BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 22:23

Monday, 11 December 2023
 
Then, as they cried out and tore off their clothes and threw dust into the air, Acts 22:23
 
The tense of the verbs is all wrong in the NKJV. The Greek uses present participles, saying – “And they – howling and hurling their garments and casting dust into the air” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the crowd before Paul shouted out for him to be removed from the earth, not being fit to live. With that, it next says, “And they – howling.”
 
It is a word that signifies clamor. It is properly identified with the loud bay or croaking of animals. Thus, it can signify shouting, shrieking, etc. Plato used it when describing the howling of dogs. These people, who were supposedly the holy nation of the law, had assumed the aspect of unclean canine, yelping as if a pack of rabid Dobermans. Next, it says, “and hurling their garments.”
 
It is a word found only here in Scripture, rhipteó. It signifies to cast or hurl. In this case, one can see them like a bunch of angry school children ready to fight. They pull their outer garments off and toss them in the air or to the ground, away from their bodies, thus freeing themselves for a rumble. It then adds, “and casting dust into the air.”
 
It is a metaphor for their conduct about Paul. He is a man of the dust, and they are recommending he be returned to dust. It is a sign of great distress and, at times, mourning. The scene may seem almost comical to us, but what is written here is the customary way of showing both anger and a sense of anguish over what they perceive as blasphemy.
 
Even today, we can see this type of Middle Eastern rage on TV as people show their offense or revulsion in similar displays. Both acts also have to be considered in light of Paul’s detention by the Romans.
 
The Jews knew that they couldn’t stone Paul while he was in their custody. But showing him that this is what they would do if he wasn't protected by them, they 1) cast off their clothing, a sign that they were readying to stone him; 2) they threw dust into the air, a sign that if he wasn’t surrounded by Romans, it would be rocks instead of dust.
 
Both actions are signs that they would gladly fulfill their words of removing him from the earth.
 
Life application: There is a lot of rage in the world against the gospel. That is becoming more pervasive as time goes by. Nations that were once heralds of the gospel now send government agents to spy on people who simply want to worship Jesus as their forefathers had done.
 
This attitude stems from an internal hatred concerning their own deviant morals. Christians hold that their ultimate moral standard is based on what God expects of them, not what the government dictates. Thus, it is ultimately an attack against the God who gave man the moral guidelines in the first place.
 
These people claim they don’t believe in God, and yet they have a vehement hatred for the God they claim doesn’t exist. Their thinking is irrational and violent, just as the Jews in Paul’s time were. They hated that the God Paul proclaimed had a moral base inclusive of Gentile salvation. Thus, they hate His Messiah, who came to represent God.
 
From there, they hate any messenger of this Messiah. But Jesus stated this would be so –
 
“For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, 23 that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.” John 5:22, 23
 
“If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” John 15:18, 19
 
This attitude continues today toward those who hold to the words of Scripture. The world hates the message of Jesus because it proclaims a standard of morality that the world does not accept. It also holds a standard of acceptance that most people groups do not want to accept. All people are on the same level of acceptance in Christ, regardless of culture, genealogy, etc. This is highly unpalatable to many.
 
Hold fast to the word despite this. God is calling out a group of people from this world who will worship Him in spirit and in truth for all eternity. What happens now is a temporary blip on the way to glory.
 
Lord God, thank You for allowing us to come to You just as we are. The color of our skin, the family line we descend from, the cultural background we possess, and other such distinctions are set aside in Christ. We are accepted by faith in Him. How freeing that is! Thank You for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Acts 22:22

Sunday, 10 December 2023
 
And they listened to him until this word, and then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!” Acts 22:22
 
In the previous verse, Jesus told Paul he was to depart because he was being sent far from Jerusalem to the Gentiles. Now, that continues with, “And they listened to him until this word.” The reference is to the word “Gentiles.” 
 
One word. Just one word is all that it took to remove any further chance of reasoned dialogue. That same thought permeates the theological and cultural minds of Jews to this day. Gentiles, though being the people among whom they dwell, are not considered on the same spiritual or cultural level as they are.
 
