BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 4:30

Tuesday, 1 February 2022
 
by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” Acts 4:30
 
The verse now completes the prayer of the disciples, but to remember the context, it should be read along with the previous verse –
 
Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, 30 by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.”
 
With this context understood, the words of this verse begin with, “by stretching out Your hand.” A more literal rendering would be, “in the stretching forth of Your hand.” It is as if the Lord’s hand is directly equated to the actions which will take place. As He stretches it forth, the intended event occurs. The implication is that the power of the Lord that filled Jesus is to be available now, after His ascension, that was with Him during His ministry. For example, and using the same word, Mark 1 says –
 
“Then Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, ‘I am willing; be cleansed.’ 42 As soon as He had spoken, immediately the leprosy left him, and he was cleansed.” Mark 1:41, 42
 
It is the power of the Lord that the apostles are asking to appropriate in order to glorify Him. This is then noted for several reasons. The first is “to heal.”
 
Charles Ellicott notes that the Greek word chosen by Luke is a play on words, and assonance, that corresponds to the Greek name translated as Jesus. It is the same word used in verse 4:22, but this time it is used directly in connection with the name –
 
Iasis - healing
Iésous - Jesus
 
As for the prayer, it continues with, “and that signs and wonders may be done.” The word “and” seems to show that this is still dependent on the stretching forth of the hand of the first clause –
 
“in the stretching forth of Your hand...that signs and wonders may be done.”
 
The stretching forth of the hand is an anthropomorphism where the hand accomplishes things. It is this hand of the Lord that is stretched forth to heal, and also to perform signs and wonders. Thus, the Source is the Lord for all that occurs. That then leads to the next words, “through the name.”
 
In this, the words connect the act to the Lord. In the stretching forth of the Lord’s hand, signs and wonders are accomplished through the name. The connection of the name to the Lord’s hand is made. And the name that is connected to the Lord is next said to be “of Your holy Servant Jesus.”
 
Again, the idea of the Messiah being the Servant of the Lord is brought forth. The suffering Servant has become the Healer. As such, an implied connection is made in the play on words noted above. Through the suffering of Jesus (Iésous), healing (iasis) is brought about by the Lord. The importance of the connection of the healing being done as a consequence of the stretching out of the Lord’s hand can be more fully appreciated by looking at the account in Acts 19 –
 
Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying,  “We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.” 14 Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so.
15 And the evil spirit answered and said, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?”
16 Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. 17 This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.
 
These Jews were using the name of Jesus as a talisman, looking to gain from throwing it about. But the name is to be magnified, not treated as a cliché or a trinket that can be pulled out and used to suit a personal fancy or agenda. The name of the Lord is directly equated to the name Jesus.
 
Life application: How often it is that people toss around the name of Jesus, claiming things that they have no right to claim! It is used to claim healing when the one claiming only looks to benefit personally from the claim. It is used to claim sports cars or winning football games. It is used to pronounce a curse on someone that another person may not like.
 
On and on the abuse of the name continues. But we have been told otherwise –
 
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-11
 
Let us confess the name, hold the name as sacred, and not allow the name to be degraded through the whims of false teachers and false prophets. Reject this evil and be sure to honor the name JESUS!
 
Lord God Almighty, you have chosen to have all the power of the Godhead expressed in the exalted name of Jesus. It is in that name and through that name that we find our life, our hope, and our joy. Help us, Lord, to never diminish this exalted name through the frivolous use of it. Rather, may we exalt that great name that is above every name - JESUS. Amen.
 

Acts 4:29

Monday, 31 January 2022
 
Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, Acts 4:29
 
The prayer of the disciples continues. They had just noted the gathering of various groups in order to “do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done.” This gathering of disciples clearly saw the hand and purpose of God in the events that had taken place. Understanding that they too have a continued role in God’s unfolding plan (see Matthew 28:18-20, for example), they desire to do what God wills, both effectively and with boldness. As such, they continue with “Now, Lord, look on their threats.”
 
In verse 4:24, the address was made to Theos, God. At the same time, they used the title Despotés, or Sovereign Lord. They now say, Kurios, signifying a master, sir, or lord, but which is used in the Greek Old Testament when referring to Yehovah. This is certainly what is on their mind as they speak forth to God. In citing the 2nd Psalm, they had said that the rulers were gathered together “Against the Lord [Yehovah] and His Christ.”
 
As such, they are acknowledging that God who is the Sovereign over all things has, along with His Christ, been attacked. It is therefore incumbent upon His followers to defend His name, title, and position – along with that of His Christ – as they continue on in the charge they had been given. Therefore, their petition is clearly made with the thought of defending the name of the Lord Yehovah and of the Lord Jesus. Because of this, they continue with, “and grant to Your servants.”
 
This clearly sets them in contrast to the others. If they are followers of the Lord, Yehovah, it means that those in the establishment are not. But Jesus had already said as much to the leaders during His ministry –
 
“Jesus said to them, ‘If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me. 43 Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word. 44 You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.’” John 8:42-44 
 
This is not simply an earthly spat between two rival factions, but a spiritual war between the followers of the true God and followers of the devil. This is clearly understood by them. Therefore, their petition is “that with all boldness they may speak Your word.”
 
In saying, “Your word,” they are clearly referring to the message of Christ, inclusive of the gospel itself. They are not referring to the Old Testament Scriptures, except as they point to Christ. In other words, they are not asking to boldly proclaim the Law of Moses, meaning the Old Covenant. That is clearly understood to be completed through Jesus’ work. He initiated a New Covenant in His blood (Luke 22:20), and – as the author of Hebrews says –
 
“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
 
In coming to Christ, the Mosaic Covenant is made obsolete. It was ineffectual to save, and it had served its intended purpose until the coming of the Messiah who would fulfill it and set it aside. As noted, this is a spiritual war. It pits man and his works against Christ and His works. But the problem with man’s self-righteousness is that it is already stained with sin. Christ’s perfection is what is needed to be pleasing to God. This is what the disciples are asking for boldness to proclaim.
 
Life application: It may seem almost contradictory to note in one sentence that God has purposed and determined before that certain things be accomplished, and then to ask for boldness to speak on behalf of God in the next. If God has purposed all things, why would people need to act at all?
 
In such things, we must always consider God’s sovereignty, something already considered by the disciples. Therefore, their prayers (and ours) should factor this in. “Lord, we are Your servants. Direct our steps according to Your will. May our actions be in accord with that.” The apostles have been given a specific charge to speak forth God’s word, so such an appeal is implied in their prayer.
 
