BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 20:32

Tuesday, 3 October 2023
 
“So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. Acts 20:32
 
A few small adjustments will bring the words closer to the Greek text, “And now, brethren, I commend you to God and the word of His grace, being able to build and to give the inheritance among all those having been sanctified” (CG).
 
Paul just reminded the elders of Ephesus that he did not cease to constantly warn everyone for three years, even with tears. Now, to bolster them in how to stay on the right path, he begins his next words with, “And now, brethren, I commend you to God.”
 
Paul, calling these men “brethren” for emphasis and a sense of true fraternity, begins his summary thoughts to their ears. He has spoken frankly about the hazards that lay ahead of them in hopes that they would pay heed. He does this by commending them to God. It is something he says about himself in his second letter to Timothy –
 
“For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.” 2 Timothy 1:12
 
As for these men of Ephesus, Paul would no longer be their instructor or counselor in the things of God and so they would have to rely on the same Source he relied on continuously, meaning God. And further, he continues by saying, “and the word of His grace.”
 
It is doubtful that he is thinking of Christ in the way John later writes, meaning the Word of God. Rather, he is rather speaking in the sense of what James 1 says, where James repeatedly brings up the word, meaning Scripture –
 
“Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.19So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.”
 
James is essentially committing his reader to the word of God’s grace. Likewise, this is what Paul is telling the elders of Ephesus, imploring them to cling to the word. It is the word that, according to Hebrews 4:12, is “living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
 
This word was, at this time, limited to the Old Testament and any verbal or written communications that existed concerning the Lord as the fulfillment of them. Together, they were sufficient to meet the specifics of the second half of Paul’s words in this verse which begin with, “being able to build and to give the inheritance.” 
 
The idea of building is used by Paul several times, mostly in his first letter to the Corinthians. The word “edify” carries the same connotation and once meant exactly that: to build. Of this word, Albert Barnes says –
 
“The word used here is properly applied to a house which is raised and completed by slow degrees, and by toil. It here means to establish, make firm, or permanent, and hence, to instruct, to establish in doctrine and in hope. The idea is, that the Word of God was able to confirm and establish them, amidst the dangers to which they would be exposed.”
 
This process of building is specifically said by Paul to be for the inheritance. That is another thought carefully described by Paul in his epistles, especially his letter to the Ephesians, the very group who is represented before him now. He refers to the “guarantee of our inheritance” in Ephesians 1:14, the “riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints” in Ephesians 1:18, and the “inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God” in Ephesians 5:5.
 
Understanding this, Paul’s words finish with this thought concerning the inheritance. It is “among all those having been sanctified.” The verb is a participle in the perfect tense. Through faith in Christ Jesus, the sanctification of the believer is immediate, and it is complete.
 
This doesn’t mean that the believer is now perfected. Rather, it means that in God’s view, what Christ did to sanctify us is complete and perfect. Nothing is lacking. Jesus’ perfect life and atoning death have allowed us to be fully consecrated to God, once and for all time. Nothing further needs to be accomplished for us to be allowed into the presence of the infinitely holy and pure Creator.
 
Sanctification is also implied in his words, but not the ongoing sanctification of our Christian walk. Rather, he is speaking of the position we are in because of the work of Christ - sanctified by Him as holy and acceptable to God.
 
Life application: Paul’s words to those of Ephesus are a descriptive account of what he conveyed to them. However, what he said is to be taken as a truthful and accurate state of how things are. It is as if his words are an epistle spoken forth to them. When he commits them to God and the word of His grace, he intends for them to trust God wholeheartedly and not waffle in their convictions concerning their state before Him.
 
It means that the word of God is sufficient for believers to trust in regard to their walk before God. It is where our knowledge of Him and what He has done for humanity is recorded. There is nothing lacking for those who are considering a relationship with Him, and like those already counted as believers, their hope will not be futile. Rather, they will also be sanctified and set for eternal glory by trusting in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
 
How sad it is that people fail to accept that God’s provided sanctification is complete and now belongs to them forever! There is no hint in Scripture of the false doctrine of “loss of salvation.” What God has done in Christ is fully sufficient to sanctify His people once and for all time.
 
We are to accept this and hold fast to it. Otherwise, we will be like so many whose hope is marred by their personal failures, as if their failings can somehow override the full, final, finished, and forever work of God in Christ. Don’t be like that. Instead, be confident that His grace is sufficient to cover all our sins and failings.
 
Heavenly Father, Your word says that the work of Jesus Christ is sufficient to carry us through this life and into Your presence. We will fail You, but in Christ, we will never be separated from You again. We accept this and give our eternal thanks to You. Hallelujah to Jesus Christ, who has made this possible! Amen.

Acts 20:31

Monday, 2 October 2023
 
“Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. Acts 20:31
 
A little more literally, the words read, “Therefore, be awake, remembering that three years – night and day – I ceased not with tears, admonishing each one” (CG).
 
Paul warned the elders standing before him about savage wolves coming in among them, not sparing the flock. He also warned them that even among them men would rise up, speaking perverse things to draw away disciples after themselves. Based on this, he next says, “Therefore, be awake.”
 
It is a single word in the Greek, grégoreó. It is used in the synoptic gospels where Jesus admonished the disciples to stay alert. It literally means to stay awake, but it figuratively means to be alert or to watch. It is usually translated in the figurative sense: watch. With that, he next says, “remembering that three years – night and day – I ceased not with tears.”
 
The words “three years” come from the Greek noun trietia. It is a term only used here in the New Testament. It comes from treis (three) and etos (year). There is no suitable single word in English to translate it.
 