To think that one of their own would be willing to minister to them about the “supposed” Messiah was worse than a slap in the face. Everything Paul had said implied that he was a spokesperson for this Messiah and that the message he proclaimed was in line with this Messiah’s intents and purposes. Therefore, Paul’s Messiah could not be their Messiah. Therefore, it next says, “and then they raised their voices.”
 
One can see the crowd suddenly roaring as one. Those who had sat down to listen while he spoke would have raised to their feet with their fists held high. Teeth would have gnashed, and faces would have fumed with fury. They collectively shouted out “and said, ‘Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!’”
 
The Messiah Paul proclaimed was, to them, a total failure. How could He favor the Gentiles when He hadn't even broken off their bonds? The people of Israel were looking for an earthly ruler, never considering that the bonds they were in were spiritual ones. They were slaves to sin, and the law kept them in that bondage.
 
Only in the Messiah that Paul proclaimed could such bonds be removed, but they couldn’t see this. They stumbled over the stumbling block, and in the process, they killed the messengers of the truth. They now intended to kill this one as well.
 
In proclaiming that the messianic message was intended for all people, Paul had raised Gentiles to their level. At the same time, he had lowered them from their supposed exalted and chosen status. However, this attitude was from a selective reading of their own Scriptures that proclaim salvation to the nations and restoration of life to the Gentiles as well as Israel.
 
Having missed this obvious precept, they found him wholly unfit to live and called for him to be removed from the earth.
 
Life application: When we are taught something by someone we trust, such as our preacher, we will generally accept his words as correct. After all, he is the specialist in matters of faith. Dad might be a dentist, and the preacher may go to him to have his teeth repaired, but Dad goes to the preacher to be taught the word.
 
As we grow up, having believed a particular doctrine, we will tend to mentally dismiss anything that contradicts what we now believe is true. This is known as cognitive dissonance. It is a state where we have inconsistent thoughts, attitudes, or beliefs that are related to particular matters or concepts.
 
For example, if we are taught that there is no such thing as a rapture of the church, we will tend to ignore any teaching that supports that doctrine, even if there is a preponderance of evidence that supports it. Even irrefutable arguments will be dismissed.
 
This is why it is so difficult for people to leave cults. What has been trained into them is extremely difficult to overcome. Therefore, it is so very important to read and know the Bible and ask God to correct anything in your doctrine that is wrong. But you must be willing to go where He leads directly from His word.
 
Removal of bad doctrine is difficult, but it is not impossible. As Paul says, “Test all things; hold fast what is good” 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
 
Lord God Almighty, we are prone to take wrong turns in life, thinking we are on the right path. Help us to keep our feet on sound doctrine and proper biblical interpretation. Clean out those doctrines that are faulty and fill us with right and proper thinking concerning this precious and sacred word You have given us. Amen.
 

Acts 22:21

Saturday, 9 December 2023
 
“Then He said to me, ‘Depart, for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles.’” Acts 22:21
 
Paul just tried to defend why he was no longer a threat to the people, even after Jesus had told him he should quickly leave Jerusalem. However, Jesus had already spoken, knowing what was best. Therefore, without allowing any further appeal, it next says, “Then He said to me, ‘Depart.’”
 
After Jesus’ first instruction to depart and Paul’s rebuttal concerning his certainty that the Jews would understand his conversion and surely convert as well, Jesus again instructs him to depart. What is implied in this is that Jesus knew that the Jews would continue to reject His Lordship.
 
The offer of salvation had been made, and those who were to accept it had done so. However, the leaders of the nation, thus representing the entire nation, had rejected their Messiah. Paul’s words would fall on deaf ears. But more, Jesus doesn’t just tell him to depart, but He specifically says, “for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles.”
 
Jesus’ words directly imply that Paul’s being sent to the Gentiles was for the purpose of telling of his conversion, of the offer of salvation that extends to them, and that they would accept it.
 
There can be no doubt this is what is implied in His words based on the reaction that is forthcoming from the crowd. It must be remembered that the word “Gentiles” included the Romans who ruled over them and who stood between them and Paul at that very moment.
 
