THURSDAY September 21, 2023

An Evil Plan Thwarted

Acts 18:14-17

Paul was about to speak and give a defense, when Gallio put a stop to the whole situation. He had no patience with the Jews who were obviously stirring up trouble. By what he said to them, you can tell he thought to himself, You are wasting my time. Gallio wanted the Jews to take care of the issue themselves because it had to do with their Jewish Laws. He wanted nothing to do with it. As proconsul of Achaia, he did not want the responsibility.

Gallio made it absolutely clear to the Jews that he only wanted to take care of judgments and laws established for the lives of the Corinthians. Having nothing more to say on the matter, he drove the Jews from his presence. Thankfully, their evil plan to harm Paul was thwarted.

Then, all of a sudden, out of nowhere, the Greeks laid their hands on poor Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and began to beat him. He was just an innocent bystander! As they could not beat Paul, in frustration perhaps, they decided to grab him instead! Gallio, seeing the violence, ignored it. He did not involve himself––he turned a blind eye––he just walked away.

Later, Sosthenes became a believer in Christ. In 1 Corinthians 1:1, we find his name mentioned: Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother.... Through Paul’s ministry, this man became saved, he remained a good friend of Paul, and he became a tremendous man of God.

In God’s hands intended evil becomes eventual good.
~Max Lucado~

WEDNESDAY September 20, 2023

A Unified Attack

Acts 18:12-13

It has been recorded by Seneca, a famous writer and stoic philosopher, that Gallio, his brother, was one of the nicest people you would ever want to know. As a Roman senator, Gallio governed from 51 AD –52 AD. For a short time, he became the proconsul of Achaia––a province of the Roman Empire. This beautiful area was free from military men and any Roman legions, which consisted of 3,000-6,000 units of men. It was a much sought after position because it was a desirable place for any senator to govern.

Interestingly, four artifact fragments, when they were placed together, became known as the “Gallio Inscription.” They had these interesting words written on them: “to Lucius Junius Gallio, my friend, and the proconsul of Achaia.” This historical find confirmed that Gallio was the proconsul of Achaia at the same time Paul visited Corinth in 51 AD.

Once again, the seat mentioned was the original place where Paul preached the Gospel message in Corinth. The Jews brought Paul before Gallio at the exact same place––the Judgment Seat or the Bema. As he stood at this place, Gallio heard the false charges brought against Paul. The Jews were bent on coming against him. They used the Law as a means to entrap him. As a Pharisee, Paul knew the Law very well. In fact, in Matthew 5:17, Jesus said of Himself: “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.”

Paul had done nothing wrong. Despite the persecution, he had perfect peace. God had promised to be with him; Paul had nothing to fear. Gallio knew the Jews had ill intentions toward Paul, but he would not be swayed. Are you a person who is easily swayed by people in corrupt media, by liberal politicians, or religious people who do not really know Christ? Jesus was not swayed by people, so neither should we be (Matthew 22:16 NIV).

A sense of perfect peace with God is the grandest thing in all the world with which to travel through life.
~Charles Spurgeon~

TUESDAY September 19, 2023

Do you Need Encouragement?

Acts 18:9-11

At times, God spoke to Paul through dreams and visions. As an apostle, in this period in his life, he must have been discouraged, perhaps because of the rejection of Christ by the Jews in the synagogue. He had faced much persecution from his own countrymen. Even though God was leading, guiding, and providing for Paul’s needs, his heart was discouraged, and he needed encouragement from the Lord.

Did Paul become afraid? Yes, he became fearful in his heart. He must have felt all alone. As persecution had come before, there was the possibility that he would face hostility again. The Jews hated him. He needed God’s comfort and reassurance. God calmed his fears. Nobody would attack him; he had nothing to fear. God was not finished with Paul’s life yet.

God, seeing the future, already knew all those who would accept Christ as His Word spread. Paul was going to be used by the Lord to teach many people in the city. He was able to stay and teach the new believers God’s Word for an entire year and a half so they could grow to maturity. Through Paul’s sound teaching, a healthy Christian church was established. The believers invited other people to church––the sheep begat the sheep. This was exactly how churches were established in the Calvary Chapel movement.

On occasion, I am sure you get discouraged; so do I at times. This is when we need to hear comforting words from the Lord. God is faithful to speak to our hearts through the Scriptures. He reassures us of His presence and gives to us His peace.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
~Isaiah 41:10 NIV~

MONDAY September 18, 2023

The House Next Door

Acts 18:7-8

After the Jews rejected the Gospel, Paul departed from the synagogue and went to the house of a man named Justus––a god-fearing Gentile. Believe it or not, his house was just next door to the synagogue! Paul was able to share the Gospel with him, and he became saved. Then the actual ruler of the synagogue, Crispus, believed in Christ with all his household. Many Corinthians were saved and baptized!