Paul’s use of the words “with tears” shows his immense passion for the Person of Christ, the truth of the gospel, and his love for the converts he discipled. He knew what would come about after he was gone, and he constantly warned what was coming, even to the point of tears. They were to constantly watch and be continuously remembering his admonitions. Further, the term “night and day” means that it was something that he never stopped telling them.
 
It cannot go unstated that Paul could not have said these words unless they were true. The people he is talking to are the same people that he had given the admonitions to in the past. He was literally brought to tears over the thought of his precious churches falling away from sound doctrine. Therefore, he was “admonishing each one.” 
 
Those in Ephesus could not say they weren’t fully warned of what was coming. They had been implored to hold fast to the truth, watching out for those who would do their best to misdirect them.
 
Life application: Jesus’ words to those in Ephesus in Revelation 2 show that they had paid heed to Paul’s warnings to some extent, but in so doing, they had actually lost their first love. Unfortunately, the importance of doctrine had become elevated to such a degree that Jesus had become a side issue in many ways. Doctrine is important, but only if it continuously points us to the reason for the doctrine, Jesus.
 
Jesus warned the disciples to watch on several occasions. Paul continued with this admonition to the churches he planted. Without watching, we are also going to fall. This is the case without any doubt.
 
No church is immune from temptation, division, or apostasy and, eventually, it seems that any and all follow this path. If you have a pastor who constantly tells you to read your Bible, do you pay heed? If your pastor tells you to pay heed to your doctrine, do you listen and stay focused on what is right?
 
These are right and proper to do, but while reading your Bible, don’t let it take the place of your love for the Lord. And while pursuing right doctrine, don’t let that head knowledge replace total love and devotion for Jesus. These things should complement each other so that we come to love Jesus more and more as the days go by.
 
Heavenly Father, learning doctrine can bring us a lot of joy as we grow in our knowledge of what is right and wrong concerning who You are and what it means to follow You. It is also great to debate doctrine with others to hone our own thoughts about these things. But, Lord God, may our doctrine be sound because of our love for You. May it never replace You in our hearts and minds. Amen.
 

Test Recording: September Swoosh!

September Swooshed By!

Acts 20:30

Sunday, 1 October 2023
 
“Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. Acts 20:30
 
Paul just noted to the elders at Ephesus who are gathered with him in Miletus that after his departure savage wolves will come in among them, and they will not spare the flock. With that, he continues, saying, “Also from among yourselves.”
 
As a point concerning how the church is structured, Paul’s words show the ingenious nature of the New Testament church. There is no individual “church,” such as the Roman Catholics claim. Rather, there are believers who unite together who are the church.
 
Therefore, if a church departs from the faith, another can spring up that can go back to the foundation and hold fast to the integrity of Scripture. This is why instead of there being one letter to the churches in Revelation 2 & 3 there are 7.
 
Any church that claims to be the “true” church, which is as common as peanuts in peanut butter, is already either departing from or has departed from the model. Jesus is the Chief Shepherd. There are overseers below Him who are expected to be faithful to the word He has given and to the flock entrusted to them.
 
However, as Paul notes, not only would wolves come from without, but even from among the ranks of a faithful church. Again, the words “from among yourselves” reveal this. Paul was standing there telling the church leaders this will be the case because he knew the inclinations of the human heart. There is the desire to control others always brewing within it. And so, he says, “men will rise up.”
 
Right out of a perfectly functioning flock, there are people who will sow discord. They will try to usurp authority, and they will try to remove surety of salvation from the hearts and minds of those they sit with each week. In doing so, they will then introduce various aberrant ideas about what God is like, what He expects of His people, and how He can be appeased.
 
Grace is not a consideration in their theology because grace removes all hope of their power and influence being wielded over others. Think of the Roman Catholic Church! They have innumerable doctrines that divert eyes and hearts away from Jesus, the very pinnacle of God’s grace to the people of the world.
 
Why do they do this? It is because, in so doing, they become the arbiters of what is and is not acceptable. If they are, the people are in bondage to them and will do anything in their means to secure salvation through them. It is a trap that innumerable souls are stuck in.
 
Grace cannot be earned. But expecting allegiance and money to be given to a church means that those individuals in the congregation are attempting to earn favor. Such evil overseers know this, and they have profited for millennia because of it.
 
And yet, Paul stood there with these men from Ephesus and warned them of exactly what is happening in churches all over the world to this day. And the way that it comes about is by such men rising up and “speaking perverse things.”
 
The word translated as perverse is diastrephó. It signifies through (dia) and to convert or change (strephó). The word then means distorting, perverting, and making something different or even the opposite of what it was.
 
These people will give perverse ideas about the nature of God. They will twist Scripture away from grace to works. They will deny the fully sufficient work of Christ. They will claim that grace means license, such as “I have been given grace, and so I can do whatever I want.” On and on, the things they come up with are perverse and corrupt. And the reason is for self-gain. As Paul says, they do it “to draw away the disciples after themselves.”
 
This is the crux of the matter. They will be able to wield power over those they control. They will have fame, ease, sexual gratification, or whatever other perverted thing that motivates them. And this is not limited to local churches. By establishing denominations, the level of power only increases, just as in government entities. Those at the top wield unbiblical authority over those they have never even met.
 
In and of itself, there is nothing wrong with denominations, but they eventually become self-feeding bodies that do not have the interests of the local churches in mind. It is an inevitable outcome of such structures.
 
Life application: How sad it is to look at once faithful churches and denominations where Paul’s words have been proven true. But the Bible warned of it. Therefore, the blame rests upon those who are unwilling to take to heart the words of Scripture and carefully follow what is provided there.
 
Is it possible that Hymenaeus and Philetus noted in 2 Timothy 2:17 were standing there with Paul as he spoke? Were they back in Ephesus waiting till he left for good so that they could work their evil?
 
