. As we turn our minds and hearts to these words, may God speak to us personally.

First, human evil (1–4). Look at verse 1. In the Bible, three different Herods appear. When Jesus is born, the first Herod, Herod the Great, feels threatened and tries to kill him (Matt.2:1–15). Later, the second Herod, his son Herod Antipas, executes John the Baptist and mocks Jesus during his trial.^[1] Now, this third Herod, the grandson of Herod the Great, goes after people in the church of Jesus. All three Herods exhibit evil behavior. It says this third Herod “laid…hands on” Christians. It’s an idiom for an act that can be either good or bad. It’s used when Peter and John are arrested (4:3), where it says they’re “seized.” In chapter 8 it’s used in a good sense, when Peter and John lay their hands on new Samaritan believers to help them receive the Holy Spirit (8:17). Here, along with the word “violent,” it shows that Herod intends to inflict real harm.

Why is he doing this? History tells us that this Herod has just come to power. His father had ruled only a portion of the kingdom of Herod the Great. But now, the Roman Emperor has given this third Herod all the territory of his grandfather. As the new leader, he wants to consolidate his new power by pleasing the Jews (3a). And ever since Stephen was martyred, the Jewish leaders and their people have become increasingly hostile to Christians. They think Christians threaten their way of life. They don’t want to hear the gospel truth and repent. And used to power and privilege, just like his fathers, this Herod has no qualms about destroying people for his own purposes.

What does he do? Look at verse 2. It’s shocking. James the brother of John was one of the top three disciples of Jesus. Jesus loved him and invested his life in raising him as one of the leaders of his people. But for no good reason, Herod kills James with the sword, probably cutting off his head. While on earth Jesus told James and John that one day they would indeed share in his sufferings,^[2] and now it happens. Herod, the new king backed by the Roman Empire, has absolute power to do this. But it’s a great injustice, meant to threaten all Christians to stop what they’re doing.

Christians don’t even have a chance to grieve for James. Look at verses 3–4. Herod is acting quickly, but the Jewish holiday prevents him from killing Peter immediately. It’s interesting that this is the same time of year Jesus was crucified. At that time, Peter promised to go with Jesus both to prison and to death (Luke 22:33), but Peter soon caved in to fear and deserted him. This time, Peter is caught. He’s been arrested and jailed twice before.^[3] Now, it’s unlikely he’ll get away. The “four squads of soldiers” stationed at his prison cell are there to stand guard during the four watches of the night, so nobody can sneak him away. These soldiers know if they don’t do their job, they’ll get killed, too. After the Passover holidays, Herod wants to bring Peter out to the people to kill him.

It’s significant that this is a specific persecution: against the leader of God’s people. Men used this strategy against our Lord Jesus: “I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.”^[4] It may seem unrelatable. But so often people in their sinful nature oppose the leaders God has sent and established. Earlier, Stephen said this was the Israelites’ pattern throughout their history, with Joseph, then Moses, then every single prophet.^[5] The devil himself still attacks leaders of God’s people in various ways––through problems, their own sinful nature, and through their people. Peter’s imprisonment also symbolizes the problems we all face. They may be hardships or even predicaments we’ve created for ourselves. They can seem like a trap, with no way out. But God is sovereign over all things, and in his own wisdom and will he allows them to happen.

Second, prayer. Read verse 5. “So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.” At that time there were no church buildings. “The church” means all those who believe in Jesus. These people are in Jerusalem, but they’ve also scattered all over Judea and Samaria, along the coast, and now, way up in Antioch in Syria. The news of Peter’s imprisonment has surely spread like wildfire. Now, all the believers are praying for him. Why? They love him. Peter is their shepherd. He’s shared the gospel with and visited so many of them. When he preached the gospel boldly, many of these people came to believe in Jesus through him, including the household of the Roman centurion Cornelius. They all want Peter to stay alive, not just for themselves, but so that God can continue to use him to spread the good news of Jesus.

And we should note how they pray. It’s described here as “earnest” prayer. The word literally means “to fully stretch out the hand.” It means they’re really crying out to God for him. In verse 12, even in the early hours of the morning, many are still gathered at Mary’s house praying for Peter. There might be times when we pray like this, even all night long. But it’s rarely for somebody else; it might be for ourselves or our children. But how beautiful when believers gather to really pray with all their hearts for a servant of God. In light of this, let’s reflect on how we pray. Do we just think? Do we despair? Do we criticize? Or do we really pray? And how can these people be praying so earnestly? It’s because they truly believe in God. The Bible says that without faith it is impossible to please him, “for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists…” (Heb.11:6). It’s called “the prayer of faith.” The prayer of faith can save the sick and help people experience the forgiveness of sins (James 5:15). In our culture, people tend to be skeptical, cynical, and disengaged. A legal scholar describes it in his book called The Culture of Disbelief (Stephen L. Carter, 1994). But as his people, God calls us to think and live differently. This year our UBF key verse worldwide has been, “Have faith in God” from Mark 11:22. We may not be facing problems as severe as jail time or life-threatening persecution. But we all face problems that seem insurmountable. They can look just like the fig tree withered away to its roots (Mark 11:20). Do we just sigh or give up? Or do we pray earnestly with faith in God? Do we pray for our church and our leaders earnestly, with faith in God?

Third, Peter walks out of prison (6–11). It’s the very night before Herod plans to bring Peter out and kill him. There’s no way out of there. In his prison cell, Peter is sleeping between two soldiers, chained to each one of them. But an angel stands next to him and a light shines in the cell. Everyone is still sleeping. So the angel strikes Peter on the side and says, “Get up quickly.” The chains fall off his hands. The angel says, “Dress yourself and put on your sandals…Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” Still, nobody is awake except Peter. He doesn’t think any of it is real; he thinks he’s seeing a vision. In the prison they pass a first and then a second guard, but the guards seem induced either in sleep or in a trance. Finally, Peter and the angel reach the locked iron prison gate that leads to the city, and it opens by itself. They go along a street, and the angel leaves. Then Peter comes to himself. He realizes God sent his angel and rescued him from the hand of Herod and from everything the people were expecting. The emphasis here is not on Peter or some kind of epic faith he has, but on God. Peter is just sleeping. He’s just as human as anybody else. It’s God who wakes him up and takes him out of that impossible situation. Peter is helpless. He needs to be rescued. The word literally means “plucked out.” Like Peter, sometimes we’re crushed by insurmountable problems. They might be tough circumstances, or our sins. But God can rescue us from them all; he can pluck us right out of them, through faith. What impossibilities are we facing? Are we praying and asking God for help? Do we really believe God can do the impossible?

Fourth, Peter continues knocking (12–19). First of all, in this section Luke highlights the humor. Peter goes to Mary’s house. It’s Mary, the mother of John, also called Mark. It’s a pretty big house. Many are gathered there. The house has a gateway. Mary has a servant girl named Rhoda. Having such a large home and servants in Jerusalem tells us Mary is wealthy, and since there’s no mention of her husband, she might be a widow. When Rhoda hears Peter’s knocking and goes out to see about it, she recognizes his voice. He probably whispers: “Hey, it’s me, Peter.” But Rhoda is so joyful she leaves Peter standing there behind the locked gate, runs into the house and tells everyone it’s Peter. People tell her she’s out of her mind. She keeps insisting. They say it’s his angel. And Peter’s still knocking. Basically, though they’re praying for Peter, they can’t even imagine that he’s really out of prison. Often when we pray, we too don’t really believe God will answer. Maybe they’re just praying God will lessen Peter’s sentence. Maybe they’re praying he’ll have the courage to talk about Jesus. But God actually delivers Peter again. Like Rhoda and these people, our unbelief is sometimes comic. God wants us to think and live based on real faith in him. The Bible tells us, “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Eph.3:20–21).

These verses also show what a shepherd Peter is. Out of jail, he doesn’t just run for his life. He takes the risk to go and reassure the believers gathered at Mary’s house. He stands at the gate and keeps knocking, though they won’t let him in. He tells them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. He wants them to know God has answered their prayers. And he leaves to another place, to protect them. May God raise real shepherds like Peter and like our Lord Jesus in and through us. In verses 18–19 we also see that though God has just done something so great, the threat against his people is still very real. Herod still has power. He’s still ruthless. And he won’t hesitate to eliminate anyone in his way.

Fifth, God himself deals with Herod (20–23). Herod has no fear of God and no concern for his fellow human beings; he just cares about himself. He makes an idol of himself and tries to glorify himself in public. But all his human power and glory are no match for God. In striking Herod with illness and death, God reveals that before him, human pride and vanity are foolish, worthless. Revolting worms eat up all Herod’s glory. These verses tell us that getting praised for speaking well is dangerous. We need to strongly reject people’s flattery and attempts to glorify us. Also, it’s so encouraging to know that God himself will deal with vain and arrogant people who oppose God’s work.

Sixth, God’s purpose prevails. Read verse 24. “But the word of God increased and multiplied.” This can happen because God has once again removed a person trying to stop the spread of the gospel. But from now on, Peter has to minister kind of like guerilla warfare, popping up here and there, then hiding in the bushes. No doubt through Peter, more and more people are hearing the good news of Jesus. And now, more and more believers are encouraged and strengthened to keep spreading the good news. Herod tried to snuff out the church of Jesus. But God removed him and enabled his people to share their faith in Jesus once again. It tells us that sometimes, God’s people can be bound, bound by opposition, problems, or impossible situations. But God works through those who believe and pray earnestly. God’s word can still increase and multiply, even in the midst of threats or impossibilities, if we believe and pray earnestly.

Look at verse 25. Here Peter and the church in Jerusalem fade into the background, and Luke turns his attention to the future, to Barnabas and Saul and the missionary church God established in Antioch. They had brought a relief offering for the brothers in Judea suffering from a famine (11:28–30). Now, they return to Antioch. But they take with them someone they met in Jerusalem, a young man named John, also called Mark, Mary’s son. They want to develop him as a future spiritual leader. Even through this young man, God’s word will someday increase and multiply to future generations. With Peter’s help, he goes on to write Mark’s Gospel, which spreads the gospel of Jesus to this day.

This passage tells us how to think about the world based on who God is. Who is God? God is the God who answers prayer. God is the God whose justice will someday defeat all kinds of human evil. God is the God who accomplishes his purpose through all things. God is the God who wants the good news of Jesus to increase and multiply among people of all the nations. God is the God who wants us to pray earnestly for his servants. When we encounter harsh realities, what do we think? How do we react? Read verse 24 again. May God’s word increase and multiply when we fight spiritually to  pray earnestly.

^[1] Luke 3:19–20; 9:9; 23:8–11.

^[2] Matt.20:22; Mark 10:39.

^[3] 3:11; 4:1–3; 5:17–18.

^[4] Matt.26:31; Mark 14:27.

^[5] 7:9,27,28,35,39–40,51–52.

(QUESTIONS)

Acts 11:19-30 (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verses: 11:25–26, ²⁵ So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, ²⁶ and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.

1.  Who is mentioned, and where do they go (19a)? Where were Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch? Find out what you can about the city of Antioch. In these places, what do these people do (19b), and why are they speaking only to Jews?

2.  In contrast, in Antioch what uniquely happens (20)? Where was Cyrene? Why do you think men from these places initiate speaking to “Hellenists”? What does it mean to “preach the Lord Jesus”? What results (21), and why is this so significant?

3.  How does the Jerusalem church respond to this (22)? Why do you think they send Barnabas there? When he arrives, what does he see and urge them to do, and what does this mean (23)? How is he described (24a), and how does God use him?

4.  What does Barnabas do next, and why do you think he looks for Saul (25)? Read verse 26. Why do they meet with the church “for a whole year,” and what seems to be their goal in teaching? How would you describe Barnabas’ and Saul’s relationship?

5.  What results (26b), and why do you think disciples are given this new name? How can people tell if someone is really a “Christian” (see Luke 9:23; Rom.6:3–8; Phil.2:1–5; 1 Pet.4:16)?

6.  What do the believers in Antioch learn, and how do they respond to this news (27–30)? Why is sending relief to fellow Christians an important part of our faith (1 John 3:16–18)? Review how God worked in this new church in Antioch. What lessons can we learn here?

(MESSAGE)

Key Verses: 11:25–26, “So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.”

“Who do you think you are?” At first, this question can sound challenging, even insulting. But it’s an important question. So many things that seem to give us an identity actually don’t. Not our abilities or interests, not our family, not our school or occupation or ethnicity or race. Where does our real identity come from? The Bible says it comes from Christ our Lord. In today’s passage, a new church at Antioch is born. We get a rare look at how this church starts, how it grows, and how it matures. We especially see how these diverse people come to have a new shared identity in Jesus. What is this shared identity? How can we have it? And why do we need it? May God speak to us through his word today.

First, “some…spoke to the Hellenists also” (19–21). Look at verse 19. The persecution that arose over Stephen continues to have an effect. Scattered believers travel to more unreached places: Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch (see a map). Phoenicia has two famous coastal cities, Tyre and Sidon, where later we find disciples (21:7; 27:3). Cyprus is an island 100 miles off the coast. These scattering believers might have family or businesses in these places. But mainly, they’re fleeing persecution. Still, they speak “the word,” the good news about Jesus, wherever they go. The good news keeps on spreading. But verse 19b says they speak “to no one except Jews.” Why? Maybe they think only Jews will accept the message. Or maybe they’re too afraid to talk with Gentiles.

Look at verse 20. Originally these men were Jews from Cyprus and Cyrene, and while in Jerusalem they’d heard the gospel, repented, and joined the Christian community. But to flee persecution, now they’ve come to Antioch, 300 miles to the north. As the capital of Syria, Antioch is actually the third largest city in the Roman Empire (see drawing), on the Orontes River, just east of the Mediterranean, and near the famous merchant roads used to transport products from far away. Antioch is very cosmopolitan, with people from as far east as India and Persia and as far west as Greece and Rome. Syrians are there, too, as is a large Jewish community. It was founded over 300 years earlier by thousands of Greek immigrants. It had been built up by Julius Caesar, and recently by the Emperor Tiberius. Antioch is now a center of Roman government, trade and tourism. Its Roman buildings and streets are impressive. Most of its people speak Greek, the international language at that time. It’s an ideal place to reach the world. But nobody seems to be planning that. It just happens.

