BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 5:40

Sunday, 20 March 2022
 
And they agreed with him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Acts 5:40
 
With Gamaliel’s recommendation now stated, Luke next records, “And they agreed with him.” His argument was convincing because it was based on precedent. Further, it was based on the assumption that if the movement of the apostles was simply the work of man, it would die out, but if it was truly the work of God, nothing could thwart it anyway. The advice was sound and reasonable. With that decided, they still could not let the apostles go away without a demonstration of their authority. Hence, it next says, “and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them.”
 
In such a tribunal, there must be a reason for such a punishment. However, none is given. It could be argued that Peter and John could be beaten because they had not obeyed the previous command given to them –
 
“So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.” Acts 4:18
 
However, none of the other apostles were present at that time. As such, it would be a stretch of the law to include them in a charge of disobedience. It could only be considered a crime of guilt by association. Regardless of this, the men were probably beaten with rods according to the words of Moses –
 
“If there is a dispute between men, and they come to court, that the judges may judge them, and they justify the righteous and condemn the wicked, 2 then it shall be, if the wicked man deserves to be beaten, that the judge will cause him to lie down and be beaten in his presence, according to his guilt, with a certain number of blows. 3 Forty blows he may give him and no more, lest he should exceed this and beat him with many blows above these, and your brother be humiliated in your sight.” Deuteronomy 25:1-3
 
Along with the beating, they were also given a charge, as Luke notes, “they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus.” It is the same command previously given. Like before, the Greek actually reads “upon the name of Jesus.” The command forbids them to speak on the authority of Jesus’ name. Unlike the charge in Acts 4, this time their directive came with an additional measure, beating them to hopefully ensure compliance. However, the apostles have already spoken as to the matter –
 
“But Peter and John answered and said to them, ‘Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.’” Acts 4:19, 20
 
&
 
“But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.” Acts 5:29
 
Only time will tell if the beating they received will cause them to obey men rather than God. For now, Luke ends the verse saying, “and let them go.”
 
With no valid justification to further incarcerate or punish the apostles, the council allowed them to leave. But there was nothing recorded by Luke about one of the key points of the entire event. The council never asked (at least nothing is recorded concerning the matter) how the apostles got out of a locked and guarded prison in the middle of the night. It appears that they were truly afraid to ask that simple question because it might open up a can of worms that could possibly divide the council.
 
Paul will later use his knowledge of how the council operates to do exactly that as is recorded in Acts 23:9. For now, the apostles are free to go.
 
Life application: Paul, writing to the saints at Philippi, gave a strong exhortation to the church about a matter that first became evident in the account of Acts 5 –
 
“Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, 28 and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God. 29 For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30 having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me.” Philippians 1:27-30
 
Though the punishment was minor at this time, the apostles did suffer for the sake of Christ. A beating with rods is no pleasant thing, and it is given to correct offenders. This means that the apostles were considered offenders by the leaders of Israel. Despite the warnings and the punishment, the apostles provided the “proof of perdition” to the council and the proof of “salvation” that they possessed.
 
The account in Acts is descriptive. It does not provide any command that we are to act in a like manner. But Paul’s words are prescriptive. He has built upon the acts of the apostles, including himself, a sound and reasonable directive for the church to live by. This has been accepted by many martyrs over the past two thousand years. It may be that even in once Christian-friendly nations, believers may be called to act in the same manner in the days ahead.
 
Be mentally prepared now to accept what comes, including suffering for the sake of Christ, as an acceptable demonstration of your faith. It is our calling, and it has been directed by God in His word. Stand fast and accept what comes with gladness that your name is written in heaven.
 
Heavenly Father, it is evident that faith in Jesus is becoming less tolerable to the leadership of many nations. Unless it is in a faith that is unbiblical. You have asked us to stand apart from perversion, idolatry, and all wickedness. Help us in this. As churches depart from the true faith, help those of us who hold fast to it to remain strong, never departing from the right and proper path. Amen.

Acts 5:39

S   aturday, 19 March 2022
 
but if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it—lest you even be found to fight against God. Acts 5:39
 
Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen).
 
You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at "Discern the Bible" on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).
 
Gamaliel has given two examples of groups that fizzled out after their leaders died. After that, he gave his recommendation concerning the apostles, saying, “let them alone.” He then gave a part of his reasoning for this with the words, “for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing.” Now, he will finish his words with a contrasting reason why they should be left alone. That begins with, “but if it is of God.”
 
It is interesting that the mood of these words is different than the previous clause. There, the verb was in the subjunctive mood. Now it is in the indicative mood. Cambridge notes the difference saying, “The verb is not in the same mood as in the previous clause, and had the construction been in classical Greek, it might have indicated some opinion on Gamaliel’s part of the truth of Christianity = ‘If it is [as it is] of God.’ But in the N. T. the construction indicates no more than a simple conditional.”
 
Regardless of it being a simple conditional, Gamaliel has chosen his words to make a contrast between the two states. One is hypothetically from man; the other is questioned if it is really from God. If it is so, there will be a marked difference in the outcome.
 
Man’s work will find success or failure based on innumerable circumstances. But in the case of the nation of Israel, there is a more important element at work. Gamaliel understood this. The Lord Himself watches over the people, and He determines what their outcome will be based upon their relationship with Him.
 
This precept is found time and again in Deuteronomy. It is then confirmed in the prophetic writings, and it is evidenced throughout the historical writings. Clear examples of this are seen, for example, in the Song of Moses, such as –
 
“How could one chase a thousand,And two put ten thousand to flight,Unless their Rock had sold them,And the Lord had surrendered them?” Deuteronomy 32:30
 
If the Lord is on the side of a person who is striving to overthrow Roman authority, nothing could stop him from doing so –
 
“You will chase your enemies, and they shall fall by the sword before you.
8 Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight;
your enemies shall fall by the sword before you.” Leviticus 26:7, 8
 
However, if the Lord is not with him, his attempt will fail, and he will perish. This is the point of Gamaliel’s mentioning of Theudas and Judas of Galilee. On the other hand, David had the Lord with him, and he prevailed over his foes, attained the position of king, and ruled the land. As such, his counsel is that if the movement of the apostles is led by God “you cannot overthrow it.”
 
He is speaking to the spiritual leaders of the nation about matters that will affect the destiny of the nation. Gamaliel was aware of the words of Moses. If a movement had arisen that was spiritually correct before God because it was in accord with the words of Moses, and which was also confirmed by the prophets, then it absolutely could not fail. God knew the future, spoke forth through the prophets what would happen, and so it was impossible that what was prophesied could be thwarted.
 
The apostles had presented their case to the people, their words were heard and understood by those in the council, and they claimed that Jesus was the promised Messiah. If these things were true, and if the council continued to resist them and their message, there would be consequences. Gamaliel notes this as he finishes, saying, “lest you even be found to fight against God.”
 
This is a word, an adjective, found only here in Scripture, theomachos. Being an adjective, it literally means, “God-fighters.” Its kindred verb is found in Acts 23:9 when Paul was brought before this same council –
 
“Then there arose a loud outcry. And the scribes of the Pharisees’ party arose and protested, saying, ‘We find no evil in this man; but if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him, let us not fight against God.’”
 
Though nothing in history speaks of Gamaliel as a saved person, his words seem to indicate that he may have suspected that the message of the apostles was true. His words, and the way they are presented, demonstrate the thoughts of a person who is carefully watching the unfolding events of history, evaluating them from the lens of the writings which established his people, and looking to see if what those writings said matched up with the very events that were occurring before his eyes.
 