Israel was anticipating a Messiah who would break off their yoke and set them at the head of the nations. One of many prominent sets of verses that promise this is from Isaiah 2 –
 
“The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem.2 Now it shall come to pass in the latter daysThat the mountain of the Lord’s houseShall be established on the top of the mountains,And shall be exalted above the hills;And all nations shall flow to it.3 Many people shall come and say,‘Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord,To the house of the God of Jacob;He will teach us His ways,And we shall walk in His paths.’For out of Zion shall go forth the law,And the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.” Isaiah 2:1-3
 
These words are repeated, almost exactly, in Micah 4. They, along with many other assurances, prophesy about a time when Israel would be under her own control while also being the main point of focus throughout the world.
 
For Jesus to instruct Paul to depart to the Gentiles did not fit in with that idea at all. With Rome having authority over Israel, Paul was saying that he was directed to evangelize the very people who had the yoke upon the necks of the people. They could not accept such a Messiah who would allow this at their expense.
 
Life application: The problem with Israel lay in a misunderstanding of their position before the Lord. That same problem continues to this day. Everything about Israel’s calling, even before the calling was made, was of grace.
 
Noah found grace and was saved through the waters. Abraham was selected by grace. Isaac was chosen apart from any merit. Jacob was known to be the one God favored before the children were born. Israel was given grace in the sending of Moses.
 
The covenant between the Lord and Israel came about because of the gracious promises made to the patriarchs. The continuation of the covenant, even after Israel’s breaking it repeatedly, was based on the grace of God. Every step of the way, God demonstrated grace in the establishment, calling, and preservation of Israel.
 
Today, Israel has been called back from among the nations as prophesied by the Lord. Thus, this restoration is an act of grace. And yet, Israel has consistently looked at their calling as one of personal merit – “We deserve this because we are Israel.” If Israel truthfully looked at their history, they would realize what every sinner who comes to Christ realizes – “All we deserve is condemnation, and yet God has given us grace.”
 
Until they come to this realization and accept Jesus, thus entering into the New Covenant, their days will be marred with unhappiness. In our relationship with God, personal merit is excluded. Let us consider this and be grateful to Him for His unlimited grace in saving even us.
 
Lord God, thank You for the grace of God that is found in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Acts 22:20

Friday, 8 December 2023
 
“And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by consenting to his death, and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.’ Acts 22:20
 
Paul has been defending his conversion and adherence to the Way based on his life prior to his conversion. He continues that thought now, saying, “And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed.”
 
Paul uses the word martus to describe Stephen. Some translations say “martyr,” while others “witness.” Either is correct, depending on the context. It is generally believed that the use of “martyr” came later. Therefore, “witness” is probably a better rendering for this account.
 
Also, as he is speaking to a congregation about the events that occurred and of which they would have been familiar, the idea of Stephen having been a witness seems more appropriate. However, by the time Revelation was written, “martyr” was probably more in use and is probably a correct translation for Revelation 2:13, although even there, “witness” is possible. Of Paul’s conduct at the time of Stephen, he next says, “I also was standing by consenting to his death.”
 
Paul ensures that the account of Stephen is conveyed to them with exacting detail in order to show them the extent of his zeal before his conversion. He was willing to consent to the murderous act of a person because of his belief that it was the right thing to do. He was part of a crowd, not unlike those now standing before him, looking for the blood of the accused.
 
His words are an attempt to show them that just what they were engaged in is what he previously engaged in and for essentially the same reasons. Therefore, there must have been a change in him that converted him to the stand he now took. As for his actions at Stephen’s death, he next says, “and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.”
 
These were the outer garments of the people who stoned him. Today, we might take off our jackets if we are going to engage in an activity that needs labor or precision of movement. This is true with the outer garments of the Jews. They were flowing and cumbersome for such activities.
 
Therefore, the people would have removed them and placed them near someone trustworthy to watch them. The meaning is that even if Paul did not pick up stones and cast them at Stephen, he was complicit in Stephen’s death through his actions, approving of what was occurring and giving the death a better opportunity to come about.
 
Life application: Paul was a part of the execution of Stephen, even if he never cast a stone. There are ways that groups of people can execute someone where no one person is directly responsible for the person’s death.
 