As a missionary, Paul was fulfilling the Great Commission. He preached the Gospel to the Gentiles, and by doing so, he began a mission to reach every nation (Matthew 28:19-20). Those who believed in the Christian message Paul taught had their lives transformed by the power of God.

Like Paul, I have a real burden to reach people, and I am open to preach and teach the Word of God whenever the opportunity arises. When I am among people, I see their needs––not only physical and emotional, but spiritual. When Christ walked among the multitudes of people, he was moved with compassion for them. He saw people like sheep without a shepherd (Matthew 9:35-36). We need to have that same compassion.

Listen, through the power of the Holy Spirit, every one of us has the capacity to share the Gospel with someone else. The opportunities are all around us. Maybe God will open the doors for you share about Christ with the person living in the house right next door! When we become so busy with our lives, we often fail to see people among us who need Christ. Ask God to help you be aware of opportunities to speak to those who need to hear about His love, mercy and grace. See people, see their needs, and have compassion on them.

Wherever God has you, in whatever place of employment, or wherever you live, right there is your mission field. Let the Lord use you!

To belong to Jesus is to embrace the nations with Him.
~William Carey~

SUNDAY September 17, 2023

Preaching to the Gentiles

Acts 18:4-6

In Corinth, in the synagogue, both Jews and Greeks were present. Paul reasoned with them without forcing his way in to speak, but he spoke when God gave him the opportunity. Even though God had called him to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles, he loved the nation of Israel and had such a heart for his Jewish brethren.

As Paul reasoned with these men every Sabbath from the Scriptures, he helped them to think and consider Christ. They listened to him expound on the Cross, and Christ’s Resurrection. Compelled by the Holy Spirit, he testified to his fellow countrymen that Jesus was the Christ––the Anointed One of God, the Messiah. Paul spoke of Christ with such fervency, and his preaching brought them to a place where they had to make a choice––either accept or reject the Gospel message.

What was the Jews’ reaction to the Gospel? Rejection! So Paul told them: “Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.” In Acts 20:26-27, Paul said a similar phrase: “Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God.”

Where in the Scriptures did Paul get this concept? In Ezekiel 3:18-19, the prophet Ezekiel was called to be a watchman. He was to warn Israel of God’s coming judgment; otherwise, their blood would be on his hands. In the same way, Paul knew he was responsible to warn people of God’s judgment and to share the Gospel of salvation so they could be saved.

We also have a great responsibility to share the Gospel with others––to make them accountable. Deliver the message regardless of the response.

But what if you ignore His warnings? Then you are in the gravest danger, for some day God will no longer be speaking to you. Then it will be too late.
~Billy Graham~

SATURDAY September 16, 2023

The Work of the Ministry

Acts 18:3

Paul and his friends were tentmakers. Did you know, Jewish young men were required to learn a trade? The Rabbis had this saying, “He who does not teach his son to work, teaches him to steal.” So from a youth, Paul would have learned the value of hard work.

In Paul’s testimony, he mentioned his Jewish heritage and education: ...circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee... (Philippians 3:5). He not only had a trade, but he was educated in the Law of God. Paul had a full work schedule. In the early morning hours, he worked his trade; from 11:00am to 4:00pm, he preached the Gospel. Although Paul completed his work day, he continued to minister to others in the evening hours. Even after a full week of work, on the Sabbath, Paul went to a synagogue to preach Christ.

Paul had a desire to work––to provide for himself and any needs for ministry. He preferred not to receive money from people, as he wanted to remain blameless; however, later God placed it on the heart of Timothy and Silas to give Paul an offering, so his ministry work could continue.

Some people who enter ministry do not like to work; instead, they like to live off the ministry. Where is their integrity? Years ago when we first began ministry, we all had full-time jobs. As pastors, we did not receive a salary until there were at least 500 people in the church. At times we lacked money, but we trusted the Lord to provide. Chuck Smith taught us, “Where God guides, God provides.” We found this to be true.

Some people are drawn into the ministry because they like to travel and experience a comfortable life. That is not the ministry. It is not a job, but a call from God. A person may say, “I want to be a pastor.” It does not work that way. God anoints a person, and they have a burden to preach.

If a man be truly called of God to the ministry, I will defy him to withhold himself from it. A man who has really within him the inspiration of the holy ghost calling him to preach cannot help it. He must preach.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

FRIDAY September 15, 2023

Friends and Co-laborers

Acts 18:2-4

As we continue to follow Paul on his second missionary journey, we will learn even more about missions. We have already seen the power of the Holy Spirit moving in the lives of different people, and the way God works in bringing about His perfect will. He anoints people to accomplish His work. We have witnessed in the book of Acts how God leads, guides and provides.