Look at verse 20 again. Unlike traditional Jews, when these men from Cyprus and Cyrene arrive in Antioch, they don’t isolate themselves; they speak “to the Hellenists also.” Who are the “Hellenists”? They’re contrasted with the Jews in verse 19, so they must be non-Jews living in Antioch––all the ethnicities there who speak Greek. Some of them might attend local Jewish synagogues, curious about the Jewish Scriptures. But why do these men who’ve just arrived go out of their way to speak to these non-Jews? Being from Cyprus and Cyrene, where Greek is the official language, Greek is their mother tongue, so they’re comfortable speaking Greek. Still, they’re Jews, so to start talking to non-Jews, they’ve got to be bold. They’ve got to have compassion. Basically, because of the Holy Spirit in them, they really want all human beings to know Jesus. Until now, famous people like Peter and Philip have been the evangelists. We don’t even know the names of these men. Probably they don’t think they’re doing anything special. But it’s another historic moment: nameless, ordinary believers cross the racial divide and begin sharing the good news of Jesus with diverse people. With the Holy Spirit, we too can share the good news of Jesus with anyone, anywhere.

What happens? Look at verse 21. God blesses their act of faith more than anyone could imagine. It shows how eager God is to spread the good news of Jesus to all kinds of people, through anyone who will step out in faith. It seems more and more people begin doing so, until eventually, a great number of people believe and turn to Jesus as their Lord. This “great number” in Antioch is similar to what happened in Jerusalem at first. Like the birth of the Jerusalem church, this is not a human work; it’s the work of God, done by the Holy Spirit. But this time it happens through nameless, persecuted believers. In Acts, this new church in Antioch takes center stage to become the first missionary church, spreading the gospel of Jesus throughout the Roman Empire. Soon, Antioch produces a spiritual leader for all the churches, St. Ignatius (AD 30–110). The Antioch church is born in mission, the mission of ordinary people actively sharing about Jesus. 

Second, “…he came and saw the grace of God” (22–24). What happens next? Look at verse 22. So many people in Antioch believe, the believers in Jerusalem hear about it. When they first heard about the conversion of Gentiles through Peter, they were negative. But now, they respond to this much larger group of new Gentile believers differently. They send Barnabas. Why Barnabas? In Acts, we’ve seen Barnabas before. The first time was when he sold a field he owned and donated the proceeds to the needy. At that time he got his new name “Barnabas,” meaning “Son of Encouragement” (4:34–37). The second time was when Saul, who’d been persecuting Christians, suddenly showed up in Jerusalem preaching Jesus, and nobody trusted him. Barnabas took Saul and brought him to the apostles and verified that he really had encountered the Lord Jesus and was preaching fearlessly in his name (9:26–27). Barnabas is now well-known for his gift of encouragement. He’s also originally from Cyprus, meaning he’s fluent in Greek and familiar with Greek culture. Choosing Barnabas to go to Antioch shows how positive the Jerusalem church has become about Gentile evangelism. It happened through Peter’s recent testimony (1–18).

In Antioch, what does Barnabas find? Read verse 23. “When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose.” Barnabas could have seen these people in many ways: their outward appearance, or their many weaknesses. But Barnabas sees that these people have truly received the grace of God in Jesus. How can he see that? Basically, these people are not just talking about it; they’re living in this grace of Jesus. And because Barnabas knows this grace personally, he can immediately see it in others. When he sees it, it says he’s “glad.” He’s not critical, suspicious, or cynical, but “glad.” His gladness is so simple, and so beautiful.

But his response doesn’t stop with a superficial emotion. It says, “…and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose.” In Greek the word “exhorted” is the same as the word “encouraged.” Barnabas is again living up to his name: “Son of Encouragement.” He doesn’t just observe; he encourages these new believers even more. How? He urges them not to go back to their old lives, but forward in faithfulness to Jesus, “with steadfast purpose.” It means they need to make up their minds and have a clear plan to keep following Jesus. Why? Because their old habits and the world will surely try to pull them away. Still, we wonder how Barnabas can respond like this. These multiethnic people are so different from him. They’ve just left their idolatrous cultures. How can Barnabas see God’s grace and encourage them? Look at verse 24a: “…for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith.” Like Barnabas, if we’re full of the Holy Spirit and faith, we too can have spiritual insight to see God’s grace in people today. Through the encouragement of Barnabas, what happens? Look at verse 24b: “And a great many people were added to the Lord.” Barnabas gives them just the right words to help deepen their commitment to Jesus. Instead of discouraging God’s work, he blesses it even more. At crucial moments, we too really need the Holy Spirit and faith to encourage what God is doing.

Third, “For a whole year they…taught a great many people” (25–26a). Still, there is so much more to do to build up all these new believers. It’s way more than just one person can handle. What can be done? Look at verse 25. When he sees all these new Gentile believers, Barnabas recalls Saul’s gift as a Bible teacher when he was in Jerusalem. He also remembers how Jesus had called Saul to bring the good news of salvation to the Gentiles. Barnabas concludes that Saul is just the right person to help these new Gentile believers deepen their faith in Jesus based on God’s word. Barnabas is humble enough to go and search for Saul and ask his help. This one request may seem like a small matter. But in spreading the gospel, it’s a game-changer. Barnabas doesn’t even go back to Jerusalem. What do these two men do together in Antioch? Verse 26 tells us that “For a whole year they met with the church and taught great numbers of people.” This work requires full concentration, full devotion. It also requires partnership. Barnabas and Saul have to work together daily as a team, explaining the Christian faith to both new converts and newcomers. And as the senior member of the team, Barnabas seems to be the mentor, making a space for Saul to use his gifts.

No doubt Barnabas learned this intensive teaching method from the Jerusalem church. When 3,000 men suddenly came together in community, it says, “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers” (2:42). “The apostles’ teaching” is the teaching our Lord Jesus gave his apostles. “The fellowship” means regular spiritual encouragement. “The breaking of bread” means eating together, and maybe celebrating communion. “The prayers” are morning and evening prayers, most likely modeled on the Lord’s Prayer (Luke 11:1–4). Barnabas works with Saul to teach these things to the new believers, to help them grow practically as Christ-centered people. It’s called “spiritual formation.” Such intensive study is still the only way to grow deeper in inner maturity. There’s no other way to be built up in Jesus and to resist the pressures and temptations of the world. Just a few days, weeks, or even months is not enough. Such intensive study helps us build a new life foundation and lifestyle, and truly makes us a church. Later, Paul will use this same method in Corinth, Ephesus, and Rome. Later he tells the Ephesian elders, “And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (20:32). It’s the word that sanctifies us with Christ as our head (Eph.5:26–27). So Acts urges us to be “devoted” to the ministry of God’s word.

Fourth, “the disciples were first called Christians” (26b). After a year of intensive Bible study, what happens? Read verse 26b. “And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.” It’s likely the label “Christians” comes from the Roman elite. It’s hard for them to ignore so many new believers in their city. But for them to figure out who they are isn’t easy. Are they a Jewish sect? No, most of them are Gentiles. They have many ethnicities but one thing in common: they all believe Jesus is the Christ. So the secular leaders call these new disciples “Christians.” It’s a kind of mockery, since Jesus was crucified. But the believers welcome this name, because it has such a deep meaning of being “in Christ.”

What’s going on? Through intensive Bible studies, God has given these new believers in Antioch a new identity. They no longer focus on being Indians, Iranians, Syrians, Jews, Greeks or Romans. Now they see themselves primarily as Christians––they belong to Christ and to each other as part of the family of God. They’re now living together “in Christ.” This new identity also changes their lifestyle. Though they still have their own cultures, they all share the same lifestyle. What’s the lifestyle of a real Christian? Our Lord Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). Christian lifestyle is not one of self-indulgence; its trademark is self-denial and suffering for Jesus’ sake. In this new life, we’re crucified with Christ to our old sinful nature and walk in newness of life (Rom.6:4–6). In this new life we’re all encouraged in Christ, comforted from love, and participate in the Spirit, with affection and sympathy. Though we’re so different humanly, we have the same mind, the same love, and real unity. We become humble, unselfish, and interested in one another (Phil.2:1–5). In this new life, we’re all unashamed to suffer for the name of Jesus (1 Pet.4:16). Today, how can people tell if we’re a Christian? It’s not by our talk but by our character and the way we live. This Antioch church is not about big numbers or even about being a diverse community; it’s about deep inner change and growing in maturity in Christ.

In light of verse 26, we need to evaluate how we personally study the Bible. Is it superficial or deep? Are we really dedicated to it? Are we actually learning anything? Are we applying what we learn to our inner person and practical life? This past year from May through August we had daily Romans Bible studies. It strengthened and inspired those who participated. The evidence is a new, active outreach and vibrant Bible teaching ministry among us. God himself blesses such dedication and obedience to his word. So, this holiday season, instead of giving our minds and hearts to futile things, let’s pray to devote ourselves to the word of God about Jesus, starting with our personal morning devotions and reflection writing. May God bless each of us to grow in this new Christian identity and lifestyle and truly mature in Christ. In verses 27–30 we also see how God helps this new Antioch church join together to give back to the mother church in Jerusalem, out of love. Giving to the needy in Christ, out of love, is another tell-tale sign of real Christian identity and maturity.

Today we learned how God works. God uses those who dare to share about Jesus. God uses those who encourage instead of criticize. God uses those humble enough to ask help and cowork. God uses those who devote themselves to his word. And God uses those who join together to give back, out of love. Let’s read verses 25–26 again. Through deep Bible study, may God grant each one of us a clear identity and lifestyle in Christ.

(QUESTIONS)

Acts 11:1-18 (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verse: 11:18, When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.”

1.  What news is spreading, and what does this mean for the believers throughout Judea (1)? When Peter goes to Jerusalem, how is he criticized, and who are these people (2–3)? How might something similar be happening today?

2.  Why does Peter retell the details of his vision (4–10)? What does it mean here to be “made clean”?

3.  Why does Peter say he went to Caesarea, and who went with him (11–12)? Why is the angel’s appearance and message important (13–14)? How do all these details answer Peter’s critics?

4.  What does Peter say happened as he began to speak (15)? Why does he add, “just as on us at the beginning”? What word does Peter say he remembered (16; cf. 1:5)? What is Peter’s conclusion (17)? What does it mean to “stand in God’s way”?

5.  Read verse 18. What does it imply that they “fell silent”? That they “glorified God”? That God is the one who “granted repentance that leads to life”? What do the words “to the Gentiles also” mean to us today? How can we be more aligned with what God wants to do?

(MESSAGE)

Key Verse: 11:18, “When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, ‘Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.’”

How do you relate to people? Do you try to stay with your own kind? Or are you adventurous? Are you willing to get close with people totally different from you? In the previous lesson, God led Peter to do something that in his time was radical: he shared the good news of Jesus with a Roman centurion. For that to happen, insurmountable barriers of religion and race had to be crossed. Peter could cross these barriers only with God’s help. Now, he faces criticism for what he did. It’s the next challenge in spreading the gospel: how should Christians relate to those who newly accept the gospel when we can be from such opposite backgrounds? These verses show us that God can actually change minds and hearts. We want to think more about what the good news of Jesus really is, the good news we all should be accepting and sharing with anyone. And we want to find the basis on which God wants us to welcome people as equal brothers and sisters in Christ. May God speak to us through his word.

Since chapter 8, we’ve seen how the good news of Jesus has been newly reaching Samaritans, an Ethiopian eunuch, and a most self-righteous opponent of the gospel. In chapter 10, the good news of Jesus reaches even a Gentile household. Look at verse 1. News of this has spread among the scattered Jewish Christians. The author Luke states “that the Gentiles also had received the word of God.” Throughout the Book of Acts, this phrase “the word of God”^[1] or “the word of the Lord”^[2] is repeated often. It’s also called “the word of his grace” (20:32). With our common sense, “the word” seems to refer to Bible teaching generally. But in Acts, “the word of God” specifically focuses on the good news of Jesus.^[3] Over and over again, Acts shows that it’s all about Jesus: his suffering, rejection, death and resurrection, his ascension into heaven, and his coming again.^[4] It’s also the word about repentance.^[5] It’s the word about faith in Jesus, about believing in him.^[6] It’s the word about receiving the Holy Spirit.^[7] It’s the word about forgiveness of sins through Jesus.^[8] It’s the word of new life and peace and joy and hope in Jesus.^[9] In brief, “the word of God” is shorthand for the key gospel teachings that point us all to Jesus. We all need to “receive” or “accept” this “word of God” (8:14; 11:1), and when we do, we are “saved.”^[10] Also, when we “speak” this word “boldly,” “give our attention” to it, “teach” it, “preach” it, and “proclaim” it, this “word of God” “spreads,” “flourishes,” and “grows in power.”^[11] Lives are transformed and people are blessed, not because we’re so great but because God himself works through the word of God about Jesus. When Peter shared this “word of God” with Gentiles, they, too, were changed; they experienced the forgiveness of sins and were filled with the Holy Spirit.

But here, some believers in Jerusalem are not happy. Look at verses 2–3. When Peter goes up to Jerusalem, he encounters them. They’re called “the circumcision party.” In Peter’s absence, it seems this group has gained influence in the Christian community. They’re insisting that Jewish Christians should keep Jewish traditions. They’re unhappy, not so much because Peter shared the gospel with Gentiles but because he went into their house and had a meal with them. To the traditional Jewish mindset, it’s unthinkable. To them, Jews should never go into the house of a Gentile, and definitely not eat with them, because in doing that they would lose their holiness. Actually, there’s no specific verse in the Old Testament that teaches that. Over the years of Jewish history, it’s become just another “human tradition.” During his earthly ministry, even Jesus had to deal with this way of thinking in people.^[12] It’s based on the assumption that Gentiles are “unclean” because they don’t belong to God and don’t follow his laws. In every culture and generation, legalism is not the gospel of Jesus. Legalism is a human way of trying to be spiritual or to overcome sin through strict rules. In our legalism we write people off and never imagine getting close to them.

