BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 27:5

Monday, 22 April 2024
 
And when we had sailed over the sea which is off Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. Acts 27:5
 
More literally, it reads, “And having sailed through the depth against Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra of Lycia” (CG).
 
Luke just noted that when they put out from Sidon, they had to sail under the lee of Cyprus due to contrary winds. This brought them between Cyprus and the main continent. He now notes, “And having sailed through the depth.”
 
Here are a couple of rare words. One is found only here, diapleó. It comes from dia (through) and pleó, to sail. Thus, they are sailing through the deep. The next word, translated as deep, is found only in Matthew 18:6 and in this verse, pelagos. In Matthew 18:6, it says –
 
“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth [pelagos] of the sea.”
 
It signifies the high seas, meaning the deep. In this case, it is the depth of the waters north of Cyprus and south of the mainland.  Thus, Luke says this is “against Cilicia and Pamphylia.”
 
These would have been the two major regions on which the sea borders. They would have been to the starboard, or right side of their ship as they crossed through this deep area of ocean. From there, using the first-person plural, he says, “we came to Myra of Lycia.”
 
Myra was a city in the province of Lycia. This is in the southwest area of Asia Minor. It has “Phrygia and Pisidia on the north, the Mediterranean on the south, Pamphylia on the east, and Carla on the west” (Barnes).
 
Life application: Luke is specific in his use of wording. A lot of this information seems unnecessary, but by providing it, we find things that are verifiable. As such, we can reasonably conclude that the events recorded by him really took place. As such, Paul really left to be taken to Rome.
 
From there, they really were caught up in the storm that will be described. They really were stranded on a particular island, and so forth. As these things seem certain to have occurred, then we can be more assured that the details concerning the spread of the gospel, the writing of Paul’s letters by the apostle, the accuracy of how the church was established, etc., actually occurred as well.
 
Luke’s careful attention to particular words and details gives us a really confirming sense that all of this is reliable and accurate. Therefore, let us hold fast to the idea that Paul’s epistles are exactly what is inspired by God for our edification and instruction during this church age. Luke and his writings stand as a reliable and exemplary witness to this fact.
 
Lord God Almighty, when we look into the contents, structure, and reliability of what is found in Scripture, it sure helps us to be confident that what it proclaims about Your plan of redemption is also sure and reliable. Thank You for those who have compiled it, preserved it, translated it, and evaluated it for us. Thank You, above all, for Jesus, the Subject of this wonderful gift. Amen.

Acts 27:4

Sunday, 21 April 2024
 
When we had put to sea from there, we sailed under the shelter of Cyprus, because the winds were contrary. Acts 27:4
 
A literal rendering of the Greek is, “And thence, having gone up, we sailed under Cyprus, because of the winds being contrary” (CG).
 
Luke just detailed a stop at Sidon where the centurion, Julius, gave Paul the liberty to visit friends. With that stop complete, it now says, “And thence, having gone up, we sailed under Cyprus.” Luke meticulously described the events as they occurred. They left Sidon where it says they went up. Just as they had “brought down” at Sidon, meaning having gone from the sea to the land, they now go “up” from the land to the sea.
 
Once they had gone up, they headed for their next destination. However, to get there, Luke then says that they sailed under Cyprus.
 
In other words, it means to sail under the lee of Cyprus. The word used is hupopleó. It is only found here and in verse 7. It is apparently a very rare nautical term. This shows Luke’s great mastery of words and their proper use. He was a grand recorder of events. The reason for having sailed under Cyprus was “because of the winds being contrary.”
 
If the winds were agreeable, they would have gone on a direct course heading from Sidon to Mysia with the island of Cyprus on the left side. However, with a contrary wind, they went with Cyprus on their right side. Any violent winds would have then been broken off by the island and their travels would be much less dangerous and not as difficult as well.
 
Life application: Word studies are a marvelous way of getting the flavor of a passage from the Bible. There are many commentaries that are focused solely on word studies. These not only give mechanical information, like the types of words, the form in which they are presented, and so forth, but they will also often include so much more information, such as details about the secular use of those words at the time the Bible was written. They may also include how the word had previously been used and how it changed after biblical times, etc.
 
These things will give a much better understanding of what was on the mind of the biblical writers. Earlier uses of a word may still be applied in various ways, but later uses would not. So those later uses should be excluded from translations.
 
To take a word out of its contemporary context without a valid reason, is not sound. So, learning these things as you study will bring details to life in one’s mind in a way that almost sets your feet in the room with the writer.
 
This is true with visiting the places where these things occurred. Seeing the land of Israel or going where Paul and the other missionaries went can really bring things to life. Today, with much of this available right online, you can even go on journeys through photos and videos.
 
Take advantage of what is out there. You will find that there is no end to new and exciting ways of interacting with the Bible.
 
Lord God, what a blessed age we live in, where we can participate in so many things that relate to Your word. Without ever leaving our home, we can journey to Israel, we can learn what the contextual meaning of a particular word meant at the time of the prophets and apostles, and so much more. Thank You, O God, for the exciting resources we have to lead us to understanding Your word so intimately. Amen.

Acts 27:3

Saturday, 20 April 2024
 
And the next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him liberty to go to his friends and receive care. Acts 27:3
 
A literal rendering of the Greek is, “And another day, we brought down at Sidon. And Julius, having treated Paul philanthropically, permitted him, having gone to his friends, to receive care” (CG).
 
