FREE GIFT
21 But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25 God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— 26 he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.
Generally, in life, we learn that we earn our keep -- we get what we pay for -- that success and failure are often based on hard work, sweat effort, and good choices. And we rejoice at the good things we have because we deem them representative of our industriousness.
Paul reminds the Romans that God's earthly blessings are showered upon both the righteous and the unrighteous, and that His grace is not given in proportion to our sweat effort. Rather, His grace is a free gift that comes to us even when we do not deserve it.
Even more is this true when it comes to eternity. Jesus did it ALL! We did nothing to earn or merit His salvation.
We need to remember this as we deal with those who struggle to earn a living. Perhaps, rather than say, "so sad for them," we are instead called to help provide for them through the blessings God has first given to us. When we see these blessings as gifts that are entrusted to our care, (rather than representative of our "earnings") it becomes even easier to share them.
May God bless you as you offer God's gifts to bless the poor, the weak, and those in need.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Thursday, June 27, 2013
June 27 - Romans 2
HYPOCRISY
21 you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal? 22 You who say that people should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law?
The world loves to mock Christian inconsistency. Whenever a religious figure "falls from grace" by living contrary to God's law, there will often be someone to point it out and deride all Christians as hypocrites.
This, of course, is true. We ARE all hypocrites since we are all sinners who cannot possibly keep God's law perfectly. Inconsistent behavior will constantly dog us, as hard as we try to live by God's standards.
At the same time, though, it is a gross stereotype to try and paint all Christians as unloving, judgmental, and full of pride because of one person who covered over a gross of heinous sin. It would be the same as me saying that all people of a certain race, gender, or persuasion are ALWAYS a certain way or do certain things.
Because of this, it is offensive to me when the media or the unbeliever choose to make caricatures of Christians which do not represent the bulk of Christ's followers. In my ministry I do not choose, ever, to brand those who differ from me with false stereotypes. To do so, in my mind, is racist, sexist, homophobic, bigoted, unfair, or any other number of negative words I could use.
It is my prayer that the same courtesy would be extended to my brothers and sisters in the faith. Please remember that the only one who has ever been worthy of such scrutiny and standards was Jesus Himself. And He passed the test. No inconsistency in Him. No hypocrisy. Just pure, perfect, love, grace, and compassion.
21 you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal? 22 You who say that people should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law?
The world loves to mock Christian inconsistency. Whenever a religious figure "falls from grace" by living contrary to God's law, there will often be someone to point it out and deride all Christians as hypocrites.
This, of course, is true. We ARE all hypocrites since we are all sinners who cannot possibly keep God's law perfectly. Inconsistent behavior will constantly dog us, as hard as we try to live by God's standards.
At the same time, though, it is a gross stereotype to try and paint all Christians as unloving, judgmental, and full of pride because of one person who covered over a gross of heinous sin. It would be the same as me saying that all people of a certain race, gender, or persuasion are ALWAYS a certain way or do certain things.
Because of this, it is offensive to me when the media or the unbeliever choose to make caricatures of Christians which do not represent the bulk of Christ's followers. In my ministry I do not choose, ever, to brand those who differ from me with false stereotypes. To do so, in my mind, is racist, sexist, homophobic, bigoted, unfair, or any other number of negative words I could use.
It is my prayer that the same courtesy would be extended to my brothers and sisters in the faith. Please remember that the only one who has ever been worthy of such scrutiny and standards was Jesus Himself. And He passed the test. No inconsistency in Him. No hypocrisy. Just pure, perfect, love, grace, and compassion.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Wednesday, June 26 - Romans 1
SO SMART
21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles.
We live, arguably, in the most intellectually advanced culture in the history of the world. Every day, it seems, there are new inventions and innovations so as to make our lives easier and more entertaining.
Unfortunately, it also seems that the more we advance in our abilities the more we become self-reliant and prideful. And, the consequent result, is that our culture is fast beginning to believe it doesn't need a God.