These people think Peter has compromised the faith and set a bad example. How does he respond? He repeats the story of his vision from God (4–10). Peter’s orderly details of what happened show that all this was from God. Through the vision, God was telling him that the animals he’d always thought were unclean were actually fine, because God had made them clean. Peter had a strong aversion to those animals. But a voice from heaven said a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common” (9). It was a heavenly voice, a prophetic voice, God’s voice, telling Peter that God can make anything or anyone clean. God makes sinners clean not through our efforts or abilities, our strict adherence to rules, or even our sincerity. God makes us clean, from deep within, only by the shed blood of our Lord Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit.^[13] When someone has been made clean by God in this way, we need to get over our fixed ideas or negative thoughts, and accept him or her as clean in Jesus.

Next, Peter explains how the men from Cornelius showed up at that very moment, and how the Holy Spirit told Peter to go with them and make no distinction (11–12). Going into a Gentile’s house was definitely not Peter’s idea; it was God’s idea, and Peter obeyed. When he went in, he heard from the man that he too had seen a vision. An angel had given him Peter’s name and where he was staying. Look at verse 14. The angel told the man that Peter “will declare to you a message by which you will be saved, you and your household.” God was sending Peter to these Gentiles to tell them that God’s salvation is in Jesus.

For Luke, this is such an important truth. When Jesus was an infant, being presented to God in the temple, ab elderly man named Simeon, filled with the Spirit, said, “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (Luke 2:29–32). Jesus is God’s salvation. He came into the world as a light for revelation to the Gentiles. For many generations God had been preparing to bring this salvation, in the person of Jesus, to all the peoples of the world. Now, he has come! God is beginning to get this message of salvation out to those who’ve never heard it. God has just helped Peter to overcome himself and declare this message to a Gentile and his household. But in the name of holiness, some are trying to exclude these precious new believers.

Peter continues with one more key fact. Look at verse 15. “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them just as on us at the beginning.” Peter had been slow and reluctant, but God was so eager, he sent the Spirit before Peter could finish speaking. Still, Peter found it hard to understand. How could these Gentiles suddenly receive the Holy Spirit? Look at verse 16. “And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’” Peter realized that when these Gentiles believed in Jesus and received the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ word was fulfilled. They received the Holy Spirit because our living Lord Jesus could see their repentant and believing hearts, and he made them clean through the Holy Spirit. Jesus our Lord is still the one who baptizes new believers with the Holy Spirit, even today. His baptizing these Gentiles with the Holy Spirit is the evidence that he had cleansed them. So there’s absolutely no need for Peter to keep any distance from them. We all are cleansed not by rituals or activities but by the Holy Spirit within us. Titus 3:5 says, “…he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit…” If the Holy Spirit’s work in a person is evident, we need to humble ourselves, deny our own ideas, and acknowledge that person as a brother or sister in Christ, no matter how different we may be humanly.

This story may seem unrelated to us, but actually, it’s so relevant. God has brought us together into a very diverse community. But we don’t all need to be exactly the same as each other. We don’t all need to become like people from the United States, from Slavic nations, Europe, Latin America, Africa, Muslim nations, India, China, or Korea. We just need to open our eyes to see ourselves and each other from God’s point of view. The early Christians would continue to face this challenge of how to live together as ethnically diverse people. Apostle Paul wrote: “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility…” (Eph.2:13–14). He also wrote: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (Rom.15:7). When we accept the work of God’s grace in one another, we can have real spiritual unity. Paul gave even more words about this: “…with all humility and gentleness, with patience, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit––just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call––one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Eph.4:2–6). In light of this passage, if we have a history of despising people in our community, for whatever reason, and driving them away, God is calling us to deeply repent.

To Peter, the evidence that they had received the Holy Spirit was clear: these Gentiles had been speaking in foreign languages and praising God, just as had happened to the first followers of Jesus (10:46; cf. 2:1–4). Read verse 47. “If then God gave the same gift to them as he gave to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God’s way?” Their new languages suggest that God wants to use these Gentiles as well in reaching the world. Peter is sharing here how this evidence has affected him personally. He realizes that his own inner legalism of staying away from Gentiles is getting in the way of what God wants to do. So he decides, by faith in Jesus, to embrace what God is doing and to embrace these new believers. This is genuine humility. It’s easy to be set in our ways, and stubborn. But a truly great person is open to the facts of what God is doing, listens, and lets these facts change him. It can happen.

How do the Christians in Jerusalem respond to what Peter said? Read verse 18. “When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, ‘Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.’” They acknowledge that God himself has been at work in and through Peter. Instead of criticizing, they become silent. It’s really like the saying, “Silence is golden.” In their silence, God moves their hearts. God helps them see the wonderful work of grace he is doing. Through what Peter reports, they can see that God has granted these Gentiles the repentance that leads to life.

What is this “repentance”? To repent is not complicated; it’s really simple. It means to turn away from our sin, turn toward God, and put our faith in our Lord Jesus (20:21; cf. 2 Cor.7:10). But how can we do that, especially if we feel cut off from God in our sin? It’s because of what God offers us in Jesus. In Jesus, God is offering us his great forgiveness. Jesus paid it all, all the cost, all the punishment of our sin. God is promising us that if we just turn from our sin and put our trust in Jesus, he’ll blot out all our sins and give us times of refreshing in his presence (3:19–20). He’ll give us the Holy Spirit to change us from deep within. In his forgiveness, we’ll learn all about this new life in Jesus (5:20). Paul declared this life like this: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (2 Cor.5:17). He also wrote: “We were therefore buried with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life” (Rom.6:4). Paul shared personally what this life meant to him: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Gal.2:20). In this new life of Christ, this new love of Christ, Paul, the former legalistic Pharisee, could freely embrace all kinds of Gentiles. So, what we’ve been thinking up until now doesn’t matter. How we’ve been living up until now doesn’t matter. Our Lord Jesus is inviting all of us listening today, even us, to experience this repentance that leads to life, and to share this good news with others.

Read verse 18 again. “When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, ‘Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.’” The change of heart of these critics is also the mighty work of God. May God open our eyes to see the work of the Holy Spirit in new believers and welcome them as our dear and equal brothers and sisters in Christ.

^[1] 4:31; 6:2,7; 8:14; 12:24; 13:5,7,46; 17:13; 18:11.

^[2] 8:25; 13:44,48–49; 15:35–36; 16:32; 19:10,20.

^[3] 8:25,35; 9:20,22; 11:20.

^[4] 2:23–24,32–33,38–39; 3:13–16,18–21; 4:10–12; 5:30–32,42; 10:39–43; 13:28–31,38–39.

^[5] 2:38; 3:19; 5:31; 11:18; 17:30; 20:21; 26:20.

^[6] 3:16; 5:14; 8:12; 9:42; 10:43; 11:17,21; 15:11; 16:31; 18:8; 19:4; 20:21; 24:24; 26:18.

^[7] 1:5,8; 2:4,33,38; 5:32; 8:15–17; 9:17; 10:44–45,47; 11:15–16; 19:2,6.

^[8] 2:38; 5:31; 10:43; 13:38; 26:18.

^[9] “Life”: 2:28; 5:20; 11:18; 13:48; “peace”: 10:36; “joy”: 2:28; 8:8; 13:52; 16:34; “hope”: 2:26; 23:6b; 24:15; 26:6–7; 28:20.

^[10] 2:21,47; 4:12; 11:14; 13:26,47; 15:11; 16:30–31.

^[11] 4:29,31; 6:4,7; 8:4,25; 12:24; 13:5,46,49; 14:25; 15:35–36; 16:6,32; 17:13; 18:11; 19:20.

^[12] Cf. Matt.15:1–9; Mark 7:1–9.

^[13] 1 Cor.6:11; Heb.9:13–14; 1 Pet.1:2; 1 John 1:7.

(QUESTIONS)

Luke 5:1-11 (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verse: 5:10b, And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.”

1. Where was Jesus, and what was he doing (1)? Whose boat did Jesus step into and what request did Jesus make (2-3)? Describe the scene of Jesus teaching the crowd from the boat.

2. Amidst teaching the crowd, how did Jesus focus on one person (3-4)? What did Jesus’ words, “Put out into the deep” mean to Simon? For what reason did Simon obey Jesus and what can we learn from this (5)?

3. What unusual thing happened when Simon obeyed (6-7)? Why might this be so meaningful to Simon and his partners?

4. How did Simon Peter respond to this event (8-10a)? What did he realize about Jesus and himself? Why was he afraid?

5. What did Jesus say to Simon and what did it mean to him (10b)? How did Simon and his companions radically res­pond (11)? From this passage, what do you learn about becoming Jesus’ disciple? Have you responded to Jesus’ call?

(MESSAGE)

Key verse 5:10b “And Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.’”

My opening question is “What do you seek after in your life? Is it success, happiness, freedom, security? Meaning? We need to also ask a more important question. What is Jesus’ purpose in calling his people, including you and me?

In today’s passage, Jesus called Simon Peter. We want to hear Jesus’ purpose in calling him, and in calling you and me. Through this message, we will also hear Simon’s response to Jesus’ call and how Jesus helped him through a series of 3 challenges, to go into the deep, into a deeper relationship with Christ, and into a life commitment to Jesus. I pray that each of us will hear Jesus’ calling newly, respond in obedience, and grow in deeper knowledge of Jesus, his grace and his hope.

Part I. “Put out into the deep…” (1-7)

One day, while Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, the sick, needy, and hungry people crowded around him and pressed him to the water’s edge. What did Jesus do for them? Look at verses 2-3.  “… and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat.” Jesus taught the crowd the word of God.

In these verses, we see Jesus’ intervening in Simon’s life. How? First, he got into Simon’s boat. Of course, Jesus needed his boat to teach the crowd without being pushed into the lake. However, Jesus had another reason in doing so! But let’s do a quick review of Jesus’ relationship with Simon. In the previous chapter, after Jesus healed a man possessed by a demon in the synagogue, he went to Simon’s house. There, he healed his mother-in-law. Afterwards, from Simon’s house, from sunset, Jesus healed all kinds of sick people. All of these facts imply that Simon had some relationship with Jesus. Simon knew that Jesus had power over demons and over the sick. Surely, Jesus was a man of God with great power. But that was it.

After his experiences with Jesus on the Sabbath, what was Simon doing now? He went back to work, as a fisherman. He went fishing all night, as he had done every night for his entire adult life; and in the morning, he was washing his nets, as he did every morning, while Jesus was teaching the crowd at the same seashore. Why was he just washing his nets instead of participating in Jesus’ teaching? Because that’s what a fisherman did after a night of fishing! Later, we learn that Simon had worked very hard the night before and had caught nothing. Rather than going home in despair he got his nets ready for the next catch. No matter what was going on around him, Simon was focused, single-minded, and hard-working. Perhaps, Simon had two mortgages to pay, one for his house and the other for his boat. In brief, Jesus did his thing, and Simon did his thing for himself and for his family.

Some of us may live like Simon, working hard as a bread-winner and supporting his/her church’s work as much as we can. However, we may feel something is missing. Sometimes we feel we are running on a hamster wheel every day and go to church on Sundays without much joy. Humanly Simon was a good man, responsible and faithful. He was kind and helpful to Jesus. But that was it.

While Simon kept washing his nets, minding his own business, Jesus was not indifferent to him. He wanted to deepen his relationship with Simon. So, Jesus got into his boat and asked him gently, the first of three challenges, “Simon, would you put out a little from the land? I need your help!” What was Simon’s response? He simply did it. “It’s not a big deal. He healed my mother-in-law.”

When Jesus finished teaching from Simon’s boat, what did he do? Let’s read verse 4. “And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a catch.’” After a long and hard night’s work, Simon must have planned to go home and reward himself with a big breakfast and a long nap. But Jesus said to him, “Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a catch.” Why did Jesus bother exhausted Simon?

It was because Jesus wanted to “catch Simon” and guide him into the deep. Jesus knew Simon. He knew his situation: his nets were empty despite his hard work. Simon had failed as a fisherman. But Jesus had compassion on him. Jesus wanted to restore his failure. Most importantly, Jesus wanted to lead him into something deeper than financial success. So Jesus challenged him again, challenge #2: ‘Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a catch.’ Jesus was commanding him to put out into the deep and let down his nets for a catch all over again. Jesus was challenging Simon to obey Jesus, over his control of his life, his plans, his experience and his ideas as a veteran fisherman.

Here what does the deep imply? Of course, the deep is literally deeper water. As a fisherman, Simon knew where and when to catch fish. From his experience, it was at night and in the shallows of the lake. But Jesus commanded him to go in the morning and put down his nets, not around the shore, but into the deep. As a fisherman, the place and time Jesus told him to go and put down his nets was nonsense. Thus, the deep implies something unknown, unfamiliar and unconventional.

How did Simon respond to Jesus’ challenge? Let’s read verse 5. “And Simon answered, ‘Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.’” The first part of Simon’s answer, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing!” shows a considerable amount of reluctance and struggle in obeying Jesus. He had worked hard. He had done his best employing all his skills as a veteran fisherman.  However, he caught nothing. What difference would it make to go out fishing once again, listening to a carpenter? In this bright morning, fish would see his nets! In fact, he would just have to wash his nets all over again. A sense of failure and futility pressed down on him.

On the other hand, there was a voice that spoke into his heart irresistibly: How sweet and beautiful are his teachings! What authority and power his words have! After a brief but intense struggle, Simon made a willful decision to obey Jesus and his words. “But at your word I will let down the nets.” In deciding to obey Jesus’ words, not only was he putting out his nets into deep water, he was also putting himself out into the deep as well. He was stepping out from himself, his familiar routines of life, and his human reasoning. He was choosing to obey Jesus over himself. Obeying Jesus was frightening but exhilarating as well.

What happened when he chose to obey Jesus’ words? Look at verses 6-7. “And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. ” When Simon obeyed Jesus, he experienced the greatest catch of his life, in such over-abundance that both his boat and his partners’ boat began to sink! When he obeyed Jesus’ words, he experienced such overwhelming blessing that it was clear that this was a supernatural power beyond his imagination. Jesus more than restored all of his failures as a fisherman.