Luke is in the process of describing the ongoing voyage from Caesarea to Rome. He continues that now with, “And another.”
 
The meaning is “another day.” Luke is highlighting what occurred on this particular day, which was like any other, except upon arrival, there will be friends of Paul at this location. Luke next says, “we brought down at Sidon.”
 
After this day of sailing, which was about 70 miles, it says they “brought down” at Sidon. The word is katagó. It comes from two other words, kata (down) and ago, (to lead or bring). It gives the idea of bringing the ship down from the deep water of the high seas to the land. It is used in Luke 5:11 concerning the Lake of Gennesaret.
 
The seas, even in the smaller body of water like the Sea of Galilee, are considered elevated above the shores where they meet the land. At this stop in Sidon, it says, “And Julius, having treated Paul philanthropically.”
 
The word is found only here in the New Testament, philanthrópós. It literally means in a man-loving way, thus humanely. Vincent’s Word Studies notes the fault in the KJV translation, which says "courteously" rather than kindly – “Courteous, from court, expresses rather polish of manners than real kindness.”
 
In other words, this wasn't an act of polished manners on Julius’ part. Instead, it was a true act of humanity. Luke notes it as such with this special word. The regard by Luke for Julius is evident in the term used. The philanthropic way in which he dealt with Paul is next stated. He “permitted him, having gone to his friends, to receive care.”
 
Julius was under no obligation to allow his charge to be allowed this. In fact, if Paul took off, he would be in serious trouble. It is obvious that this was not the result of an exchange of money or some other such thing. The use of the word philanthrópós excludes such a notion. Rather, Paul probably said, “I have really good friends here.” Julius responded by allowing him to visit them.
 
Finally, one other unique word is used in these words. It is translated as “care.” It is the noun epimeleia. The Pulpit Commentary notes that it is a word “frequent in Xenophon and other classical writers ... It is in very common use among medical writers for the care and attention required by the sick. It is very probable that St. Paul was suffering from his long confinement at Caesarea, and that the [epimeleia] here mentioned has reference to his invalid state. This explains Julius’ humane concern for Paul.”
 
Life application: Luke is recording details of the interactions between Paul and Julius as they arise. As he continues, he will simply be called “the centurion.” However, Luke has specifically given his name to set the tone for the narrative. He is one who faithfully considered his duties, and yet, he will be seen to truly care for his charge, Paul.
 
If someone were to detail your interactions with others, how would the record reflect who you are? Are you faithful in doing your daily duties, honestly giving your employer a fair trade for the pay he gives you? If you are responsible for others, would the record show that you had concern for them or were you a jerk towards them?
 
Even if nobody is detailing your life for a book, the Lord is aware of your treatment of others. This is noted even under the law –
 
“You shall not oppress a hired servant who is poor and needy, whether one of your brethren or one of the aliens who is in your land within your gates. 15 Each day you shall give him his wages, and not let the sun go down on it, for he is poor and has set his heart on it; lest he cry out against you to the Lord, and it be sin to you.” Deuteronomy 24:14, 15
 
What we can infer from this is that the Lord is not only displeased with an uncaring or mean demeanor, but the opposite must be pleasing to Him. Each thing we do, each interaction we are involved in, reveals to the Lord our heart and intentions. Be careful to watch your life and conduct. The Lord surely is doing so.
 
Lord God, help us in our times of interaction with others. May we be careful to treat them courteously and with respect. It is often the case that we let the trials and troubles of life get in the way of how we deal with others. So, Lord, be with us and keep us from being gruff, unfriendly, uncaring, and so forth. Help us to be good and faithful to those we interact with. Amen.

Acts 27:2

Friday, 19 April 2024
 
So, entering a ship of Adramyttium, we put to sea, meaning to sail along the coasts of Asia. Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, was with us. 
 
The Greek closely reads, “And having boarded a ship of Adramyttium, intending to sail unto among the regions of Asia, we headed out. Aristarchus, a Macedonian, being with us” (CG).
 
Chapter 27 began with a note concerning the anticipated departure of Paul, prisoners, and a centurion named Julius to Rome on a ship. That now continues with, “And having boarded a ship of Adramyttium.”
 
The word translated as “boarded” is epibainó. It is now used for the sixth and last time. It comes from two words meaning “upon” and “step.” Thus, it means “to step upon.” However, for simplicity and clarity, “having boarded” gives the proper sense.
 
Saying it is a ship of Adramyttium could mean either a ship originally built there or a ship that found its home harbor there. It is probably the latter. The ship was sailing on trade and was now returning to its home port which happened to be on the way to Rome.
 
Adramyttium was a town on the coast of Mysia, opposite the island of Lesbos. It was on the Roman road which went from Assos and Troas to the cities of Pergamos, Ephesus, and Miletus. At the time, it was apparently a considerably important city.
 
With that noted, Luke continues the narrative, saying, “intending to sail unto among the regions of Asia, we headed out.” This is referring to the course of the ship as it set out, not the intent of Julius and those with him. Their intent was to get to Rome. However, the ship was a ship of business.
 