Yet also apparent is the emptiness of materialism and the void found in the lives of all who build their foundation on transient things. All you have to do is look at Hollywood to see the unhappy lives of those who have "everything" but lack the relationship with the God who can bring meaning and purpose.
Did you realize that you have the power to enact change in this dark world? That's right. Because you are one of His disciples, you are called to share the Good News -- which simply means to "tell everyone what He has done." Please consider taking the time to
1) Pray for all those who do not have a relationship with God through Christ.
2) Tell your friends, neighbors, coworkers about the reason for the hope that is in you.
3) Invite those who are going through a time of crisis or darkness to hear the word of God
And always remember that you are dependent on Him -- that He is the source of your life and hope.
21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles.
We live, arguably, in the most intellectually advanced culture in the history of the world. Every day, it seems, there are new inventions and innovations so as to make our lives easier and more entertaining.
Unfortunately, it also seems that the more we advance in our abilities the more we become self-reliant and prideful. And, the consequent result, is that our culture is fast beginning to believe it doesn't need a God.
Yet also apparent is the emptiness of materialism and the void found in the lives of all who build their foundation on transient things. All you have to do is look at Hollywood to see the unhappy lives of those who have "everything" but lack the relationship with the God who can bring meaning and purpose.
Did you realize that you have the power to enact change in this dark world? That's right. Because you are one of His disciples, you are called to share the Good News -- which simply means to "tell everyone what He has done." Please consider taking the time to
1) Pray for all those who do not have a relationship with God through Christ.
2) Tell your friends, neighbors, coworkers about the reason for the hope that is in you.
3) Invite those who are going through a time of crisis or darkness to hear the word of God
And always remember that you are dependent on Him -- that He is the source of your life and hope.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Tuesday, June 26 -- Acts 28
HOW'S IT END?
The Apostle Paul is on trial for his life, but the book of Acts ends before we find out what happens to him. Frustrating not to know, isn't it? It's like that Hitchcock movie "The Birds" where you wonder the whole time why the birds attack only to receive no answer at the end.
But perhaps the author stopped because it led up to his current time, and he didn't know how it would end.
But at least we know it ends with Paul in Gods hands. And, ultimately that's good enough. Whether he lives or is executed, we know that this man, an instrument for the Gospel, is embraced by His good and gracious God.
And that's what give us strength to face our chapter endings. We almost never know how things will turn out, but we know that we are embraced by the God who sent His Son. And that's enough.
Monday, June 24, 2013
Monday, June 24 - Acts 27
SHIPWRECK
The riveting story of Paul's journey to Rome includes this story of storms and shipwreck. It shows, once again, how God is in control of all things and makes use of even the wind and the waves to accomplish His purposes.
As the disciples were strengthened in faith as a result of Jesus' calming of the stormy sea, so also did God harness this storm to be a witness to those 200+ passengers who were on Paul's ship.
Paul used this terrifying experience to give witness to Christ -- to declare his faith in the midst of crisis. This story also serves as a good story to motivate us to share our confidence in Christ in the midst of storms.
The riveting story of Paul's journey to Rome includes this story of storms and shipwreck. It shows, once again, how God is in control of all things and makes use of even the wind and the waves to accomplish His purposes.
As the disciples were strengthened in faith as a result of Jesus' calming of the stormy sea, so also did God harness this storm to be a witness to those 200+ passengers who were on Paul's ship.
Paul used this terrifying experience to give witness to Christ -- to declare his faith in the midst of crisis. This story also serves as a good story to motivate us to share our confidence in Christ in the midst of storms.
Friday, June 21, 2013
Friday, June 21 - Acts 26
Persuasion
And Agrippa said to Paul, "In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?" (Acts 26:28 ESV)
To proselytize -- that is, to tell others about your faith so as to lead them also to believe, is considered a bad thing by many. In modern society we are told that each person should make a faith decision without anyone trying to persuade him.