If what we are doing is in accord with God’s will, it will happen. If it is not, it will not. This does not negate the need for prayer. Rather, it highlights it. We are demonstrating a reliance on God’s sovereignty when we lift our prayers to Him in such a manner.
 
In all things, let us remember that God is God. We are His subjects. What He determines is right, it is good, and it is what is best. Even if we do not understand that we should take it as an axiom that it is true. From there, we simply need to get out and live our lives according to the manner which He has shown us is right, meaning as is recorded in His word.
 
Heavenly Father, Your word is written, and it provides guidance for our lives. Help us to live out our lives in accord with that word, and to glorify You as we do. May our lives be proper examples to others of how to live in a manner which pleases You. Amen.

Acts 4:28

Sunday, 30 January 2022
 
to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done. Acts 4:28
 
The sense of the words is much clearer when stated as a whole with the previous verse –
 
“For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together 28 to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done.
 
As can be seen, the words now presented show us that a divine hand is guiding the ages. However, in evaluating the words, immense errors in thinking can (and often do) arise. The previous verse noted that these various groups of people “were gathered together.” This was a willing decision on the part of each.
 
Herod voluntarily took the actions he took. The same is true with Pilate. Likewise, the Gentiles and the people of Israel all willingly gathered together. As such, the next verse now begins with, “to do.”
 
It is a simple and common word in the Greek signifying “do,” “make,” “observe,” “perform,” and on and on. It has a great deal of significations. Comparing the actions of a person to a plant, it is translated as to “bring forth” fruit. It can be a voluntary thing, such as, “someone did as they were told.” It can be something done with purposeful intent, such as Jesus saying, “I will make you fishers of men.”
 
An action is described. In this case, the people gathered together “to do.” But Luke next records the words of the disciples as crediting the “doing” to God. This is seen in the words, “whatever Your hand.”
 
The hand is that which accomplishes a thing. For example, in Exodus, the Lord specified various things to be brought forward to erect a tabernacle. However, he did so through Moses. As such, Moses is the one to accomplish the action –
 
“The children of Israel brought a freewill offering to the Lord, all the men and women whose hearts were willing to bring material for all kinds of work which the Lord, by the hand of Moses, had commanded to be done.” Exodus 35:29
 
Now, in Acts, the people have gathered together “to do” but the action is by the Lord’s hand. Further, the account continues with, “and Your purpose.”
 
The Greek word comes from a root signifying “volition.” There is the sense of the act of a will that is driving the matter. The word itself signifies a purpose, counsel, plan, decision, and so on. It is the same word rendered in Acts 2:23 as “plan.” One can see a similar thought is given there that is stated here –
 
“Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know— 23 Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.” Acts 2:22-24
 
The men of Israel took an action that was set forth “by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God.” This is the same general idea again now presented. The various groups had gathered together, obviously voluntarily, and yet it is stated that it has been done at the hand of God and by His purpose which was – as it next says – an event “determined before to be done.”
 
This is a new word in Scripture, proorizó. It is found six times in the New Testament with five of them from the hand of Paul. It comes from the words pro, or “before,” and horizó, meaning “to establish boundaries.” Thus, it signifies to foreordain, predetermine, or mark out beforehand.
 
One can see the basis of our modern word “horizon” in it. There is a defined boundary, and that boundary was set in advance. As this is a boundary set forth by God, it is one that occurred even before creation. He set a boundary that is fixed and unchanging. The event will come to pass.
 
As such, the actions of those gathered against Jesus are voluntary (obviously) actions of the people, and yet they came about by the hand, purpose, and predestined decision of God. For this reason, many cannot comprehend how “free will” of man could be a part of the equation. And yet, to ascribe the evil that occurred to God is something unthinkable.
 
Because of this many incorrect doctrines have arisen concerning man’s state before God. Calvinism, for example, denies man has free will to choose Jesus Christ, but that God elects them, regenerates them, and then they choose Jesus. This is something Scripture does not even hint at.
 
In the case of the events of Acts 4, God had set up the time, location, and all of the details of the unfolding narrative so that He knew what would transpire. The outcome was logical and inescapable, and yet it was by the freewill of those who were involved. God’s foreknowledge does not, in any way, negate man’s free will choices. We are responsible for the choices we make, and we will be held accountable for them.
 
If a pastor sets up a church to meet at a certain time and all of the conditions are set forth in advance – seating, popcorn, particular movie, set time, and so on – then it is logical to know that a certain number of people will show up to view the movie he has selected for movie night. He may know that a particular person will sit in a particular seat, and so – in advance – he puts a note in that seat for the person.
 
Everything comes out as he figured it would. Does that mean they did not have free will? Of course not. If a man can predetermine certain things in advance, then how much more can God – who is infinite in knowledge – predetermine the setting for the crucifixion of Christ. And yet, free will is a clearly presented principle and an inescapable aspect of what the Bible teaches. In fact, it is plainly and evidently seen in both this account from Acts 4 as well as the account from Acts 2 which is cited above.
 
Life application: If it seems that the events of the world are following an exact and predetermined course of history, it is because they are. The book is written. The words of the prophets and the apostles have been recorded. History is catching up with what they state, and it will happen exactly as God has indicated in His word.
 
And yet, every single event that happens among man is based on his freewill choice. God, having created all things, and who knows the hearts and minds of man, knows every choice that will ever be made. And yet, He is not forcing man to make those choices any more than the pastor did not force the congregant to choose what seat he would sit in.
 
When the Bible speaks of the wisdom and knowledge of God, it is because He is infinitely wise and understanding. And yet, He has given us the right, the honor, and – indeed – the responsibility to freely choose Him or to willingly reject Him. This is the wonder of God’s hand as it works in the stream of human existence –
 
“O Lord, You have searched me and known me.2 You know my sitting down and my rising up;You understand my thought afar off.3 You comprehend my path and my lying down,And are acquainted with all my ways.4 For there is not a word on my tongue,But behold, O Lord, You know it altogether.5 You have hedged me behind and before,And laid Your hand upon me.6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;It is high, I cannot attain it.” Psalm 139:1-6
 
David didn’t understand the matter, but he accepted it as an axiom. God is not the author of evil even if evil exists. God does not force our will, and yet God knows what our will is and what we will do with it. Great is our God! Let us carefully consider His ways.
 