Paul was directed by God through doors that He would open and doors that He would close. As God led Paul by His Spirit, the Lord did mighty works through him when he entered a new city. Now in Corinth, this would be such a city. Although a city of sin, these sinners needed the Gospel!

The city was immoral. Behind the Bema Seat at the top peak of Acrocorinth, was the Temple of the goddess Aphrodite––the goddess of sex and pleasure. At night, 1000 prostitutes would come down and mingle with men in the city. Men, married or single, and even Christian men engaged in sexual adventures. They were seduced by these prostitutes.

As Paul was alone in the city, God in His sovereignty, and in His perfect timing, arranged circumstances so that Paul would meet a Christian, married couple. Aquila and Priscilla befriended Paul. They were even trained in the same trade as him––tentmakers. There are no coincidences with God. In His divine will, the Roman Emperor Claudius persecuted the Jews and commanded that they leave Rome. God used his decree to displace Aquila and Priscilla and bring them all together. Paul needed support and fellowship in the ministry. I love the way God works.'

Let those be thy choicest companions who have made Christ their chief companion.
~Thomas Brooks~

THURSDAY September 14, 2023

Immorality

Acts 18:1

Paul had left Athens and arrived in Corinth. The city of Corinth was very prominent in the first century. It is located in Greece on an isthmus between the Aegean and Ionian Seas. The city had great significance both commercially and militarily. Corinth was the capital of the Roman province Achaia.

About 90,000 people lived in Corinth. They were well known for their love of pleasure. Idolatry and wickedness were commonplace. The city had a poor reputation, so much so that a new Greek word was used to describe someone living there: korinthiazomai which meant “to live immorally like a Corinthian.” This ancient city was extremely worldly, just like liberal Hollywood or Las Vegas––sin city.

I had the opportunity to go to Corinth, and one of the most amazing sights I saw was the Corinth Canal. It connects the Greek mainland to the Peloponnese––the southern Peninsula of Greece. Historically, it was the ambition of many Roman emperors to create the canal, but it was started by Nero with a group of 6,000 slaves, thought to have been Jewish prisoners of war. However, it was not completed until 1893.

The Corinth canal is about 4 miles long, and 26 feet deep. When viewed from the air, its steep, beautiful, limestone walls reaching 300 feet from water level can be seen. At times the canal has been closed due to rock falls. The deep blue waters carried ships through this narrow canal and saved them from traveling about 300 nautical miles.

In Corinth, I have also seen the ancient Bema Seat, a place used to reward athletes and pronounce judgments. The Greek word bema is used by Paul, for the Judgment Seat of Christ––where He will judge all believers for all the things they have done in life––whether good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:9-11).

It is at the Bema Seat that Paul stood to give the Gospel to the Corinthians. Paul was so faithful to the call of God on his life.

If I walk with the world, I can’t walk with God.
~D.L. Moody~

WEDNESDAY September 13, 2023

A Divided Audience

Acts 17:32-34

In these verses, I noticed three different reactions to the Gospel message preached by the Apostle Paul in Athens. Some men mocked and started to make fun of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Others hesitated and procrastinated in their decision to respond to the message. They put off accepting Christ because they wanted to hear more on another occasion. A number of men gladly received Christ, and, by faith joined the ranks of Christianity.

Those who accepted Christ would be used to help spread the Gospel. It is believed by tradition that when Paul left Athens and continued his missionary journey, Dionysius became the pastor of the church that was founded in Athens. The Gospel continued to move throughout Europe and Asia, just as it is still moving around the world today.

These same three reactions can be seen in the lives of different people in the church today. What is your response to the Gospel message? Have you sat in church, listened to the message given by the pastor, but you have left mocking the Gospel? Have you failed to respond to the Gospel message? Do you procrastinate each week, thinking to yourself, I am not ready; I will wait until another time? You may leave the church service and die in a car crash! There is no guarantee you will get another opportunity to respond to the Gospel. In 2 Corinthians 6:2, you are told: Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. Why not respond today and join the ranks of Christianity?

Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved. In the day thou believest, thou shalt surely live. Thou shalt be restored to the favor of God; and in his pleasure is life.
~John Wesley~

TUESDAY September 12, 2023

Heed the Challenge to Repent

Acts 17:30-31

God pours out His grace and mercy on people who are living in utter ignorance. He is willing to give them the opportunity to repent. That is a central key to the Christian message. The Gospel challenges each one of us to repent, no matter where we live! People living in the jungles of Brazil or the desserts of Siberia, no matter where we live, we are to repent.