Rome would pay for the passage of Julius and the prisoners, but the ship would follow its own set course. If one were to hitchhike on the highway and a big rig stopped, the driver might say, Climb aboard! I’ll get you to Tupelo, but we’ll be making several out-of-the-way stops as we travel. This is the idea of Luke’s words now.
 
Verse 6 will note the change in ships for the continued journey to Rome. Transferring from one ship to another was common and it was seen in Paul’s earlier travels. This is no different than taking several buses, trains, or planes today in order to get to a final destination.  Understanding this, it next says, “Aristarchus, a Macedonian, being with us.”
 
Aristarchus is now mentioned again. He had come to Jerusalem with Paul as was seen in Acts 20:4. It can be inferred that he had stayed with Paul, just like Luke did, for the entire time that he was in Caesarea. He is probably going to head back to his home in Thessalonica now, but it is also possible that he wanted to continue on with Paul in all of his travels.
 
Either way, he will end up in Rome because of what lies ahead. Concerning this guy, there is speculation about his status with Paul at other times. In Colossians 4:10, he is called Paul’s “fellow prisoner.” That seems obvious on the surface, but in Romans 16:7, Paul calls Andronicus and Junia “my countrymen and my fellow prisoners.”
 
However, Paul wasn’t in prison when he wrote Romans. Further, in Philemon 1:23, 24, he calls Epaphras his “fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus,” but he doesn't say this about Aristarchus who is also named.
 
For this reason, there is speculation as to what Paul is referring to, whether it is being a prisoner either at that time or at some other time and being noted as a badge of honor, or of some other implied meaning in the word “prisoner.”
 
No matter the intent, Luke is careful to mention Aristarchus as a part of those who traveled with himself, Paul, and any others despite him not being mentioned again in the book of Acts.
 
Life application: The idea that is being conveyed in the verse is that Rome is the ultimate destination of those heading out. However, they already know that the ship they are on will only go so far. As it goes, there may be stops along the way. Eventually, they will have to find another ship and continue on towards Rome, repeating this until they finally arrive.
 
For the Christian, we are on a journey. Our ultimate destination is decided, but we cannot get there directly at this time. However, each day that passes and each place we find ourselves brings us that much closer to our place of rest.
 
Let us suppose that each point along that trip has bearing on the quality of our time in our ultimate destination. If we fritter away our stops along the way, we will reduce the gain we might receive. If we live by faith and act according to that faith at each stop, we will increase the gain that comes to us when we finally arrive.
 
Is sightseeing really so important at each stop? Is marking out temporary pleasure what we want? Or is what we will receive at our ultimate destination our target with each passing day? Remembering that the good we receive is something that also pleases the Lord, let us use our time and location each moment of our days with our eyes directed to Jesus and our thoughts always considering Him. May it be so, to the glory of God who sent His Son into the world to bring us safely home to Himself.
 
Lord God, help us to evaluate the time and place we find ourselves from day to day from a heavenly perspective. May we be faithful to do what is right, honoring You, and worthy of reward with each step we take on each new day. Help us to look at this life from a heavenly perspective. May it be so, to Your glory. Amen.

Acts 27:1

Thursday, 18 April 2024
 
And when it was decided that we should sail to Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to one named Julius, a centurion of the Augustan Regiment. Acts 27:1
 
Much more literally, the words read, “And when our sailing away to Italy was decided, they delivered both Paul and certain others, prisoners, to a centurion by name Julius, of the Augustan cohort” (CG).
 
Chapter 26 ended with the words of Agrippa noting that if Paul had not appealed to Caesar, he could have been released. However, he did appeal, and so Chapter 27 begins with, “And when our sailing away to Italy was decided.”
 
The narrative includes the first-person pronoun “our.” This connects the account all the way back to Acts 21:17. What we can infer is that Luke was probably there with Paul the entire time that he was in Caesarea. He may have even used this time in the compilation of the Gospel of Luke.
 
As for the travel to Rome, how the decision to sail was made isn’t explained. It could be that it was cheaper, quicker, safer, requiring less manpower, or for some other reason. Probably it was just the common way of delivering prisoners from this area as it was a seaport.
 
The fact that other prisoners were on board with him lends itself to the thought of traveling by ship. They could be more easily contained than going by land. The word apopleo is used here. It is from a compound word exactly meaning “sail away.” This is the fourth and last time it is seen. All have been in Acts in connection with Paul’s travels. In preparation for this sailing away, it next says, “they delivered both Paul and certain others, prisoners.”
 
The word translated as “others” as in “certain others, prisoners” is heteros. It means “another of a different kind.” In other words, Paul is singled out from the rest. Translating this as “certain other prisoners” as the NKJV does, fails to provide any distinction. However, in saying “certain others, prisoners,” it helps the mind consider that there is, in fact, a distinction.
 
The choice of words used by Luke carries a note of his being conducted to Rome for a different reason than the others. His innocence has already been established, but his appeal made his appearance before Caesar a requirement, regardless of his innocence or guilt. Understanding that, it next says, “to a centurion by name Julius, of the Augustan cohort.”
 
In the Greek, Luke uses four nouns and an adjective – centurion name Julius cohort Augustan. Therefore, a bit of insertion needs to take place for clarity. Julius is introduced here, and he is noted as a centurion of the Augustan Regiment.
 