Lord God, it is with the greatest awe and wonder that we stand before You, voluntarily having come to You, and yet You knew – before the first atom came into existence – that we would do so. We thank You for allowing us free will, but we are also sorry for having constantly used that will against You and in defiance of Your will. Thank You for Jesus who alone has made our reconciliation possible. Thank You for our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
 

Acts 4:27

Saturday, 29 January 2022
 
“For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together Acts 4:27
 
The disciples have raised their collective voice and praised God while citing the psalms. With that complete, they now confirm that the 2nd Psalm was, in fact, fulfilled in the coming of Jesus. As they say, “For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus.”
 
The translation is correct – “Your holy Servant.” The word translated as “Servant” can be rendered “Son,” or “Child,” but it is referring to Jesus in His ministry as the Christ, God’s suffering Servant. It is the same word translated as “servant” when speaking of David in verse 4:25. It is against the designated Servant of God that the people next say, “whom You anointed.”
 
The anointing is referring to the specific act of establishing Christ for His ministry. The word used is chrió, signifying to consecrate by anointing. It has so far only been seen in Luke 4–
 
‘So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. 17 And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written:18 ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me,Because He has anointed MeTo preach the gospel to the poor;He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,To proclaim liberty to the captivesAnd recovery of sight to the blind,To set at liberty those who are [j]oppressed;19 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.’” Luke 4:16-19
 
Though the word literally means consecration by anointing, meaning rubbing the head with olive oil in order to signify divine authorization to perform a function, that only symbolically represents the empowering of the Holy Spirit. This word is used five times, and all but one are directly tied to the anointing of Christ Jesus. With this understood, it next says, “both Herod and Pontius Pilate.”
 
The account of Herod’s involvement in the act of coming against Jesus is only found in Luke’s gospel, in Luke 23:6-12. He would be the connection to “kings” cited in verse 4:26. Pilate’s involvement in the crucifixion of Christ is noted in all four gospels, and he would be the connection to the “rulers” of that same verse, but more, Luke continues with the disciple’s words, saying, “with the Gentiles and the people of Israel.”
 
There are no articles in the Greek, and the word “people” is actually plural –
 
“with Gentiles and peoples of Israel.”
 
As such, it is a general statement that includes all who were participants in the torturous events of Christ’s passion and crucifixion. There were Roman and Jewish soldiers along with many peoples of Israel. People shouted for His death, people rose against Him, people mocked Him, and there were those who physically came against Him. It was a din of humanity, Jew and Gentile, that rose against Him and led to His cross and all that was associated with that event. All of these, as they note, “were gathered together.”
 
As just noted, it is a din of humanity, all with a united purpose that led to Christ’s cross. The words are most significant for several reasons. Such a mixing of the intent of both Jew and Gentile would normally be at odds with the state of things. But there was a sense of all conspiring together. Also, it shows that none can say, “We are guiltless in what occurred.”
 
Such a thought reigns true for all. It extends to every nation, culture, society, and person because it is an indictment on the hearts of all. A nation may not have even existed at the time of the event, just as countless people have been born since the event. However, all people issue from the same original father, and the collective heart of man is clearly what is on trial with these words. And so, ironically, the joy for humanity that comes from the resurrection is one that first had to be initiated by the healing which came from the shed blood at the cross.
 
Life application: Above, it was noted that the word chrió, is seen five times in the New Testament and that four of them are directed to the anointing of Christ. Did you curiously ask yourself, “What was the fifth use of the word?” If so, you receive ten merit points. The fifth use is found in Paul’s words of 2 Corinthians 1 –
 
“For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 21 Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, 22 who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.” 2 Corinthians 1:20-22
 
In Christ is the Yes, and in Him is the Amen. It is Christ who is the fulfillment of the promises. When we call on Him, those promises, which were fulfilled in Him, now belong to us. Further, they are emphatically fulfilled in Him.
 
Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of Scripture and therefore the promises of God which were made to the people of God (to Abraham for example, explaining that in his seed all nations of the earth would be blessed) are realized in Him. Paul gives this thought in Romans 15 –
 
“Now I say that Jesus Christ has become a servant to the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made to the fathers, 9 and that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy...” Romans 15:8, 9
 
And in the book of Hebrews, this is seen –
 
“And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.” Hebrews 9:15
 
Every Messianic promise is realized in Him, and in Him is the Amen. In Him is the confirmation and establishment of those promises.
 
Understanding this, when a person calls on Christ, he is anointed in Christ. From that moment, he is established and continues to be established. God will no more reject Christ’s anointing of us than He would reject His anointing of Christ. And to assure us that this is so, and that it is an eternal decree of God (ETERNAL SALVATION), Paul’s words state that we are sealed with the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.
 
The word translated as “guarantee” is arrabón. It signifies a pledge. It is given as an advance, as a security, that the final and full payment will be paid afterward. In other words, the onus and the payment are not on us. They are on God. It is the believer whose right it is to collect the final, full, and forever payment. The doctrine of eternal salvation stands, or our God is not God.
 
Lord God, You have given us the sealing of Your Spirit as a guarantee. We eagerly await collecting on that pledge. May that day of final payment come soon. We wish to be forever in Your glorious presence. Amen and amen.

Acts 4:26

Friday, 28 January 2022
 
The kings of the earth took their stand,
And the rulers were gathered together
Against the Lord and against His Christ.’ Acts 4:26
 
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).
 
The words of the group, which are citing the 2nd Psalm, continue now with verse 2 of the psalm. This is a direct citing of the Greek translation of the psalm as well. As such, the words begin with, “The kings of the earth took their stand.”
 
At times, the word “kings” is used somewhat more freely than our modern sense of the word. Today we think of the sovereign over a nation, but the intent here can signify people in positions of power, especially when they represent another who is sovereign. Therefore, the thought of Pilate representing Caesar could fit into this thought. Further, there is Herod Antipas who was known as the “tetrarch of Galilee” in Luke 3:1, who is also known as a king in Mark 6:14.
 