But if you believe that faith in Jesus Christ is the key to salvation and eternal life, then wouldn't it be the most unloving thing to ignore talking it to someone who doesn't share this belief? It would be akin to finding a cure for cancer and not telling anyone about it -- or learning the secret of how to power a car on water and not letting anyone know.
Our popularity should never become a God. Instead, we should always have in mind the deep and abiding need for all nations and people(s) to know about Jesus.
In this chapter St. Paul stands before Agrippa and makes his "case for Christ." To whom have you made such a case? To whom should you be making such a case?
Let us all pray for our God to bring us boldness and courage as we are faced with these opportunities -- and his forgiveness for the ones we have missed.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Thursday, June 20 - Acts 25
A Light To The Nations
It must have been difficult for the Jerusalem Jews to see Paul, formerly one of them, making a bold defense for the Gospel of Christ. It is no wonder that they feel compelled to try and discredit and destroy him. He was part of their inner circle and now was, to their mind, a turncoat.
The power of the Gospel to transform will always be offensive to those who are steeped in pride, greed, and selfishness. Their hearts, hardened by their own selfish ambition, will seek to find weaknesses and inconsistencies to exploit so that they can dismiss the truth.
That's why it is an important goal for us, as God's people, to try and live lives above reproach -- so as not to give the world any cause to dismiss the Gospel because of our own personal failures.
Obviously we are sinners and there will always be some inconsistency to which our adversaries can point with derision. Nevertheless, God's grace can be made evident even in our weaknesses, so that He can even employ our failures to serve His truth.
Paul is a good example. My faith is strengthened when I realize God can use even one who once persecuted the Church as His chosen instrument.
We are, after all, not perfect, just forgiven!
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Tuesday, June 18 - Acts 23
THE PLOT TO KILL
Religious fervor sometimes causes odd things. In vv. 12-15 we note that forty men bind themselves on oath to taste no food until they have killed Paul. The Chief Priests and Elders seem to approve of this pact.
Imagine, a pact of faith that is bound to doing something totally against God's will. They pledge to God to break His fifth commandment with the idea that they are accomplishing a greater good.
I suppose it is the same for those who bomb abortion clinics or mistreat those who claim a different sexual persuasion. They think they are doing good.
Might I suggest, however, that if God binds Himself to His Word, then we also are bound by it. Which means, that God would not approve of any plan for a greater good that requires a breaking of His laws.
But how often do we do this?! Like when we speak behind someone's back because we feel a compulsion that others should know of their evils. Or when we blatantly tell a lie because it will maintain our reputation.
To honor God means to obey His commandments and trust in His Son. God does not call us to inconsistency.
Thank God for Jesus, who washes away our hypocrisy and cleanses us from our inconsistency. May He strengthen our faith so that we maintain integrity and so that our zeal for Him is accompanied by actions congruent with it.
Religious fervor sometimes causes odd things. In vv. 12-15 we note that forty men bind themselves on oath to taste no food until they have killed Paul. The Chief Priests and Elders seem to approve of this pact.
Imagine, a pact of faith that is bound to doing something totally against God's will. They pledge to God to break His fifth commandment with the idea that they are accomplishing a greater good.
I suppose it is the same for those who bomb abortion clinics or mistreat those who claim a different sexual persuasion. They think they are doing good.
Might I suggest, however, that if God binds Himself to His Word, then we also are bound by it. Which means, that God would not approve of any plan for a greater good that requires a breaking of His laws.
But how often do we do this?! Like when we speak behind someone's back because we feel a compulsion that others should know of their evils. Or when we blatantly tell a lie because it will maintain our reputation.
To honor God means to obey His commandments and trust in His Son. God does not call us to inconsistency.
Thank God for Jesus, who washes away our hypocrisy and cleanses us from our inconsistency. May He strengthen our faith so that we maintain integrity and so that our zeal for Him is accompanied by actions congruent with it.