Sometimes we think, if we experience Jesus’ power and blessing and restoration of failure first, then we will obey. However, it rarely works that way. Do you want to experience his power and restoration of failure? Yes? Then even when his words make no sense and are hard to obey, and hard to believe that anything good will happen– just obey Jesus’ words. Obey his words, “Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a catch.” Obey his words to come out of our comfort zones and into the unknown. And when we obey his words in the midst of the unknown, when we have failed, when it makes no sense, when we are tired after trying all night, we will experience that indeed his words are true. We will know Jesus indeed is Almighty God, who blesses us and restores all our failures. So let’s decide to obey his words to us today, in whatever struggles we have today.

Part II. Simon Peter’s deeper understanding of Jesus and himself (8-11).

How did Simon Peter respond? Did he suggest that Jesus open a fishing business together? No. Instead, Simon Peter made a startling confession to Jesus.  Look at verse 8. “But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, ‘Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.’”

Firstly, Simon Peter came to have a deeper understanding of who Jesus truly was. Jesus was no ordinary teacher or even a great man of God. Simon Peter was standing in the presence of the Creator God, the master of the universe, who commanded a large number of fish to rush into Simon’s net. The fish in the sea obeyed! When he obeyed Jesus and his words, he experienced personally and powerfully that Jesus, standing before him, is the Creator and Ruler and Commander of the heavens and the earth in the form of a man.

Secondly, Simon Peter came to have a deeper knowledge of who he truly was. He fell down at Jesus’ knees and said, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” When he saw the holy God in Jesus standing before him, he saw himself as a sinful man.  Though he may not have lived an overtly immoral life, he found nothing good in him. He was a self-reliant sinner. The motto of his life was, “I take care of myself and my family. I am the captain of my life.” When he realized he was standing before the presence of God himself, Simon could not but fall down at Jesus’ feet and cry out in holy fear and trembling, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.”

How did Jesus respond? Let’s read verse 10b. “And Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.’” Jesus, the Almighty Creator God, who is holy, holy, holy–  didn’t turn away from him or destroy him. Instead, Jesus said to him, “Simon, ‘Do not be afraid.”  He embraced him with comfort and forgiveness of sins. In fact, Holy Almighty Jesus came to Peter first- he stepped into his fishing boat, and he redeemed his failures. Holy Almighty Jesus wanted to have a deep personal relationship with sinful Simon Peter saying, “Simon, ‘Do not be afraid!”  Jesus forgave his sins. Jesus’ love and mercy melted Simon Peter’s heart. The Holy Almighty Jesus also says to you and me, “Do not be afraid.” He wants to catch us out of the sea of failure, sin, fear, shame, guilt and death. He wants to have a real and deep personal relationship with you and me, even though we are sinners. This is Jesus’ first purpose in calling you and me. Thank you Lord Jesus!

More surprisingly, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “From now on you will be catching men.” Here comes Jesus’ third challenge!  Jesus’ third challenge was the hardest challenge for Simon. Simon must now see himself with Jesus’ given identity and purpose. Jesus had an amazing vision and promise for sinful Peter. From now on, Jesus changed him. He changed his identity. He changed his purpose and direction of life. Once he was Simon- “sand.” But now, Jesus was changing his name to “Simon Peter,” the rock. Without Jesus’ intervention, he would have lived and died as a Galilean fisherman and a devout Jew, just like his father and the generations before and after him. In his own situation, his only hope was his fishing that night would be successful and he could live as a devout Jew. However Simon Peter wrote in 1 Peter 1:18-19, “knowing that you were ransomed from your futile ways inherited from your forefathers.” Despite Simon’s best efforts to live a good life, he later realized it was a futile life. However, Jesus led him to live a truly meaningful and fruitful life.

Like him, most of us want to live an ordinary life– possibly attend a good college, get a job, marry, raise our kids in a lovely home, save enough for a comfortable retirement, and attend church on Sundays…. But Jesus’ call is a call out of our futile ways of life handed down to us from our forefathers. He is changing our identity from a man who catches fish, into one who catches men, who fishes for people. The old NIV translation says, “I will make you a fisher of man.” Jesus didn’t say, “You have to go fishing for people.” He said, “I will make you a fisher of man.” In the same way that Jesus sent a large number of fish into his nets, Jesus was saying to Simon Peter, “Don’t you see and touch these fish?  Does this miracle amaze you? This is nothing, Peter! You shall see and do greater things than this. From now on you will be catching men! When you simply obey me and learn from me, I will bring numerous people into your care. I will entrust to you my sheep whom I bought with my blood! I will make you a source of blessing for all people of all nations. You will make disciples of all nations, and be the rock on which I will build my church. I am calling you into myself and my work on earth so that you can become like me.” This is the second purpose of Jesus in calling Peter. What a challenge and vision Jesus had for Peter!

When Simon Peter heard Jesus’ hope and promise for him, what did he do? Peter didn’t go home saying, “Jesus! I’m not qualified! I have several people to support!” When he saw the glimpse of Jesus’ vision for himself, he held onto it, not looking at himself and his own inadequacies and inabilities. He put his trust in Jesus who could make him into a fisher of men because Jesus is the Creator God. The one who brought the fish into his nets is the same God who would bring the people into heavenly nets. Therefore, he made an immediate and joyful decision. Verse 11 says. “And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.”  Peter surrendered himself and future into the Lord Jesus’ hands to follow him unreservedly. He left behind everything. This is true and deep repentance. He turned away and left behind his old way of life, his old occupation, and his identity as a fisherman living only for himself and his family. He left it all behind and followed Jesus, who would make him into one who catches men.

In what way is taking care of Jesus’ sheep a deep thing? It is because people are deep, complicated, selfish and sinful; but Jesus still loves them. Jesus is calling you and me to catch men, not to hurt them, but to take care of them just as Jesus has taken care of sinners. It is a life worthy to live because Jesus came to live such a life. Now Jesus calls his disciples to live such a deep life. In obedience and joy, Peter lived as a shepherd for the first century suffering Christians. And he asked his fellow Christians in 1 Peter 5:2-3, “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you…being examples to the flock.” Shepherding others is not easy; it requires suffering, rejection, misunderstanding and patience. But Jesus promised, “I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Mt 28:28:20b) We feed his sheep together with Jesus and as we do so, we become like Him, a shepherd for God’s flock for whom we lay our life.  That is not all. Apostle Peter says in 1 Peter 5:4,  “And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” This is our living hope!

For the last 28 years in America, I have tried to be faithful to Jesus’ call by taking care of God’s flock. However, I feel I have often failed. Loving my angelic wife and children, not to mention other church members, seems to be difficult most of the time, because of my selfishness. But today, my Lord Jesus Christ says to me, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” Our Lord Jesus Christ renews his forgiveness of sins for me. He encourages me not to give up catching men.  What a privilege it is to live like our Lord Jesus Christ by taking care of others. The reason I feel I have failed in taking care of others is that I have relied on my own will-power and goodness. I often served God’s people, not in obedience to Christ but for my own reputation. However, Jesus’ promise to me from this passage is “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” At each moment in taking care of others, Jesus promises me that he will do it with me. So I repent newly. Lord, I turn away from depending on myself, and living for my own honor and recognition. Rather, I turn to you. I want to depend on you. I will follow you and learn your shepherd heart. I surrender myself into your hands to live as a fisher of men. I look forward to your reward: the unfading crown of glory in heaven. Amen.

Through this message, we heard how Jesus called Simon Peter, a sinful and ordinary man. However, when he obeyed Jesus’ words, Jesus transformed him. Like Peter, Jesus is calling each of us to become a man and woman of depth by challenging us. Do you hear Jesus’ challenge, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch?” Do you hear his voice of vision also, “Don’t be afraid. From now on you will be catching men”? If so, let’s respond to his words in obedience to his words and to Christ, not to other people or situations. Let’s respond with repentence, turning from our ways and our old purpose of lives to follow Jesus, his purpose and his plan for our lives. As we obey our Lord’s voice, surely we will come to know Jesus, the Creator God all the more. Surely we will know more deeply Jesus’ forgiveness of our sins. And surely we will experience his life-changing power that changes us into his likeness and as a fisher of men, and shepherd for the flock of God. Amen!

(QUESTIONS)

Acts 9:32–10:48 (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verse: 10:43, “To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”

1.  Look at 9:32-42. Find Lydda and Joppa on a map and describe Peter’s ministry in each. What do these things tell us about Peter?

2.  Find Caesarea on a map. How does God bring Cornelius and Peter together here, and what obstacles between them must be overcome for this to happen (10:1–33)? What is the point of Peter’s vision (10:15)? What can we learn here about Cornelius, about Peter, and about God?

3.  What has Peter learned, and why is this necessary (34–35)? What are the highlights of his message about Jesus (36–42)? Read verse 43. What message does God want everyone to hear, and why?

4.  What happens, and what more does it tell us (44–46a)? What does Peter say and do, and what lessons can we learn here (46b–48)?

5.  Summarize what this passage tells us about God. In spreading his gospel, what similar obstacles do we face today, and how can we overcome them?

(MESSAGE)

Key Verse: 10:43, “To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”

Are there people you keep your distance from? People you’d never think of personally associating with? We may have many good reasons for doing so. But in today’s passage we see God’s view of people is different from ours. God uses dramatic measures to help Peter go to people he always thought he should avoid. Why? The Risen Jesus told his apostles, “You will be my witnesses…to the end of the earth” (1:8). It’s God’s plan to save people of the whole world. But God’s people, including Peter, are slow to understand it. We’re just the same. Today’s passage shows us more about what it means to be a witness of Jesus. It especially shows our need for a change of heart in how we view people, so that God can actually use us. May God speak to us through his word.

This passage is a major turning point in Acts. Since chapter 8, God has been working outside Jerusalem to bring the good news of Jesus to more and more people: the Samaritans, an Ethiopian eunuch, God’s enemy Saul (whom we will see later), and here, to Jews in areas along the coast. But in chapter 10 God crosses a major hurdle and brings the good news of Jesus to Gentiles. The person God uses is none other than Peter, the leader of his church. But for many reasons it’s not an easy transition for Peter. Let’s see how God helps him.

For now, the persecution has died down, and the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria has peace and is being built up (31). Peter is free to go here and there among them (32). So he’s out and about, shepherding all these scattered people of God. Peter wants to share the good news of Jesus with people who still haven’t heard. Look at verse 32b. Lydda was on a road 23 miles northwest of Jerusalem, right where the mountains end and the coastal plain of Sharon begins. Lydda’s population was mostly Jewish, and it’s likely that Christians from Jerusalem had fled there. Look at verse 33. Aeneas is probably a believer, but he’s been suffering from paralysis for eight years. Just as God used Peter to help a similar man in Jerusalem, Peter now tells this man, “Jesus Christ heals you; rise and make your bed” (34). It’s Jesus who heals Aeneas through Peter’s faith. And it’s for more than just personal benefit. God uses this healing to bring many more people in this remote area to believe in Jesus (35).

The next location is Joppa. It’s 12 miles from Lydda, on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s another predominantly Jewish city with scattered Christians there, too. This time, the focus is on a woman, Tabitha, who’s called “a disciple.” She’s been following Jesus practically. In contrast to paralyzed Aeneas, she’d been “full of good works and acts of charity” (36b). She blessed others like Jesus did. But tragedy strikes. Look at verse 37. This generous, hard-working woman had been so dear to them. Look at verse 38. Why do they send this request? They believe that in Jesus, Peter can do something. How does he respond? Look at verse 39a. Like Jesus, Peter goes with those who have faith. And what does he find? Look at verse 39b. Tabitha had been using her own hands to make clothing for these poor widows. Her faith to serve was unforgettable.

What does Peter do? Look at verse 40a. Peter has healed people before. Still, he comes to God humbly in prayer, really asking him what he should do now. And God gives him the answer. Look at verse 40b. God uses Peter to do the same kind of miracle our Lord Jesus did: raise the dead. And Peter is so kind. He gives Tabitha his hand and raises her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presents her to them alive (41). God uses his servant Peter to help his people have resurrection faith and hope in Jesus. Again, it’s not just for believers. The gospel spreads to even more people (42). Peter is now staying for many days with a man named Simon the tanner, who probably also is a believer (43). This is as far as Peter can think to go. But God has more in store for him.

Look at 10:1. Now we see Caesarea. It’s 35 miles north of Joppa, also on the coast. Caesarea is a port city, a major shipping center in the Roman Empire. In Caesarea, Herod the Great built a palace, a temple to Caesar, and an amphitheater. The Roman prefect and Roman troops are stationed there. It has a large Jewish population. But because it’s predominantly Gentile, it seems Peter would never have thought to go there. But an unlikely man named Cornelius lives there. Outwardly he’s a Roman army officer, but he’s so much more. Look at verse 2. It’s surprising that a proud Roman army officer could be like this. But even a man like Cornelius is seeking God. He’s described as “devout.” The word means he’s profoundly reverent toward God. He’s influenced his wife, his children, and his servants to have his same reverence for God. It’s amazing.

How could Cornelius be like this? At that time there were about five million Jews scattered in most of the major cities of the Roman Empire. They were keeping their faith, going to synagogue, studying and teaching the Old Testament, praying and worshiping God. Some were even helping the Gentiles around them to learn their devout, God-fearing faith.^[1] Cornelius must have been one of them. Hearing about God from the Scriptures, he believes that God exists and that he rewards those who seek him (Heb.11:6). His position could have made him hardened and worldly. But he’s learned to live before God and to seriously seek to please him. He’s even been giving out of his own income to care for those in need. He’s a busy army officer, but he’s praying to God continually, meaning he’s faithful to morning and afternoon prayers. Cornelius is not a Jew. But clearly he’s seeking God with all his heart. We may not think anyone is like that. But such people are always out there. The Bible tells us that God’s eyes “run to and fro throughout the whole earth” to find people like Cornelius (2 Chron.16:9a).

Look at verses 3–4. It’s the ninth hour of the day––3:00 PM, the afternoon time of prayer. While he prays, God reaches out to this man. An angel calls his name, “Cornelius.” He stares at him in terror and says, “What is it, Lord?” The angel says, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God.” They’re like the smoke of incense that’s a pleasing aroma to God. Then the angel gives specific instructions. Cornelius will get the privilege of a visit from Peter himself (5–6). What does he do? Look at verses 7–8. Cornelius has even influenced one of his soldiers to also be devout. But mainly, Cornelius obeys the heavenly vision. In Acts, this is important. Ananias has just obeyed a heavenly vision of an angel (9:10–19). Peter also is about to have a heavenly vision. Later, Paul obeys heavenly visions.^[2] What does this tell us? It’s showing that praying and giving are really good, but listening to God is even better.