As such, there is every reason to assume that this is considered fulfilled by past events in the eyes of the disciples, even if it continues to be true even to modern times. Kings of the earth continue to fight against the name of Jesus, but the disciples are looking at what occurred during Christ’s ministry and are noting that it is an absolute fulfillment of David’s words. What is also true is that the same ruling authorities would continue to do so, even as is recorded in Acts, such as in Acts 12 –
 
“Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church. 2 Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. 3 And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to seize Peter also. Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread. 4 So when he had arrested him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to keep him, intending to bring him before the people after Passover.” Acts 12:1-4
 
Next, the words of the psalm read, “And the rulers were gathered together.” This is recorded again and again in the gospels, even right up until the time of Christ’s crucifixion. But more, and what probably brought the citing of the psalm to mind in the first place, is that they had continued to do so even after the resurrection.
 
The power of God in Christ is evident and on full display among the apostles, clearly demonstrating that He is both alive and in possession of the power of God, and yet the council had continued to stand against Him. That is seen in the third clause of the verse, saying, “Against the Lord and against His Christ.”
 
The original Hebrew reads, “Against Yehovah and against His Anointed.” The word “Anointed” is a translation from the Hebrew “Messiah,” and that is a direct equivalent to the Greek “Christ.” The meaning of this word does not necessarily have to refer to “THE MESSIAH,” but can refer to anyone who is anointed for a position.
 
Leviticus 4:3 speaks of the “anointed priest” with this word. David refers to the office of king, such as King Saul or himself, because they had been anointed to that position, for example –
 
“Then Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it on his head, and kissed him and said: ‘Is it not because the Lord has anointed you commander over His inheritance?’” 1 Samuel 10:1
 
The title is given to Cyrus, King of Persia, in Isaiah 45:1. However, in the case of the psalm, it is speaking of a particular person who would come to fulfill a prophesied role. The Lord God anointed Jesus with His Spirit, and thus to come against Jesus, God’s Anointed, is to come against the Lord Himself. The people mentioned in this verse had directly butted heads with the God of the universe.
 
Life application: As noted, the rulers of the world (obviously!) continue to set themselves against the Lord Jesus. The rulers of Israel do as well. They reject Christ as Lord, and many in the rabbinic and religious circles go futher, actively pursuing and attacking believers. There is an underlying enmity towards Jesus that permeates the Jewish society.
 
But that is not unlike much of the world, even the once Christian world. To mention Jesus in public can cause major division in Germany, the UK, the US, and so on. And yet, these nations once openly allowed the open exercise of faith in Him to one degree or another. This will certainly only get worse until the coming of the Lord for His church.
 
Until that happens, however, the Great Commission remains in effect. We have a job to do, and we have good news to share. But the Lord has not left us without His presence. He is here with us, and He will not leave us nor forsake us. If we get attacked, or even killed, for talking about Jesus, such is life. We have a job to do, and we should be willing to expend ourselves in doing it.
 
Be ready and willing to speak out this great and exalted Name. It is what we have been called to do.
 
Lord God, thank You for allowing us to be Your messengers of the wonderful news of salvation, reconciliation, and peace that is found in the gospel of Jesus. May we be responsible to uphold our part of this process by being willing to speak. To Your glory. Amen.

Acts 4:25

Thursday, 27 January 2022
 
who by the mouth of Your servant David have said:‘Why did the nations rage,
And the people plot vain things? Acts 4:25
 
The previous verse began quoting the words of the group of disciples after having received Peter and John’s report about the events that occurred at the council. The quoting of their words continues now by saying, “who by the mouth.”
 
Rather than “by,” the Greek reads “who through the mouth.” It is an absolute confirmation of the doctrine of divine inspiration. God spoke through the mouth of another to convey His words, breathing out the very thoughts He chose to set forth. This goes along with Peter’s words from his second epistle where he said, “for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.”
 
In the case of the words to be quoted, they were through the mouth “of Your servant David.” David’s words fill the psalms. They are also found in the books of Samuel. The content David set forth in these songs and psalms is literally filled with anticipations of the coming Messiah.
 
God saw the life and actions of David and knew that how he conducted his affairs, how he expressed himself, and how the world around him responded to his actions would mirror how Christ Jesus would live and be treated. As such, God spoke through David to provide the world a snapshot of what was coming. This is why it is noted that David was a man after God’s own heart. That is seen in the psalm now to be quoted. Of them, those words of God “have said.”
 
The verb is singular. The Lord alone is noted as having said the following words, even though it is said to be through the mouth of David. With this note, the words of the psalm to be cited in this verse comprise Psalm 2:1. They begin with –
 
“Why did the nations rage.” An aorist verb is used. In the Hebrew, which is often deficient in tenses, it simply says something like, “Why rage nations?” However, the words are quoted from the Greek translation of the Old Testament, and the assumption is that the action has happened. Thus, the disciples are identifying the event with what occurred in Christ’s coming. He was raged against by the nations.
 
The word they use is an interesting one, found only here in the New Testament, phruassó. It signifies “to snort” or to neigh in a vehement manner as a horse would. Thus, the nations acted in a manner not unlike an uncontrolled, snorting horse.
 
As the council’s decision hasn’t changed anything, it can be lumped in with all that has previously happened. From there, the second clause of the verse is cited, saying, “And the people plot vain things?”
 
The word “people” is plural. Hence, it should say, “And the peoples plot vain things.” The idea is parallel to the previous clause placing the “nations” along with “peoples.” This is without regard to Jews and Gentiles. It is a way of expressing that there was a united effort by all to rage and to plot. One can see the actions of both Israel and Rome being united as a stand against the Person of Christ.
 
The “vain things” referred to are things that are foolish. Both in the Hebrew and in the Greek, the word signifies “empty.” Thus, in a moral way, it is ineffective, foolish, and so on. Despite raging and plotting, their actions fail. It is as if a wind is blowing against a stone wall. The wall remains unaffected by it. The question shows the futility of the actions of those who came against Christ. God’s purposes in Him were realized because nothing could thwart them.
 
Life application: When you read the Bible, how do you consider what you are reading? Is it a book that simply conveys morals from a Mideastern perspective? It is a book that simply contains the word of God as if His thoughts are satisfactorily expressed in it? Is it book about the things of God with ideas that are conveyed to detail what man thinks is expected of Him from God’s perspective? Do you view it in some other way that hints at such a notion? Or when you read the Bible, do you say to yourself, “This is the word of God”?
 
How you consider this book, and how you approach its contents, has all of the importance in the world as to how you will then respond to what it says. The Bible, right in its own words, claims to be uttered out by God, even if it is through men. As this is so, should we not consider it as sacred, holy, and even terrifying?
 