There is much dispute as to exactly what this regiment is. The Greek reads, speirēs Sebastēs, or the cohort of Sebastos.  Sebastos means venerated or august. It is a title of the Roman emperors. Thus, secondarily, it signifies Augustan, imperial. Albert Barnes gives his thought on this band, which is as logical and probable as any other view –
 
“It was a division in the Roman army consisting of from 400 to 600 men. This was called ‘Augustus’ band’ in honor of the Roman emperor Augustus, and was probably distinguished in some way for the care in enlisting or selecting them. The Augustine cohort or band is mentioned by Suetonius in his Life of Nero, 20.”
 
Life application: Bible study is something that doesn’t just have to happen on Wednesday night at church. It can happen right in your own home each day as you pull out a commentary and read it along with the passage you are presently reading in the Bible.
 
As for Acts 27, there are 44 verses in the chapter. Following along for the next 44 days with this commentary will provide insights into the contents of the chapter, the original Greek context of various words, the intent of the author, the life of Paul as he heads to Rome – including getting lost at sea in a great storm and getting shipwreck on an island – and so much more. After that, Chapter 28 is comprised of just 31 more verses.
 
Be sure to spend the next 75 days with us as we search out the wonderful words of Scripture concerning the adventures of Paul as he shares the gospel to the Gentile world.
 
Lord God Almighty, what a wonderful gift Your word is. Thank You for the exciting details of people who have gone before and of stories of times past that lead us to a better understanding of Your great work of redemption as it is revealed in and through the Person of Jesus Christ our Lord. Yes, Lord, thank You for this precious gift. Amen.

Acts 26:32

Wednesday, 17 April 2024
 
Then Agrippa said to Festus, “This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.” Acts 26:32
 
In the previous verse, those gathered after the trial had said, “This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains.” Next, it says, “Then Agrippa said to Festus.”
 
Festus had asked for advice and an opinion on the matter of Paul. That has now been rendered by Agrippa and it will give Festus the statement he needed to include with Paul’s continued evaluation in the Roman court. The mutually agreed decision was that he was innocent. And more, Agrippa next says, “This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”
 
Paul was innocent and should be walking free at this very moment. That could not yet happen, however. But at least Festus had something to include in the letter that would accompany Paul’s case as it went to Caesar. He could say exactly what Agrippa had stated, thus excusing Paul’s being sent to Rome as a legal technicality based on the appeal to Caesar.
 
Obviously, the appeal was the right thing to do for several reasons. The first is that it kept Paul from being released and put back in peril of the Jews. Second, it allowed for this very trial of Chapter 26 to have been held. Third, that will now allow for the continued spreading of the gospel along the way to Rome as well as into the areas of Rome by Paul (as will be seen in the next two chapters). Fourth, the trial brought the issue of Christianity to the forefront of the courts in the land of Israel.
 
No Jew could come forward and accuse the converts of being a subversive heretical sect in a Roman trial. The precedent has thus far been set and the Christian way of faith has found a legal footing in the courts of Rome. It would likewise be found legal in the final court of Caesar.
 
Any later Caesar who persecuted the Christians would be found to be persecuting an established and already accepted faith within the empire. The work of Paul, by the direction of the Lord, ensured that everything was set to proceed in the most marvelous way for the expansion of the faith which is found in Jesus Christ.
 
Life application: When we see Christians persecuted for their faith, we might ask where the sense in their persecution rests. How could God allow them (or us!) to be treated so shamefully? Although it is a completely different context in which Jesus was speaking, the words remain true in other contexts as well when He said, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing.”
 
In the end, if we are saved, it may be troubling, painful, terrifying, and so forth to see Christians persecuted and tortured, but what happens to our bodies is actually very temporary and passing. In the end, the Spirit has given true believers life. They will be raised, and they will be given eternal joy in the presence of the Lord.
 
Paul is one such example, but the record of faithful martyrs for Christ has continued on unabated for two millennia. Those who truly are to be pitied are those whose faith is misdirected in heretical sects and false religions who die for their faith. They are the ones who will be eternally separated from God.
 
When a true Christian is persecuted, we can know that their troubles will be temporary and, in the end, he will be vindicated by the Lord who watches over those who are His. Let us take heart in this and remember that God has a plan that is being worked out. Paul’s trials are leading to a furtherance of the gospel. Ours, if they come, will serve their own purpose in meeting God’s plans and purposes.
 
Heavenly Father, may our lives be used to glorify You at all times, even if suffering comes. Help us to keep our thoughts on what is eternal as we pass through this troubled and fallen world. We have a job to do in sharing the gospel and in being a witness to Your presence in our lives. Be with us and sustain us through our days. Amen.
 

Acts 26:31

Tuesday, 16 April 2024
 
and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, “This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains.” Acts 26:31
 
A more literal translation would be, “And, having withdrawn, they spoke to one another, saying, ‘Nothing worthy of death or bonds is the man doing’” (CG).
 
With the substance of the trial complete, the previous verse noted that the king stood up. This was followed by the governor, Bernice, and the others. Now, Luke records, “And, having withdrawn, they spoke to one another, saying.”
 
The words here had to come from somewhere. It could be that Luke was allowed to listen as Paul’s recorder, or it could be that their deliberations were later secured by Luke from an official recorder or someone else. Either way, there was a private counsel, apart from Paul’s ears.
 