What he says now is certainly in accord with what Peter and the other apostles had just said moments before, “We ought to obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). As noted then, if the words of the apostles were true, and if they were rightly following God because of faith in Christ, it meant that the Mosaic Covenant had found its fulfillment and its end in Jesus. The hope of the New Covenant was what they proclaimed had come through His completed work. Gamaliel’s words demonstrate caution be exercised by those with whom he sat to judge.
 
Life application: The directions for our walk before the Lord are found in the New Testament epistles. We have entered into a New Covenant. It is not possible to have one foot in the law and one foot in Christ. The two are wholly incompatible.
 
As such, the warnings of the epistles are clear and unambiguous. One will either follow Christ or he will return to the law. Only one path can be taken, and there will be judgment based on which path was decided upon. If a person is saved, he is saved. That will not be lost, but to return to adherence to the law will mean zero rewards for that person.
 
Be wise, be circumspect, and put your faith and trust solely in the merits of Jesus Christ. What you do while in that state will be evaluated and either be counted as loss and burned up, or it will be counted as gain and be purified. For the one who returns to the law, there will only be loss. Jesus didn’t come and complete His job just so that we could try to do better after He left. What He did was perfect, fully sufficient, and finished – once and for all time.
 
Thank You, Lord God, for the sure hope we possess in Christ. Our salvation isn’t just given to us, it is guaranteed to us! We have an absolute hope of eternal life because of the work of Jesus. Thank You for this surety we now have! Amen and amen.
 

Acts 5:38

Friday, 18 March 2022
 
And now I say to you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this work is of men, it will come to nothing; Acts 5:38
 
Gamaliel, having given two historical examples of failed leaders of the past, now gives his advice concerning the faith that is based on the leadership of Christ Jesus. This begins with his words, saying, “And now I say to you.”
 
Based on what had happened in the past to those who initiated uprisings, meaning Theudas and Judas of Galilee, there is a precedent that their followers will scatter and disperse when the leader has died. As such, he continues, “keep away from these men.” 
 
The word translated as “keep away” signifies “to depart” or “stand off.” The leaders in the council “were furious and plotted to kill them” (5:33), Gamaliel is telling them to take another path and simply depart from them and not interfere. And more, he continues with, “and let them alone.”
 
The word signifies “to send away.” It carries with it the sense of permitting. When one is sent away, he is allowed to continue with his own devices. Gamaliel, understanding the failure of Theudas and Judas of Galilee, knew that if what the apostles were doing fell into the disfavor of Rome, it would be handled by them.
 
For the council to take action, it would only increase the zealotry of the followers and ultimately bring them unnecessary trouble. However, without the presence of Jesus, another option was more likely. As he next says, “for if this plan or this work is of men.”
 
The Greek reads, “for if this plan or this work is out of men.” The meaning is, out of their own strength, planning, or devices. Just as with the previous two examples of failed insurrections that did not have divine approval, so this might be as well. If that is the case, Gamaliel says, “it will come to nothing.”
 
The Greek word signifies “to loosen down.” It is what one does when he unpacks a horse or tears down a tent. It is also used to speak of the abolishing of the law or the destroying of the temple. If the movement of the apostles is out of man, it will simply collapse either under its own weight or by another force that will cause it to be destroyed. Either way, it will not continue. As such, why should the council stir things up and cause exactly the opposite to occur?
 
Life application: The words of Gamaliel bear a wisdom that reflects principles found in the book of Proverbs. He gives sound advice concerning a matter that could have been handled in one of several ways. With thought and contemplation, a recommendation is put forth for consideration by the council. Before he finishes, he will also give another possible outcome for the movement of the apostles, and he will explain what would be the reason for its happening as well.
 
This is a sound way of presenting a case for action, and it has been based upon carefully evaluating events of the past and also how things could be affected into the future. Reading the Proverbs will give a person insight into such things. Rather than commands about how to do things, general guidelines, based upon personal insights and experiences, are given by the author for the reader to consider.
 
Be familiar enough with what is recorded there so that when a matter arises you can recall the words and consider them as you make your own decisions about important matters that you will certainly face at various times in your life.
 
Heavenly Father, You endowed Solomon with wisdom and understanding. He took some of that wisdom and wrote it down for us to consider as our own lives unfold. If we could ask for such wisdom, You would certainly say, “I have already given it to you, it is in My word.” And so, Lord, help us to search out the wisdom You gave Solomon by searching out his words that are recorded in Your word. Amen.
 

Acts 5:37

Thursday, 17 March 2022
 
After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census, and drew away many people after him. He also perished, and all who obeyed him were dispersed. Acts 5:37
 
Gamaliel just gave an example from history concerning Theudas and his band of four hundred men. He now gives a second example, saying, “After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up.” Of this name, Charles Ellicott writes –
 
“In one passage Josephus (Ant. xviii. 1) calls him a Gaulonite—i.e., of the country east of Galilee. Had this stood alone, St. Luke might have been charged here also with inaccuracy; but in other passages (Ant. xx. 5, § 2; Wars, ii. 8, § 1) he is described as a Galilean.”
 
This leaves a couple of possibilities. One is that Josephus misidentified Judas at one time in his writings. Another is that two people are being referred to by Josephus. Or, possibly, it is the same person who is first identified by the place where he was born and then by the place he was most known for. No matter what, there is an extra-biblical note supporting Luke’s writing concerning the words of Gamaliel. This person named Judas was an actual historical figure who is being referred to. Of him, Gamaliel next says, “in the days of the census.”
 
This is also referred to by Josephus. Albert Barnes gives sufficient detail concerning his revolt as described by Josephus –
 
“He says that the revolt took place under ‘Cyrenius,’ a Roman senator, who came into ‘Syria to be judge of that nation, and to take account of their substance.’ ‘Moreover,’ says he, ‘Cyrenius came himself into Judea, which was now added to the province of Syria, to take an account of their substance, and to dispose of Archelaus' money.’ ‘Yet Judas, taking with him Saddouk, a Pharisee, became zealous to draw them to a revolt, who both said that this taxation was no better than an introduction to slavery, and exhorted the nation to assert their liberty, etc.’ ‘This’ revolt, he says, was the commencement of the series of revolts and calamities that terminated in the destruction of the city, temple, and nation.”
 
Also, of this account, Charles Ellicott says, “He was assisted by a Pharisee, named Sadduk, and the absolute independence of Israel was the watchword of his followers. It was unlawful, in any form, to pay tribute to Cæsar. It was lawful to use any weapons in defence of freedom.” 
 
This then probably explains the reason for the question presented to Jesus by the Pharisees –
 
“Then the Pharisees went and plotted how they might entangle Him in His talk. 16 And they sent to Him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, ‘Teacher, we know that You are true, and teach the way of God in truth; nor do You care about anyone, for You do not regard the person of men. 17 Tell us, therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?’
18 But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, ‘Why do you test Me, you hypocrites? 19 Show Me the tax money.’
So they brought Him a denarius.
20 And He said to them, ‘Whose image and inscription is this?’
21 They said to Him, ‘Caesar’s.’
And He said to them, ‘Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’ 22 When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left Him and went their way.” Matthew 22:15-22
 
This was something that would have been on the minds of the people throughout their time under Rome. If they had paid heed to the words of the Lord, things would have gone much better for them. As far as Judas, Luke continues Gamaliel’s words, saying, “and drew away many people after him.”
 