The Lord, through Isaiah, tells us who is pleasing to God in regard to His word –
 
“Thus says the Lord:‘“Heaven is My throne,And earth is My footstool.Where is the house that you will build Me?And where is the place of My rest?2 For all those things My hand has made,And all those things exist,”Says the Lord.“But on this one will I look:On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit,And who trembles at My word.’” Isaiah 66:1, 2
 
The whole creation belongs to the Lord. Everything came from His hand, but the Lord favors the part of His creation that respects, honors, and exalts His word. The one who trembles at it as is it read is more pleasing to Him than any of the magnificent things that He has placed in the heavens and upon the earth. Be sure to consider this as you read and contemplate this sacred word that we have been given to illuminate the path upon which we tread.
 
Thank You, Lord God Almighty, for the precious and exalted word that You have allowed us to read and to enlighten our lives by if we choose to do so. You have allowed us to accept it or reject it without forcing it upon us. What will we do with it during this short life we live? Help us to consider it rightly and to cherish its every word. In it, we will find life, because in it we will find Jesus. Praise God for this wonderful word. Amen.

Acts 4:26

Wednesday, 26 January 2022
 
So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them, Acts 4:24
 
Peter and John returned to their own group and reported to them everything that the council had said to them. With this noted, Luke now records the actions of the group, beginning with, “So when they heard that.”
 
This refers to the news concerning the words of the council. The reaction that happens next is based on hearing the report of the council’s rejection of Peter’s words concerning Jesus, which include the explanation for how the sign that had been performed in the healing of the man had come about. Everything about the occasion called out that Jesus is alive, and He is Lord. And yet, their words had been rejected. With this understood, it next says, “they raised their voice to God.”
 
The idea here is that of an outwardly expressive voice. It is a Hebraism, corresponding to the word nasa (to lift, carry, or take) found throughout the Old Testament. One could lift his voice in mourning (Genesis 21:16) or in tears of joy (Genesis 29:11). One could lift his voice in distress (Genesis 27:38) or in terror (Isaiah 10:3). Entire groups could lift up a united voice for any such reason as well (2 Chronicles 5:13). In this case now in Acts, it says that this was done by the people “with one accord.”
 
It is a united lifting of the voice by the people. Thus, it is to be considered in the same light as the last example cited above from 2 Chronicles 5:13 –
 
indeed it came to pass, when the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the Lord, and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the Lord, saying:
“For He is good,For His mercy endures forever,”
that the house, the house of the Lord, was filled with a cloud, 
 
As the words of the next verse in Acts will be the citing of a portion of Psalm 2, it appears that the words of this verse now are actually sung out, just as the words of a psalm were lifted up in 2 Chronicles 5. If so, it would be done either in harmony or antiphonally. Further, if this is the case, it is the earliest singing of a hymn to the Lord in the church age that is recorded in Scripture. This appears to be likely, and it is a beautiful expression of the state of the people’s minds as they united their voices together “and said: “Lord, You are God.”
 
Here, a particular word for “Lord,” despotés, signifying the Sovereign Lord, is used. It signifies an authority figure, like a master or even a husband who has complete authority and jurisdiction, and who wields total and unrestricted power in his realm. Being a reference to God, it signifies the Sovereign Lord who has complete and total authority over the universe, meaning temporally, spiritually, chronologically, and so on. Everything is within His power and ultimately under His rule.
 
The word was first used in Luke 2:29 when Simeon beheld God’s Messiah and uttered out a song of joy. This is its second of ten uses in Scripture. Both Peter and Jude will use the term and apply it to Jesus. In the Old Testament, it is used to refer to the Angel of the Lord and to the Lord directly as well. With this address stated, it next says, “who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them.”
 
It is a citation from Psalm 146 –
 
“Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help,Whose hope is in the Lord his God,6 Who made heaven and earth,The sea, and all that is in them;Who keeps truth forever,” Psalm 146:5, 6
 
This psalm goes on to speak of “those who are bowed down” in verse 8. As such, it is an appropriate psalm to recite, even if only in part. The beggar who was raised up was the act that began the entire process, and he may very well have been there among the disciples at this time. Either way, the point of citing this psalm is to acknowledge the absolute sovereignty of the Lord.
 
The general thought expressed in the words is found again in Revelation 14 –
 
“Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth—to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people— 7 saying with a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.’” Revelation 14:6, 7
 
Life application: Paul says elsewhere –
 
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:16, 17
 
He says this same general thought in Ephesians 5:19 as well. This is something that will turn our minds to higher things and away from the world around us. In having songs that exalt God nearby, we will be less likely to think on the immoral or perverse. It is a good way to stay in tune with God and His word.
 
Having said that, this can become a source of legalism with some. Anything can be taken to an unintended extreme. What starts out with good intent suddenly becomes a source of pride or personal exaltation. “How could you listen to that radio station? I only listen to Christian songs on my radio!” Suddenly what is a personal choice to stay in tune with the Lord becomes a way of accusing others of being “less spiritual.”
 
This can occur with types of dress, personal choices concerning things such as drinking alcohol, and so on. Anything can become a personal idol or a means of exalting oneself in the presence of others. So, let us live our lives to God, be examples to others of what we value in our relationship with Him, but not act as if our personal choices are the only way to express ourselves properly before the Lord.
 
Paul gave his exhortation, and it should be followed. But we also have freedom to do things not explicitly forbidden in Scripture. Let us be wise, circumspect, and gracious in our conduct around and toward others.
 
Gracious heavenly Father, how wonderful it is to praise You, to sing praises to You, and to hear others do so as well. You are God! You have created all things, and by Your hand all things exist and have their being. Be exalted in Your creation, O God. And hear the praises of Your people as we lift our voices to You. Amen.

Acts 4:23

Tuesday, 25 January 2022
 
And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. Acts 4:23
 
With Peter and John officially released from the custody of the council, Luke records what immediately follows, saying, “And being let go, they went to their own companions.” The word “companions” is inserted. The Greek word, translated as “own,” can be a district, people, family, home, etc. It is a word designating something uniquely one’s own possession.
 
As such, a word like people, group, family, companion, and so on is appropriate. They were with an unfamiliar group, and they immediately returned to their own group. The lines are clearly drawn, and they show that even if all are of Israel, there is an unmistakable separation between the two. Once there, they “reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them.”
 