Monday, June 17, 2013
June 17 - Acts 22
COMPULSION
In Acts 20:22, Paul declares that he feels "compelled by the Spirit," to go to Jerusalem. And so, in the succeeding chapters, we see Paul's face set to accomplish this task despite the fact that others dissuade him from going there. (This certainly reminds of of Jesus' intent to go to Jerusalem despite the protests of His disciples.)
When Paul arrives at Jerusalem, some of the Asian Jews who had already brought suffering to Paul, rile up the crowd with false accusations (21:28), and immediately many from the city begin their attempts to kill Paul. He is rescued by the Roman soldiers (ironic!) and bound with chains. He then decides to appeal to his countrymen by describing the history of his faith.
At first, the crowd is silenced and they listen to Paul as he speaks in Aramaic. He declares to them how he once persecuted the church of Jesus Christ, but was shown by God that Jesus was the Messiah. But as soon as Paul mentions his mnistry to the Gentiles, the crowd begins to cry out for his death.
The Roman soldiers are about to begin interrogating Paul, with floggings, to get to the heart of the matter, but once they learn that Paul is a Roman citizen, they withdraw and convene a tribunal instead. The next chapter will show Paul's conversation with members of the Sanhedrin as he defends his ministry.
===
It is striking to me that Paul is driven by his firm belief that Jesus wants him to go to Jerusalem, and is willing to face severe persecution and death rather than take a different path. It seems that sometimes, God desires to strengthen His people through suffering and difficult circumstances, and Paul was willing to go wherever God led.
In a modern world where success is, so often, measured by prosperity and good times, I wonder if we would be ready to follow the Spirit's leading if we knew it might lead to persecution and suffering. All too often, I think, we don't want to offend or upset others, because we want to be well-liked.
Paul's actions challenge us to pray for the Spirit's leading -- wherever it may take us -- and to believe that even rejection can be used by Him for good.
In Acts 20:22, Paul declares that he feels "compelled by the Spirit," to go to Jerusalem. And so, in the succeeding chapters, we see Paul's face set to accomplish this task despite the fact that others dissuade him from going there. (This certainly reminds of of Jesus' intent to go to Jerusalem despite the protests of His disciples.)
When Paul arrives at Jerusalem, some of the Asian Jews who had already brought suffering to Paul, rile up the crowd with false accusations (21:28), and immediately many from the city begin their attempts to kill Paul. He is rescued by the Roman soldiers (ironic!) and bound with chains. He then decides to appeal to his countrymen by describing the history of his faith.
At first, the crowd is silenced and they listen to Paul as he speaks in Aramaic. He declares to them how he once persecuted the church of Jesus Christ, but was shown by God that Jesus was the Messiah. But as soon as Paul mentions his mnistry to the Gentiles, the crowd begins to cry out for his death.
The Roman soldiers are about to begin interrogating Paul, with floggings, to get to the heart of the matter, but once they learn that Paul is a Roman citizen, they withdraw and convene a tribunal instead. The next chapter will show Paul's conversation with members of the Sanhedrin as he defends his ministry.
===
It is striking to me that Paul is driven by his firm belief that Jesus wants him to go to Jerusalem, and is willing to face severe persecution and death rather than take a different path. It seems that sometimes, God desires to strengthen His people through suffering and difficult circumstances, and Paul was willing to go wherever God led.
In a modern world where success is, so often, measured by prosperity and good times, I wonder if we would be ready to follow the Spirit's leading if we knew it might lead to persecution and suffering. All too often, I think, we don't want to offend or upset others, because we want to be well-liked.
Paul's actions challenge us to pray for the Spirit's leading -- wherever it may take us -- and to believe that even rejection can be used by Him for good.
Friday, June 7, 2013
No blog
I won't be producing blog questions or devotions for the next week due to my trip out east. Blogs will begin again on June 17.
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Thursday, June 6 - Acts 15 - The Question of Circumcision
The Question of Circumcision
Why were the new Christians abandoning a covenant sign that had been a mark of their identity since the time of Abraham.? Was it because it was a heavy burden for a male Gentile to experience this painful and bloody rite? Was it considered a stumbling block?