The lack of any specific number, unlike that of Theudas, seems to imply a greater number had followed Judas. As such it would help explain why Gamaliel is giving a second example. The first was a man with a small force, comparable to that of David. However, where David was supported by the hand of God, Theudas was obviously not. His efforts failed. Now, Gamaliel refers to someone with a larger following, probably not unlike the number that were aligned with the teaching of Jesus, reaching into the thousands or maybe even tens of thousands by this point. However, of this Judas Gamaliel notes that even with a larger force, “He also perished.”
 
Judas died or was taken prisoner by the Romans never to be heard from again. Either way, his time of leadership in the rebellion against Rome ended, “and all who obeyed him were dispersed.” Once the leader was gone, the movement allied with him ended. Those who were still alive simply went on with life, taking a new direction than the one they had been on under Judas.
 
Life application: It was noted above that a Pharisee named Saddouk accompanied Judas and had his own idea about how to handle the rule of Rome over them. When Jesus came, the Pharisees asked Him about this exact topic, wanting to see what He thought. They also were hoping to trap Him in His words. If He said, “No, you are not to pay taxes to Rome,” they would have had a reason to hand Him over to the Romans as an insurrectionist.
 
However, if He said, “Yes, you should pay the Romans,” the Pharisees would have then stirred up the people by saying, “This guy is a sellout to the Romans.” Either way, they planned to trap Jesus in His words, thus taking away His hand of guidance over the people who followed Him.
 
Jesus gave them an answer they were completely unprepared for. He showed that compliance with, and allegiance to, an earthly body does not mean people are being unfaithful to the Lord. Paul demonstrates this in his life and actions as well. Our duties to those over us in this world should be performed according to the station in which we are born and live. Likewise, our duties to God should be performed accordingly as well.
 
Let us remember this and let us live out our lives working in whatever country we are in as citizens of that country. At the same, we are to be faithful citizens of the kingdom of the Lord Jesus, being obedient to His precepts as set forth in His word. When the two conflict, we are to defer to the Lord’s kingdom. When they do not, we should be obedient to both.
 
Lord God, give us wisdom in the conduct of our lives so that we will be good and faithful citizens of the nation in which we find ourselves, while still being obedient to the calling we have upon our lives in Your kingdom. May You be glorified in all that we do as we live our lives before You. Amen.

Acts 5:36

Wednesday, 16 March 2022
 
For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody. A number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was slain, and all who obeyed him were scattered and came to nothing. Acts 5:36
 
The advice from Gamaliel concerning the apostles is now to be given, but before actually providing his recommendation, he gives background data that will lead to his recommendation. What he says is from the historical record, and it details things the council would have been fully aware of. The first example begins with the words, “For some time ago Theudas rose up.” 
 
Bringing in the name Theudas causes scholars a great deal of difficulty. The only known Theudas outside of the Bible is found in the writings of Josephus. However, he is placed later in history by Josephus than Gamaliel’s speech now. As such, some find Luke’s words an anachronism. A great deal is written on the inclusion of this name now, but the Pulpit commentary gives three options concerning him that allow for the biblical account to stand as correct –
 
“1. Josephus may have misplaced the adventure of Theudas by some accidental error. Considering the vast number of Jewish insurrections from the death of Herod the Great to the destruction of Jerusalem, such a mistake is not very improbable. 2. There may have been two adventurers of the name of Theudas, one in the reign of Augustus Caesar, and the other in the reign of Claudius; and so both the historians may be right, and the apparent discrepancy may have no real existence (see Wordsworth, in loc.). 3. The person named Theudas by Gamaliel may be the same whom Josephus speaks of (‘Bell. Jud.,’ it. 4:2) by the common name of Simon, as gathering a band of robbers around him, and making himself king at Herod's death (‘Sonntag,’ cited by Meyer, etc.). But he was killed by Gratus, and the insurrection suppressed. A variety in this last mode has also been suggested (Kitto’s ‘Cyclopaedia’), viz. to understand Theudas to be an Aramaic form of Theodotus, and the equivalent Hebrew form of Theodotus to be מַתִתְיָה, Matthias, and so the person meant by Theudas to be a certain Matthias who with one Judas made an insurrection, when Herod the Great was dying, by tearing down the golden eagle which Herod had put over the great gate of the temple, and who was burnt alive with his companions, after defending his deed in a speech of great boldness and constancy (‘Ant. Jud’ 17:6).”
 
The first option, as noted, is not improbable. Josephus is often cited as an absolute authority when someone wants to defend his opinion concerning one matter or another. However, in comparing the writings of Josephus to Scripture an almost infinite number of discrepancies arise between the two. What he says will often deviate significantly from a plain reading of the Scriptures.
 
Therefore, and because of the reliability of the Bible, it is always best to defer to it and only to cite Josephus when his writings contain unique accounts that cannot be verified elsewhere. His writings are important, but they are certainly not inspired.
 
But just as important concerning this is that the details of Josephus concerning his account do not match what is stated in this verse by Gamaliel. Therefore, to assume that Josephus is right, and Luke made a blundering error shows an immediate bias against the writings of Luke, picking one similarity and disregarding other differences.
 
With this understood, Gamaliel continues with his reference to Theudas, saying that he rose up “claiming to be somebody.” The meaning of this is that Theudas put himself forth as an authority figure who was worth being heeded and who was also deemed worthy of being followed – “I am divinely appointed by God to deliver Israel! Men... Follow me!”
 
It is to be remembered that Gamaliel is giving examples that are to be taken in the context of the claims of the apostles. Therefore, Theudas’ “claiming to be somebody” is to be set parallel to the thought that “the apostles claim that Jesus is somebody.” In other words, Gamaliel is using a historical account to build a case based on precedent in order to make a decision. As such, he continues with, “A number of men, about four hundred, joined him.”
 
The number is not large compared to the Roman army, nor is it especially large in relation to many other groups of insurrectionists that might arise in hopes of overthrowing a sizeable army. Despite this, it is the same size of force that David originally had when he broke away from Saul –
 
“David therefore departed from there and escaped to the cave of Adullam. So when his brothers and all his father’s house heard it, they went down there to him. 2 And everyone who was in distress, everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered to him. So he became captain over them. And there were about four hundred men with him.” 1 Samuel 22:1, 2
 
However, this band of four hundred eventually grew into a large fighting force. Later, David became the ruler of all of Israel. Again, the account must be set in parallel to what Gamaliel is saying.
 
David had been chosen by the Lord to be the next king. He was anointed as such by Samuel. And though his army started small, it grew into a vast kingdom of great power. The Scriptures reveal that God was behind the actions of David, and therefore David became the great leader of his people and the king of his nation. God’s will and purposes could not be thwarted. On the other hand, Theudas had an army of the same size as David. And yet, “He was slain.”
 
In David’s battles, he did the slaying. Again, and again, the Bible records the magnificent fighting and leadership abilities of David. God had chosen the man, He was there with the man, and thus David was unstoppable as he defeated the enemies of God’s people. Instead of being slain in battle, he died in his own bed, having seen the continuance of his kingdom through the establishment of his own son, Solomon, as king in his place with all of Israel subject to him. As for Theudas, Gamaliel says, “and all who obeyed him were scattered and came to nothing.”
 
David and his four hundred grew into the leaders of an entire nation. He appointed those with him to leadership positions, and rewarded those who were faithful subjects. Theudas, on the other hand, was defeated in battle, lay slain in the dust, and his followers dispersed. And the reason is obvious, no group of people of sane mind would continue to follow a slain leader who accomplished nothing he had set out to do.
 