In these words, there is a designation, chief priests, not noted in the earlier account. Instead, it mentioned the rulers, elders, and scribes, as well as Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander. The word has been used throughout the gospels, and it may be a way of referring to the priests who were serving or who had served as the high priest. The selection of high priests was as much of a political one as anything else. Rather than there being one high priest until his death, they were appointed by their rulers at this time.
 
Another possibility is that these were the leaders of the twenty-four courses of priests that were originally set up at the time of David to minister throughout the year in the temple complex. That division is found in 1 Chronicles 24.
 
Life application: The apostles have been commanded to not speak nor teach anymore in the name of Jesus. That is a part of what will be conveyed to the group that Peter and John have returned to. This is a time that probably caused them some consternation and so the very first thing they have done is to gather with other believers and to discuss what occurred.
 
There is a lesson for us in this, which is to seek the counsel of other believers when we are facing matters of great importance. In doing this, we can get a better sense of what to do because our own thoughts might be clouded by the events hemming us in. Others, however, can add in thoughts that have been unaffected by our own circumstances. This is stated early on in the book of Proverbs –
 
“A wise man will hear and increase learning,And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel.” Proverbs 1:5
 
And again –
 
“Where there is no counsel, the people fall;But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” Proverbs 11:14
 
Let us take advantage of the wise counsel of others in order to make right decisions concerning the large and important matters we face. In doing so, we will surely avoid many pitfalls as we wind our way through life.
 
Lord God, may we be wise in how we conduct our affairs before You. When we face really important matters that can affect the direction of our lives, help us to use wisdom and seek out good advice when it is necessary. Lead us to do this. Your word shows that this is a good and proper path, and so may we take it and be spared the ills of going it alone! Amen.

Acts 4:22

Monday, 24 January 2022
 
For the man was over forty years old on whom this miracle of healing had been performed. Acts 4:22
 
In the previous verse, the council had found no way of punishing Peter and John, having been worried about the reaction of the people because they all understood that God was the source of the healing. The reason for this is now noted by Luke, saying, “For the man was over forty years old.”
 
In his usual meticulous fashion, the age of the man is carefully recorded by Luke. This, combined with Acts 3:2, shows the stunning nature of the miracle –
 
And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb ... For the man was over forty years old.
 
He bore his defect even from before the day of his birth, he was now over forty years old, and he was instantaneously healed of his affliction. The impossibility of what occurred, apart from it being the work of God, was clearly evidenced and noted by the people. No other explanation would suffice. Hence, the next words of Luke are provided, which say, “on whom this miracle.”
 
As in verse 4:16, rather than the word “miracle,” it is the word sémeion, and is to be translated as “sign.” The event was miraculous, but it also carried with it the intent of identifying Israel’s Messiah. It is a sign because it points directly to this fact. It is a confirmation that Jesus is the Messiah to the house of Israel.
 
The beggar did not have faith to be healed. In fact, he did nothing. Peter simply saw him and healed him. It was a miracle that is a sign for all of Israel, including the council, to recognize and understand that Christ Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophetic utterances of Scripture, including the words of Isaiah 35 –
 
“Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened,And the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.6 Then the lame shall leap like a deer,And the tongue of the dumb sing.” Isaiah 35:5, 6
 
With this understood, the sign is next described as one “of healing.” The word here, iasis, is the noun form – “a healing” – found only in Luke’s writings. It is seen in Luke 13:32, here, and once again in Acts 4:30. It is a word carrying the idea of supernatural healing.
 
The sign had been performed, and it was one of healing that pointed directly to the work of God in Christ Jesus because it was His name upon which it “had been performed.” There was no consultation with a group of doctors. There was no team of trained medical professionals. There was only the proclamation of the name and Peter extending his hand forth to raise the man. The work was immediate, it was effectual, and it was absolutely complete in its scope. Israel has been presented with the sign as a witness both to and against them.
 
Life application: As noted, the sign to Israel of the healing of this man is given as a witness that Jesus is the Messiah. But it may extend beyond the immediate application to be a witness of what will someday come to pass in Israel. Israel, as with all people, is a nation born with a defect – sin. It was in them before they were brought forth because of the sin of our first father, Adam.
 
The man was over forty years old at the time of his healing. The number forty is an important number in Scripture. Bullinger notes “its association with a period of probation, trial, and chastisement.” Further, he says, “It is the product of 5 and 8, and points to the action of grace (5), leading to and ending in revival and renewal (8).”
 
Israel did, in fact, reject Jesus. They went into a time of exile as was in accord with the words of Scripture that said it would come about for failing to adhere to the words set forth for them as a nation. However, someday Israel will be instantaneously healed when they recognize Jesus as their long-rejected Messiah. This man is given as an object lesson and a witness against them to know and understand their crippled state before God.
 
The coming words of Acts will show this, but they will include a note against the Gentiles as well (Acts 4:27). Jesus is the One whom the world came against, and it is up to each person to come to Him for healing and restoration. There is no other name given by which this can come about. Be sure to call out to God through the exalted Name above all names and be reconciled to Him. Call out today in the name of JESUS!
 
Lord God, help us to get out the wonderful word concerning the gospel of Jesus. It has the power to heal the troubled soul and bring man back to a right relationship with You. Give us the strong desire to be willing to speak, and the fortitude to follow through with that desire as well. May it be so, to Your glory. Amen.

Acts 4:21

Sunday, 23 January 2022
 
So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way of punishing them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done. Acts 4:21
 
Peter and John have clearly stated their intentions to speak concerning what they had seen and heard. The council’s command found no footing in them, but there was nothing further that could be done other than bring more empty words of threat. This is seen now in verse 21, beginning with, “So when they had further threatened them.”
 
As just noted, Peter and John plainly stated that it was their intention to continue speaking out. They knew it was right, they had the authority of the Lord to do so, and those who administered the law had no justifiable reason to punish them. All they could do was threaten them some more and then “they let them go.”
 
Whether the beggar was there with them, or if he had already been excused, Luke’s words center on the apostles. Their words effectively communicated the events that occurred, the healing that had been performed stood as its own witness to the truth of their words, and thus their defense was valid. Those who wished to silence them had to release them, “finding no way of punishing them.”
 