Heretics promote self and they divide in order to conquer. John Lange notes exactly this when he says, “The note of heresy was that it was essentially self-asserting and schismatical.”
 
It is not only good, but proper to teach sound doctrine. If a church divides over such a thing, so be it. But it is not good when someone divides to promote self in the process. Watch out for such people and be on guard against those who would attempt to mar grace.
 
Lord God, our hearts are wicked, and our thoughts are corrupt. This is the natural state of humanity. Please help us to grow in the knowledge of Your word so that we can change this and become people with pure hearts and intentions. May we learn to place others ahead of ourselves and acknowledge our faults and failures as a part of who we are. You alone are to be exalted for the grace You have given us in the giving of Your Son. Amen.
 

Acts 20:29

Saturday, 30 September 2023
 
“For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Acts 20:29
 
Paul had just admonished the elders of Ephesus to take heed to themselves and to the flock. He stated that they were overseers of the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. Now, he explains why he so admonished them, saying, “For I know this.”
 
The Greek is in the perfect tense. The literal meaning of what he says is, “For I have seen,” but in the sense of his sight becoming knowledge. It is seeing in a metaphorical sense. We continue to use the same type of wording today when we say, “I see just what you mean.” We don’t physically see it, but our minds can see just as clearly as if our eyes had actually seen. Paul is fully convinced of what he is about to say, which begins with, “that after my departure.”
 
As he is on his way to Jerusalem and only meeting these men for a short time now, it means that this could happen at any moment. They, therefore, must pay careful heed to his words because he has already known what would happen. It is not an “if” but a “when.” Of what he warns about, it is that “savage wolves will come in among you.”
 
These words, along with what is coming in the next verse, comprise one of the saddest sets of prophetic verses in the New Testament. Paul, knowing the wickedness of the human heart, as well as the cunningness of the devil, was aware of what would happen to the churches.
 
His words will be confirmed as true within just a few short years when Jesus speaks to the church in Ephesus in Revelation 2:1. Paul indicates that with his departure, there will be the immediate temptation for false teachers to step in and take his place. He describes them as lukoi bareis, or burdensome wolves.
 
The word lukos is where lycan, or werewolf, comes from. It is derived from leukos, or white. That reflects the whitish hair of the wolf. The word barus signifies weighty or oppressive. Jesus uses it when referring to the Pharisees in Matthew 23:4, saying, “For they bind heavy [barus] burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.”
 
These people would be heavy, oppressive wolves, savages “not sparing the flock.” They would be ravenous against the flocks and are thus set in contrast to the shepherds of the previous verse. The elders Paul is speaking to would have to be on a constant guard because those coming would certainly come in with subtlety and cunning, creeping around looking for a chance to assume leadership and then start to throw in their own perverse ideas and doctrines.
 
Life application: It would be unheard of for a church to open its doors and say, “We are proclaiming a false Jesus! Come in and join our damning doctrines. We have a sure path to hell.” Rather, churches begin with the intent of teaching the path to salvation, even if their doctrine is incorrect to begin with. Their intent is to do as they believe is proper.
 
For those churches with incorrect ideas and doctrine, they will face the Lord for judgment just as would any incorrect religion. However, there are churches that start out properly. They hold to what is right and in line with the word of God. However, it is not uncommon for such churches to quickly begin to divert after the retirement or death of a sound pastor.
 
It may be a matter of expediency, such as, “We really need a pastor, and although this guy isn’t the best, he will do until we find someone better.” In such a case, the chances are, the new pastor will come in and never leave. The congregation will get used to him and accept his watered-down teachings because it is the easiest path.
 
It may be a matter of someone being in the church who has always wanted to run things. And so, he secretly waits, agreeing with everything the pastor says. When the pastor retires or dies, he seems to be the right person to take over. However, he actually disagreed with the pastor on many points of doctrine, and he slowly begins to introduce them to the ears of the church. The wise leave. However, some stay, sure they made the right choice. Eventually, they are lulled into a state of total apostasy by this cunning wolf.
 
There are countless permutations of this to consider. The main thing is that the guard of the church was let down. It failed to adhere to the sound principles laid out in Scripture, and the congregation eventually accepts doctrines that are completely at odds with what is taught in the word of God. It is as common as nails in the frame of a house for this to happen.
 
Churches must be fixed and firm on proper doctrine. Without that, they will eventually be led astray, just as Paul noted to the elders of Ephesus.
 
O God, things that should never come about in a church arise. Quite often, it is simply because we are in a rush to have things continue without interruption or difficulty. But it often happens because people simply do not know the word well enough to know when they are being duped. Help us to overcome our desire for expediency at the expense of soundness. Help us to learn and adhere to Your precious and sacred word. Keep us on the proper path as we live out our days in Your presence. Amen.

Acts 20:28

Friday, 29 September 2023
 
“Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. Acts 20:28
 
In the previous verse, Paul noted that he had not shunned to declare to them the whole counsel of God. Now, and using that as an example for them to follow, he says, “Therefore take heed to yourselves.”
 
Paul is speaking to those in charge and reminding them that they first need to oversee themselves or everything which follows will be wrong. As the Pulpit Commentary says –
 
“He that is careless about his own salvation will never lie careful about the souls of others.”
 
The Pulpit Commentary is correct, if it is referring to one’s state in salvation, not in the state of salvation itself. In other words, if a person is saved, the state of his salvation is no longer in question, but his condition as a saved believer can and does change. Paul’s words are that these already saved believers must take heed concerning their actions as believers. 1 Timothy 4:16 is a great comparable verse to consider –
 
“Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.”
 