And again, the parallel to Jesus and the apostles must be considered. This small band of apostles had grown into a very sizeable following because of the message they conveyed to the people. Their Leader had also been slain, but that was both a part of what was supposed to happen, and it was not the end of the story they spoke forth. Instead, He had risen in victory. And their Foe was not an oppressive ruler over the people. Rather, it was the power of Satan himself that He had defeated.
 
Death had been defeated, and a new life had come out of what Jesus had done. Gamaliel is making a point. If the message of the apostles is true, whatever the council decided must take that into consideration. David and his four hundred eventually led to an eternal dynasty –
 
“When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his Father, and he shall be My son. If he commits iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men and with the blows of the sons of men. 15 But My mercy shall not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you. Your throne shall be established forever.” 2 Samuel 7:12-16
 
On the other hand, Theudas and his four hundred men came to nothing. The difference between the two is whether their actions met with the approval of the Lord or not.
 
Life application: Many people have built great and lasting dynasties. This does not mean that the people rightly followed God and were set in place because He approved of them. But they could not have arisen to such positions unless God had allowed them to do so.
 
We cannot make the assumption that just because someone is powerful or wealthy that they are right with the Lord. However, the power and wealth of that person ultimately came from the Lord allowing it to be so. Likewise, a person who is faithful to the Lord may be poor, he may have no authority, he may be a minister with a very small ministry, or he may be a cripple or someone who even dies at an early age.
 
The main thing that we need to guide our lives is faithfulness to the Lord. Whatever else happens, good or bad, is what the Lord allows in our lives. It may actually be more difficult to be faithful to the Lord when one has great power, wealth, and abundance. How easy it is to forget the Lord in such circumstances!
 
Let us remember to be faithful no matter what our lot in life is. The life that is truly life is ahead, and the Lord will reward our faithfulness in a way that we cannot yet even imagine.
 
Lord God, Your will in our lives! May that be the driving motivation in all that we do. Help us to focus on that which is truly of value and not on the temporary, fleeting pleasures of this life we currently live. Help us! Give us strength and wisdom to be faithful to You as we walk down this temporary path on the way to glory. Amen.

Acts 5:35

Tuesday, 15 March 2022
 
And he said to them: “Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what you intend to do regarding these men. Acts 5:35
 
The previous verse introduced Gamaliel who stood up and commanded that the apostles be put outside for a little while. With them removed from the council, Luke continues describing what occurred, next noting, “And he said to them.”
 
It is Gamaliel who had requested removal of the apostles, and it is now he who addresses the council, beginning with, “Men of Israel.” They are words of familiarity addressed to those on a similar standing within the council. This is unlike when Peter addressed this same council in Acts 4. There, his words carefully acknowledged their position within the society –
 
“Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, ‘Rulers of the people and elders of Israel.’” Acts 4:8
 
What is more important in considering Peter’s address is that he was speaking as a person who was fully aware of the work of Jesus Christ. In addressing the council, he was addressing the body responsible for the direction of Israel. The choices they made would affect the entire nation.
 
Gamaliel’s words are on the same societal level as the others in the council, and he seems fully aware of this by his coming words to them, especially what he will say in verse 39. As a member of the body, he has the potential to direct them in a way that the apostles did not. But if the leadership of Israel ultimately fails to heed the sound advice of even one of their own, it will only increase their guilt in the matter of who Jesus is.
 
For now, his words continue with, “take heed to yourselves.” It is a phrase that was used by Jesus. There is the implication that careful thought should be given to a matter before any decision is hurriedly rendered.
 
One might say, “Guard yourselves concerning this.” It is as if there is a looming danger if the advice is not taken. The word is used by Paul in the Pastoral epistles concerning doctrinal matters. With this understood, that thing which Gamaliel warns of is concerning their actions toward the apostles. He warns the council to beware of “what you intend to do regarding these men.”
 
Although it is not yet known what is on his mind, Gamaliel has a definite concern that cannot be ignored. Whatever decision that will be rendered, his advice needs to be considered. This is surely based on his seeing their conduct after hearing the words of Peter and the others. Luke had noted that they were furious and plotted to kill the apostles.
 
Gamaliel smells potential trouble brewing, and he wants to avoid that. Being one who knew the Scriptures, he was fully aware that God’s plans cannot be thwarted. His words will use this knowledge in an attempt to keep things running smoothly and to keep anyone from actually harming themselves.
 
Life application: Gamaliel’s advice is based on a life of reading, contemplating, and studying Scripture. The only way he could make a reasoned decision in relation to what Scripture says is to.... (Yes, you, in the corner over there! Yes! That is correct!) It is to know what the word says.
 
And the only way you can do that is by reading the word. People all over the world make well thought out decisions all the time, and it is based on their knowledge of whatever subject they are dealing with. Be well versed in the words of the Bible if you want to make right decisions that are intimately linked to your faith. Otherwise, you are setting yourself up for failure.
 
Read your Bible.
 
How great are You, O God. You are beyond our understanding, and yet, You have told us about Yourself and what You expect of us in Your word. Where are our priorities? If they are directed toward You, we will be responsible by studying and knowing that source of knowledge, reading it all the days of our lives. Help us to do this, O God. Amen.

Acts 5:34

Monday, 14 March 2022
 
Then one in the council stood up, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in respect by all the people, and commanded them to put the apostles outside for a little while. Acts 5:34
 
The events to this point have led the members of the council to become furious at the words of defense spoken by the apostles. In addition, it said that those in the council “plotted to kill them.” With that, a voice of reason now stands up within the council. Luke begins the note concerning him by saying, “Then one in the council stood up.”
 
This person probably heard the grumblings of some of the people and knew that their words were contrary to both reason and to the Law of Moses. Their violent speech and actions of the leadership had led to the crucifixion of Christ, and now His followers were standing before the council with the same type of anger being cast towards them. Luke next identifies him as “a Pharisee named Gamaliel.”
 
The name Gamaliel means “Reward of God.” Being a Pharisee is a key point. As a Pharisee, he accepted the premise that there is a resurrection, and also that there are angels and spirits. This is seen later in Acts –
 
“And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees; and the assembly was divided. 8 For Sadducees say that there is no resurrection—and no angel or spirit; but the Pharisees confess both.” Acts 23:7, 8
 
As this is the case, he would at least be sympathetic to the words of the apostles concerning Christ, and he could actually accept that the unexplained release of the apostles from prison could have been accomplished by an angel. The latter point is not noted in the account now. And yet, it is otherwise hard to imagine that the council did not ask about it, even if Luke does not record the conversation (see the life application in the commentary on Acts 5:24).
 
Because of his views, he will be a voice of reason toward the situation now being brought before the council. Of this person, Gamaliel, Paul will later note in Acts 22:3 that he was brought up at his feet. The meaning is that he personally studied under this man. Hence, Paul’s doctrine followed after Gamaliel and it was from this source that Paul’s grounding in Scripture was then used by the Lord to bring the message of life in Christ and the name of Jesus “before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15).
 
Of this person, the following is noted by Albert Barnes –
 
“...this man was the teacher of Paul Acts 22:3, the son of the ‘Simon’ who took the Saviour in his arms Luke 2, and the grandson of the famous ‘Hillel,’ and was known among the Jews by the title of ‘Rabban Gamaliel the elder.’ There were other people of this name, who were also eminent among the Jews. This man is said to have died 18 years after the destruction of Jerusalem, and he died as he had lived, a Pharisee. There is not the least evidence that he was a friend of the Christian religion; but he was evidently a man of far more liberal views than the other members of the Sanhedrin.”
 