I think no. And here's why?
The mark of circumcision, in my understanding, was a covenant promise that was built on Genesis 3:15: God declares to the serpent: "He (the seed of the woman) shall crush your head; and you shall bruise his heel."
The rite of circumcision is exacted on that organ which produces the seed of future generations. By bringing blood and sacrifice to this organ, God was pointing forward to the One, THE Seed, THE Messiah, who will ultimately be bloodied and sacrificed so that the head of the serpent (Satan) might be crushed.
This covenant was pointing forward to the cross of Christ -- and during the time of promise (Old Testament), every Israelite male and his wife had a visual reminder (every time they consummated the relationship) that the promise awaited fulfillment.
When the promise is finally fulfilled, the early Christians understood that it was no longer necessary to have a mark that was intended to point forward -- since God had accomplished His work of salvation. Instead, Jesus had commissioned them to make a new sign, baptism, which celebrated every man's (and woman's) cleansing from sin by their connection to Him.
In short, the early believers weren't abandoning their heritage and giving up the mark of their identity simply because it was old fashioned and a heavy burden. They did it because it was an Israelite ritual that was no longer necessary because the time of promise was over and the time of fulfillment was upon them.
Those who bear the mark today can continue to celebrate the Seed, Christ, who accomplished our blood-bought redemption. But more important is our being buried with Him through baptism, and raised up by Him to new life. Hence, baptism is now the way God chooses to mark us as His own and to incorporate us into His family.
PH
Why were the new Christians abandoning a covenant sign that had been a mark of their identity since the time of Abraham.? Was it because it was a heavy burden for a male Gentile to experience this painful and bloody rite? Was it considered a stumbling block?
I think no. And here's why?
The mark of circumcision, in my understanding, was a covenant promise that was built on Genesis 3:15: God declares to the serpent: "He (the seed of the woman) shall crush your head; and you shall bruise his heel."
The rite of circumcision is exacted on that organ which produces the seed of future generations. By bringing blood and sacrifice to this organ, God was pointing forward to the One, THE Seed, THE Messiah, who will ultimately be bloodied and sacrificed so that the head of the serpent (Satan) might be crushed.
This covenant was pointing forward to the cross of Christ -- and during the time of promise (Old Testament), every Israelite male and his wife had a visual reminder (every time they consummated the relationship) that the promise awaited fulfillment.
When the promise is finally fulfilled, the early Christians understood that it was no longer necessary to have a mark that was intended to point forward -- since God had accomplished His work of salvation. Instead, Jesus had commissioned them to make a new sign, baptism, which celebrated every man's (and woman's) cleansing from sin by their connection to Him.
In short, the early believers weren't abandoning their heritage and giving up the mark of their identity simply because it was old fashioned and a heavy burden. They did it because it was an Israelite ritual that was no longer necessary because the time of promise was over and the time of fulfillment was upon them.
Those who bear the mark today can continue to celebrate the Seed, Christ, who accomplished our blood-bought redemption. But more important is our being buried with Him through baptism, and raised up by Him to new life. Hence, baptism is now the way God chooses to mark us as His own and to incorporate us into His family.
PH
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Tuesday, June 4 - Acts 13
v. 1. Manean. God called men from all walks of life and from all types of experiences. Here is a man who grew up with the civil Roman leader, Herod the Tetrarch. One wonders if this man had any influence upon the authorities
Even today God contiues to bless the church with people from all backgrounds. The backgrounds bring unique gifts and talents with which to serve the Lord. What is your talent? How can God use you to serve His kingdom?
v. 3. fasted and prayed. The practice of fasting, so as to dedicate oneself to the study of God's Word and prayer, has largly fallen out of use today. The hunger a person felt was intended to make one realize his reliance upon God's grace for all things.