Next, God brings Peter to Cornelius. Look at verse 9. Now we’re back in Joppa, the next day. The sixth hour is 12 noon. For most Jews, lunch is the first meal of the day. Because the smell of tanning is so strong, the house of Simon the tanner is by the sea (6,32). Peter’s up on the roof, enjoying the fresh sea air, the view, and alone time to pray. But he’s also hungry (10a). The food is being prepared downstairs, and Peter can smell it. He falls into a trance (10b). What does he see? Look at verses 11–12. Heaven is being opened. Something like a great sheet is descending, being let down by its four corners on the earth. And in this sheet are all kinds of animals, reptiles, and birds of the air.

What’s going on? Look at verse 13. This is the voice of God. God is telling Peter, “Here’s your lunch; have at it!” How does Peter respond? He says these creatures are the ones God forbade Jews to eat, and Peter’s never done that (14). Read verse 15. This is the most important part of the vision. Here, “clean” means acceptable to God. We may have many ideas about this, but the Sovereign God, Maker of heaven and earth, gets to decide what is clean or common. The whole thing is repeated three times (16). God is saying most strongly that he can make things clean. He wants Peter to listen. Instead of listening to all the rules in our heads, or even to our conscience, most of all we need to listen to God. Through this vision, God is helping Peter to have a deeper change of mind and heart. The change God wants for us has to go so deep, it gets at the habits of our heart, even what we have a taste for. Peter’s a wonderful shepherd and man of great faith in Jesus. But through this vision God is performing spiritual open-heart surgery on him, to get him ready to be even more useful to him. Through changing Peter’s heart, God wants to change the direction of the whole church. Like Peter, if our heart is not changed in certain respects, we get stuck in our own ways and can’t follow what God wants.

And again we see God’s leading. Look at verses 17–18. At this very moment, the men from Cornelius show up at the gate of the house, asking for Peter, though it seems he can’t hear them. Look at verses 19–20. Now, the Holy Spirit tells Peter to go with these Gentiles, because they’re actually sent by God himself. When Peter goes down to meet them, he hears how the centurion Cornelius is a God-fearing, well-respected man, who’s seen an angel telling him to send for Peter to come (21–22). These men have just traveled 35 miles on an all-night journey. They’re tired, thirsty, and hungry. So Peter invites them for lunch (23a). The next day, after they’ve rested, Peter goes with them and brings some men from Joppa with him (23b). A day later, they all enter Caesarea (24a). What do they find? Look at verse 24b. Cornelius has brought everyone near and dear to him to be there. It shows once more how sincere, serious and unselfish he is. When Peter finally enters, Cornelius has too much reverence for him (25–26). When Peter gets inside, he finds all these people there (27). Luke wants us to appreciate this truly historic moment. Peter begins by addressing the barrier between them, and how God has helped him cross it (28). Even believers and servants of God like Peter can have prejudices that block us. Before going further, Peter wants to hear for himself what they really want from him. So Cornelius repeats what happened to him (30–33a). Read verse 33b. We too should prepare with such an attitude to listen to God’s messenger. The highlight here is Peter’s message. It’s his final message in Acts. What does he say?

First, God’s view of people. Read verses 34–35. God has helped Peter to see people as he does. How does God see people? God doesn’t care about our race or nationality. God doesn’t play favorites, either. God doesn’t judge based on superficial, outward things. God doesn’t treat us as unclean. God is looking at our hearts. He cares most about whether we fear him and do what is right. Anyone can learn to fear God and seek him, so there’s hope for all people. We need to see people the way God does, have hope for them, and pray for them all.

Next, “the good news of peace.” Read verse 36. Peter begins telling them the good news of peace through Jesus Christ. Only Jesus can bring people in every nation this good news of peace. It’s not necessarily peace from human conflict. It’s the good news of peace with God (Rom.5:1). If only we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, we can have real peace among people. Jesus is King of all peoples of all nations; he’s the Prince of Peace (Isa.9:6b). For Luke, the peace that Jesus brings is so important.^[3] Our Lord Jesus told his disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid” (John 14:27). He gave them another promise: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). This good news of peace through Jesus Christ is available to anyone who turns to him in faith. We need to tell people this.

Third, “he is Lord of all.” Read verse 36 again. This is a major theme in Acts. He’s repeatedly called “the Lord Jesus,” from the beginning of the book to the end.^[4] He’s Lord of all through his resurrection from the dead.^[5] The Risen Jesus is not just above all people and nations; he’s also our living Lord, accessible in prayer, and ready and able to help each one of his people. He’s the one worthy to give our lives to. He’s our new identity, and he saves anyone who calls on his name.^[6] He wants his name as Lord of all to be brought to all the Gentiles, even their kings (9:15). There is no one in the world who does not need Jesus Christ, Lord of all. We need to be praying for and bringing the name of Jesus even to the greatest and best people in the world today.

Fourth, the healing Jesus brings. Peter goes on to share what may be the most beautiful summary of the life of Jesus. Look at verse 37. Peter says even this group of Gentiles has heard about Jesus. What is it they heard? Read verse 38. No one ever lived such a graceful, beautiful, powerful life as Jesus did. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus brought healing and freedom to people oppressed in all kinds of ways. If we give people his name, he still heals.

Fifth, witnesses. Look at verses 39–41. After such a beautiful life and ministry, people were so evil, they put Jesus to death by hanging him on a tree. In all the world’s history, it was the greatest injustice ever committed. But God raised Jesus from the dead. And God made him appear to his followers who knew him. Jesus’ death and resurrection is well-attested by the 12 apostles who personally witnessed it all. God can still help people believe this good news based on all this eyewitness testimony so preciously preserved in the Bible.

Sixth, forgiveness of sins through his name. Read verse 42. Peter is sharing this good news only because the Lord Jesus commanded him and the others to preach it. Through his crucifixion, people thought they could get rid of Jesus. But God raised him from the dead and appointed him to be judge of the living and the dead. God will surely bring about his ultimate justice. It will happen when Jesus comes again (Acts 1:11). On that day, all people who ever lived will have to come stand before him and give an account of all they did on earth. For now it seems people get away with all kinds of sins and evil. But not forever. Because of his resurrection and ascension, we can be sure Jesus will come again, and he will judge the world in righteousness (17:31). It’s good news.

But there’s even better news. Read verse 43. “To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” We all deserve God’s judgment and wrath due to our sins. Even relatively good people like Cornelius can’t measure up to God’s holy standards. There are so many self-righteous, self-confident people. But the Bible says, “Who can stand when he appears?” (Mal.3:2) Yet anyone, even the worst of sinners, can receive forgiveness of sins through his name. We just need to repent and believe in Jesus. This message of forgiveness of sins is throughout the book of Acts, and it’s for all people.^[7] We’re all sinners, and we all need to repent and put our faith in Jesus. Are you sure your sins are forgiven? We can’t earn forgiveness through good works or even the greatest sincerity and efforts. We receive the forgiveness of sins only by God’s grace, through believing the name of Jesus. This is real gospel work: to help people truly receive forgiveness of sins through the name of Jesus. If we haven’t done that, we haven’t really helped anyone.

What happens? Look at verse 44. Peter couldn’t even finish all he wanted to say. The Holy Spirit came on those who heard the word. It’s because they accepted the gospel. God in his wisdom chose to give an obvious sign that these Gentiles had received the Holy Spirit (45–46a). It was not to make speaking in tongues a litmus test of spirituality. It was to provide further proof of the truth of the gospel: all people can receive the Holy Spirit and the forgiveness of sins if only they repent and believe in Jesus. No other rules or laws are necessary. Because these people had already been changed by the Holy Spirit, Peter baptized them as fellow brothers and sisters in Christ (46b–48). Without Peter’s help, it would be nearly impossible for the church to fully endorse Gentile ministry. Even if they accepted Jesus, Gentiles would likely have been treated as second-class citizens in the Christian community. But God’s work in and through Peter changed the very nature of the church, and gave real hope to the world.

In this passage we saw how God brought the gospel of Jesus across the greatest barrier, to Gentiles. To do it, God had to change Peter’s heart through a dramatic vision, to help him see people the way he does. Read 10:43. May God help us to truly receive the forgiveness of sins through Jesus, and have a new heart to share this good news even with people very different from us.

^[1] For the “devout” Gentiles, see 13:43,50; 17:4,17; for God-fearing Gentiles, see 10:35; 13:16,26.

^[2] 16:9–10; 18:9–11; 26:14–20.

^[3] Luke 1:79; 2:14,29; 7:29; 8:48; 10:5–6; 19:38,42; 24:36.

^[4] 1:21; 4:33; 7:59; 8:16; 9:17; 11:17,20; 15:11,26; 16:31; 19:5,13,17; 20:21,24,35; 21:13; 28:31.

^[5] 1:22; 2:31; 4:33; 13:33; 17:31–32.

^[6] 2:21; 9:14,21; 15:17; 22:16.

^[7] 2:38; 5:31; 13:38; 26:18.

(QUESTIONS)

Acts 9:19b–31 (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verse: 9:20, And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.”

1.  After his conversion, how is Saul described (19b)? Review how this became possible (10–19a).

2.  Read verse 20. Where does Saul go, and what does he say? What does it mean that Jesus is the Son of God (20b)?^[1] Why does Saul proclaim him “immediately”?

3.  How do people respond, and why (21)? How is Saul described (22a)? What is the source of his strength (17b)?^[2] What is the focus of his ministry, why, and what impact does it have (22b)? How and why does he finally escape Damascus (23–25)?^[3]

4.  What happens to Saul in Jerusalem, and why (26)? Who appears, what does he do and say, and what can we learn from him (27)?

5.  How is Saul’s life in Jerusalem described (28)? Why is “preaching boldly” repeated (27,28)? What happens (29), where is Saul sent (30), and why? How is the church now described (31), and what can we learn from this?

6.  In this passage, how is Saul an example of how we can grow spiritually? What stands out most to you here?

^[1] See Colossians1:15–19a.

^[2] See Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 15:9–10.

^[3] See Galatians 1:17–18 and 2 Corinthians 11:32–33 for additional facts.

(MESSAGE)

Key Verse: 9:20, “And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, ‘He is the Son of God.’”

Do you like putting things off? Some people are like the king or queen of delay. If we live by the motto “I’ll do it tomorrow,” we might become prone to panic attacks. Today’s passage (9:19b–30) contains a rare description in the Bible of what someone does right after encountering Christ. Saul’s story can seem so epic and so far from us. But really, it’s a lesson on how any Christian grows as a witness of Jesus. In this brief passage we find ten things vital to the spiritual growth of a witness of Jesus. Especially Saul, who’s a new believer, does something “immediately.” What does he do? Why does he do it? And what can we learn from him? May God speak to us through his word.

A witness of Jesus is a person whose life is completely turned around (1–19a)

Last week we saw how Saul was changed from a persecutor to a witness of Jesus. He’s a scary guy, but suddenly he’s called “a chosen instrument” (9:15). One minute, he’s trying to throw Christians in jail, and the next, he’s risking his life for Jesus. He’s so extreme, he’s hard to relate to. But when Jesus calls us by his grace, he always turns our life around. Our change may be more subtle than Saul’s. But in the amazing grace of Jesus we cannot but change from self-righteous to repentant, from hating to loving, from living for self to living for God and others, from indulging the sinful nature to crucifying it, from using and abusing people to healing them, from fearful to courageous. And the amazing grace of Jesus always changes us from proud to humble. If we live by faith in his grace, we’re changed from instruments for unrighteousness to instruments for righteousness (Rom.6:13). Even a man like Saul was changed by the grace of Jesus; so can we. To experience this change, we just need to present ourselves to God each day by faith, holding only onto the grace of Jesus.^[1]

A witness of Jesus joins the community of believers (19b)

Read verse 19b. “For some days he was with the disciples in Damascus.” Saul has just had a profound, unique, life-altering experience. But he doesn’t think he’s superior to others or can live this new life all by himself. It says “he was with the disciples in Damascus.” Saul is also a highly educated young man with an intense personality. But as a new believer, he really needs fellow believers. He needs their love, support and prayer. And despite all the evil he’s done, they accept him, simply because Jesus chose to show him grace. As part of his transformation, Saul needs to experience the grace of the believing community. So does every new believer.

A witness of Jesus acts immediately on faith (20a)

Read verse 20a. “And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues…” Saul’s not hiding out among the loving believers, just enjoying their fellowship. He knows Jesus called him for a purpose. He knows the stakes are high, people don’t know the truth, and God has a mission for him. So he loses no time. It says, “Immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues…” He doesn’t do it once, then go and hide somewhere. He goes into many synagogues, proclaiming Jesus again and again. Immediately he engages in telling as many people as possible that Jesus came into the world to save sinners like himself (1 Tim.1:15). He doesn’t dwell on his past. His immediate act of faith in Jesus is the catalyst that gets God’s grace in his life moving forward.

A witness of Jesus knows and shares who Jesus really is (20b)

Read verse 20b. “…saying, ‘He is the Son of God.’” Saul isn’t talking a lot about himself, like his sudden blindness and restored sight. He’s laser-focused on Jesus. This is the only time in Acts that Jesus is called “the Son of God.” It’s a key element of Saul’s faith. In his Jewish context, people considered this heresy, blasphemy. How is Saul suddenly so sure that Jesus is the Son of God? It’s because he vividly encountered Jesus right outside Damascus. The light he saw was the light of the living presence of Christ, the Son of God, who was crucified for his sins and raised again. In his letters Paul often calls Jesus “the Son of God.”^[2] What does this mean? It means Jesus is way more than just a man, or even a prophet. The Bible says, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible…all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell…” (Col.1:15–19). Saul personally meets Jesus as the Son of God, then immediately begins sharing this. To be a witness of Jesus, we too need to meet and know who Jesus really is, then immediately start sharing it.