For example, if a hundred people lined up and each punched someone, none of them might land a death blow, but the person would die from the many blows he received. The same is true with death by a thousand cuts. One little cut on the skin may not kill someone, but when a person is cut many times, he will not survive.
 
Such actions reveal to us that we may know something is wrong, but we will take various legal or quasi-legal avenues to make it happen, thus trying to find a way of exonerating our consciences from the guilt of what we have done. This may occur in divorce situations, business dealings, and so forth.
 
These types of things show us that there is a problem in man that already exists. It is the infection of sin. It is in our lives, and it permeates ourselves and our societies. We all bear guilt for many things that occur. An example of this is found in the law –
 
“So you shall not pollute the land where you are; for blood defiles the land, and no atonement can be made for the land, for the blood that is shed on it, except by the blood of him who shed it.” Numbers 35:33
 
This is a statement that is found in the law, but it follows from a general principle about the nature of God. That can be deduced from other verses that speak of such things in relation to the inhabitants of the land prior to Israel’s entry.
 
As this is so, we collectively bear guilt when we allow murderers to walk free. Abortion is something that cannot be excused, and yet we pass laws allowing it to happen, as if a human law can override a God-centered principle. When we vote for those who will pass such laws, we bear direct responsibility for such deaths.
 
The only way to be free of such sin debt is to come to Jesus and be cleansed. Only through the atonement of His precious shed blood can we ever find restoration with God because of the sin debt that we bear. And when that restoration is made, it is an eternal restoration. Therefore, let us not disgrace what God in Christ has done for us by continuing in sin.
 
Rather, let us be grateful for His gracious atonement and live for Him according to holiness. May we have this attitude, to the glory of God who saved us.
 
We praise You for Your goodness to us Lord God Almighty! Thank You for the forgiveness we have been granted because of the work of Jesus. May we live out our lives in gratitude and holiness all our days. Praises to You for JESUS! Amen.
 

Acts 22:19

Thursday, 7 December 2023
 
“So I said, ‘Lord, they know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who believe on You. Acts 22:19
 
The verbs are all present participles – “And I said, ‘Lord they know that I was imprisoning and scourging in those synagogues those believing on You’” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the Lord instructed Paul to get out of Jerusalem because those in the city would not receive his testimony. Of course, like Ananias in Acts 9, Paul’s human nature decided to argue against the Lord’s word instead of simply complying with it. Therefore, he tells the crowd before him, “And I said, ‘Lord they know.’”
 
Despite the divine warning, Paul felt compelled to defend his presence in Jerusalem, as if his words would sway the Lord to change His mind or something. And so, he continues, saying, “that I was imprisoning and scourging in those synagogues.”
 
The word translated as imprisoning is found only here in Scripture, phulakizó. It is derived from phulax, a guard, or a sentinel. Thus, it signifies the act of incarceration. The word translated as scourging means to flay. By implication, then, it means to scourge, which can flay the skin. However, it can also mean to simply thrash or beat another person. In this case, he continues speaking to the Lord saying, “those believing on You.”
 
Paul was a persecutor of the very faith he was now being persecuted over. He had converted, but his change would not positively affect those he later encountered in Jerusalem. He was given authority to do these things, the people of Jerusalem knew this, and yet Jesus knew that his conversion would be upsetting to them. None of this was unknown to the Lord, and Paul’s appeal would not change the matter.
 
Life application: Despite the divine warning, Paul felt compelled to defend his presence in Jerusalem to the Lord. Sharing that now with the crowd who was accusing him actually serves a two-fold purpose in the ears of his hearers.
 
First, he was opposed to the faith that he now professed. Thus, they would know that his actions were sincere for the tenets of being an observant Jew, but that he realized that these tenets did not extend to persecuting Christ’s followers. Instead, those actions were opposed to the true faith of an observant Jew.
 
Secondly, it showed the audience that it was they, not him, who stood opposed to what was correct and proper. Though he had imprisoned and beaten thosethese followers of Jesus in defiant opposition to Him, his zeal was misdirected. Thus, their zeal at his arrest is similarly misdirected.
 