At first, the words of 1 Timothy 4:16 appear to be pointing to works-based salvation, but that is not the case. In teaching right doctrine, those who are taught will be saved (if they choose to accept God’s gracious offer in Christ). In caring for the salvation of others, a minister is demonstrating that he cares for his own salvation. It is the gospel that brings salvation to men. As for the verse in Acts, Paul continues with, “and to all the flock.”
 
Drawing on the symbolism found throughout Scripture, the shepherd tends to his flock. The word translated as “flock” is the neuter noun poimnion. It is a flock of herding animals, especially sheep. In emulation of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, Paul asks them to continue in this same care for those entrusted to them. This endowment is, according to his words, “among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.”
 
The Holy Spirit is the one who consecrated these men to be overseers of their flock in Ephesus. The idea here is first a desire to serve in this capacity and then with the approval of those who would be shepherded by them. As those in the church are believers sealed with the Holy Spirit, then these men have, by implication, been made overseers by the Holy Spirit.
 
As for the term “overseers,” Paul now uses this term - episkopos. It is derived from epi, upon, and skopos, a watcher, or a mark on which to fix the eye as if using a scope. Hence, it is an overseer. He is one who views intently. It is to be remembered that in verse 20:17, the term presbuteros, or elder, was used. Thus, the words are being used synonymously for the individual, even if the substance of the word is different. They are elders, and their job is to oversee.
 
This word, episkopos, is used five times, four by Paul and once by Peter in 1 Peter 2:25 when speaking of Jesus. Hence, the church overseer is to be like the ultimate Overseer, Jesus. He carefully watches over the souls of His people, as noted in 1 Peter, and these men are to do likewise and “shepherd the church of God.”
 
Here, Paul uses the verb form of the word translated as “flock” he just used, poimainó. It signifies caring for the flock, inclusive of feeding them, protecting them, directing them, etc. The KJV says, “feed.” That is only a part of what a shepherd does, and thus it is an inadequate translation.
 
As for the words “the church of God,” although seemingly straightforward, this is one of the most debated verses in the New Testament. Along with 1 Timothy 3:16 and 1 John 5:7, this verse has several marked textual variations. One is the “church of the Lord,” and one is the “church of the Lord and God.”
 
Paul uses the term “church of God” around ten times (with variations on that theme making even more), but never “church of the Lord.” However, that doesn't mean it wasn't his intent here. The difference is important, particularly because of the next words he will say.
 
As for the church itself, it is a called-out assembly of believers. It is at the direction of those who lead it, just as Israel was at the direction of the king appointed over them. When the king strayed, the people inevitably did so as well. Likewise, when an unsuitable leader is found within the church, those he leads will likewise go astray. But this should never be the case because, as Paul next says of Jesus in relation to the church, “which He purchased with His own blood.”
 
The word “purchased” signifies to fully acquire. The payment for the souls of those in the church was complete when Christ shed His blood. Concerning the words “His own blood,” they are in the emphatic position, literally “which He purchased through the blood the own.” The meaning of the word “blood” is “death.” The life is in the blood.
 
It isn’t as if Jesus could have drawn out a pint of His blood and said, “Here, use this to buy the church,” as implied in the words “with” or “which.” Rather, when the blood is shed, death is the result. The payment for the souls of God’s people is the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. It is through His death that man has life. Paul’s words are carefully selected and spoken out to these men as a point of theology.
 
These words are why the textual variations are so contested. If “God” is intended, then it is absolute evidence of the deity of Christ. If God has His own blood, then it must be Jesus who is being referred to. Those who wish to intentionally diminish the deity of Christ would naturally prefer “Lord” and vice versa with those who desire to prove His deity. However, Christ’s deity is so obvious from other portions of Scripture, that only a person who intentionally denies the premise could miss it anyway.
 
Life application: In the words of this verse, Paul notes that these elders are to lead the flock “among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.” As noted, this was – and continues to be – based on a selection and appointment process. The pastoral epistles give the necessary qualifications for such leaders. Therefore, the idea of the Holy Spirit making people overseers is inclusive of what is recorded there.
 
As such, if a person does not meet those minimum qualifications, the Holy Spirit does not at all make that person an overseer. The church departed from the word which is given by the Holy Spirit, and it failed to uphold its sacred duty.
 
The obvious point of this is that a church that failed to do as instructed is not an acceptable body of believers. This does not mean that those in the church are not saved. They may or may not be, but they have placed themselves in a state of apostasy because of their selection and appointment.
 
Just as the nation of Israel devolved into inappropriate conduct during the rule of a bad king, so that particular church body will devolve as well. This is the inevitable path for such things. If you are in a church that has appointed leaders whose qualifications are not in accord with the pastoral epistles, you should work to get that corrected or leave that church. Otherwise, your own walk will suffer.
 
O God, You have given us Your word to lead us and direct us. Within that word are directions for men to be selected and designated as leaders within our local church. Help us to use wisdom in selecting men who meet the qualifications laid out by You. We wish to remain a body that is living in accord with Your will. So, help us to act accordingly in our leadership choices. Amen.
 

Acts 20:27

Thursday, 28 September 2023
 
“For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God. Acts 20:27
 
Paul just said that he was innocent of the blood of all. He now explains exactly what that means, beginning with, “For I have not shunned.”
 
It is the same word just introduced in verse 20:20, hupostelló. It signifies to withhold, draw back, keep back, etc. There, he said that he “kept back nothing that was helpful.” To get a fuller flavor of its meaning, the word is also found in Galatians 2:12 when speaking of Peter withdrawing from the Gentiles because he feared those who were of the circumcision. It is used again in Hebrews 10:38 along with the noun form in Hebrews 10:39 –
 
“For yet a little while,And He who is coming will come and will not tarry.38 Now the just shall live by faith;But if anyone draws back,My soul has no pleasure in him.39 But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.” Hebrews 10:38, 39
 
Paul continues the thought, saying, “to declare to you.” HELPS Word Studies says the word signifies “to tell all the way up, i.e. clearly – declaring a thought (communication) that shows it has cleared (gone through) its necessary stages.” Paul is therefore saying that he has not withheld anything but instead fully expressed everything included in “the whole counsel of God.”
 