Why do we need to repent? Think about it. There is going to be a Day of Judgment: And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment (Hebrews 9:27). How can we be sure that there is a Judgment Day? Go to Jesus’ tomb! He died and then He rose again from the dead! God has ordained Jesus as Judge.

Listen to Paul give this charge to Timothy in the light of Christ judging the living and the dead: I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching (2 Timothy 4:1-2). Jesus will also give life to those who believe in Him: For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will (John 5:21).

Knowing there is a Judgment Day coming (Revelations 20:11-15), will you heed Paul’s challenge to repent? What are you waiting for? Listen to the Holy Spirit’s conviction and allow Him to speak to your heart. Repent, confess Jesus Christ as Lord, and receive eternal life. Take a step of faith––it’s that simple. Accept God’s mercy, before judgment comes.

What will you do when the Law of God comes in terror; when the trumpet of the archangel shall tear you from your grave; when the eyes of God shall burn their way into your guilty soul; when the great books shall be opened and all your sin and shame shall be punished... can you stand against an angry Law in that Day?
~Charles Spurgeon~

MONDAY September 11, 2023

Patriot Day

Ephesians 6:12 NIV

By a joint resolution approved on December 18, 2021, Congress designated September 11 of each year as “Patriot Day” and requested the observance be annually recognized as “National Day of Service and Remembrance.”

It is our duty to never forget what happened on 9/11––a day that lives on in infamy. Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the September 11th attacks, when people watched in horror as two of four hijacked planes were flown into the Twin Towers at the World Trade Centre in New York City.

Another two hijacked planes flew toward their targets. One intentionally crashed into the Pentagon killing 184 people, while the other, it is believed, was rapidly heading in the direction of the White House. Brave passengers and crew sought to regain control of the plane, which eventually crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. These suicide terror attacks were attributed to al-Qaeda Islamic extremists.

In one dreadful day, nearly 3,000 Americans were killed. Innocent men, women and children died. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors the many lives of those who were lost. The Pentagon Memorial was created to honor those who died. It is a reminder for future generations to renew their faith in God, and to uphold the values that citizens of a free world share.

It is our duty as Christians to not only pray for the families who have endured such a great loss of life on 9/11, but we need to pray for God’s protection over our land. Unbelievably, because of the current administration, our borders are wide open, allowing terrorists to cross into our country and potentially to cause more harm.

My Country, ’tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing . . .
Long may our land be bright, with freedom’s holy light;
Protect us by thy might, Great God, our King.
~Samuel Francis Smith~

SUNDAY September 10, 2023

The Divine Nature of God

Acts 17:28-29

Paul declared that God is the One who has given us life. He gives us our very breath: And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being (Genesis 2:7). Paul was very clever. In his sermon, he related this truth to what their own poets had written: “‘for we are also His offspring.’”

Paul addressed a living audience; therefore, it made sense that God is a Living God as declared by the prophet Jeremiah: But the LORD is the true God; He is the living God and the everlasting King (Jeremiah 10:10). It was foolish to think He would be made of gold or silver or stone, or anything else formed by man’s inventing. God has a Divine Nature. He is eternal. The prophet Isaiah masterfully spoke of God’s Divine Nature and the futility of worshipping man-made idols:

Isaiah 44:6 NIV: “This is what the LORD says—Israel’s King and redeemer, the LORD Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.”

Isaiah 44:9-11 NIV: All who make idols are nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Those who would speak up for them are blind; they are ignorant, to their own shame. Who shapes a god and casts an idol, which can profit nothing? People who do that will be put to shame; such craftsmen are only human beings.

Isaiah 44:13, 20 NIV: The carpenter measures with a line and makes an outline with a marker.... He shapes it in human form, human form in all its glory, that it may dwell in a shrine.... Such a person feeds on ashes; a deluded heart misleads him....

God’s Word reasons with us intelligently. We can come to know the Living God and all of His goodness.

Love is an image of God, and not a lifeless image, but the living essence of the divine nature which beams full of all goodness.
~Martin Luther~

SATURDAY September 9, 2023

God Sets Preappointed Times

Acts 17:26-27

In Paul’s sermon to the Athenians, he explained that God created man from one blood. Adam and Eve were our first earthly parents. Whether we are white, black, Asian, or Hispanic, we are all related. God is color-blind. The world is not. Know this: when we come to Christ, we are all one in Him. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28 NIV). Therefore, there should be no division among us.

Did you know God sets limits in our lives? A person’s days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed (Job 14:5 NIV).We all have something else in common. We are all going to die. God has a preappointed time. In His wisdom, God has created each of us with a desire for eternity: He has also set eternity in their heart... (Ecclesiastes 3:11 NASB).