In their conversation, they make the ironic judgment that “Nothing worthy of death or bonds is the man doing.”
 
Paul concluded his deliberation noting his, desmos, bonds. That is now the same word they use in noting that he should be exonerated of any wrongdoing. In other words, Paul’s bonds which he held up as the thing that marked a marked difference in them, showed that there was really no difference at all in them except the gospel he proclaimed.
 
This account, once again, shows that Christianity within the Roman Empire was to be considered religio licita. Thus, it was acceptable for practice by any under its rule. For Paul, however, the story was not yet over. More would be required of him when he would stand before Caesar.
 
Life application: Luke meticulously continues to record the fact that Christianity is a valid extension of the redemptive narrative of the Jews recorded in their writings. This is significant because the Old Testament writings have proven true concerning the state of the people of Israel for 3500 years, both as a reliable historical narrative and as a prophetic indicator of their relationship with the Lord, both in the land and in exile.
 
Because Christianity was deemed an acceptable extension of Judaism, the claims of the apostles could not simply be dismissed as an aberration by the Jews. Each time they attempted to disassociate Jesus and what He signified to them as a people from their own religion, impartial witnesses – from within and without their culture – argued that the message concerning Him was wholly in accord with their writings and was not a separate, unconnected concept.
 
This was true of Peter and his message to the Jews, and it is true of Paul in his message that extended beyond the Jews to the Gentile world. The importance of this is that even if the Jews disagree with the message of Jesus, they cannot say that it was ever regarded as invalid by the authorities God placed over them.
 
As such, it stands as a witness against them that the message accepted by the nations is a message that they themselves have rejected. If it is the truth, they have no right to claim they were unaware of the matter. Jesus spoke of this to the nation, clearly and unambiguously, as is recorded in John 5. At the end of that chapter, He restates the matter –
 
“For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. 47 But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?” John 5:46, 47
 
This, then, is what Paul is referring to when writing to those in Rome while citing Scripture as a witness to the fact that they are without excuse –
 
“But I say, did Israel not know? First Moses says:
‘I will provoke you to jealousy by those who are not a nation,I will move you to anger by a foolish nation.’
20 But Isaiah is very bold and says:
‘I was found by those who did not seek Me;I was made manifest to those who did not ask for Me.’
21 But to Israel he says:
‘All day long I have stretched out My handsTo a disobedient and contrary people.’” Romans 10: 19-21
 
These things are instructive for us. If God has been faithful to this faithless nation, preserving them even in their rejection of Jesus, it tells us the surety that He will always be faithful to His covenant promises. Israel’s faithlessness does not negate God’s faithfulness. What does this tell you about your own times of failure before the Lord who has saved you?
 
Rest in your salvation. When you fail the Lord, pick yourself up, talk to Him about it, and get yourself back on the right path. He has saved you, you are forgiven, and He will bring you to Himself some wonderful day.
 
Lord God, Your faithfulness is without limits. How can we not rejoice when we consider what You have done for us? We were lost and without hope and then came Jesus. We continue to fail You, and yet there is Jesus. Thank You, O God, for our Savior, our Mediator, and our Advocate. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Acts 26:30

Monday, 15 April 2024
 
When he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and Bernice and those who sat with them; Acts 26:30
 
More literally, “And he, having said these, the king arose, and the governor, and Bernice, and those sitting with them” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Paul had just concluded his words to those gathered in the court. With his words complete, it next says, “And he, having said these.”
 
These words are not in the Alexandrian text and are thus excluded from modern translations that use that source. Instead, it simply goes to the matter of the rising of the officials. Luke records that, saying, “the king arose, and the governor, and Bernice, and those sitting with them.”
 
The order of rank is the order in which they rose. First the king, then the governor, then Bernice, wife of the king. After that, all those other less distinguished fellows sitting with them. At the standing of the king, the trial was ended.
 
As for the final words of Paul from the previous verse, the word desmos, chains, will be used in an ironic manner in just a few more moments.
 
Life application: There is usually a set order in how such gatherings are conducted. It is not uncommon for someone to come before the arrival of the highest officials and tell others when they should stand, when they should sit, and so forth. This is to maintain a set dignity and to pay honor and respect to whoever is considered the greatest within the gathering.
 
In Luke 9, Jesus said –
 
“Then a dispute arose among them as to which of them would be greatest. 47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a little child and set him by Him, 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great.” Luke 9:46-48
 
The world runs by its own standards, and these vary within societies. But it is often the case that Jesus is not on the minds of the leaders. The life of Jesus is one that was of submission. He submitted Himself to the will of His Father. He submitted Himself to a physical human form. He submitted Himself as a baby under the care of fallible parents. He submitted Himself under the authority of the Law of Moses.
 
He also submitted Himself to the Jewish authorities and even the Roman authorities. This went to such an extreme that He allowed Himself to be beaten, rejected, and crucified. To this day, He implicitly submits Himself to each person who hears the gospel, giving them the opportunity to accept or reject His grace.
 
He doesn’t force His goodness and His offering of eternal life on anyone. Paul acknowledged this by telling his hearers in this court that he “was not disobedient to the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19). In other words, Paul could have retaken the reins of his life, rejecting Jesus.
 