The whole counsel of God specifically meant Scripture for Paul, but it also included his revelation of Jesus. For example, in Ephesians 3, Paul says –
 
“For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles— 2 if indeed you have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which was given to me for you, 3 how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have briefly written already, 4 by which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ), 5 which in other ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets: 6 that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel, 7 of which I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of His power.” Ephesians 3:1-7
 
Such insights and revelations are a part of the whole counsel of God that had been revealed to Paul. He had held nothing back and had given every detail necessary for those who heard to both be saved and to walk properly in Christ.
 
Life application: Consider Paul’s words carefully. The words of Paul and the other apostles are now a part of “the whole counsel of God.” These men were commissioned to express what they knew about Jesus Christ. Their writings are now complete and sealed.
 
We are to not abuse them, misuse them, add to them, or subtract from them. In 2 Timothy 3, it says –
 
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17
 
As these things are true, we can know – without any doubt or ambiguity – that any supposed revelation beyond Scripture is false. For example, Paul has said that he has withheld nothing. He revealed to us the doctrine of the rapture. He has given the sequence of events exactly as they will occur. However, he has not given us any word that will allow us to know when the rapture will occur.
 
Therefore, any rapture prediction or prophecy is false. We don’t need to guess if this is true. We are to take it as an axiom. Think about what Paul has said and be sure to consider claims made by people in light of his words. In the end, the whole counsel of God is about Jesus Christ. From beginning to end, it is all about Him. And it is sufficient.
 
Lord God, thank You for this precious word that tells us just what we need to know. We don’t need to worry that maybe there are details that were mistakenly left out. Nor should we think there is anything unnecessary or superfluous recorded there. Rather, it is a sure and pure word we have received. Thank You that we can have this confidence. Amen.

Acts 20:26

Wednesday, 27 September 2023
 
“Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. Acts 20:26
 
Paul had just noted that he knew that those he was talking to would see his face no more. Now, and because of this, he next says, “Therefore.”
 
He is basing his words on what he will say next. It is a way of calling attention to the main point: this, this, therefore, this. With that stated to alert them to the importance of his coming words, he next adds in a note of solemn assurance, saying, “I testify to you this day.”
 
In other words, “What I am about to say is the truth. It is fully supportable by what I have already laid out before you. So, please take my words to heart.” With that in mind, he next says, “that I am innocent of the blood of all men.”
 
The Greek word katharos, or pure, is use d. Paul is saying that he remains undefiled before God concerning the blood of those he encountered. However, this is not speaking of literal blood. Rather, the blood is the life of a man. For example, when it says that Jesus shed His blood, it means that He died. Understanding this terminology, Paul’s words form an expression similar in thought to what he said in Acts 18 –
 
“When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ. 6 But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, ‘Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.’” Acts 18:5, 6
 
Paul had shared the message of God in Christ. He had explained to the Jews that this is God’s means of salvation, and they had rejected it. He was not guilty of withholding the message, and therefore, he was purre from the defilement of their blood. This is an expression that goes back to the book of Ezekiel –
 
Now it came to pass at the end of seven days that the word of the Lord came to me, saying, 17 “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me: 18 When I say to the wicked, ‘You shall surely die,’ and you give him no warning, nor speak to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life, that same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood I will require at your hand. 19 Yet, if you warn the wicked, and he does not turn from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but you have delivered your soul.
20 Again, when a righteous man turns from his righteousness and commits iniquity, and I lay a stumbling block before him, he shall die; because you did not give him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he has done shall not be remembered; but his blood I will require at your hand. 21 Nevertheless if you warn the righteous man that the righteous should not sin, and he does not sin, he shall surely live because he took warning; also you will have delivered your soul.” Ezekiel 3:16-21
 
Ezekiel was to warn the people about their spiritual state. If they failed to turn from the words of the Lord through Ezekiel, their blood would be on their own heads. However, if Ezekiel failed to warn the people as the Lord required, the blame for their condition would be laid upon Ezekiel. Paul was using this example before those of Ephesus to let them know he had faithfully discharged his duties in regard to the spiritual condition of those he encountered.
 
Again, this is also not unlike what Samuel said to the people of Israel. He set before them a challenge to accuse him of wrongdoing. In doing this, he was demonstrating that no person had a valid case against him later, blaming him for what would come about when a king was appointed over the people –
 
“Now Samuel said to all Israel: ‘Indeed I have heeded your voice in all that you said to me, and have made a king over you. 2 And now here is the king, walking before you; and I am old and grayheaded, and look, my sons are with you. I have walked before you from my childhood to this day. 3 Here I am. Witness against me before the Lord and before His anointed: Whose ox have I taken, or whose donkey have I taken, or whom have I cheated? Whom have I oppressed, or from whose hand have I received any bribe with which to blind my eyes? I will restore it to you.’” 1 Samuel 12:1-3
 
Again, understanding that this is not referring to literal blood, Paul’s conduct in Acts 7 has nothing to do with what is stated here. He was present at the death of Stephen. But Stephen was a saved believer in Christ. Therefore, the death of Stephen cannot be equated to what Paul is now speaking about.
 