Knowing we have a limited time on earth, and eternity is everlasting, it would be wise to actively seek Him and find Him. Our one purpose in life is to worship and serve the Lord until He takes us home to be with Him forever:

Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon (Isaiah 55:6-7 NIV).

How far away is God from us? He is near––right at the door of our lips––all we have to do is confess Him with our mouths: “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 10:32). God is merciful. He pardons sin, but He never forces Himself on anyone. He gives you a will to choose. Why not seek the Lord today?

Confess your sin with honesty, be pardoned with certainty.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

FRIDAY September 8, 2023

God Dwells Within Us

Acts 17:24-25

Paul proclaimed to his audience of intellectual philosophers that God was the Creator of heaven and earth. His sermon began with the power of God. He is the Creator of all things. As God is the Creator of all things, the Athenians should realize there was no logical reason to worship false idols of gold, silver, marble, wood and stone. God made all these materials. He is the One who is deserving of our worship.

God created man in His own image: So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them (Genesis 2:27). Paul caused them to further consider, “How do you think you breathe through your nostrils every day? Your gods do not breathe! God created you to have life!” Think about it. It is mankind who tries to make gods after his own image.

In 1 Corinthians 3:16, we find the truth that God does not live in idols or buildings. When a person becomes born again of the Holy Spirit, their human body becomes the Temple of God: Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?

When Jesus encountered the woman at the well, He cut through her religious conversation with one important truth: “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Being religious does not save a person from eternal death. You need a personal relationship with Jesus Christ––you must be born again (John 3:3).

Even today, many different religions offer prayers and even food to worship gods that cannot speak, hear or see. If you know God, proclaim Him to those who are ignorant of Him. People want to hear about eternity.

The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us when we believe in Christ and are redeemed. It is through the Spirit that God reveals mysteries to us, for the Spirit searches all things, even the depths of God.
~Francine Rivers~

THURSDAY September 7, 2023

THE UNKNOWN GOD

Acts 17:22-23

In Athens, philosophers had taken Paul to the Areopagus––a place known as Mars Hill. I have had the opportunity to stand right at that exact place––the Temple attributed to Agnostos Theos, the unknown god, in Athens. It has been recorded in history that very often, Athenians would even swear "in the name of the Unknown God."

Now curious about what Paul had to say, they wanted to sit down to hear this new doctrine. The Athenians always wanted to hear of some new thing. As Paul looked out into his audience, he viewed their idolatry and knew they had such an emptiness in their hearts.

Paul examined the situation. He wanted to address them at their level so they could understand the message. He began his incredible sermon by starting with their love of worshiping all these different idols. Among the idols, he had found an altar with this inscription: TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Paul decided to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ from that premise. He would reveal to his audience who the unknown God was––Jesus! Paul had the wonderful freedom to speak about Him!

Be aware of the opportunities God has given you to preach the Gospel. When it happens, preach Christ with boldness.

I would rather speak five words out of this book than 50,000 words of the philosophers. If we want revivals, we must revive our reverence for the Word of God. If we want more conversions, we must put more of God’s Word into our sermons.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY September 6, 2023

A New Doctrine?

Acts 17:19-21

The philosophers decided to invite Paul to speak at the Areopagus. It was situated northwest of the city of Athens. The word Areopagus combines the Greek names “god of war” and “stone” or literally “Ares’ Rock.” In Roman mythology, Ares was equivalent to the Roman god Mars, the god of war. This is why the hill became known as Mars Hill. Imagine, Paul was given such a historical platform from which to preach Christ.

Interestingly, this small, hilly area was covered with stones that were used for seats. Athenian leaders and thinkers gathered there to discuss and investigate different thoughts and concepts. The Epicureans and Stoics were eager to hear what Paul had to say, so they sat ready to receive. Think about it. Paul had a perfect audience.

The new doctrine the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers wanted to hear was none other than the Gospel message! What an amazing opportunity God gave to Paul! As a brilliant theologian, he was able to help them in their search for truth. In his introduction, he used their own philosophies and religious way of thinking to begin his discourse. Paul had noticed an altar named: TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. This would be his starting point.