Jesus, by giving every person the chance to accept or reject Him, has put Himself in the position of least of all. And yet, He is the Creator and Redeemer of humanity. Someday, every person who has made their decision will be judged according to the decision he has made. Paul notes this in Philippians 2 –
 
“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
 
The God we serve graciously gives us the choice to live out our lives as we wish. When He sends judgment, it is often to correct us and turn us back to Him. At times, judgment is made final for those who have gone so far that there is no longer a remedy for them. This is true, for example, of the flood of Noah or Sodom and Gomorrah. But even that judgment is a self-inflicted wound.
 
Consider these things. Consider the goodness of God in Christ. He was willing to suffer for us so that we could be spared what we actually deserve. The great and exalted Lord of lords has done it all. Call out to Him for salvation, and in your salvation be continuously renewed in His goodness. Hooray for Jesus!
 
Lord God, how difficult it is to admit that we are sinners in need of a Savior. And how incredible is the way in which we are saved. The cross is the ultimate expression of Your goodness to the people of the world. May we cling to the cross all our days as we await the return of our glorious Lord – Jesus. Thank You for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 

Acts 26:29

Sunday, 14 April 2024
 
And Paul said, “I would to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains.” Acts 26:29
 
A literal rendering would be, “And Paul said, I would wish to God, also in little and in much, not only you but also all those hearing me this day to become what manner I also am, besides these bonds” (CG).
 
Agrippa had just responded to Paul concerning what he had heard, saying, “In a little, you persuade me to become a Christian!” With that, Luke next records, “And Paul said, I would wish to God, also in little and in much.”
 
It is similar to our saying that in any way, shape, or form. The NIV assumes it is referring to time. Others take it to mean little and much discourse. Whatever Paul’s exact intent, it was his hope as they listened, they would be converted and become like him.
 
Further, and his response to the king’s words could be either dismissive or a response based on a misunderstanding of what the king’s intent really was. Whatever the king’s intent was, Paul’s was clear. It was Paul’s great desire that what he next says would be realized, which is that “not only you but also all those hearing me this day.”
 
Paul is speaking to Agrippa, but he is appealing to all in the room who are attending. He was willing to continue to work towards the conversion of anyone who listened and for whatever time it would take. This was his passionate appeal for any and all who heard him “to become what manner I also am.”
 
Paul says this with the intent that they would be converted to Christ, devote their lives to Him, and be willing to stand before anyone and proclaim what He was willing to proclaim. Despite this, he adds in the carefully selected words, “besides these bonds.”
 
Paul’s hope was that they could do what he was doing and be like him in his life, but to do so freely and without the constraints that kept him bound and imprisoned. As for his appeal to the people, it is reminiscent of that made by Elijah in 1 Kings 18:21 and also of the words of Jesus in Revelation 3:16.
 
He desired that the people would not halter between two opinions and not be lukewarm in their zeal, but to believe and to carry that belief into lives of action.
 
Life application: People need Jesus. Paul was unashamed of his bonds, and he was willing to proclaim Jesus to those who were there to judge him. Whatever they could do to him was inconsequential in relation to what God would reward him with.
 
He understood that this life is merely a steppingstone to glory. If we could just have this same attitude, we wouldn’t be living as if one foot was here, and the other was in heaven. Rather, we would consider that we are already seated in the heavenly realms in Christ. Positionally, it is a done deal. Therefore, what can man do to us?
 
Let us consider this and be willing to speak out concerning the good news we possess. People need Jesus. Let us tell people about Jesus. Someday, our time to do so will be through. Let us use the day while it is light. May it be so, to the glory of God who has saved us.
 
Lord God, give us the wisdom to consider our position in Christ and the gumption to then tell others about it. We have been redeemed. We are on the road to eternity with You. Nothing will change that, and so help us to express this to others while we have the time. May we not be slack in doing so. Yes, Lord, give us wisdom in this. Amen.

Acts 26:28

Saturday, 13 April 2024
 
Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You almost persuade me to become a Christian.” Acts 26:28
 
A literal reading is much sparser in content, “And Agrippa to Paul: ‘In a little, you persuade me to become a Christian!’” (CG).
 
Paul just asked Agrippa if he believed the prophets. He then immediately answered his own question, acknowledging that the king did. With that, a response comes from the king, “And Agrippa to Paul: ‘In a little, you persuade me to become a Christian!’”
 
Agrippa’s response shows full well that he was aware of the entire situation, exactly as Paul had said. He uses the term “Christian.” So far, it has only been used once, in Acts 11:26, concerning the believers in Antioch, where the term was first used.
 
That term, however, had obviously become well known enough to become common, even by the king himself. It is believed by some that the term “Christian” is used in a negative sense and only later would it come into a positive one. It is assumed by some scholars that in each of the three times it is used in the Bible, it is stated as a term of derision. It is last used in 1 Peter 4:16. 
 
Regardless of this, though, this is one of the highly debated verses in the Book of Acts. The words are difficult for even the greatest Greek scholars to be adamant about. The KJV inserts a presupposition and says, “...almost you persuade me.” Other versions say, “Do you think in such a short time you can persuade me...?” or “In brief, you are doing your best to persuade me...” One paraphrase says, “...you are making short work of my conversion: you are persuading me to become a Christian as suddenly as you yourself did;” Another scholar, considering the negative connotation of the word “Christian,” paraphrases this, “Thou wilt soon have me one of that despised sect.”
 