Albert Barnes adds a note of eloquence to this verse: “...Greek: I call you to witness. If any of you are lost; if you prove unfaithful to God, I appeal to yourselves that the fault is not mine. It is well when a minister can make this appeal, and call his hearers to bear testimony to his own faithfulness. Ministers who preach the gospel with fidelity may thus appeal to their hearers; and in the day of judgment may call on themselves to witness that the fault of the ruin of the soul is not to be charged to them.”
 
The sentiment of this verse is seen in James 3:1 and in Hebrews 13:17. Take time to look up those verses and think about what is said there.
 
Life application: It is a very common thing to hear people today claim they are “watchmen” or “watchmen on the wall,” as if they have a special commission from the Lord or that they have personally taken on a burden that others don’t carry. Inevitably, they equate their words to being specialists in Bible prophecy and that they are watching as prophetic events unfold, carefully monitoring the world so they can alert God’s people to be aware of what is happening or soon to happen.
 
This is nonsense. There is no office of prophetic watchman detailed in Scripture. The idea of the watchman, as clearly indicated in Ezekiel, was that Ezekiel was designated to warn the people about their spiritual conduct before God. Paul, using this same type of argument but avoiding the “watchmen” terminology, notes that he had carefully told all he encountered about the way to be saved, meaning through Jesus Christ.
 
People who claim to be watchmen today need to drop the fancy titles and get about the business of sharing the gospel, warning those they encounter that they cannot be reconciled to God without Jesus. This would at least be in line with what the title “watchman” terminology in Ezekiel was given for. But, again, there is no need for the title. It is not something assigned to a class of people in the New Testament. Therefore, it is a title without merit in the church today.
 
Lord God, may we not get caught up in things that do not edify, and may we stay away from the sensational in our walk with You. Rather, may we quietly, obediently, and effectively share the gospel with others so that their eyes will be opened, and their hearts will be receptive to the words of life and restoration that You have given to us. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

Acts 20:25

Tuesday, 26 September 2023
 
“And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more.  Acts 20:25
 
The word should be more precisely translated, “And now, behold, I have known that no more you will see my face – you all – among whom I passed through proclaiming the kingdom of God” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Paul noted that he was doing his utmost to finish the race set before him. Therefore, he was unmoved by the thought of chains and tribulations. With that remembered, he next says, “And now, behold, I have known that no more you will see my face.”
 
The words “have known” are in the perfect tense. He came to realize this at some point in the past, and the feeling remained true at this point. Paul felt his work was done in this area. This is seen in Romans 15:23, 24 –
 
“But now no longer having a place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come to you, 24 whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you. For I hope to see you on my journey, and to be helped on my way there by you, if first I may enjoy your company for a while.”
 
Despite this, his words also seem to indicate a feeling that he would never be able to come to them again, maybe because of the prophecies mentioned in verse 20:23. The Lord used him in the area before allowing the trials that he was destined for.
 
However, he didn't know God’s plans, and if the accepted dating of the pastoral epistles is correct, he did go to Asia again. This is noted in 2 Timothy 1:15 and 2 Timothy 4:13 & 20. This probably included time in Ephesus as well, but that is not positive.
 
That reference is seen in 1 Timothy 1:3, where he told Timothy to remain in Ephesus while he went into Macedonia. The meaning seems to be that he was in Ephesus and had Timothy stay behind when he left.
 
Further, he doesn't say that he won’t see them but that they won’t see him. This may be alluded to in 2 Timothy 1:15 –
 
“This you know, that all those in Asia have turned away from me, among whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.”
 
Therefore, Paul and Timothy may have gone to Ephesus and the people refused to greet Paul, so Paul said, “Ok, I’m out of here. See what you can do.”
 
And more, it could be that those he knew in the church had died or dispersed by the time of his return. Therefore, his next words cannot be considered a false prophecy when he says, “you all – among whom I passed through proclaiming the kingdom of God.”
 
Paul is speaking to a certain group of people, and we have no idea if he actually met up with this group again or not. Something similar may have happened in Ephesus as happened to a church John wrote to in his 3rd epistle –
 
“I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence among them, does not receive us. 10 Therefore, if I come, I will call to mind his deeds which he does, prating against us with malicious words. And not content with that, he himself does not receive the brethren, and forbids those who wish to, putting them out of the church.” 3 John 1:9, 10
 
There may have been such drastic changes in the church structure that the people Paul is now speaking to may have been put out, or they may have allied with the doctrine of someone like Diotrephes. Despite the difficulty that is present on a cursory reading of his words, there is no reason to question the reliability of the Bible from this verse.
 
Life application: It is important to remember that not every statement recorded in the Bible is true, but that everything the Bible records is the truth concerning what occurred. In other words, there are people who lie in Scripture, such as Rahab when she lied to the king’s men who came looking for the spies. That is recorded in the Bible, but it is not true what she said. However, what the Bible records is the truth of what occurred.
 
Paul really spoke to these men in Miletus. However, what he said may or may not have come about. This does not call into question the integrity of the Bible at all. He is not necessarily prophesying. The only claim made concerning the Holy Spirit’s testifying is that chains and tribulations awaited him. That happened. The rest is Paul’s passionate words about what he feels will transpire. And, as noted above, what he says here may actually have occurred. There is enough in Scripture to at least hint that it is so.
 
Therefore, if someone comes challenging your faith in the reliability of the word of God over a verse like this, don’t despair. The Bible fully confirms what it says, and what it proclaims is accurate and reliable. Have faith in that. We have a sure word.
 
Lord God, help us in our times of doubt and weakness. Provide us with the assurances we need concerning Your word and how it affects our lives. We come to You in faith, so be with us and direct us all of our days. Amen.
 