A witness of Jesus increases in strength while sharing his faith (21–22)

When Saul starts speaking about Jesus in the synagogues, it says people are “amazed.” The Greek word means “displaced,” “thrown out of position,” even “beside one’s self” or “insane.” It means to these people, Saul’s change is just too overwhelming. How could this young man they’d heard was coming to arrest Christians suddenly be on Jesus’ side? Despite all the hype, Saul stays steady. In fact, he grows! Read verse 22. “But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.” No doubt, he’s proving it by showing them all the Messianic prophecies fulfilled in Jesus. The more this young man speaks about Jesus based on the Bible, the stronger he becomes. It’s not human strength, physical strength, or intellectual strength. His strength is spiritual––and increasing––because he’s received the Holy Spirit (9:17) and is learning to speak by the Spirit, rely on the Spirit and walk by the Spirit.^[3] The more Saul engages in Spirit-filled teaching and living, the stronger and more convincing he becomes. So can we.

A witness of Jesus is persecuted (23–24)

Read verses 23–24. “When many days had passed, the Jews plotted to kill him, but their plot became known to Saul. They were watching the gates day and night in order to kill him.” This is just a preview of all that’s going to happen to Saul. So Jesus’ words “how much he must suffer for the sake of my name” (16) are fulfilled right away! As people plotted to kill Jesus, as they plotted to kill the original apostles, as Saul himself used to plot to kill Christians, now they are plotting to kill Saul himself. Just before his death, Jesus told his disciples: “If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also” (John 15:30). When we start sharing our faith in Jesus, we shouldn’t expect everyone to be happy and appreciative. In the last letter he ever wrote, Paul said, “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted…” (2 Tim.3:12).

A witness of Jesus begins to have disciples (25)

Read verse 25. “…but his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket.” It says “his disciples.” Saul’s a new believer, but he suddenly has disciples? How does that happen? It’s through his actively sharing the good news of Jesus. Obviously his disciples are those whom Saul has persuaded about Jesus, and they’ve begun to follow Saul to learn more about Jesus. Having disciples may seem to be only for the more mature believers. But it happens to Saul right at the start. Why? Because he’s so focused on sharing his faith in Jesus. What’s the secret of having disciples? In a sense it’s so simple: if we really know Jesus and actively share our faith in Jesus, we will have disciples. When we help people know and believe in Jesus, they will want to learn more of Jesus through us. And here, Saul’s disciples help him when there’s a plot to kill him. By night they take him and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket. It’s kind of humiliating. But in this way, Saul escapes getting killed in Damascus at the beginning of his Christian life. So, even a new believer who focuses on sharing his faith in Jesus can have disciples who not only learn but even become helpers.

A witness of Jesus needs to be accepted, encouraged, and defended (26–27)

Read verse 26. “And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple.” Of course they don’t believe it; it’s too drastic a change. Probably they think it’s all a ruse to infiltrate their ranks so that he can arrest them, too. It’s understandable. Still, this must have been a hard experience for Saul. In Damascus he’d almost gotten killed on account of his teaching about Jesus. But now, even the believing community doesn’t trust him. This, too, is just a preview of all that Saul will have to suffer.

Read verse 27. “But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus.” Barnabas is first mentioned at the end of chapter 4. He encouraged people when he sold a field he owned and brought the money as an offering for the needy among them. His name “Barnabas” means “Son of Encouragement.” Here again, he’s living up to his name. He’s an unusual man. Too often we see only the negative in people. Or we jump to conclusions with very little evidence. But look at Barnabas. He’s not just sympathetic, or picking favorites. He’s gone to the trouble to learn the facts about Saul. And the facts themselves speak volumes. Barnabas now knows why Saul has changed: Saul has seen the Lord, and the Lord has spoken to him. If Jesus has spoken to Saul, and he’s still alive, it means Jesus forgave him and chose to use him. For Barnabas, that’s good enough. Also, Barnabas has heard about Saul’s ministry in Damascus for the name of Jesus. Not everyone grasps the facts, but these facts persuade Barnabas. Why? It’s because, as Acts says later, Barnabas is “a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith” (11:24a). Saul’s past record made it hard for anyone to trust him, but Barnabas takes a risk to accept, encourage, and defend Saul. Barnabas is so credible, he persuades everyone. This, too, is a preview of what Barnabas will do later. Those living for Jesus by faith in his grace often have a negative past record. But everyone trying to live as Jesus’ witness needs to be accepted, encouraged, and defended.

A witness of Jesus preaches boldly, even to the harshest critics (27–29)

Jerusalem was resistant to Saul, not just in the Christian community but in the broader Jewish community. Saul knew it well, for he used to be part of that hostility. But through the blessing brought by Barnabas, Saul has the freedom to come in and out among the believers in Jerusalem. And again, he’s not using this blessing for his own enjoyment. Read verse 28b. “…preaching boldly in the name of the Lord.” It’s the second time his boldness in preaching is mentioned (27). Where’s this boldness coming from? It’s not from his human character. It’s boldness from the Holy Spirit (4:31). It’s boldness from his faith in the Risen Jesus. His faith in Jesus has set him free, deep within, from all fear. It’s truly a great thing when a man becomes bold in his daily life in living for Jesus and sharing his faith in Jesus.

Read verse 29. “And he spoke and disputed against the Hellenists. But they were seeking to kill him.” Saul knew these Hellenists well, because he’d been one of them. He’d been a Greek-speaking Jew living outside of Israel, just like them. He’d been opposed to the name of Jesus of Nazareth, just like them. He’d been trying to prove his zeal for the law of Moses, just like them. Being from Tarsus in Cilicia, he probably even argued with Stephen in the synagogue of the Freedmen, just like them (6:9). When we know how hardened people are, it’s easy to think, “It’s not worth it. I should pick my battles.” It seems smart. But Saul spoke and disputed with these people, not to prove his superiority or debate skills, but because he really wanted them to have the blessing of knowing Jesus. Jesus’ witnesses are bold to speak about him, even to the most difficult people.

A witness of Jesus needs to wait on God’s time (30)

Read verse 30. “And when the brothers learned this, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.” No doubt the brothers were moved by Saul’s strength and persuasiveness. They also knew that the plot to kill him was serious. They’d seen how these same people had plotted to kill Stephen and succeeded. So they made a decision of faith to protect Saul. They got him out of Jerusalem at once, and probably paid for his travel back to his hometown. Saul might not have liked this. But he cooperated. He trusted the wisdom of his Christian brothers.

Read verse 31. “So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.” It was God who brought this time of peace about. They’d been through such persecution, so now God wants them to be built up and comforted by the Holy Spirit and learn to walk in the fear of the Lord. Now’s not the time for more conflict. Ultimately, bold witnesses of Jesus need to wait on God’s time to do what God calls them to do.

This passage illustrates how the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ has the power to change even the most unlikely person. It also shows us what we all need to be doing for healthy spiritual growth. May God help us immediately to share our faith in Jesus, so that we can increase in strength and be used for his kingdom.

^[1] Rom.6:13,16,19; 12:1; cf. 1 Cor.15:10.

^[2] Rom.1:3–4,9; 5:10; 8:3,29,32; 1 Cor.1:9; 15:28; 2 Cor.1:19; Gal.1:16; 2:20; 4:4,6; Eph.4:13; Col.1:13; 1 Thess.1:10.

^[3] 1:8; cf. John 6:63; 14:26; 16:13–14; Rom.8:4,26a; 2 Cor.3:17–18; Gal.5:16,25.

(QUESTIONS)

Acts 9:1-19a (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verse: 9:15, “But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.”

1. Read 7:58; 8:1,3; 9:1-2. What was Saul’s activity in Jerusalem and what did he plan to do in Damascus? Why do you think Saul was so passionate to persecute Christians (Gal 1:13-14; Php 3:5-6)?

2. What happened to Saul as he neared Damascus (3-4)? What was he shocked to learn (5-6)? What happened to him (7-9)?

3. Who was Ananias and what mission did the Lord give him (10-12)? Why did Ananias hesitate (13-14)? What surprising words did the Lord give Ananias (15-16)?

4. How did Ananias minister to Saul (17-19a)? How did this confirm Saul’s experience on the road to Damascus? How does this event reveal the one-sided grace of Jesus (1Co 15:10)?

5. Read verse 15 again. Why do you think Jesus called this enemy Saul to know and serve him (1Ti 1:15-16)? What hope does this give us (Ro 11:32; Eph 2:8-9)?

(MESSAGE)

Key Verse: 9:15, “But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.’”

Have you ever thought that you were an enemy of God? Have you ever thought that you were an instrument of God? We don’t like those two words: enemy and instrument. When we hear the word “enemy” we think of someone who steals or kills or destroys. When we hear the word “instrument” we think of tools or puppets. We may think, “I am an instrument of no one. I am my own master. No one tells me what to do!” That might sound true. But we are all instruments for good or for evil. And we have all lived as enemies of God, and still do, from time to time, because we are sinners.

In today’s Bible event, we see a man named Saul of Tarsus who was an enemy of the Lord, though he didn’t think he was. He was blinded by his self-righteousness. This man became Apostle Paul, one of the greatest followers of Jesus Christ in human history. He wrote a big portion of the New Testament, the Christian Bible, in the form of letters to churches and to individuals. What do we learn from the Call of Saul? We learn that Jesus can take an enemy of God and turn him into an instrument of righteousness. We learn that God can take a man of hatred and destruction and turn him into a man of peace and blessing. We learn that the grace of Jesus is amazing. May the grace of Jesus convict us and empower us to live for the One who lived and died to make us all his children and his chosen instruments. We will study the Call of Saul in 2 parts: “Why do you persecute me” (1-9); and, “This man is a chosen instrument of mine” (10-19a).

1. “Why do you persecute me?” (1-9)

See verses 1-2. “But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.”

Saul was introduced already as a young man who gave approval to Stephen’s death by stoning. Saul was not a silent enemy of Christians. He was an outspoken vehement hater of Christians. He was radically active in persecuting followers of Jesus of Nazareth. He wanted them out of all synagogues everywhere. He was ready to travel to distant cities to arrest and even kill Christians. In fact, he was traveling 135 miles to Damascus, a 6-day journey, to do so. That is like going from Chicago to Madison or to Urbana-Champaigne on foot or horseback.

Here, Christians are called people who belong to “the Way.” This is a description of Christians that is used at least 5 more times in Acts. The word “way” in general refers to a road or a pathway. The word sometimes refers to a bad path, like in Proverbs 14:12, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” However, here the way is a good path that refers to the way of the Lord, the way of God, the way of salvation, the way of life, and the way of eternal life. As I noted, there is a wrong way and a right way to God. Here are two examples of how Jesus used the word “way.” Jesus once explained the two ways a person can take, one to destruction, and one to life: “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matthew 7:13-14). Jesus also declared to his disciples in John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Clearly, Saul was on the way to Damascus to destroy Christians. He was on the wrong way, the way to destruction. He needed to get on the way to salvation or else he would be destroyed.

Look at verses 3-4. “Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’” This was quite unexpected. This miraculous, surprising encounter was audio-visual. Visually, he was surrounded by a blinding light. Audibly, he heard a divine voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” The men with Saul saw and heard something but it wasn’t clear to them like it was to Saul. This was a personal encounter between the Lord and Saul. The Lord called him by name: “Saul, Saul.” The Lord knows each of us by name. No one can hide their true self from God. He knows everything about us,  sees all that we’ve done, and even knows everything that we have ever thought, good or bad. He is the Lord our Creator.

The most puzzling words to Saul were, “Why are you persecuting me?” Saul asked, “Who are you, Lord?” Notice his question. He knew this was the voice of the Lord, whom he had to give account to. But he wanted to know the identity of this voice, the name of the one reprimanding him. He got an answer, but not one that he was expecting or hoping for. The divine voice said to him, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.”

When Saul heard the words, “I am Jesus whom you are persecuting,” he must’ve thought that these were the last words he would ever hear, before being destroyed. Saul was shocked to the core to learn that he was completely wrong about Jesus of Nazareth and the movement called the Way. Now he was at the complete divine will and mercy of Jesus. He was blinded for 3 days and had to be led by the hand into Damascus. He was blind for 3 dneither ate nor drank. Clearly, Saul was reflecting on his entire life and all that he had lived for up to this point. He was praying, wondering who he was and what would happen to him from now.

“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” He didn’t think he was persecuting the Lord. He thought he was persecuting blasphemers who had God all wrong. He thought he was serving God by arresting, persecuting and even killing Christians. He thought he was sincerely serving God, but he was sincerely wrong. Saul writes of this former way of life in Galatians 1:13-14, “For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it. And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers.” Saul was actually driven by selfish ambition to impress people and get recognition and status.

“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” Jesus said that persecuting his followers is persecuting him. Christians are the body of Christ. It is not a shame or embarrassment to be insulted or hated for the sake of Jesus Christ. Jesus told his followers to rejoice and the early Christians indeed rejoiced to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus Christ. It is a joy and honor to suffer for Jesus’ name. On the other hand, it is bitter and regretful to suffer for doing evil or for being a coward or a liar. May we stand for Jesus in our own lives and neighborhoods and work places. May we say along with Apostle Paul, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Ro 1:16).

1. “This man is a chosen instrument of mine” (10-19a)

A man named Ananias is now introduced into the story. See verse 10. “Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, ‘Ananias.’ And he said, ‘Here I am, Lord.’” This man, Ananias is not the same one who fell dead in chapter 5. This Ananias knew the Lord, and the Lord knew him. Later in Acts he is called “a devout man according to the law, well spoken of by all the Jews [in Damascus]” (Ac 22:12). Here he is called a “disciple,” and, speaking to Jesus, he refers to Christians as “your saints” and “all who call on your name.” So he is a Christian, whether secretly or overtly we don’t really know. In any case, Jesus had a mission for him in this situation.

See verses 11-12, “And the Lord said to him, ‘Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.’” The Lord Jesus gave him the street name–Straight, the house owner’s name–Judas, and the person’s name–Saul, that he was to bless and restore his sight. The street was fine. The house was fine. But not the man he was told to help.

Ananias replied (13-14): “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” Ananias knew that Saul hated Christians. Ananias was a Christian. That put him in a very tough place. Would Saul arrest or kill Ananias? Was Jesus calling Ananias to be martyred like Stephen? Maybe Ananias wanted to say, “Lord, choose somebody else, please.”