Luke next notes him as “a teacher of the law.” The meaning is that he instructed others in the law (as noted above concerning Paul), but he also would have interpreted the law, learned the traditional views of the scholars of the law before him, preserved the traditions of the Jewish culture and society, and so on. These things can be seen in how Paul, his student, presented himself before a tribunal later in Acts –
 
 “My manner of life from my youth, which was spent from the beginning among my own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews know. 5 They knew me from the first, if they were willing to testify, that according to the strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.” Acts 26:4, 5
 
Paul’s life was modeled after the teachings of Gamaliel, and his conduct and teaching – even as a believer in Christ – are to be understood from that perspective. His training and knowledge are certainly one reason why the Lord chose him for his apostolic ministry. Understanding the type of man Gamaliel was helps us to understand the reasoned passion Paul had concerning the things he knew about Jesus and how they stand in relation to the Law of Moses. For now, Luke continues with his word about Gamaliel, saying that he was “held in respect by all the people.”
 
Even if the Sadducees and others disagreed with his beliefs, it is of note that those in the council still held Gamaliel in high regard. They were willing to listen to his thoughts and consider his arguments. This shows that he was understood to be a man of intelligence and reason. In this notable state, Luke next says that he “commanded them to put the apostles outside for a little while.”
 
From what will be said in the verses ahead, it is obvious that the discussion would only embolden the apostles to persevere in the spreading of their message if they knew what it was that will be stated. To avoid this, and to allow the movement of the apostles to either grow or die out without prejudice, they were to be removed from the deliberations.
 
What is interesting is that what is said in the council is, in fact, recorded by Luke. That means that someone who was in the room was aware of what was said and recalled it for Luke during his investigations leading to the writing of the book of Acts. Hence, it could be Gamaliel himself, or even Paul that heard and remembered the words that will next be looked at.
 
As a side note, the Alexandrian text says “men” instead of “apostles” in this final clause. Thus, many translations, going back as far as the Latin Vulgate, follow this wording. This will explain the change for those who notice the difference.
 
Life application: Above, the training and knowledge of Paul is noted. It was because of his in-depth knowledge of the Law of Moses and his grounded belief in his training as a Pharisee that he was able to piece together so much of his theology. It is true that God inspired Paul to write out his epistles, but what is inspired is still based upon what Paul knew and how he perceived the world around him in relation to the law and of its fulfillment in Christ.
 
For example, though the author of Hebrews is not identified in the epistle, it is highly likely that Paul is its author. To understand why this is so, refer to the introduction to the commentary by the Superior Word on Hebrews. Whether it was Paul or not, it is someone who had an extensive knowledge of the law, and who obviously believed in the resurrection, angels, and spirits. He further was able to take that knowledge and weave together a sound and reasonable discourse for the Hebrew people to understand that Jesus is the fulfillment of these things.
 
This is what Paul does throughout all of his letters though. His training as a Pharisee made the obvious connections to Jesus jump out of the law that he once lived under. From there, he was able to fully and rightly discern what even the other apostles could not quite grasp (see Acts 11 and Galatians 2 for example). In this, Paul – more than any other – was able to see that everything he had grown up with and been trained in was to find its fulfillment in Christ –
 
“So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. 18 Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God.” Colossians 2:16-19
 
Today, we will also look at the words of Paul based on how we perceive our relationship to the law. The same words are read by those who accept that Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes (the correct view), and to those who believe the law is still in effect for all people, in part or in whole (the heretical view).
 
The difference is in their understanding of Paul’s words, meaning in relation to Christ as the fulfillment of the law or in relation to the law which Paul had once been under. The only way to get beyond the law is to properly understand its purpose in relation to Jesus. And the only way to do that is to read the Bible in its proper context. Once it is understood that that law was only a stepping stone on the way to Christ and not an end in and of itself, only then does the law find its proper place in our thinking about the magnitude of what Jesus did for us.
 
Keep reading the Bible, and do not be led astray by those who would reinsert the law into our lives. It is a law that could never save anyone. Only in coming to Christ can we find the true hope that God has set before us. Thank God for our hope. Thank God for Jesus!
 
Lord God, You have taken real people, from all walks of life and from all kinds of interesting situations, and You have used them and their experiences in order to reveal to us Your intent for humanity, expressing these things in Your word. How great You are to show us such things so that we can know the proper path that leads us to Jesus. Yes, how great You are! Amen.

Acts 5:33

Saturday, 12 March 2022
 
And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.      
 
The words here must be kept in relation to what was just said since verse 5:29 in order to be rightly understood. Taken together, they say, “But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: ‘We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. 31 Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.’”
 
With this context remembered, the words can be more clearly understood. They begin with, “And we are His witnesses.” This is the purpose of the apostles. They are “sent ones” who testify to everything that they saw concerning Jesus. This is an important point because it is an office that only existed in those who were personally involved in what occurred in His ministry. Paul is the only exception to this as is carefully explained by him in 1 Corinthians 15.
 
It was the condition specifically given when deciding upon the replacement for Judas –
 
“Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John to that day when He was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” Acts 1:21, 22
 
With this understood, they continue by saying that they are witnesses “to these things.” This refers to what is given in the previous verses cited above –
 
God raised up Jesus
Israel’s leaders, representative of Israel, murdered Him by hanging Him on a tree
God has exalted Him to (or by) His right hand to be Prince and Savior
Repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sin is available through this
 
It is the gospel message – Christ died for our sins, Christ was buried, Christ rose again. Calling on the Lord Jesus (meaning He is God because He is at the right hand of God, the position of power and authority) brings salvation. From there, Peter and the apostles next say, “and so also is the Holy Spirit.”
 
The Holy Spirit, the third member of the Godhead and the One who inspired God’s prophets to write out Scripture, is a witness to the workings of God in Christ –
 
“And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; 20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:19-21
 
The visual, audible coming of the Holy Spirit upon these men also provided a supporting witness to their testimony. That witness continues again in their ability to properly convey the meaning of Scripture, of their healing of the sick, and so on. The acts of the apostles are another part of the witness of the Holy Spirit, testifying to the fact that Jesus is the Christ. With this understood, the apostles next say of the Holy Spirit, “whom God has given.”
 
The Holy Spirit is God, giving of Himself. It is not unlike God giving of Himself in Christ. Christ was given for the sin of the world, but that forgiveness is only applied to those who appropriate it through belief. Likewise, the Holy Spirit is given by God to humanity, but this only comes to those who appropriate the offering, and that only occurs for “to those who obey Him.”
 
The word the apostles use, which is translated as “obey,” is the one introduced in verse 5:29 (cited above). It is the word, peitharcheó. As previously noted, it comes from two words signifying “persuade” and “what comes first.” Thus, it signifies being obedient to the higher authority.
 
One must decide who he will obey. The apostles clearly state that they will be obedient to Christ, the fulfillment of the Law of Moses, rather than to those appointed to administer that law. Israel was given the law, only Israel. And so, this precept pertains only to Israel in the sense that they must put aside the law and come to the One who fulfilled it. And yet, the precept also applies to any who voluntarily place themselves under this law. To understand this, Paul refers to circumcision, the identifying mark of those who have so placed themselves under the law.
 
One cannot claim obedience to the law and not be circumcised because it is a precept of the law. The precept applied to any part of the law, but Paul uses it as the premier example of choosing the law over grace. The result of doing so is clearly stated by him –
 
“Indeed I, Paul, say to you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing. 3 And I testify again to every man who becomes circumcised that he is a debtor to keep the whole law. 4 You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. 5 For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.” Galatians 5:2-6
 
Israel was given the law and they were under the law. To “obey” Christ for them was to follow the higher authority of Christ. A person who is not of Israel and who follows the law has failed to follow the higher authority of Christ. Either way, they do not have the Spirit, and they remain at enmity with God. This is the significance of the apostles’ words to the leaders of Israel.
 