The Pulpit Commentary gives more ideas with these words – “Another difference of opinion is whether the words of Agrippa are to be taken ironically, or sarcastically, or jestingly, or whether they are to be taken seriously, as the words of a man shaken in his convictions and seriously impressed by what he had heard. The whole turn of the narrative seems to favor the latter view. Another view, started by Chrysostom, is that Agrippa used the words in one sense, and St. Paul (mistakenly or advisedly) took them in another.”
 
Finally, another scholar finds the intent to be, “By your appeal to the prophets you press me hard; you have got me into a corner. I am in a στενοχωρία, a narrow room; ‘I hardly know how to get out of it.’”
 
Reading all of these and considering each doesn’t get us any closer to knowing exactly what he meant. This includes adding in Paul’s coming response. Normally, it would show exactly what Agrippa was thinking, but as the Pulpit Commentary said, Paul may have simply ignored the response and restated it in order to continue to impress upon him the surety of his own convictions.
 
I have given the most literal translation and inserted an exclamation point. This could then be the king’s note of surprised rebuke, a highly dubious sense of questioning, or even an adamant confirmation that he could actually be swayed by Paul. An exclamation point allows for any of these options and more, just as the brevity of the wording does.
 
Life application: The Bible shows quite clearly that when the gospel is preached and the word is believed, salvation occurs. This is evidenced in Acts 10 at the conversion of Cornelius and those with him. It is also implied in Paul’s words in the following verses –
 
The gospel: “For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.” 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4
 
A response of faith: “In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.” Ephesians 1:13, 14
 
We have no idea what Agrippa’s heart accepted. If he believed with his words being a confirmation of that belief, then he was saved. If the record of his life after this is one of never living the way he should, that does not negate that he was saved, and that God sealed him with a guarantee of that salvation.
 
That is true for every person attending the court at that time. It is God who reads the heart of man. It is God who accepts the faith of a person. And it is God, who cannot err, who seals that person with the seal of the Holy Spirit. If you are fighting against the doctrine of eternal salvation, you are fighting against God’s decision, which He alone has the right to make.
 
Don’t fight against God. Straighten out your doctrine to align with His word and His will.
 
Lord God, how faithful You are to Your unfaithful people. May we be sound in our thinking and reasonable in our theology. What You determine is an eternal decree. Help us to understand this and accept it. Your faithfulness is in no way negated by our unfaithfulness. You are the great and covenant-keeping Lord our God. Hallelujah and Amen!
 

Acts 26:27

Friday, 12 April 2024
 
“King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.” Acts 26:27
 
In the previous verse, Paul noted to Festus that none of the things he was saying would have escaped the attention of Agrippa, since what he spoke of was not done in a corner. Now, he directs his attention and words directly to the king, saying, “King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets?”
 
Paul’s question is intended for a rebuttal to Festus’ accusation concerning his being insane. It is actually a rhetorical insinuation towards Agrippa. By asking this of him, it is intended to then highlight what any Jew would naturally believe.
 
But even more, Agrippa could not answer negatively. His position demanded that he avow the Scriptures as inspired and true, even if his interpretation of them may differ from Paul’s, just as a Sadducee’s might differ from that of a Pharisee.
 
And so, to avoid having Agrippa become forced into a theological debate which could only become a rabbit trail to the matter at hand, Paul immediately answers his own question in the affirmative, speaking for the king, saying, “I know that you do believe.”
 
The pressure that was imposed upon Agrippa is removed. The Scriptures existed and were the basis for the culture and religious life of the people. In the case of Paul’s question, it didn’t matter if Agrippa believed their source was from God (such as the variation that existed between the Sadducees and Pharisees) or not and he didn’t give him a chance to elucidate an answer.
 
Instead, Paul’s wording was chosen to silence the accusation of Festus for the sake of his defense. It was a brilliant way for Paul to get Agrippa to respond to the immediate words and to consider the greater subject, that of Jesus.
 
However the words of Scripture came to be, the important point is that they existed and that the words they consist of perfectly align with the Christian teaching about Jesus being Israel’s Messiah. That Paul’s intent in the choice of his words worked properly will be seen in Agrippa’s response.
 
Life application: There are all kinds of things, almost an infinite number, that are debated in Scripture. A few major points are whether Scripture is inspired by God, creation vs. evolution, the deity of Jesus, the literal historical nature of what is recorded in Scripture, etc.
 
From there, people will argue if certain books belong in Scripture or not, whether this text or that is the correct one or not, and so forth. Even within the same text, how a particular verse is to be translated is debated.
 
On and on it goes. But the main subjects are actually quite clear. For example, whether the Scriptures are inspired by God or not is debated. Coming to a resolution in one’s mind can be a long and difficult process. Some people take what they are taught at face value and accept the inspiration of Scripture. Specifically, they take whichever books are included in their copy of Scripture as inspired.
 
For example, Mormons consider the Book of Mormon as inspired. In fact, Mormons may not know the Bible at all, but they will cling to the writings of Joseph Smith in the Book of Mormon, reading and memorizing them.
 
Catholics are taught that the books of the Apocrypha are inspired. Hence, their canon is larger than the sixty-six books of the Protestant canon. Some sects include the book of Enoch in their canon. How can someone arbitrarily dismiss the Book of Mormon or the Apocrypha if they don’t even know what is stated in the Bible?
 