Therefore, Paul could use his own failing (meaning arguing against the Lord’s word) to reinforce his present position before the people. However, this doesn’t change the fact that he originally argued instead of simply obeying. As noted, this is what Ananias did in Acts 9. It is also what Moses did in Exodus 4 and Jeremiah in Jeremiah 1.
 
Despite this obviously being a human trait that is hard to overcome, as evidencedevinced by these and other examples in Scripture, we can learn from them. The word of the Lord is now complete. It is written, and it is authoritative. And yet, people who have believed on the Lord and been saved will still argue against the word of the Lord.
 
We rebelliously buck against the instructions laid out there, acting as if we know better than He does. Until we are willing to accept His word as written and in proper context, we are no different than those who stood right in front of the Lord and argued why He must be wrong.
 
Let us not rebel against His word. Instead, we should be willing to comply with its directives. The Lord is infinitely more intelligent than we are. When He directs, it is for a good purpose. Therefore, let us obediently submit to His will.
 
Heavenly Father, forgive us for those times when we question Your word, either openly or through our general conduct as we walk before You. Give us knowledge to understand the things that are often difficult to grasp and the wisdom to apply that knowledge to our lives. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.
 

Acts 22:18

Wednesday, 6 December 2023
 
“and saw Him saying to me, ‘Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly, for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.’ Acts 22:18
 
A literal rendering would be, “and saw Him saying to me, ‘Hasten, and in speed depart from Jerusalem: because they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.’”
 
Paul just noted that after his conversion that when he had returned to Jerusalem, he was praying in the temple and a trance came upon him. That continues now, saying, “and saw Him saying to me.”
 
Without going any further, who “Him” is can be discerned by referring to the nearest antecedent. In verse 16, it said, “Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Thus, Paul is referring to the Lord. He is continuing his thoughts about his relationship with the Lord as His chosen instrument. Next, he details what the Lord said with the words, “Hasten, and in speed depart from Jerusalem.”
 
At various times in Scripture, the Lord either directly or indirectly tells people to move from one place to another. For example, after serving Laban for many years, the Lord directed the steps of Jacob –
 
“Then the Lord said to Jacob, ‘Return to the land of your fathers and to your family, and I will be with you.’” Genesis 31:3
 
The Lord also directed the steps of His prophets from time to time, and that continued with His apostles during the establishment of the church –
 
“As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ 3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.” Acts 13:2, 3
 
In this case, it is early in Paul’s ministry, he has been selected as the apostle who would most thoroughly explain salvation by grace through faith apart from deeds of the law, and he was in the location from which the law issued forth. His message would not be well received at this time by any Jew, but especially not in Jerusalem. Hence, the Lord continues, saying, “because they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.”
 
Paul was direct in his approach, he did not hold back what he had learned, and he meticulously detailed what it meant to enter into the New Covenant by faith in Christ. This is clearly laid out in Romans where he, time and again, addresses matters directed at particular categories of people.
 
When addressing an issue concerning Jews, he explicitly uses them as his example, such as, “Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law, and make your boast in God...” (Romans 2:17). From there, Paul explains the problems with resting on the law as one’s boast. This type of abrupt and direct discourse concerning Jesus and the effects of His work would not be well-received by the Jews. Indeed, two thousand years later, it still is not.
 
As for Paul’s words in this verse, the account in Acts 9 doesn’t mention any of this. However, it does mention his disputing with the Hellenists. It may be that at this time, the warning in the trance came. He may have thought to stay and debate with these people, hoping to convert them, but if he had, they would have sought to kill him. Instead, and because of the vision, he took the direction to depart as he was instructed.
 
Life application: When speaking to others about spiritual matters, a lot of enmity can arise. People are often sensitive about even discussing matters of salvation, condemnation, etc. Therefore, tact in one’s approach is necessary.
 
And yet, being tactful should not include waffling on proper doctrine. For example, the Bible teaches that all people are born in sin and are at enmity with God. This is something that we cannot avoid sharing when asked. However, how we present this truth can make a great difference in the anticipated response.
 
If a person stands on a street corner and yells at everyone who passes him, “You are a sinner. You are going to hell!” He probably won’t make any converts. Someone might give him a good pounding, though.
 