No, Ananias was the right man for the job. And Jesus had some surprising word for Ananias. See verses 15-16. “But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.’”

First, Jesus told Ananias, “Go.” You have no option. This is a command. I’m sending you to do this important task. Next Jesus told him he couldn’t believe if it didn’t come from the Lord himself: “He is a chosen instrument of mine…” What? A chosen instrument? What kind of instrument?

Jesus added: “…to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.” The name that Saul had so vehemently opposed, would now be the name he would carry to all people. Well, for all of us who know Saul’s other name, Apostle Paul, and what he did and said and wrote in the Bible–we can say he did quite a good job of carrying the name of Jesus Christ to the people of his generation, both Jews and Gentiles. If you haven’t read to the end of Acts yet, you will see a little of what Jesus Christ did through the life and ministry of St.Paul, formerly Saul of Tarsus.

Jesus also said some ominous words about Saul to Ananias, “For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.’” It sounds like Jesus wants him to suffer, perhaps out of vengeance, or more mildly out of penance or punishment. But when we read Acts to the end and all the letters of St.Paul we see that Paul was not a man to shy away from suffering for Christ. He later wrote, “that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.” How much Paul loved Jesus and was glad to suffer for the sake of his name! Paul urged young pastor Timothy twice in the same letter: “Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God…Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 1:8; 2:3).

What happened next? Look at verses 17-19a. “So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on Saul he said, ‘Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.’ And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; and taking food, he was strengthened.”

Notice several things here. Ananias called  him “Brother Saul.” Ananias welcomed him into the family of Christians. Saul was no longer an enemy but a brother and friend. Ananias also confirmed the event on the road to Damascus. It was not a hallucination. Ananias retold the event that Saul experienced. It confirmed that Saul was not crazy or losing his mind. His experience was not just in his imagination. It really happened, and Ananias acknowledged it as from the Lord Jesus Christ. Also, this calling was not only about being instrument to carry the Lord’s name and about suffering for Jesus. Saul would be filled with the Holy Spirit. This was a new life he was given, a new holy mission from the Lord. Now, instead of doing evil and wreaking havoc, Saul would now proclaim salvation and bring new life to people. Instead of breeding darkness and hatred, Saul would bring light and life and the love and mercy of Christ to enemies of God. After Ananias placed his hands on Saul, he regained his sight. Saul could now see, both physically and spiritually. Then he was baptized into the Christian faith as a new creation in Christ. And he ate again and was strengthened.

Can you relate to the Call of Saul? Maybe his story sounds too extreme, like a terrorist or serial-killer coming to faith in Christ. Those conversions can and do happen. Two well-known Christian authors did their best to disprove Christianity before becoming bold and articulate defenders of the Christian faith: Josh McDowell and Lee Strobel. Josh wrote “More Than A Carpenter” and Strobel wrote, “The Case for Christ.” I also know two people personally who mocked Christians before they accepted Christ and have been living for Christ for many decades.

But may I suggest that you are more like Saul than you might at first realize. In our sins, we have all lives as enemies of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. We have resisted and rejected the Holy Spirit in our sins of pride, lust, greed, anger, envy, gluttony, and laziness. We have rebelliously and foolishly not listened to God and his word and his Spirit but rather to the Devil and the world and our own sinful nature  in our sins of  fatalism, despair and giving up and giving in to know what we know is wrong or hateful or hopeless or judgmental or self-righteous or self-centered or selfish or unjust.

Listen to Paul’s indictment in Ephesians 2:1-3, “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body[a] and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.”

Again, listen to Paul in Romans 5:10, “For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son…” Brothers and sisters, the Lord has treated us as our sins deserve. Why not? Because God wants not to judge but to save us. 2 Peter 3:9 says, “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”

The murderous and self-righteous Saul was completely changed into the humble, godly Apostle Paul. How was it possible? Only by the amazing and wonderful grace of Jesus. Paul later wrote, “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life” (1 Timothy 1:15-16).

Apostle Paul became known as the Apostle of Grace. Listen to more of his testimony:  “For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.” (1 Corinthians 15:9-10). This grace is for us also. Paul wrote, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). The grace of Jesus is so amazing and wonderful. Praise His name!

God has a great purpose for you and me to bring light into darkness, to turn trouble and distress into glory, honor and peace in the name of Jesus. God wants to turn wickedness into righteousness, judgment into mercy, vengeance into forgiveness, and wrong into right. God wants to turn his enemies into his instruments by his marvelous grace and for his glory. May we all live by the wonderful grace of Jesus Christ poured out on us as his instruments to carry his name to others. Amen.

(QUESTIONS)

Acts 8:26-40 (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verse: 8:35, “Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.”

1.  To where is Philip sent next (26), and how does he respond (27a)? Who is there, how is he described (27b), and what is he doing (28)? What can we learn from this?

2.  What happens next (29)? What does Philip do and say (30)? How does the man respond (31)? What lessons can we learn in these verses about sharing the gospel?

3.  What Scripture passage is mentioned (32–33)? What does the eunuch ask (34), and how could he personally relate to the person Isaiah describes? Read verse 35. In this context, what is “the good news about Jesus”? What can we learn from Philip here?

4.  What else happens (36–38)? Why do you think the eunuch wants to be baptized? Why does Philip baptize him, and why is this one person’s conversion so important?

5.  What happens next (39), and what is the significance that the eunuch is rejoicing? How else is Philip’s ministry described (40)?

(MESSAGE)

Key Verse: 8:35, “Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.”

Have you ever been asked an important life question but had no idea what to say? It can be rough. On the other hand, at a critical moment, how great it is to be prepared to speak up. In today’s passage, once again we see God using Philip out in front, spreading the gospel. It’s a very special, one-on-one encounter. There’s so much to learn here. Mainly, let’s see how to be prepared to share the good news about Jesus. May God speak to us through his word.

So far in Acts, we’ve seen the evangelization of large groups of people. But here, it’s all about just one person. And the man is unusual. Look at verse 27. First, it says he’s “an Ethiopian.” In Greek, the word “Ethiopia” means someone with a “scorched” or blackened face. In his country everyone looks as he does, and black is beautiful! But outside his country he really stands out. When they see him, people might even be afraid. With such a different appearance, he might not be welcomed. Today, sadly, people—even children—experience the pain of prejudice, of getting judged based on their appearance or race. It also says this man is “a eunuch.” Most likely, he’s had a surgical procedure that’s left him unable to have children of his own. He probably had to do it in order to get his current job working for the queen. His condition is irreversible, and in society it gives him a severe social stigma. As we’ll see, it’s his most serious life problem. Then it says he’s “a court official” and “in charge of all [the queen’s] treasure.” A man serving a queen might need to endure a great deal of humiliation. But his high position means he’s quite capable, and now, he’s powerful and wealthy. Altogether, this man seems unlikely to be open to the gospel.

But Luke gives us two more details about him. Verse 27b says “he had come to Jerusalem to worship.” At that time, Ethiopia in Africa was over 1500 miles from Jerusalem.^[1] The trip would likely have taken several months. Why did the man make such a long journey? He doesn’t appear to be on official business. It seems he came out of his personal interest. Somehow he’s familiar with the Jewish faith, probably through his dealings with Jewish merchants. And he’s no casual observer; he’s really gotten into the Scriptures. He’s been so moved by the God of the Old Testament, he really wants to worship him. So he’s just been to Jerusalem in person, though he probably knew he would not be fully welcomed there.

And there’s one more thing here. Look at verse 28. Now, on his way home, he’s reading the prophet Isaiah. Clearly he’s not satisfied with the mere ritual of worship. He’s still seeking God, still reflecting on his word in the Scriptures. At that time, only very wealthy people could afford to have copies of the scrolls of Isaiah.^[2] This man paid for his own because he was drawn to Isaiah’s prophecies, which are full of God’s hope. In his fancy chariot, he’s reading Isaiah all by himself. It’s so improbable, and so touching, how much he’s seeking God.

The Old Testament shows God has always wanted to make Abraham’s descendants a blessing to all the nations of the earth.^[3] God often predicted that the Gentiles would come and seek him.^[4] And God responds to those who seek him with all their heart.^[5] God is still longing to include people of all races among his people.^[6] And now, it’s possible through Jesus, whom God sent to be “a light to the Gentiles.”^[7] Jesus is the real hope of all the earth, still today (Matt.12:21).

Look at verse 26. The angel’s appearance here shows how serious God is to help this Ethiopian eunuch. Philip gets involved, not with his own idea but in obedience to God (27a). But verse 26b tells us it’s a desert place. It’s unlikely anyone is even there. Philip may not think it an ideal place for ministry. It may seem like an absurd assignment. But even one person coming by who’s actually seeking God is more than enough.

Look at verse 29. Here it’s the Holy Spirit who leads Philip specifically to this man. It tells us a vital aspect of the Christian life. We all need the Holy Spirit. As we’ve seen in our study of Acts thus far, the Holy Spirit changes us. He gives us visions, wisdom, understanding, and boldness. Now we see in Philip’s life how the Holy Spirit also leads us, if we let him. In Acts we’ll continue to see how crucial this is in spreading the gospel.^[8] We all need to be learning how to humble ourselves to listen to and follow the Holy Spirit’s lead. How does Philip respond to the Holy Spirit’s prompting? Look at verse 30a. “So Philip ran to him…” When he’s sure the Holy Spirit is leading, Philip runs. We need his same eagerness.

And what does Philip find? Look at verse 30b. “…and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah and asked, ‘Do you understand what you are reading?’” What a surprise! Philip finds a guy in that chariot reading Isaiah out loud! Come on, what are the chances? But with the Holy Spirit leading, Philip is at just the right place, at just the right time, to speak with just the right person. To begin, Philip asks a simple question: “Do you understand this?” How does the man respond? Look at verse 31. He’s high-ranking and wealthy, but he’s humble. He even admits he can’t understand the Bible without a guide. The words of his question are almost haunting: “How can I, unless someone guides me?” So he invites Philip to come up into his chariot and sit with him. It shows how serious he is to get help. What a beautiful scene: the Ethiopian and Philip riding in a chariot, talking about the Bible.

Two things stand out here. First, there’s always a great need out there for people who can explain the true meaning of the Bible. Philip was ready to do it, right on the spot, because he’d been mentored in a Christ-centered church devoted to prayer and the ministry of the word (6:4). Let’s pray that through our weekly Sunday messages, personal reflection writing, group Bible studies, 1:1 studies, and morning devotions, God may raise people of Christ-centered faith, willing and well-equipped to explain his word to others. Second, this encounter shows that we can’t teach someone until that person is genuinely interested. If we can’t tell if a person is interested in the Bible and we start teaching anyway, we probably just like to hear ourselves talk. Talking onesidely, pushing or bulldozing never works, and it’s not Christ-like. May God help us depend on the Spirit to know when it’s time to explain, and when it’s time to be quiet, and listen, and wait.

Read verses 32–33. This is a quote from Isaiah 53:7–8. Why is the man reading these verses? He’s so interested in them because these verses describe someone who’s suffered, just as he has. It describes a man who could say nothing and just had to submit to being sheared. He’s a man who’s been humiliated and denied justice. He’s a man who has no descendants and whose life is taken from the earth. It’s a man this Ethiopian eunuch can relate to.^[9] His story speaks to the pain and suffering in his own life. So the man says to Philip, “About whom, I ask you, does the prophet say this, about himself or about someone else?” (34) It’s another poignant question from someone who’s had time to think, and who so badly needs to know who the verses are describing.

Read verse 35. “Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus.” Isaiah 53 is a great passage to point someone to Jesus. Jesus knows firsthand what it’s like to be despised and rejected, to have sorrows and grief, to be oppressed and afflicted, to have anguish of soul (Isa.53:3,7a,11a), because he went through it all. Because he himself suffered, he is able to help anyone who has suffered (Heb.2:18). He’s able to sympathize with our weaknesses (Heb.4:15). Best of all, the good news is, Jesus suffered in our places, for our sins, to heal us, to bring us God’s forgiveness and peace, and to give us hope for a new life, a new future, through his resurrection. No matter who we are, if we trust in his love and grace of forgiveness, he embraces us as his own, he welcomes us into God’s family, and he makes our lives abundant and fruitful. He even gives us hope for all eternity in him. It’s good news for this Ethiopian eunuch, who lost hope for his life. It’s good news for all people today, including all who feel hopeless or like outcasts. We don’t know how long this conversation was, but through it, the man truly receives the good news about Jesus.

Evangelism is rarely this quick and easy. As Apostle Paul mentions, it requires “complete patience” (2 Tim.4:2). But Philip’s encounter with this unusual man shows us all some timeless lessons. In meeting people, we need to put aside our prejudices and assumptions and be open to the Spirit’s leading. We need to be ready for the unexpected, and to discern if the person is truly seeking. We need to observe carefully and listen prayerfully if a person asks questions or shares personally. We need to be asking God to show us what the real problem is, and how Jesus can specifically help the person. And we need to remember that the pain in our lives is often the way God leads us to know Jesus better.

Verse 35 says, “…and beginning with this Scripture…” Like the Ethiopian eunuch, we all can find answers to our deepest problems in the verses of the Bible. Why is that? It’s because the Bible always points us to our living Lord Jesus Christ, the one who can truly help us with his grace and truth (John 1:14). Hebrews 4:12 says: “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword…discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” When we’re confused and don’t even understand ourselves, the Bible can show us what’s going on inside us. And as Paul says, the sacred writings of the Bible “are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim.3:15). Romans 10:17 says, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” Still, it may seem intimidating. But if we depend on the Holy Spirit to guide us, he can show us which verses to share with someone, and how to explain them.