Have you ever fasted, perhaps for a special physical exam or for some other reason? Did it help or hurt your focus? How might spiritual fasting benefit you?
v.4 in the synagogues. The disciples specifically begin their ministry in each city by going first to the Jews.
v. 7. Sergius Paulus. This proconsul is surrounded by two who seem positioned by the Tempter to lead him astray: Bar-Jesus, a false prophet and sorcerer, and Elymas, another sorcerer. God's power is displayed through Paul and Barnabas, and Elymas is made blind. Interesting that God uses the same act which He did with Saul/Paul as a tool to help Elymas recognize his misunderstandings.
In today's world we sometimes are faced with leaders who seem surrounded by the Tempters advisors. It is important to remember to pray for our leaders so that God would open their eyes from any deception and help them be faithful servants. God is always more powerful than the devils henchmen, but sometimes He permits them to roam.
v. 14 Pisidian Antioch. Again they begin in the synagogue. Paul reiterates Old Testament history and shows how the promises are fulfilled in Jesus. He especially keys in on King David and celebrates Jesus as the Savior and King who was even greater than King David because He did not see decay and was raised from the dead.
v. 42. Paul and Barnabas are invited back to speak further. But some of the Jews became jealous of the crowds that gathered and spoke against them. This leads the apostles to declare that their message is also for the Gentiles. This pleases the Gentiles, but seems to anger some of the Jews further. Soon, persecution erupts and Paul and Barnabas are driven from the region.
Jealousy too is often a tool of the Devil. He loves to work on our pride so that we resent those who seem more successful, intelligent, or capable than us. We must always watch out for the seeds of jealousy in our lives that we not be deceived.
Even today God contiues to bless the church with people from all backgrounds. The backgrounds bring unique gifts and talents with which to serve the Lord. What is your talent? How can God use you to serve His kingdom?
v. 3. fasted and prayed. The practice of fasting, so as to dedicate oneself to the study of God's Word and prayer, has largly fallen out of use today. The hunger a person felt was intended to make one realize his reliance upon God's grace for all things.
Have you ever fasted, perhaps for a special physical exam or for some other reason? Did it help or hurt your focus? How might spiritual fasting benefit you?
v.4 in the synagogues. The disciples specifically begin their ministry in each city by going first to the Jews.
v. 7. Sergius Paulus. This proconsul is surrounded by two who seem positioned by the Tempter to lead him astray: Bar-Jesus, a false prophet and sorcerer, and Elymas, another sorcerer. God's power is displayed through Paul and Barnabas, and Elymas is made blind. Interesting that God uses the same act which He did with Saul/Paul as a tool to help Elymas recognize his misunderstandings.
In today's world we sometimes are faced with leaders who seem surrounded by the Tempters advisors. It is important to remember to pray for our leaders so that God would open their eyes from any deception and help them be faithful servants. God is always more powerful than the devils henchmen, but sometimes He permits them to roam.
v. 14 Pisidian Antioch. Again they begin in the synagogue. Paul reiterates Old Testament history and shows how the promises are fulfilled in Jesus. He especially keys in on King David and celebrates Jesus as the Savior and King who was even greater than King David because He did not see decay and was raised from the dead.
v. 42. Paul and Barnabas are invited back to speak further. But some of the Jews became jealous of the crowds that gathered and spoke against them. This leads the apostles to declare that their message is also for the Gentiles. This pleases the Gentiles, but seems to anger some of the Jews further. Soon, persecution erupts and Paul and Barnabas are driven from the region.
Jealousy too is often a tool of the Devil. He loves to work on our pride so that we resent those who seem more successful, intelligent, or capable than us. We must always watch out for the seeds of jealousy in our lives that we not be deceived.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Monday, June 3 - Acts 12
v.1 Herod This is Herod Agrippa
(from http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/IVP-NT/Acts/Herods-Opposition-Jerusalem)
Herod Agrippa I (10 B.C.-A.D. 44), grandson of Herod the Great (Lk 1:5) and nephew of Herod the Tetrarch (Lk 3:19; 13:31; 23:7-12), spent his childhood and some of his adult life in the highest imperial circles in Rome. He had recently returned to Palestine to rule over territory that by A.D. 41 extended as far as his grandfather's kingdom. Committed to maintaining the Pax Romana by supporting the Jewish majority in Palestine, he was both a pious observer of Jewish practices and a ruthless suppressor of minorities when they became disruptive (Longenecker 1981:407-8).