Understand, the men of Athens were not committed people. They were tossed like the waves of the sea––always wanting to hear a new thing. The Bible teaches us as Christians not to be: ...tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine... (Ephesians 4:14). We need to know the solid doctrine of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Christian "doctrines" are translations into our concepts and ideas of that which God has already expressed in language more adequate, namely the actual incarnation, crucifixion, and resurrection.
~C. S. Lewis~

TUESDAY September 5, 2023

Preaching Jesus and the Resurrection

Acts 17:16-18

When Paul was in Athens waiting for Silas and Timothy to come, he did not waste time. His spirit was grieved because he saw an entire city given over to idolatry. He prayed, waited on the Holy Spirit, and then moved into action. Again, Paul sought opportunity to share Christ with the lost. He entered a synagogue to reason with Jewish and Gentile worshipers.

Then he went into the marketplace daily to speak the knowledge of the truth with anyone there. He confronted their idolatry. I love that Paul did not stay in his hotel room; he made good use of his time. As we wait on the Holy Spirit to lead us, we need to go and share with people about Christ. How else are they going to be saved?

The Epicureans were an interesting people. They believed pleasure was the chief end of life. The Stoic philosophers believed that god was in everything. So here we find two schools of thought: those who were pantheistic and believed god was in everything, and those who believed you should enjoy all the pleasures in life––to be fully satisfied.

As these thinkers and poets encountered Paul and listened to his preaching, they failed to grasp its full meaning. He powerfully preached Jesus and the Resurrection. Lacking understanding, they thought, Perhaps he is preaching yet another god among the many other ones we worship.

The resurrection of Christ is one of the foundation stones of Christianity. It was the seal of the great work that He came on earth to do. It was the crowning proof that the ransom He paid for sinners was accepted, the atonement for sin accomplished, the head of him who had the power of death bruised, and the victory won.
~J. C. Ryle~

MONDAY September 4, 2023

Labor Day

Psalm 128:1-2

Labor Day is usually observed on the first Monday in September. It is a federal holiday that gives hardworking men and women a well-deserved day of rest. It pays tribute to the achievements of American workers. Most Americans will use the day to enjoy family barbeques and city parades.

Although we can make the most of a restful day off, the history of Labor Day had a forceful beginning. Strikes and rallies brought attention to harsh working conditions in many of America’s factories, railroads, mills and mines. Employees, often including children, were required to work very long hours, as many as 16 hours a day, for six days a week. They worked in poor conditions and were treated very unfairly.

People began to make their voices heard. They were determined to stand together and fight for shorter workdays and better conditions. They joined strikes and rallies, but some of these turned violent. On May 1, 1886, labor activists in the city of Chicago began a strike, demanding an eight-hour workday.

On September 5, 1882, union leaders in New York City organized what is thought to be the first Labor Day Parade. Ten thousand workers took unpaid leave and marched from City Hall to Union Square in New York City, while others listened to speeches, attended picnics, watched fireworks, and enjoyed dancing.

Traditionally, Labor Day is considered to be the final day that ends our summer. An old custom said that people would not wear white clothing after Labor Day, as wearing white was thought to be an indication of still being on vacation. Whatever you decide to do this Labor Day, take time to enjoy your family and all you have worked so hard for. Realize just how much the Lord has blessed you and has been faithful to you.

Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God.
~Ecclesiastes 5:19 NIV~

SUNDAY September 3, 2023

A Place of Idolatry

Acts 17:12-15

After hearing Paul, many men and women in Berea accepted Christ. They searched for the truth and found Him! However, it was not long before word came to the Jews in Thessalonica that Paul and Silas were preaching the Gospel in Berea. Once again, persecution came. Irritate Jews made the journey to the city to stir up crowds. They hated the Gospel and abhorred Jesus, so they set out to cause trouble.

Then the brethren had to, once more, send Paul away. He went alone across the beautiful Aegean Sea, an elongated embayment of the Mediterranean to Athens. While he waited for Silas and Timothy to join him, he became stirred in his spirit by the things he saw and heard.

Have you ever been to a place where you have observed so much sin that your heart was grieved? As the Lord begins to speak to you by His Holy Spirit, you find yourself saying, “The Gospel really needs to be preached in this place.” This was what Paul felt, and he decided to do something about it.

Paul knew there was a lot of prostitution, idolatry and philosophy. The entire city was covered in idols. In Athens, the people worshiped every kind of god you could ever imagine. They had gods of gold, silver, marble, stone and wood. The people were so religious and philosophical.

Every one of us should be deeply grieved in our spirit when we see people trapped in vain idolatry in our world today. People are perishing without God. May the Lord speak to our hearts to reach them for Christ.

We make a god out of whatever we find most joy in. So find your joy in God and be done with all idolatry.
~John Piper~

SATURDAY September 2, 2023

Search the Scriptures

Acts 17:10-11

Paul and Silas had escaped from Jason’s house, as a mob had gathered around the home to try to drag them outside and do them harm. Having escaped, the brethren decided to immediately send them by night to Berea. On their missionary journeys, it seemed they were always leaving places at night and making a run for their lives!