This encounter is not big and flashy, with lots of people; it’s small and quiet, with just one person seeking and one person explaining. There’s no manipulation, no human pride or boasting in it at all. It just shows a simple truth: one person is so important to God. Yet, at the same time, this, too, is another example in Acts of the mighty work of the Holy Spirit. Look at verses 36 and 38. Through receiving the good news about Jesus, this one man is ready to make a new start, a real life commitment through baptism. He asks to be baptized––it’s his initiative. And even on this desert road they actually find water to do it. Again, God’s hand is in it. And what happens? Read verse 39. There’s no anxiety here about the man’s future. What will he do now? He goes on his way rejoicing, because in Jesus he’s found all that he needs. Tradition has it that he becomes a missionary to his own people. And God needs Philip elsewhere (40). Philip’s ministry to this man is him just responding to what God is already doing in the Ethiopian. It’s a preview of how many Gentiles God is going to reach through the scattered witnesses of Jesus.

Read verse 35 again. May God help us learn how to follow the Spirit’s lead, and how to share with anyone, one person at a time, the good news about Jesus.

^[1] Ethiopia at that time was not in the same location as it is today; it was likely the land of Cush, south of Egypt, in modern-day Sudan, and its famous capital, the ancient city of Meroë, was located on the Nile River. It was known for its wealth and for producing iron, jewelry and textiles. It had long been part of a trade route, bringing sought-after exotic resources from Africa’s interior to the Middle East, and then, west to Europe and east to Asia. At that time, Ethiopia was perceived to be at “the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8b).

^[2] Isaiah had been translated from Hebrew into Greek, and this man, due to his treasury position, doing business with people outside his nation, was likely fluent in Greek.

^[3] Gen.18:18; 22:18; 26:4.

^[4] Acts 15:17; 17:27; cf. Psalm 14:2 (53:2); 22:28; 86:9; Isa.2:2; 11:10; 43:6–7; 60:3; Lam.3:25; Zeph.2:3; 3:12; Zech.8:22.

^[5] Jer.29:13; cf. Deut.4:29; Heb.11:6.

^[6] Rom.3:29; 15:9–12; Eph.3:6.

^[7] Both New Testament books written by the Gentile Luke (Luke’s Gospel and Acts) have as their major theme the truth that Jesus is a light for the Gentiles (Luke 2:32a; Acts 13:47).

^[8] 8:29,39; 10:19; 11:12; 13:2,4; 16:6–7; 19:21; 20:22.

^[9] Isaiah also predicts God’s hope for eunuchs (Isa.56:3–5).

(QUESTIONS)

Acts 8:4-25 (Go to the ESV Bible verses)

Key Verse: 8:12, “But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.”

1.  Who is scattered, and why (4; see verse 1)? What do these scattered people do, what does “the word” mean, and why do they do this (4)?

2.  Who is Philip (6:3–5)? Where does he go and what does he do (8:5)? How do people respond, and why (6)? What signs does Philip perform, and what does it tell us (7–8)?

3.  Who is Simon and how has he been influencing the people of Samaria (9–11)? What does this tell us about the obstacles to and spread of the gospel?

4.  Read verse 12. What does Philip preach, what does it mean, and why is this still good news today (2:38; 10:43; 13:38; 26:18)? What does it mean that these new believers were baptized? What happens to Simon (13)?

5.  Why do Peter and John come, what do they do, and what results (14–17)? How does Simon respond (18–19)? What does Peter tell him (20–23), and why? What does Simon ask (24)? What do Peter and John do (25), and what is the significance of this?

(MESSAGE)

Key Verse: 8:12, “But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.”

What kingdom are you living in? We might answer, “I live in a democracy.” Some might shamelessly say, “I live in my own kingdom, on my own terms.” But the Bible says that, whether we realize it or not, we’re living in one of two kingdoms: it’s either the kingdom of God, or the kingdom of the evil one. How do we “get in” to these kingdoms? We “get in” to the evil kingdom through sin, deception and blindness. We “get in” to God’s kingdom through repentance, faith in Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. The good news is, God is inviting us all, no matter who we are, to his kingdom.^[1] So, if we’re not in his kingdom, what’s holding us back? What obstacles are hindering us? May God speak to us through his word.

Acts 8–11 shows how God begins breaking down barriers to bring the good news of Jesus to more and more people. It begins after Stephen is stoned to death. A great persecution arises against the church in Jerusalem. The believers are all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria (8:1). The young man named Saul, who gave his approval to Stephen’s execution, continues ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he drags off men and women and commits them to prison (8:3). This is no mere psychological resistance. It’s real suffering, real loss, real danger to life itself.

In an environment so hostile to the gospel, what happens? Read verse 4. “Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word.” Wait. Why are these people not scared? Haven’t they had to run for their lives? Why haven’t they gone into hiding? Instead, they’re going around, “preaching the word.” The Greek word for “preaching” is literally “evangelizing,” repeated in verses 12, 25, 35 and 40. Here in verse 4 it means “sharing the good news of the word.” It was not their plan, but it fulfilled God’s plan to send out his word from Jerusalem.^[2]

But what is this “good news of the word”? It’s the word about Jesus. It’s Bible study that gets to the point. It’s the good news that Jesus died and rose again to forgive our sins and give us hope in heaven. It’s so simple, anyone can share it. The bad news is, Stephen had to die for this good news. These Christians had to scatter for it. But it’s still the best news. Why? Because what Jesus did gets at the root of all our problems––sin and death. Outwardly people look fine. But sin and death are still ruining lives today. Our sin causes us to go against God’s will. It corrupts our nature and leads to broken relationships. Worst of all, our sin alienates us from God. Ultimately, our sin leads to physical death, to judgment, and then, to eternal torment.^[3] Even if we’re clueless about these consequences, if we’re living under the power of sin and death we feel guilty, meaningless, and fearful. It’s why we all need to accept the good news about Jesus, and share it with others.

Verse 4 is quietly showing that even the threat of persecution, prison and death do not intimidate these scattered believers. Why not? Because they’ve just witnessed firsthand the courage of Stephen and his undying love for Jesus. Stephen’s passion and Christ-like character, even in death, has lit this evangelism like a wildfire. God still can use inspiring examples, and even harsh persecution, to revive our souls and give us a new heart, a new spirit, to get out and start telling people the good news about Jesus.

Look at verse 5. Where was Samaria? Originally it was Northern Israel, where most of the smaller tribes lived. But many centuries ago, a foreign empire had invaded Northern Israel, due to their rebellion against God. Many Jews there were forced to move elsewhere, and foreigners were brought in and forced to intermarry with those who remained. Their descendants, the Samaritans, were known as Jewish “half-breeds.” They still held onto the law of Moses, including the law of circumcision. But they created their own place of worship on Mount Gerazim and refused to go to worship in Jerusalem. So the Jews of Jerusalem despised them and wouldn’t even drink out of the same cup with them. During his earthly ministry, Jesus traveled through Samaria and ministered to a Samaritan woman.^[4] To illustrate the love of neighbor, he told a parable of “the good Samaritan.”^[5] Once, he healed ten lepers, and the only one who came back to thank him was a Samaritan.^[6] And now, as the gospel of Jesus begins to spread out from Jerusalem, the first place is Samaria.

Verse 5 also mentions Philip. He was one of the seven chosen to distribute food daily to widows. It was humble work. But like Stephen, Philip goes on to become an inspiring spiritual leader himself. Like Stephen, Philip was a Hellenistic Jew, more familiar living outside of Jewish culture, more aware and more open to different kinds of people. And for now, at least, Samaria is not a target of persecution. So Philip proclaims the Christ to the Samaritans. Actually, Samaritans didn’t like the promise that the Christ would come through David’s descendants,^[7] because they thought it would leave them out. They only liked God’s promise that he would send the Prophet like Moses,^[8] which they believed would include them. But the good news of the Christ is that he is for all peoples. Somehow, Philip has this conviction.

How do the Samaritans respond? Look at verses 6–8. What gets their attention is not just Philip’s message but the amazing things that start happening through him. Unclean spirits start coming out of many people, crying out with a loud voice. Many who are lame or paralyzed are suddenly healed. These miracles are not just spectacle; they verify that the good news of Jesus is true. The truth of Jesus and the blessings he brings still fill people with such joy.

Look at verses 9–11. Here’s a major obstacle to the spread of the gospel in Samaria. It’s one person: a man named Simon. He practiced magic in the city and impressed the people. He was always promoting himself as someone great. So people started saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great.” For a long time this Simon had amazed the Samaritans with his magic. It says from the least to the greatest, they all were kind of hypnotized by him. To help these Samaritans, Simon’s spell on them would have to be broken.

But how could that happen? It’s through the power of the gospel. Read verse 12. “But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” Philip’s simple gospel message about Jesus and his kingdom is far superior to Simon’s power over people. Most likely, Simon’s “magic” was just tricks that seemed impressive and made people afraid of him. But Philip’s message is about the name of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the name above all names.^[9] The name of Jesus is the only name in all the world that gives people salvation (4:12). And Philip’s message of good news about the kingdom of God is not just theory; it’s accompanied by a power that brings people deep inner healing. Philip’s ministry is just like that of Jesus while he was on earth. Jesus always proclaimed the kingdom of God and healed the sick. His healing illustrated what the kingdom of God is like. It’s a kingdom where the poor, the crippled, the lame and the blind are welcomed and healed; it’s a kingdom where all the entitled and self-righteous will be shocked to discover that they are in fact “cast out.”^[10] It’s not a kingdom where people are subjugated by human power and ruled by phony, egotistical people. It’s a kingdom where all those who receive God’s grace, are healed in their souls, set free, and full of joy are welcome.

Verse 12 says that when people believe Philip’s message, they are baptized, both men and women. In the gospel of Jesus, women are included as equals, not marginalized. These people are baptized because now they have personal faith in Jesus as their Christ, their King. Their baptisms express their new life commitment––to follow Jesus as their Savior and King and leave their old lives behind. We all need to make this same commitment of faith. And something interesting happens. Look at verse 13. Simon himself seems to convert to Christianity and starts following Philip. Of course he’s impressed with the signs and great miracles God does through him. But not all is as it seems.

Look at verse 14. This is the first time Acts shows how God continues to use his people in Jerusalem to support what he is doing elsewhere.^[11] The author Luke is showing that when Christianity spreads, it doesn’t morph into something other than the original gospel. The number of Christians in Jerusalem is now much smaller, but they send their two top leaders, Peter and John, to see about the ministry in Samaria. And what do they find? Look at verses 15–17. There was just one thing lacking: people had not received the Spirit. Did Philip miss this? The verses don’t actually say. It may be that God, in his sovereign wisdom, withheld the Spirit until the apostles came, to teach both parties something. God wanted Jewish Christians to witness the Samaritans receiving the Spirit, so that they would finally welcome them as equals. And God wanted Samaritan Christians to experience the Spirit being given through Peter and John, so that they would let go of their old resentments and really unite with Jewish Christians.^[12] These Samaritan Christians don’t have to go to the Jerusalem temple to worship. Yet they are fully Christian because they have Jesus, who is our true temple, and they have the Holy Spirit.^[13] Jesus still unites all God’s people, all who’ve accepted the good news and received the Holy Spirit.

Look at verses 18–19. Simon has been baptized and is following Philip, but now we see his unchanged nature. He’s asking to buy the ability to give people the Holy Spirit. Read verses 20–21. God again uses Peter, a shepherd like Jesus, to rebuke a person whose heart is not right (5:1–11). Simon’s story shows us that we all need to receive the gospel so deeply that it actually changes our hope, our worldview, and what we love. If we say we believe in Jesus but are still in love with money and power, we’re in grave spiritual danger.

Read verse 22. Simon had been living for a long time as a showman. But now Peter is helping this man look honestly into his own soul. He’s already said “your heart is not right before God” (21b); now he says “this wickedness of yours.” And he goes deeper, mentioning “the intent of your heart.” What’s going on in Simon’s heart? Read verse 23. The phrase “the gall of bitterness” is an idiom that literally means Simon is envious, jealous of others’ power. The other phrase, “the bond of iniquity” literally means “tied to injustice.” “Iniquity” is not just sinful desires, but injustice. Basically, it seems Simon has formed the bad habit of cheating to get whatever he wants. These rebukes may seem negative, but Peter is trying to help this man repent and receive God’s forgiveness. How does he respond? Look at verse 24. This doesn’t sound like repentance. He’s not even praying for himself. But who knows? Luke leaves Simon’s story open-ended, as a warning to us. He’s telling us that just outward baptism and hanging out with Christians can’t really solve the problems within us. We need real repentance, honest turning to Jesus, and turning away from our old habits of heart, really crying out to Jesus for his forgiveness and help.

Philip’s message is “good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ” (12). But most people can’t see this good news; it’s “veiled” from them. The Bible says “the god of this world has blinded” their minds. What can we do? To share the gospel, we don’t have to be sneaky or cunning, or tamper with God’s word to get people to do what we want. We just need to openly state the truth, depending on God to work. And we need not to proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as servants for Jesus’ sake. When we do, the light of God’s glory in Christ will shine in us, and through us, to others.^[14]

Today’s passage shows us that when we live in a worldly kingdom, we become addicted to money and power like Simon. Or we become full of unclean spirits, powerlessness, and have no joy. We can even be ruled by fraudulent, spiritually sick leaders. But in God’s kingdom, we can be set free, full of forgiveness and joy, and truly one, because we’re ruled by our King Jesus. Colossians 1:13–14 reads, “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Praise God for the good news of our Lord Jesus Christ and the beautiful kingdom he gives us by his grace. Read verse 12 again. May God help us accept this good news, heal us deep within, and use us to share about the kingdom of God through Jesus with people living in darkness.

^[1] The overarching theme of the Bible is that, despite the influence of evil kingdoms, God’s kingdom will prevail; cf. Rev.11:15; Dan.2:44; Matt.13:31–33.

^[2] Isa.2:3b.

^[3] Gen.6:12; Isa.59:2; Rom.6:23a; Heb.9:27; Luke 16:23,28; Rev.21:8.

^[4] John 4:1–30.

^[5] Luke 10:25–37.

^[6] Luke 17:16.

^[7] 2 Sam.7:12–13.

^[8] Deut.18:15.

^[9] Phil.2:9.

^[10] Luke 7:22; 14:13,21; 13:28–30.

^[11] Cf. 11:22; 12:25; 15:2,4; 16:2; 21:17.

^[12] The prophet Ezekiel had predicted that the Messiah’s coming would finally unite all God’s people (Eze.37:15–28).

^[13] John 2:19,22; 4:20–24.

^[14] 2 Cor.4:2–6.