v.2 James The Apostle and close friend of Jesus is one of the first martyrs for Christ. Herod probably intends a sham trial for Peter and then to kill him also.
v.5. earnestly praying. Note that the upcoming miracle is linked to the church's prayer. The early Christians were learning that prayer was their most powerful weapon against their enemies.
v. 7. light shines in the cell. Almost reminds us of the appearance of Jesus to St. Paul. chains fell of Peter's wrists The strongest tools of the enemy are nothing when compared to the power of God. Iron shackles fall off as if they were never locked.
v.9 he thought he was seeing a vision. Peter doesn't recognize the miracle at first. The angel, who opens his chains, also seems to hide Peter from the view of the guards. The gate opens for them all by itself, at the bidding of God's angel. When he has finished his work, the angel leaves Peter.
How often do we net recognize the miracles of God and attribute them to doctors, fate, good medicine, or some other factor. God's hand is constantly at work performing miracles even today. We need to keep our eyes open,
v.12 Rhoda She is so surprised to see Peter that she leaves him standing outside. The rest of the group is also dumbfounded and does not believe, at first, that it is actually him.
v.19. After a thorough search for Peter, and cross-examination of the guards, Herod executes the guards as he probably assumed that they had let Peter go.
v.23. Herod's brutality and pride are rewarded with a particularly disgusting scene. His body is eaten by worms.
v. 24 But the word of God continued to increase and spread. A continuous theme reiterated throughout the book of Acts. The scene now shifts again back to the ministry of St. Paul.
(from http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/IVP-NT/Acts/Herods-Opposition-Jerusalem)
Herod Agrippa I (10 B.C.-A.D. 44), grandson of Herod the Great (Lk 1:5) and nephew of Herod the Tetrarch (Lk 3:19; 13:31; 23:7-12), spent his childhood and some of his adult life in the highest imperial circles in Rome. He had recently returned to Palestine to rule over territory that by A.D. 41 extended as far as his grandfather's kingdom. Committed to maintaining the Pax Romana by supporting the Jewish majority in Palestine, he was both a pious observer of Jewish practices and a ruthless suppressor of minorities when they became disruptive (Longenecker 1981:407-8).
v.2 James The Apostle and close friend of Jesus is one of the first martyrs for Christ. Herod probably intends a sham trial for Peter and then to kill him also.
v.5. earnestly praying. Note that the upcoming miracle is linked to the church's prayer. The early Christians were learning that prayer was their most powerful weapon against their enemies.
v. 7. light shines in the cell. Almost reminds us of the appearance of Jesus to St. Paul. chains fell of Peter's wrists The strongest tools of the enemy are nothing when compared to the power of God. Iron shackles fall off as if they were never locked.
v.9 he thought he was seeing a vision. Peter doesn't recognize the miracle at first. The angel, who opens his chains, also seems to hide Peter from the view of the guards. The gate opens for them all by itself, at the bidding of God's angel. When he has finished his work, the angel leaves Peter.
How often do we net recognize the miracles of God and attribute them to doctors, fate, good medicine, or some other factor. God's hand is constantly at work performing miracles even today. We need to keep our eyes open,
v.12 Rhoda She is so surprised to see Peter that she leaves him standing outside. The rest of the group is also dumbfounded and does not believe, at first, that it is actually him.
v.19. After a thorough search for Peter, and cross-examination of the guards, Herod executes the guards as he probably assumed that they had let Peter go.
v.23. Herod's brutality and pride are rewarded with a particularly disgusting scene. His body is eaten by worms.
v. 24 But the word of God continued to increase and spread. A continuous theme reiterated throughout the book of Acts. The scene now shifts again back to the ministry of St. Paul.
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