Acts 20:24

Monday, 25 September 2023
 
“But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. Acts 20:24
 
In the previous verse, Pa ul noted that the Holy Spirit was fully testifying in every city that chains and tribulations awaited him. Now, he continues that thought, saying, “But none of these things move me.”
 
The words are more closely translated as, “But the word of none do I make mine own” (SLT). Of all of the things that were testified of what lay ahead, he simply disregarded the warnings. He did not hold them to account or consider applying them to himself as if they should deter him. And more, he next says, “or do I count my life dear to myself.”
 
Again, the SLT more closely says, “neither have I my soul highly prized to myself.” Paul couldn’t care about himself in relation to the work he was doing. He was entirely unconcerned with the many prophecies that warned him about what lay ahead. In fact, it may be that these arose in order to help him mentally prepare for the very challenges he faced.
 
By being progressively told what was coming, he could harden his heart to the consequences. It is a similar and yet contrasting process to that which Pharaoh faced before the Exodus. Pharaoh hardened against the will of God, but Paul hardened toward the will of God. This was so much the case that he had given up counting the dearness of his own life.
 
Where Pharaoh looked to increase his earthly wealth and standing by keeping the Hebrew people, Paul looked to increase his heavenly rewards at the expense of this earthly life by freeing people through the gospel. Despite any earthly afflictions that would normally bring pain and sorrow, he instead says, “so that I may finish my race with joy.”
 
The tribulations that would arise, despite being physically and mentally challenging, would be a source of joy at the end, knowing that he had suffered them for the sake of Jesus and in receiving a favorable word from Him. He was on a race, his eyes were on Jesus, and his desire was the accomplishment of his ministry. As he next says, “and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus.”
 
He inextricably links his race, meaning his conduct in life as he raced towards his goal, with the ministry Jesus had bestowed upon him. He didn’t consider his life one thing and the ministry as another. Rather, they merged into a single unit where Paul fully identified with the ministry, and the ministry reflected Paul the man.
 
Therefore, if Paul was to suffer for his work, it meant that his work was designed for him to suffer. And his work, that which was endowed upon him by the Lord Jesus, was “to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”
 
Again, for the third time in this chapter, the same verb, diamarturomai, translated as “testifying” or “testifies” in verses 20:21 and 20:23, is used again here. It signifies “fully testifying.” The prefix dia gives the sense of “through.” Thus, it is thoroughly testifying –
 
Paul was fully testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Holy Spirit fully testified in every city, saying that chains and tribulations awaited Paul.
And yet, Paul’s determined mission was to fully testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
 
This was what was set before him. If the Holy Spirit testified to chains and tribulations, then the Holy Spirit was preparing him for, not deterring him from, what lay ahead. He knew this and so he was bound in his own spirit to go to Jerusalem, fully set for what was to come.
 
Life application: The terminology of being in a race was a favorite of Paul’s, having used it several times in his epistles. It is found in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Philippians 3:14, and 2 Timothy 4:7. Further, it is also found in Hebrews 12:1, an epistle that is unsigned and yet which bears innumerable marks of Pauline authorship. There, it says –
 
“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-3
 
Those words were based on the contents of Hebrews 11, the great Hall of Fame of Faith. The trials and tribulations of the past saints were endured because they had a better hope than this temporary, fallen world. Paul had this same hope and united his life in Christ with the fact that tribulations would be a part of it.
 
The author of Hebrews then builds on that, asking his readers to “lay aside every weight.” Whatever may be considered a limiting factor in reaching the prize should be laid aside. That includes any possibility of loss, trouble, trial, or even death. There is a course marked out before us that leads directly to Jesus. Let us be of the mind that nothing in our lives will hold us back, slow us down, or hinder our progress towards that goal.
 
No matter what path we choose, we will reach the prize. That is guaranteed because of God’s covenant faithfulness. But how we get there and the rewards we receive for it are up to us. This is why the author of Hebrews so carefully detailed his words of Hebrews 11 and then so clearly admonishes his reader at the beginning of Hebrews 12.
 
Live your life in a manner that will bring you the highest joy in the next. Eyes on Jesus!
 
Lord God, our lives are like a race being run toward the greatest prize of all. Jesus is at the finish line, and His words to us about the conduct of our lives will be waiting there. Help us to remember this all our days. May we count this life as nothing in comparison to the glory that lies ahead. And so, may we conduct them accordingly now. Amen.
 

Acts 20:23

Sunday, 24 September 2023
 
“except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. Acts 20:23
 
Paul just noted that he did not know what would happen to him in Jerusalem, but he was going there bound in the spirit. Now, he continues that thought, saying, “except that the Holy Spirit testifies.”
 
The same verb, diamarturomai, translated as “testifying” in verse 20:21 is used again here. It signifies “fully testifying.” The prefix dia gives the sense of “through.” Thus, it is thoroughly testifying.
 
Paul was bound in his spirit, determined that he was to go to Jerusalem, and yet in this state of personal conviction, he also knew that the Holy Spirit was giving him advanced notice of what lay ahead. And more, it wasn’t just an inkling that rushed upon him for a moment, rather, the Spirit had testified to him “in every city.”
 
With each stop he made, he could feel the presence of the Spirit. But more, he could sense what the Spirit was conveying to him. That is then noted in the rest of the words of this verse, “saying that chains and tribulations await me.”
 
These words refer to the limited portion of what lay ahead that Paul was made aware of. However, this doesn't mean that it was directly from the Spirit to him. Rather, it could be just like the meeting with Agabus. People were selected to progressively reveal to Paul what would happen.
 
Or it could be that because of the persecution he had faced in each and every city he had been to during his ministry, he could expect that in Jerusalem it would be even greater. Everywhere he had gone, the Jews had hounded him. They pursued him relentlessly with each step and attempted to refute him each time he opened his mouth.
 