Here is a new word that will only be seen again in 2 Peter 2:9, kolazó, to chastise. Vincent’s Word Studies says it was “Originally, to curtail or dock; to prune as trees: thence to check, keep in bounds, punish.” The council was in a bind because they did not have the weight of the law behind them to support them and to legally keep the apostles curtailed. There was nothing to be found in Scripture that would justify one of the punishments authorized by Moses. In fact, just the opposite was true.
 
Luke, who carefully and meticulously provides every necessary detail, says nothing of witnesses – even false witnesses – that could testify against the apostles. But witnesses were required in order to render punishment upon offenders. Should they abuse their authority in such a way, it would cause real problems for them “because of the people.”
 
This was their main concern, not just at this time, but at other times as well. For example, when the leaders confronted Jesus about a matter, instead of directly responding to their question, knowing it was a trap, He asked them another question that put them in a bind. Their fear of the people’s reaction dictated their words and their judgments –  as can be heard in Matthew 21
 
Now when He came into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people confronted Him as He was teaching, and said, “By what authority are You doing these things? And who gave You this authority?”
24 But Jesus answered and said to them, “I also will ask you one thing, which if you tell Me, I likewise will tell you by what authority I do these things: 25 The baptism of John—where was it from? From heaven or from men?”
And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say to us, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 26 But if we say, ‘From men,’ we fear the multitude, for all count John as a prophet.” 27 So they answered Jesus and said, “We do not know.”
And He said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.  (Matthew 21:23-27)
 
The same state of fear concerning the people is seen in them now in Acts. They understood that they were limited by the constraints of the law, and the people were aware of what those constraints were. In this case, the apostles had the support of the people and therefore the council had to give up any intention of punishing them. If they did, it would have aroused the masses who had – only one day before – see the sign of the healing “since they all glorified God for what had been done.”
 
These words follow directly upon what the beggar himself had done –
 
“So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them—walking, leaping, and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God.” Acts 3:8, 9
 
When the man was healed, he gave God the praise. When Peter addressed the crowd, he then denied that he had accomplished the miracle, but instead said that it had been upon “the faith” in Jesus’ name that it had occurred. It was a demonstration of God’s approval of Christ Jesus.
 
Further, Peter indicated to the people that Jesus was the fulfillment of the words of Moses that God would raise up a Prophet like him. As this was accepted by the people, it meant that what was done was in accord with the law of Moses. Because of this, the people glorified God for the man’s healing. If the council were to punish the apostles, it would be taken as an act against the Law of Moses and against God who directed the issuance of that law. The consequences of that would be that the people would surely revolt.
 
Life application: In the US, there is a constitution that establishes the rule of law. The government, when run by miscreants, will do its best to work around the law, override the law, or simply suspend the law. But the constitution is the basis of the law. It is what gives them power in the first place. Because this is so, if the people are aware of what the constitution says, they will rightly revolt when the fundamental precepts found in this document are not adhered to.
 
For example, the Second Amendment to the US Constitution clearly and unambiguously provides for the bearing of arms by the citizens of the nation. When the government whittles away at this right, there will be blowback from the citizens through the legal process. If that is ignored, at some point the people will be (not may be) justified in taking action against the government because the fundamental right – set down in the nation’s founding document – has been violated.
 
The word of God is of far greater weight and importance than the US Constitution. It is the very source of humanity’s rights, responsibilities, and code of conduct before God. Man has no right to add to it or to take from it. It must be adhered to, in its proper context, and accurately explaining it is to be held as a sacred charge by those who preach it and teach it.
 
When this is not the case, the people should question on what authority the pastor, priest, preacher, teacher, church, or denomination thinks they stand. They should rightly revolt against any authority that does not align its teachings to be in accord with this word. Unfortunately, like the citizens of the nation in regard to their establishing documents, the people cannot do this if they do not know what the word of God says.
 
Therefore, it is incumbent upon you to read this word, to study this word, and to be able to defend a right interpretation of this word at all times – lest your life be led astray from what God intends for you by miscreants who enter the church in order to tear the people away from what is sound and proper.
 
Lord God, may we be sound in our doctrine because of our study of Your word. Keep us from being led astray by those who would curtail our freedoms in Christ, but also from those who would lead us to abusing our freedoms as well. May our walk before You be in accord with Your word at all times. Amen.
 

Acts 4:20

Saturday, 22 January 2022
 
For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:20
 
Peter and John had just stated to the council “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge.” Now, they add on their note of intended non-compliance to the council’s determination, beginning with, “For.”
 
In essence, they are clearly justifying why they will not comply with the decision that has been rendered. They had said, “you judge.” As for them, they have already judged and if the two judgments do not align, it is theirs that will take the priority. That is unambiguously made known with the words, “we cannot but speak the things.”
 
 They will speak, and there is a higher authority that requires them to do so. That thought is tied in with the idea of listening to God. If God has spoken, then it would be inappropriate to not heed the things that He has said. Again, as noted in the previous verse, this is a clear indication that the Law of Moses is now no longer in force.
 
The men who stood and commanded Peter and John to not speak in the name of Jesus were those who sat upon Moses’ seat. They bore the authority of Moses, and Moses has spoken for God. If Peter and John were disobedient to them, it was as if they were disobedient to God... unless they had proof that their conduct was validated by God.
 
As Moses had spoken of the coming Messiah, and as he had told them that He must be heard, then it is a poignant note that Messiah’s word would now be what held rule over the people of Israel. In essence, Moses, almost fifteen hundred years earlier, had talked himself out of a job at some point in future history. Time had met up with that point, and now a new order of things had come. That time is validated by their next words, which say, “which we have seen and heard.”
 
The council itself had noted that the healing was a sign. Added onto that were all of the doctrines of Christ that Peter and John had been taught, all of the miracles, signs, and wonders He had performed, the cross which had taken His life, and then the resurrection where He stood alive and whole before them.
 
They had the proofs needed to assure them of what was right and proper, and they would boldly proclaim those things no matter what. The decision was not a difficult one because it was fully supported by the hand of God upon the message they proclaimed.
 
Life application: Many people were raised in Christian homes, and what they believe is based upon what they were taught. That is a good thing. However, many people were brought up in Buddhist, Muslim, or Shinto homes, and they believe what they were taught. Someone could then say, “Well that is a good thing too.”
 
What is the difference? The answer depends on which God or “god” one is serving. That there is one God can be deduced in various ways. We do not need a book to determine this. Simply taking the time to think the matter through can bring the human mind to know this.
 