Likewise, how can a Mormon accept the Book of Mormon unless he knows what is stated in the Bible? People are generally willing to go so far with their thinking, but eventually, they just trust what they have been taught, assuming that it is correct.
 
This is true with doctrinal points such as the deity of Christ, the meaning of predestination, the timing of the rapture, etc. Although it is fine to start with a particular viewpoint (we all have to start somewhere), it is not acceptable to stick with it without checking. There is a point where each person must say, “I am accountable for what I believe, and I will check out what I have been told.”
 
To not do this is the business of a fool. The Book of Mormon and the teaching of Scripture are, ultimately, incompatible. Likewise, either Christ is God or He is not. If He is, then one must reject the teaching of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. If He is not, maybe they are the true church! And so forth. These are really important points that people are often faced with. Is watching TV shows more important than eternity with or without God?
 
Think! Study! Consider! Pray! Your eternal state really depends on how you live and conduct your life in the presence of Your Creator... well, that assumes there is a Creator. What if we just exploded into existence? Think! Study! Consider! Pray!
 
O God, if You are there, and if You really hold man accountable for the life he lives, I pray to You to lead me to the truth. The Holy Bible claims to be Your word. It tells of Jesus. If He truly is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, I pray that You will lead me to a right and proper understanding of Him. I will start with the gospel. Open my heart, O God. Amen.

Acts 26:26

Thursday, 11 April 2024
 
“For the king, before whom I also speak freely, knows these things; for I am convinced that none of these things escapes his attention, since this thing was not done in a corner. Acts 26:26
 
Though a bit clunky, the words more literally read, “For the king understands concerning these, to whom also, declaiming, I speak. For none of these, I am persuaded – none – are hiding from him. For this is not having been done in a corner” (CG).
 
Paul, in his reply to Festus, just noted that he was not maniacizing, but spoke words of truth and reason. With that, he continues, saying, “For the king understands concerning these.”
 
Paul must have seen something in Agrippa’s evaluation of the trial to know that he was following along with it and understanding it exactly as it was being presented. Further, Paul appeals to Agrippa’s position, knowing that one with his background, upbringing, and leadership could not have been unaware of the converted Jews’ belief in Christ.
 
In fact, verse 28 will show that he was aware of it when he uses the title “Christian.” Paul’s appeal holds a two-fold purpose. It was first to show that Agrippa was fully aware of what Moses and the prophets had prophesied concerning a coming Messiah.
 
Second, Agrippa would be aware that for more than twenty-five years, there was a subsect of Judaism that held to the fact that those prophecies had been fulfilled in the person of Jesus. He had come, He had taught, and Agrippa would be fully aware of it and of how the things He did, in fact, matched what the prophets had said.
 
Therefore, he continues using two verbs in a row, normally translated adverbially because it is difficult to find a suitable set of words to accomplish this. However, saying, “to whom also, declaiming, I speak” satisfies the translation perfectly.
 
The word declaim means to deliver words in a rhetorical or impassioned way. Paul is doing just that as he boldly proclaims words of his conversion and his mission as an apostle of Christ. And more, his speech is something that has been openly and publicly proclaimed for many years. Therefore, he next says with emphasis, “For none of these, I am persuaded – none – are hiding from him.”
 
The repetition of the word ou, or none, is usually ignored because it isn’t easily translatable, but it is an important part of Paul’s appeal. He is not only saying that Agrippa is aware of the teachings of Christians concerning Christ, but he is completely and fully versed on the subject.
 
It wasn’t as if the Christians taught the crucifixion but not the resurrection. It wasn’t as if this was a secret teaching that had escaped everyone’s notice. Rather, what believers in Jesus proclaimed was fully expressed with no secret or hidden agendas. Peter had openly spoken to the people at the temple. Paul had openly proclaimed Christ everywhere he went. And so forth. Paul reconfirms this with his next words, saying, “For this is not having been done in a corner.”
 
Jesus stated this same type of thing as is recorded in John 18:20. When He was standing before the high priest during the interrogation He endured, He said –
 
“I spoke openly to the world. I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where the Jews always meet, and in secret I have said nothing.”
 
The message of Christ was never intended to be hidden under a bed or a basket. Instead, it is a message that has been intended to be proclaimed from rooftops and throughout the world. Paul avows that Agrippa knew this and comprehended it as an axiom of the faith.
 
Life application: The message of Jesus is exactly what Paul states in this verse. It is not from a closed and secret society, but from a group of people who are passionate about sharing what had so profoundly changed and directed their lives.
 
It is a message that isn’t to be peddled for money or pounded over someone’s head. Instead, it is a message that is to be presented and allowed to sink into the recipient’s head. Sometimes this may take many visits or discussions while sometimes it may happen with just a few words.
 
However the message is transmitted, it is a message that must be shared properly and that should be shared with conviction. People need Jesus. Without Him, there is no hope. But in Him, there is complete restoration and the promise of eternal life. Be sure to share this message. It will make an eternity of difference in those who accept it.
 
Lord God, may we be willing to share the wonderful message of Jesus as often as we can and with as many as we can. May we be bold enough to share it again and again if necessary. Help us to not be overbearing. And yet, help us to not lose heart. May our words about Jesus be appropriate to each and every situation. Amen.