The council will give their response, and the narrative will continue showing the failure of Israel to come to Christ. Eventually, the transfer of the spiritual banner will go from Jew to Gentile, from Israel to the church. This is because Israel is represented by this council. God isn’t overriding His own words found in the law. Instead, He is showing that Jesus is the fulfillment of the, and the law is then annulled through His work.
 
Life application: The words of this verse speak of the witness of the Holy Spirit. As noted, the Holy Spirit witnesses through His word. He is given to those “who obey Him.” It must be understood that because the apostles personally saw the work of Christ and were witnesses of it, there are no longer apostles. Nor is there any need for them.
 
The books of the Bible were completed before all of the apostles had died, being written by them, or those who were approved by them (such as Luke) to accurately report what was done by Christ and the apostles. As such, the Holy Spirit now witnesses to us only through His word. There is no need for believers to perform miraculous signs, healings, and the like.
 
The word is written, and it calls for faith to accept what it says. This is the premise for believers today. God has spoken, the Holy Spirit – through His word – witnesses to us of the work of Christ, and we are expected to believe it and accept that He is the Christ of God. In this, the Holy Spirit is given as a seal and a guarantee of our future redemption (Ephesians 1:13, 14).
 
Be of sound mind, believe what God has done, and be saved through the cleansing power of God’s Anointed, the Lord Jesus Christ.
 
The message is so simple, and it is all sufficient for us to be saved. What more do we need, O God, to have the sure and unfailing faith that will carry us through the dark and distressing world? We have all we need, and we are so grateful for it! Thank You for the witness of the word, given to us by inspiration from You. Amen.

Acts 5:32

Saturday, 12 March 2022
 
And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.      
 
The words here must be kept in relation to what was just said since verse 5:29 in order to be rightly understood. Taken together, they say, “But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: ‘We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. 31 Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.’”
 
With this context remembered, the words can be more clearly understood. They begin with, “And we are His witnesses.” This is the purpose of the apostles. They are “sent ones” who testify to everything that they saw concerning Jesus. This is an important point because it is an office that only existed in those who were personally involved in what occurred in His ministry. Paul is the only exception to this as is carefully explained by him in 1 Corinthians 15.
 
It was the condition specifically given when deciding upon the replacement for Judas –
 
“Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John to that day when He was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” Acts 1:21, 22
 
With this understood, they continue by saying that they are witnesses “to these things.” This refers to what is given in the previous verses cited above –
 
God raised up Jesus
Israel’s leaders, representative of Israel, murdered Him by hanging Him on a tree
God has exalted Him to (or by) His right hand to be Prince and Savior
Repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sin is available through this
 
It is the gospel message – Christ died for our sins, Christ was buried, Christ rose again. Calling on the Lord Jesus (meaning He is God because He is at the right hand of God, the position of power and authority) brings salvation. From there, Peter and the apostles next say, “and so also is the Holy Spirit.”
 
The Holy Spirit, the third member of the Godhead and the One who inspired God’s prophets to write out Scripture, is a witness to the workings of God in Christ –
 
“And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; 20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:19-21
 
The visual, audible coming of the Holy Spirit upon these men also provided a supporting witness to their testimony. That witness continues again in their ability to properly convey the meaning of Scripture, of their healing of the sick, and so on. The acts of the apostles are another part of the witness of the Holy Spirit, testifying to the fact that Jesus is the Christ. With this understood, the apostles next say of the Holy Spirit, “whom God has given.”
 
The Holy Spirit is God, giving of Himself. It is not unlike God giving of Himself in Christ. Christ was given for the sin of the world, but that forgiveness is only applied to those who appropriate it through belief. Likewise, the Holy Spirit is given by God to humanity, but this only comes to those who appropriate the offering, and that only occurs for “to those who obey Him.”
 
The word the apostles use, which is translated as “obey,” is the one introduced in verse 5:29 (cited above). It is the word, peitharcheó. As previously noted, it comes from two words signifying “persuade” and “what comes first.” Thus, it signifies being obedient to the higher authority.
 
One must decide who he will obey. The apostles clearly state that they will be obedient to Christ, the fulfillment of the Law of Moses, rather than to those appointed to administer that law. Israel was given the law, only Israel. And so, this precept pertains only to Israel in the sense that they must put aside the law and come to the One who fulfilled it. And yet, the precept also applies to any who voluntarily place themselves under this law. To understand this, Paul refers to circumcision, the identifying mark of those who have so placed themselves under the law.
 
One cannot claim obedience to the law and not be circumcised because it is a precept of the law. The precept applied to any part of the law, but Paul uses it as the premier example of choosing the law over grace. The result of doing so is clearly stated by him –
 
“Indeed I, Paul, say to you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing. 3 And I testify again to every man who becomes circumcised that he is a debtor to keep the whole law. 4 You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. 5 For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.” Galatians 5:2-6
 
Israel was given the law and they were under the law. To “obey” Christ for them was to follow the higher authority of Christ. A person who is not of Israel and who follows the law has failed to follow the higher authority of Christ. Either way, they do not have the Spirit, and they remain at enmity with God. This is the significance of the apostles’ words to the leaders of Israel.
 
The council will give their response, and the narrative will continue showing the failure of Israel to come to Christ. Eventually, the transfer of the spiritual banner will go from Jew to Gentile, from Israel to the church. This is because Israel is represented by this council. God isn’t overriding His own words found in the law. Instead, He is showing that Jesus is the fulfillment of the, and the law is then annulled through His work.
 
Life application: The words of this verse speak of the witness of the Holy Spirit. As noted, the Holy Spirit witnesses through His word. He is given to those “who obey Him.” It must be understood that because the apostles personally saw the work of Christ and were witnesses of it, there are no longer apostles. Nor is there any need for them.
 
The books of the Bible were completed before all of the apostles had died, being written by them, or those who were approved by them (such as Luke) to accurately report what was done by Christ and the apostles. As such, the Holy Spirit now witnesses to us only through His word. There is no need for believers to perform miraculous signs, healings, and the like.
 
The word is written, and it calls for faith to accept what it says. This is the premise for believers today. God has spoken, the Holy Spirit – through His word – witnesses to us of the work of Christ, and we are expected to believe it and accept that He is the Christ of God. In this, the Holy Spirit is given as a seal and a guarantee of our future redemption (Ephesians 1:13, 14).
 
Be of sound mind, believe what God has done, and be saved through the cleansing power of God’s Anointed, the Lord Jesus Christ.
 
The message is so simple, and it is all sufficient for us to be saved. What more do we need, O God, to have the sure and unfailing faith that will carry us through the dark and distressing world? We have all we need, and we are so grateful for it! Thank You for the witness of the word, given to us by inspiration from You. Amen.
 

Acts 5:31

Friday, 11 March 2022
 
Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. Acts 5:31
 
The previous verse said, “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree.” Now, Luke records the next words of Peter and the apostles, saying, “Him God has exalted.” The verb is hupsoó. It signifies to lift up, raise up, and so on. It is the same word used in the Greek translation of Isaiah 52:13 to describe the coming Messiah –
 
“Behold, My Servant shall deal prudently;He shall be exalted and extolled and be very high.”
 
One can see that the words are parallel to the previous verse in somewhat of a pun –
 
The God of our fathers raised up Jesus.
Him God has lifted up.
 