And more, there are certain things about this one God that can be known as well. These things take careful thought to deduce, but it can be done. Eventually, one can weed out all non-monotheistic religions, Hinduism, for example. And more, one can then weed out incorrect monotheistic religions, Islam, for example.
 
These things can be done. In the doing, one is left with actually only one possibility as to what God is like. But this does not prove that the God presented in Scripture is the one true God. However, there is such an abundance of evidence that He is – such as in fulfilled prophecy – that eventually a person must reasonably ask, “If there is a God, and if He has presented Himself to the world, is what I am reading about Him in the Bible true?”
 
One can say, “The fulfillment of these prophecies is interesting, but it is still just random chance. The descriptions are perfectly in accord with what I can know about God, but someone just figured out the same thing and wrote a book that matches what I know. I just cannot believe that God would make this effort.”
 
Or, one can say, “I have all the evidence I need to believe that the God presented in the Bible is the true God, and that He has actually communicated His message to mankind in a knowable, verifiable way. I accept this word, and I believe.”
 
In the end, it comes down to one word – faith. God asks us to simply believe that He has done it. The smartest biblical scholar on the planet is as far from God as is the vilest murderer if he will not believe. God has spoken, and He has presented His word to the people of the world. He asks you to have faith in what He says. Trust Him and believe.
 
Lord God, thank You for the Holy Bible that tells us of what You have done, are doing, and have yet to do for us in order to bring us back to You. It is a precious and sacred word that we possess. Help us to be responsible with it all the days of our lives. Amen.

Acts 4:19

Friday, 21 January 2022
 
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. Acts 4:19
 
Peter and John have just been called in to and commanded to not speak or teach upon the name of Jesus. Now they wisely choose to appeal to a higher authority. That begins with Luke recording, “But Peter and John.”
 
Although referring to both Peter and John in the same sentence is not unusual, it is of note that it is almost always Peter who is then noted as speaking, such as has already been seen even earlier in this chapter. However, Luke specifically notes that John includes his voice in what is said, demonstrating that the matter is something they both agree to and openly avow. With this noted, Luke continues that it is both who “answered and said to them.”
 
John is not just a timid bystander allowing Peter to carry all the weight of what is spoken. He clearly has his priorities in line with what is right and is willing to speak out along with Peter, even against the entire council that has gathered to hear their words, and which has now commanded their silence about Jesus Christ. And their bold stand starts with, “Whether it is right in the sight of God.”
 
This is what is of paramount importance, and their words clearly indicate it as such. The highest human authorities in the land have gathered, those who sit on Moses’ seat, those who minister in the temple, the elders, and so on. They all have rendered a decision concerning a matter, but Peter and John together voice their minds, elevating the matter to one that must be pleasing to God, first and foremost.
 
The implication clearly is that they believe those in authority before them are – by default – not pleasing to God in their judgment. Their words want to know if it is right in God’s sight “to listen to you more than to God.”
 
How can this be? It comes back, once again, to Scripture. The words of the author of Hebrews clearly demonstrate that Moses was the highest authority in the land. As these men sat on Moses’ seat, they were sitting in the place of God concerning the law –
 
“Anyone who has rejected Moses’ law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses.” Hebrews 10:28
 
This is why the author of the psalm (as agreed to by Jesus in John) uses the term elohim, or “gods,” to describe such men –
 
“I said, ‘You are gods,And all of you are children of the Most High.’” Psalm 82:6
 
They were elevated to such a position that they were considered separate from the people in this regard, making decisions on behalf of God when in accord with the Law of Moses. However, the Psalm doesn’t end with that. In the next verse it says –
 
“But you shall die like men,And fall like one of the princes.” Psalm 82:7
 
They were, in fact, men. Their position was to uphold Moses. But Moses wrote of one to come who would present words introducing a New and better Covenant. Jesus claimed, and then proved, to be that One –
 
“Jesus answered them, ‘Is it not written in your law, “I said, “You are gods”’? 35 If He called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be broken), 36 do you say of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’? 37 If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; 38 but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him.” John 10:34-38
 
This is then what the author of Hebrews tells the people in his next words of Hebrews 10 –
 
“Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know Him who said, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord. And again, ‘The Lord will judge His people.’ 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Hebrews 10:29-31
 
The Son of God had come. He had demonstrated His position and authority, and He was now to be heard, confirming the very words of Moses that the council had rejected. So, who should the apostles listen to, God or these men? With this stated to them, they adamantly state, “you judge.”
 
The apostles had clearly presented their case to the council, proving that the same Jesus whom they had crucified had healed the man. The sign stood as confirmation of the claim that Jesus was the Christ (Messiah) and, as such, He was to be obeyed. If a right and honest decision was made concerning the matter by the council, it would be that He – rather than they – were to be obeyed concerning their decision.
 
Life application: The words of this verse are in accord with the words of Acts 5:29 –
 
“But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: ‘We ought to obey God rather than men.’”
 
Though they are descriptive in and of themselves, they form a precept that still applies to all believers. We cannot disobey God, meaning what He has stated in Scripture, and rather obey a lesser authority. For example, though abortion is not directly addressed in Scripture, a moral precept concerning the matter is clearly defined in Scripture. If a society says that its people are to abort children, that must be disobeyed by believers. Abortion is a moral evil that is not to be allowed within the church, even if it is allowed within society.
 
All moral issues are first and foremost to be evaluated against Scripture. What man decides must be rejected when that decision does not align with the moral basis provided by God.
 
A second precept to be drawn, once again, from this verse is that the Law of Moses is now fulfilled and annulled in Christ. This is perfectly obvious from what has been stated, right in this verse, from Acts. Jesus had earlier 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
 
If the law were still in effect, Peter and John would be guilty of violating both the Law of Moses and Jesus’ instructions concerning it. But a New Covenant with a new Leader and direction had been instituted. In disobeying the leaders on what they decided, it is a clear indication that this New Covenant had superseded the old. The lesson is to stay away from any teacher who instructs you to obey any precept of the Law of Moses. Our doctrine is to be obtained solely from what is presented in the New Covenant.
 
Lord God, it is right and proper that we will obey You rather than men. When a law of the land in which we live is contrary to a precept that is clearly presented in Your word, give us the wisdom to recognize it, the voice to speak against it, and the willingness to disobey it rather than to be found disobedient to Your word. Give us both the wisdom and the desire to be obedient in this. To Your glory we pray. Amen.