Berea was just a small city about 40 miles away from Thessalonica. Paul and Silas used the same strategy as, once again, on the Sabbath Day, they entered a synagogue and began to speak to the Jews gathered there, about Christ.

The Gospel is for everyone––for people living in affluent, capital cities and for those less significant people who live in smaller cities. God moves in all places; He is not prejudiced. When Paul and Silas preached to the people in Berea about Jesus Christ, there was one notable difference in their response. They diligently went back to the Scriptures and made sure what they told them was true. Was it in context? People in Berea became well-known for searching the Scriptures to find out the truth.

As Christians, it is important to follow their example. Study biblical doctrine to make sure you have the truth and have not been fed lies. Even what I teach from the pulpit should be examined to make sure it is true. Go back to the Scriptures to make sure.

There is an infinite majesty about every line of Scripture, but especially about that part of Scripture in which the Lord reveals Himself and His glorious plan of saving grace in the person of His dear Son Jesus Christ.
~Charles Spurgeon~

FRIDAY September 1, 2023

Turning the World Upside Down for Christ

Acts 17:6-9

The apostles were very effective in their preaching, and it brought opposition from evil men. An angry mob had come upon Jason’s house to seize the apostles, but Paul and Silas had escaped. In the chaos and unruliness, Jason and some of the brethren were dragged out of the home and charged before the rulers of the city. As they stood there, the mob cried out damaging charges. They accused them of harboring men who were turning the world upside down, but that really was a great charge to be made against them!

Seriously, they should have charged them with this statement instead: those who have turned the world right side up! That is exactly what the Gospel of Jesus Christ does. It heals people’s lives as they come into a right relationship with God.

The other serious charge brought against Jason and the others as Paul’s accomplices was they all were acting contrary to the decree of Caesar. Why? They proclaimed Jesus as King. Caesar Augustus had set up a degree, Christians were commanded to bow their knee and say, “Caesar is Lord.” If they refused, they were crucified, set on fire, or thrown to the lions. Many made a courageous stand and said: “Jesus is Lord.” During this time in history, persecuted Christians gave their lives for Christ.

Bail was set for security and taken from Jason, so they were all let go. They would have to return to jail at a later time to answer the charges. These disciples counted the cost for turning the world to Christ.

If any of you would be saved your hearts must be turned upside down. I will now appeal to you, and ask you whether you have ever felt this––whether you know the meaning of it?
~C.H. Spurgeon~

THURSDAY August 31, 2023

Inciting a Mob

Acts 17:4-5

The Scriptures had opened the hearts of many in the synagogue in Thessalonica to receive Christ. After their hearts were pricked by the Holy Spirit, they became converted. Leading women and some men who were devout Greeks came to Christ and joined themselves to Paul and Silas. They wanted to learn more about Christ.

However, the moment Paul opened his mouth to preach the Gospel, he always ran into opposition. There were those who were persuaded to come to Christ and others, among the Jews, who were not convinced. In this audience, there were two distinct camps; those who believed and those who did not believe, persons who made peace with God and others who decided to make trouble. They opposed the Gospel and stood against God’s apostles––those sent by Him.

Those Jews who heard the Gospel and rejected it became very hostile. They had become envious of Paul’s influence among the multitudes of people. Trouble started when they decided to hire a mob––thieves and robbers––lowlifes who started a riot. There was such an uproar within the city.

All the Jews’ anger and fury were directed toward one home––the house of Jason, a believer in Christ. Their intent was to drag the apostle from his home. In the hands of an unrestrained, frenzied rabble, Paul and Silas surely would have been in danger of being beaten or killed!

Persecution is one of the natural consequences of living the Christian life. It is to the Christian what “growing pains” are to the growing child. No pain, no development. No suffering, no glory. No struggle, no victory. No persecution, no reward.
~Billy Graham~

WEDNESDAY August 30, 2023

Reasoning From the Scriptures

Acts17:2-3

For three Sabbaths, Paul came into the Jewish synagogue and argued his point––Jesus Christ was the Messiah. Remember, Paul taught from the Old Testament Scriptures; the New Testament had not yet been written. He peacefully reasoned with his fellow Jews. The word reasoned means “to converse, discourse with one, argue, discuss.” For the most part, many Jews were convinced that Jesus was not the Messiah––the Son of God.

In the book of Romans, Paul wrote an interesting fact about the Jews: not only do they have hardened hearts, but the majority of Jews in Israel still remain blind to the knowledge of Christ being their Messiah. It is not until the last person among the Gentiles is saved that their eyes will finally be opened: ...blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in (Romans 11:25).