Jesus was hung on a tree, having been lifted up (see John 3:14 where the same Greek word is used) by the leaders of Israel, but God has lifted Jesus up “to His right hand.” Here, some translations say, “with His right hand,” others “to His right hand.” The Greek is not specific and must be supplied. It is the same terminology as in Acts 2:33.
 
Either is possible based on the surrounding context. The right hand signifies power, both in action (ability) and in position (authority). As noted, the previous verse just said that God raised Jesus. Therefore, it could be “by the right hand (ability) of God.” However, the next clause will speak of repentance and forgiveness of sins, something that comes from the position of authority.
 
Nothing is lost in either translation because both possibilities are true. Therefore, a word such as “at” might be a better choice because it can convey either meaning or both meanings at the same time –
 
“exalted at the right hand of Him...”
 
As such, it could mean “at [by the power of] the right hand,” or “at [to the location of] the right hand of God.”
 
Although this may seem like trifling, the words have importance and should be considered. God’s power (His right hand) raised Jesus (Romans 10:9), and Jesus is seated at the right hand (the position of authority) of God (Romans 8:34).
 
The apostles, though stating a truth, are letting the council know that there is hope for them. The actions of Israel’s leaders actually served the greater purposes of God. Forgiveness is possible if they could but accept the matter and acknowledge what they had done. With this, their next words state, “to be Prince.”
 
It is the same thought already presented by Peter in Acts 3:14, 15 –
 
“But you denied the Holy One and the Just, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, 15 and killed the Prince of life, whom God raised from the dead, of which we are witnesses.”
 
The word there translated as Prince signifies “a file-leader who pioneers the way for many others to follow” (HELPS Word Studies). It is also found in Hebrews 2:10 and 12:2. Reading those verses will give a fuller idea of the thought now being presented. Jesus is the “File-leader.” He is the One who leads the way for all others who will be raised up by God, lifted up at His right hand. This is because He is also the “Savior.”
 
This is specifically referring to Jesus Christ in His position of ability to save. The word specifically refers to Him as the One “who saves believers from their sin and delivers them into His safety” (HELPS Word Studies). It is in this capacity that Jesus is able “to give repentance to Israel.”
 
The word metanoia, or repentance, signifies changing of the mind. What this is saying is that Israel is offered a change of mind concerning wrongdoing. Paul says in Romans 3:20 that “by the law is the knowledge of sin.” When law exists, there is always a struggle in the mind of the one under that law. The word “compunction” explains this. It is the guilty feeling or moral hesitation that either prevents, or follows, the doing of something wrong.
 
Jesus came to give Israel a change of mind from this. In fulfilling the law, the law is annulled through His death. As such, there is no longer this feeling of guilt concerning a matter (such as eating pork or not). And this exists both in abstaining from pork, even though there is nothing wrong with it, and in the state that comes after eating pork because the law said not to do so. In the giving of the law, the conscience becomes guilty. But more than this, Jesus also came to offer “forgiveness of sins.”
 
Not only is the mind reformed through the annulling of the law, but the sins committed under the law are forgiven through His death in fulfillment of it. This is noted by Paul in Romans, Galatians, and elsewhere. And more, because the law is now annulled, there is no longer the imputation of sin – because sin comes from a violation of law. This is noted by Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:19.
 
Without the law, then sin is no longer an issue. Thus, the words of Peter and the apostles now can be summed up by the words of Paul in Romans 3:36, saying of Jesus “that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.”
 
If one looks at the previous verse side by side with this verse, the parallelism of what is stated comes forth –
 
The God of our fathers raised up Jesus (from the dead, proving He is God)
Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior (assuming His position as God)
 
Whom you murdered (an action that gives guilt under the law)
To give repentance to Israel (dealing with the moral hesitation after violating the law)
 
By hanging on a tree (the death of Christ in fulfillment of the law)
And forgiveness of sins (the action resulting from the death of Christ in fulfillment of the law)
 
Life application: There are wonderful truths to be found in a detailed study of the words of Scripture, and it is never a waste of time to search them out. When doing a personal study, be sure to be aware of the many types of literary devices that the Bible uses, such as poetry, prose, simile, metaphor, hyperbole, idiom, personification, parallelisms, parable, typology, and so on.
 
In understanding what is being said, and in properly identifying the context in which it is said, there is a treasure trove of wisdom to be obtained from the mind of God as it is revealed in the pages of this wonderful treasure that we call the Holy Bible.
 
Lord God, Your word is wonderful. Thank You for Your glorious and superior word. Amen.
 

Acts 5:30

Thursday, 10 March 2022
 
The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. Acts 5:30
 
The words of the last verse were those of the apostles as they proclaimed, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” Now, to continue with their lecturing of the high priest and the council, the words of Peter and the apostles say, “The God of our fathers.”
 
This is referring to YHVH (Yehovah), the covenant Lord God of Israel, such as is recorded in Exodus 6:7 –
 
“I will take you as My people, and I will be your God. Then you shall know that I am the Lord your God who brings you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.”
 
It is He who set forth the law through Moses which the people agreed to. It is, ironically, this law that these men at the council administered for the people of Israel, but which the apostles will school them on in the verses ahead concerning Jesus Christ whom that same law spoke of. 
 
In saying “The God of our fathers,” it is clear that the apostles are claiming that their worship is not of a new God, a false God, or a misrepresentation of the true God. They are aligning themselves with the people at the council (our), and they are aligning themselves with the God whom the council represents (our fathers).
 
As such, what they will claim is an extension of what the Lord (YHVH) is doing in redemptive history, not merely something entirely new, but a continuance of the overall redemptive plan in a new direction. This same thought is seen in the words of the Lord to Moses –
 
“Then He said, ‘Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.’ 6 Moreover He said, ‘I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look upon God.” Exodus 3:5, 6
 
When the Lord spoke to Moses, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were not under the law that was to be given through him, and yet nobody in Israel would deny that those patriarchs were a part of what the Lord was doing in redemptive history. And so, what the apostles now proclaim bears the exact same weight, if the words are true. To validate that their words are, in fact, true, the schooling of the council by the apostles begins with the words that the God of their fathers “raised up Jesus.”
 
This is an obvious reference to the resurrection, of which the council was fully aware of the claim that Jesus had been raised. By saying that God raised Him up, it meant that God was fully satisfied concerning His innocence and that His sacrifice was acceptable before Him. And this, despite the next words of the apostles to the council, saying, “whom you murdered.”
 
Here is a new word in Scripture, diacheirizomai. It comes from dia (through) and a derivative of cheir (to handle thoroughly). Thus, it means “To lay violent hands upon.” In the case of Jesus, it means they killed Him violently. This word will only be found one more time, in Acts 26:21.
 
Peter and the apostles firmly avow that what happened to Jesus was a willful, violent, and unjustified attack against the Lord’s Messiah. God had approved of His life, He had raised Jesus from the dead, and thus those of the council (the verb is plural – “you all”) were guilty of His death. But more, they then added in the most striking words of all, saying, “by hanging on a tree.”
 