Jerusalem was the hub of Jewish life. Therefore, if this spirit of enmity existed in the isolated areas where the Jews were, it could only be magnified in Jerusalem. Paul, being indwelt with the Holy Spirit, could readily discern this. Paul’s use of the term “every city” seems to imply that this might be the case.
 
People like Agabus were warning him externally. The Jews were hounding him personally. And so, rather than the Holy Spirit revealing it to him directly, he was being given Spirit-led warnings about what lay ahead.
 
Vincent's Word Studies agrees by saying, “The compound verb signifies full, clear testimony. Not by internal intimations of the Spirit, but by prophetic declarations ‘in every city.’” It is for this reason, and despite what he knows, that he was bound in his spirit. He felt compelled to press on, and yet he perceived in his spiritual self what his physical self would soon endure.
 
Life application: In this life, we constantly have to make choices about what we will do. Some of them are minor and don’t need a lot of consideration, such as, “Will I leave the house at 8:05 or 8:10?” It really isn’t that big of a deal. At least, not in most circumstances.
 
And yet, we may leave the house at 8:10 and find out that exactly where we would have been at 8:05, we would have been caught in an exploding gas main that killed 273 people. It occurred on the subway we would have been on. The same could be true about the 8:10 train instead of the 8:05 train. And yet, if we are going to keep our job, we must act and get on the subway.
 
If we want our decisions to be the right ones, we should commit our day to the Lord in advance through prayer. “Lord, lead my steps according to Your wisdom. I don’t know what lies ahead, but You do. Help me to make each decision accordingly.” In this, we have entrusted our time and circumstances to His capable hands. Whether disaster or a humdrum ride to work awaits, we will know that we have at least committed ourselves to His guiding hand.
 
If this is true with the little things we do, how much more the larger decisions that will not only affect us but many others in their lives as well. Paul understood this. Think of the impact he has had, not only on the elders of Ephesus as they met together in Miletus, but two thousand years of people whose lives have been affected by what he experienced.
 
We cannot know the extent of the impact of our life beyond ourselves. So, commit your days to the Lord and His guiding hand.
 
Glorious God Almighty, today is a new day. We don’t know what lies ahead, but You do. You know every possible outcome of every step we will take and each decision we will make. So, Lord, we ask that You direct us according to Your wisdom. Point our feet so that they will bring about the greatest outcome for Your glory. May our days be filled with You through delight or disaster. Yes, Lord, direct us for a greater purpose. Amen. 

Acts 20:22

 Saturday, 23 September 2023
 
“And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, Acts 20:22
 
The words bear more of an emphasis than the NKJV provides – “And now, behold, I – bound in the spirit – go to Jerusalem, not knowing what will befall me in it” (CG).
 
The previous verse includes Paul’s words concerning “repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ.” Now, he speaks of what lies ahead for him, saying, “And now, behold, I – bound in the spirit.”
 
These words are curious when taken in connection with the words of Agabus in verse 21:11. Paul says he is “bound” in the spirit. The word is deo and is used often concerning binding someone up, such as binding the strong man in Mark 3 or the demoniac in Mark 5. When a donkey is bound to a post, this word would be used. If one is bound in prison, this word is used.
 
Paul feels “bound in the spirit,” not knowing what he will next speak of. Scholars vary on whether they believe he is referring to the Holy Spirit or simply being constrained in his own spirit. Based on what Agabus says, it is most likely his own spirit, not the Holy Spirit. This will be seen as the verse continues.
 
Paul next says that he will “go to Jerusalem” in this state of being bound in the spirit. This is the path set before him and his traveling companions. He is so determined to get there that he has called these elders of Ephesus to come a considerable distance for this short meeting. Despite this determined trek to Jerusalem, he next says, “not knowing what will befall me in it.”
 
These words tell us that Paul is most likely referring to his own spirit. This is because the Holy Spirit does know, and it is alerted to him more fully at the meeting with Agabus. This seems more likely because it appears that Paul is drawing a contrast between his own desires and efforts and what he says in the next verse concerning what the Holy Spirit is revealing to him –
 
Paul is bound in his spirit to accomplish his mission.
The Holy Spirit testifies that chains and tribulations await.
 
For whatever reason, the Holy Spirit did not reveal everything to him directly, but rather, He will do it more fully through Agabus. It is a remarkable testimony concerning the reliability of the Book of Acts as a true account.
 
Life application: It is important to not mix our desires with claims of divine leading. And yet, it is as common as signs on a highway for people to do it. “I think the Lord is leading me to marry this woman.” What if someone else says the same thing? God is not in the business of causing contradictory desires in people. “I think the Lord is leading me to open this business.” What if the business fails the first year it is opened? Did the Lord lead this person to bankruptcy?
 
“I think the Lord is leading me to stop paying on my house and to move to Franklin, Tennessee.” The Lord tells us to pay our debts. People may do these things because they are bound in their spirits to take certain actions. And yet, they claim that it is God, the Lord, or the Holy Spirit who is directing them.
 
We should be careful to not make such claims. Later, when it is discovered that the thing doesn’t come about, or it turns out in a negative way, we will either have to admit we were wrong or implicitly pass the blame onto God for what happened. Rather, let us state our desires as such, pray about what we intend to do, and then acknowledge, “If it is the Lord’s will.” If what we desire doesn’t come about, or if it proves to have been the wrong decision, we will find that out in due time.
 
Lord God, help us to carefully consider our words and to never make claims concerning Your presence in our lives that are not in line with reality. Instead, we can acknowledge Your presence and ask for Your guidance but not bind our words so that what later transpires could possibly tarnish what we have stated about You. Help us in this, O Lord. Amen.