Like Paul, I like to reason with Jewish people from the Old Testament Scriptures, right from their own writings. I take them to Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53. I ask them to tell me what these Scriptures are speaking about. They will answer me that these Scriptures are speaking about the nation of Israel. Wrong! These Scriptures reveal to us a Person––Jesus Christ––the Suffering Servant.

Paul was able to reason with the Jews, and within three short weeks, he established the church in Thessalonica. He gave them the full counsel of God. Paul proved Christ was the Messiah, as seen in the Scriptures. As a result, many people made a solid commitment to Christ. They truly became born again! Why not take a step of faith and reason with someone from the Scriptures who Christ is and their need for Him to be their personal Savior.

Faith is a reasoning trust, a trust which reckons thoughtfully and confidently upon the trustworthiness of God.
~John R.W. Stott~

TUESDAY August 29, 2023

The Rapture of the Church

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

In his letter to the Thessalonian church, Paul established the doctrine of the Rapture of the church. He made known to the believers that those who do not have Christ do not have hope; but those who have Christ have hope. Why? Even in our sorrow, when someone we love dies, and they knew Christ, we shall see them again. There is life after death; we do not just become non-existent. We have hope in eternal life.

The believers in Thessalonica asked Paul, “When a person dies, what is going to happen at the coming of the Lord? Are they going to come with Jesus, or are we going to them?” Paul answered this important question. He gave them a promise. Those who have died in Christ, those we greatly miss, we shall one day, meet again.

For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep [dead]. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17).

Paul also taught that at the coming of the Lord, there will be a generation that will not die! They will disappear because the Lord will come, and at the sound of the trumpet, they will be snatched away. Paul assured the Thessalonian believers of the reality of the coming of the Lord.

Are you ready for the coming of the Lord? The world is so messed up, how much longer can it continue? Jesus will come again!

Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed—in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
~1 Corinthians 15:51-52~

MONDAY August 28, 2023

The Heart of the Gospel Message

Acts17:1-3

Thessalonica was a very important city. It was named around 315 BC by Thessaloniki, the wife of Cassander, and the stepsister of Alexander the Great. In the Roman province of Macedonia, this great capital city had a population of over 200,000 people. It was a commercial city––a free city because it was governed by the people.

Paul desired to go to this amazing city to proclaim the Gospel message to them. First, he looked for a Synagogue where the Jews were meeting to hear the Torah––the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament. Second, Paul simply proclaimed to the Jews the very heart of the Gospel message––Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah, the Son of the Living God. He came, He died, and He rose again.

That should be our same purpose in life––to preach the Gospel Message. Our entire existence should be used to bring glory and honor to Jesus Christ. Our lives are to be in full submission to Him. Think about it. We are only here for a limited amount of time––preparing for eternity. This life is so short compared to eternity. The years go by so quickly, then we shall be in the presence of God forever and ever.

That is why the Gospel message had such power. After death there is the hope of eternity. In Thessalonica, the believers devoured the Word of God, and as a result, there developed such a strong church. These Christians had an unwavering belief in the coming of Christ. Through Paul’s sound preaching, they believed Jesus could come again at any moment. They lived each day with such an expectancy of His Coming. Are you?

...looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.
~Titus 2:13~

SUNDAY August 27, 2023

Preaching Christ

Acts17:1-3

Paul was called to teach the Word of God––to preach Christ. Preaching and teaching described his ministry. When he came to any new destination, he would look for a Synagogue, as he first preached to the Jews. We shall witness the incredible response of people moved by his preaching. Many came to Christ, but others became envious and violent.

I remember when I first became saved; I had such an urgency and excitement to preach the Gospel. During this time, there were many different worship groups that God had raised up. One of them was Love Song. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, beautiful songs of worship were written. These groups were very anointed by the Holy Spirit. Hundreds and thousands of hippies came to hear their music, but not just the worship. They were hungry for God’s Word. They wanted to know God more.

In reaching our generation today, it is hard to explain to them what it was like to be in the presence of God when the Holy Spirit was saving so many young people. As you came into the house of the Lord, you could feel the Shekinah glory of God as you sat there in amazement––listening to God’s Word. When you left the service, all you wanted to do was go and tell everyone about Jesus. There was empowered evangelism.

Did you know, worship prepares the human heart to hear the message? It is an important part of the service. It brings you right into the presence of God. When you listen to a sermon, ask the Lord to speak to your heart directly, not the person sitting next to you––it needs to change your heart.

Do you have a hunger and thirst to know God more?

I want to know you, I want to hear your voice.
I want to know you more. I want to touch you.
I want to see your face, I want to know you more.
~Chris Tomlin~