The verb is an aorist participle and should read, “having hanged.” The act occurred, it was successfully accomplished, and it was one intentionally brought about by those at the council. These words are a clear and unambiguous reference to Deuteronomy 21:23. There, the Greek translation uses the same word as is used now in Acts, xulon, or tree. That is a direct translation from the Hebrew word ets, signifying wood, or a tree –
 
“If a man has committed a sin deserving of death, and he is put to death, and you hang him on a tree, 23 his body shall not remain overnight on the tree, but you shall surely bury him that day, so that you do not defile the land which the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance; for he who is hanged is accursed of God.” Deuteronomy 21:22, 23
 
The council had determined that Jesus was deserving of death. And yet, both Pilate and Herod had determined exactly the opposite –
 
“Then Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests, the rulers, and the people, 14 said to them, ‘You have brought this Man to me, as one who misleads the people. And indeed, having examined Him in your presence, I have found no fault in this Man concerning those things of which you accuse Him; 15 no, neither did Herod, for I sent you back to him; and indeed nothing deserving of death has been done by Him. 16 I will therefore chastise Him and release Him’ 17 (for it was necessary for him to release one to them at the feast).” Luke 23:13-17
 
Because the council had violently, and yet wrongfully, participated in the crucifixion of the Messiah (proved by God’s having raised Him from the dead), it means they bore the guilt of what occurred. This is the weight of what is being said to them now. If they understood the scope of what this meant, however, they would then realize that what occurred was not outside of, but a part of, what the Lord had planned –
 
“Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree’), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” Galatians 3:13, 14
 
If the council would acknowledge their part in what happened, forgiveness could come. But this is not what took place. Until Israel’s leaders acknowledge their part in what occurred, they – even to this day – remain under the curse that they brought upon themselves.
 
Life application: Such a seemingly unimportant set of words, that can be quickly read over and easily forgotten, carry an immense amount of theological importance. And the words of this verse have not been fully explained in relation to many other verses in Scripture. They tie in with other parts of the law, with words in the psalms and the prophets, with what is stated in the gospels, the epistles, and Revelation.
 
Everything in Scripture ultimately ties in with what God is doing in Christ to reconcile the world to Himself. And Christ (the Messiah) is Jesus who is clearly depicted in the gospels and Acts, and who is then explained throughout the rest of the New Testament. Be careful to know this now because there are people all over the world who claim to be the Messiah, or who claim to be Jesus the Messiah.
 
There are also others who add to the word about Christ, such as the Mormons. Jesus is the central point of all of what God is doing in the world, Jesus is revealed to us in Scripture, so be sure to know exactly what books form Scripture, and then be sure to know which “Jesus” it is that Scripture is presenting. When you get these things right, and when you believe the message of what He has done, you will be saved. Anything else will only lead to condemnation.
 
Thank You, Lord God, that we have a sure word in the pages of the Bible. Nothing is missing, and nothing is superfluous. And thank You that the Bible tells us all we need to know about Jesus and the proper path to salvation. Thank You, Lord God. Amen.

Acts 5:29

Wednesday, 9 March 2022
 
But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men. Acts 5:29
 
The previous words contained the reminder from the high priest to the apostles, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name?” With that being the context, the response of the apostles is now noted, saying, “But Peter and the other apostles.”
 
This is not a common set of words. The Greek reads, “Peter and the apostles said.” The word “other” is not found in the original. However, it cannot be construed as, “Peter spoke on behalf of the other apostles.” The verb is plural, indicating that Peter and the others are all speaking up. Further, it cannot be construed as saying that Peter is not one of the apostles, as in “But Peter, and the apostles...” Peter is one of the apostles, but Luke singles him out as the leader.
 
As such, the translation, “But Peter and the other apostles,” suitably reflects the intent of the Greek. All of them “answered and said.” The words are both a response to the high priest, and they are a proclamation of a truth that has already been conveyed to this body in the recent past. One can almost see a united protest from their lips, each expressing the same general thought, but all in one accord concerning the matter, which is that “We ought to obey God rather than men.”
 
It is essentially what Peter and John both proclaimed the last time they were standing in this same location –
 
“So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said to them, ‘Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.’” Acts 4:18-20
 
There is a difference now, however. The words of the angel just a couple verses ago make this more than an implicitly understood thing, but a command from the Lord through His angel –
 
“But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, 20 ‘Go, stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.’” Acts 5:19, 20
 
As such, their response is bold and firm. Whatever number of apostles were in the cell, they had personally been told to speak, and they were under obligation to do so. Understanding this, the word “ought” is generally not strong enough to the mind of the reader. Rather, it is a word signifying “must” or “necessary.”
 
The apostles are under order of the Lord’s messenger, and they are under moral obligation of the truth of the gospel itself. Hence, their response is one that had to be stated to the leaders at this time. They must obey. Of the word translated as “obey,” the Greek word is a new one to Scripture, peitharcheó. It comes from two words signifying “persuade” and “what comes first.” Thus, it signifies being obedient to the higher authority. Vincent’s Word Studies provides an important insight –
 
“Not often used in the New Testament to express obedience, the most common word being ὑπακούω [hupakouó]. Sometimes πείθω [peithó] is used. But this word, in itself, is the only one of the several in use which expresses the conception of obedience exclusively. ... It occurs four times in the New Testament: Acts 5:29, Acts 5:32; Acts 27:21; Titus 3:1; and in every case, of obedience to established authority, either of God or of magistrates. In Acts 27:21, where it is used of the ship's officers hearkening to Paul’s admonition not to loose from Crete, Paul speaks of his admonition as divinely inspired; compare Acts 27:10. In Acts 4:19, Peter and John say hearken (ἀκούειν) [akouein]. That is a mere listening to or considering the proposition made to them. This is a deliberate course of action.”
 
The apostles’ appeal is to the higher authority. Disobedience to Moses, of whom the council represents (see Matthew 23:2), must take place. This is not because God is overriding His own words in the law, but because the law is annulled through the work of Christ.
 
Life application: The verse here is one that sets a clear and defining line between the covenant at Sinai and that found in Christ. Jesus explicitly said to the people –
 
“The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do.” Matthew 23:2, 3
 
However, the angel from the Lord told the apostles to go out and preach to the people what is now found in Christ. That is contrary to what was said in Acts 4 (as noted above), and the words of this verse now are in direct defiance of the words of the high priest and the council again in Acts 5.
 
This shows, without any doubt or ambiguity, that the New Covenant is the higher priority, and it is to be obeyed. And yet, there is no conflict between the two because the Law of Moses is –
 
Annulled – “For on the one hand there is an annulling of the former commandment because of its weakness and unprofitableness, 19 for the law made nothing perfect; on the other hand, there is the bringing in of a better hope, through which we draw near to God.” Hebrews 7:18, 19
 
Obsolete – “In that He says, ‘A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.’” Hebrews 8:13
 
Taken away – “Previously saying, ‘Sacrifice and offering, burnt offerings, and offerings for sin You did not desire, nor had pleasure in them’ (which are offered according to the law), 9 then He said, ‘Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God.’ He takes away the first that He may establish the second.” Hebrews 10:8, 9
 
Wiped out (meaning “erased”) and nailed to the cross (meaning it died when Christ died) – “And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, 14 having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.” Colossians 2:13, 14
 
To reinsert the law of Moses as binding is the highest of heresy because it negates (makes null and void) the work of Christ in one’s life. It is essentially saying, “Nice try, God. You did your best, but I will add to it; improving what you were unable to complete.” It is a rejection of the full, final, and forever work of Jesus Christ. It is a self-condemning act.
 
You must reject the teachings of the Hebrew Roots movement and all who would claim the Law of Moses is binding (in part or in whole) upon you. Come to the grace of God in Christ. Be freed from your arrogant and futile attempts to do better than what God in Christ has done!
 
Heavenly Father, it is as if we just cannot trust You with our souls! So many of us in the church constantly fear about the future, strive to return to the law to please You, reject the cross through our actions, and show contempt for the shed blood of Christ. Help us to trust and to just keep on trusting that what You have done is sufficient. To Your glory, and Your glory alone, may we simply demonstrate the faith of children and TRUST! Amen.