On the other hand, if the same person quietly approaches someone and says, “May I share the good news of what Jesus did with you?” He might get a favorable response. From there, he might say, “Because of the sin in our lives, God cannot accept us, but He loves us enough to have sent Jesus to restore us to Himself.”
 
Such an approach conveys the same truth as the first approach, but it does it in a spirit of caring, not high-handed superiority. Paul’s approach was always direct but not necessarily confrontational. However, when dealing with matters of the law, even something nonconfrontational can still be very upsetting to those whose boast is in the law.
 
Therefore, he was directed by the Lord to depart from Jerusalem. His message needed ears that would be receptive to it at the right time. That time is yet ahead for this troubled city, but it will come someday. Until then, Jerusalem continues as a city without a proper relationship with the Lord. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem by praying for its collective heart to be turned to Jesus.
 
Glorious Lord God, today we lift up Your wayward nation, the people of Israel. We also pray for Your holy city, Jerusalem. There is not yet peace in the people’s hearts, nor is there peace in the city. But we pray for hearts to be changed before the days of tribulation come upon them. May the word about Jesus continue to expand and convert hearts and minds before that time comes. Amen.

Acts 22:17

Tuesday, 5 December 2023
 
“Now it happened, when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, that I was in a trance Acts 22:17
 
The Greek is more literally translated, “And it happened to me, having returned to Jerusalem and my praying in the temple, I came into a trance” (CG).
 
Paul had just been instructed by Ananias to arise, be baptized, and wash away his sins, calling on the name of the Lord. That was while he was in Damascus. Next, he tells the crowd, “And it happened to me, having returned to Jerusalem.”
 
His words now occurred upon his return, which is recorded in these few verses of Acts 9 –
 
“And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out. 29 And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him. 30 When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus.” Acts 9:26-30
 
Though these words in Acts 9 are recorded directly after his departure from Damascus, as if he immediately traveled there, it is probable that he first went to Arabia, returned to Damascus, and then went to Jerusalem –
 
“But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, 16 to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood, 17 nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus.
18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and remained with him fifteen days.” Galatians 1:15-18
 
It is then during this fifteen-day stay in Jerusalem that his next words probably took place. He says, “and my praying in the temple, I came into a trance.”
 
The fact that he went to the temple to pray forms a part of his defense against being a blasphemer. His words to them indicate that he has remained an observant Jew all along.
 
Versions such as the KJV and NKJV don’t give the correct sense here. Instead of “he was in a trance,” it says he “came” or “fell” into a trance. Like both Cornelius and Peter in Acts 10, the state came about during a time of prayer.
 
Life application: By the time of these events, Paul had personally received revelation from the Lord in Arabia. He had believed in the Lord for a full three years. And yet, he took time to pray while in the temple.
 
In other words, his attitude was not, “I personally know the Lord and don’t need to pray anymore.” Rather, prayer was a part of his continued life in Christ. In his epistles, he holds prayer as a key and integral part of his walk with the Lord.
 
If this is so with someone who was personally called by the Lord and who had then personally received revelation from the Lord, it shows the high value of prayer. It should be something we likewise place a high value on. Let us remember this and take time to stop and pray. Moving mountains in one’s life begins while stationary on one’s knees.
 
Lord God, help us to remember to connect with You as we conduct our affairs each day. May prayer be considered an important part of our walk as we draw near to You with our souls open before You. Help us to solidify this as a priority in our lives. Amen.

Acts 22:16

Monday, 4 December 2023
 
“And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’ Acts 22:16
 
The Greek reads, “And now, why delay? Having arisen, be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Ananias said to Paul, “For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard.” Now, with his calling set forth, Ananias continues with, “And now, why delay?”
 
There is a sense of urgency in his words, as if the clock of people’s lives is winding down. Paul has a charge to carry forth the word of the Lord, and without that message, people will die apart from Jesus. He needs to begin his ministry immediately. But before he does, Ananias next says, “Having arisen, be baptized.”
 
Baptism is the normative thing seen after any conversion. It is based on the word of the Lord to those who were with Jesus at the beginning –
 
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.” Matthew 28:19-20
 
However, unlike many who heard the word, received the Spirit, and were then baptized (for example, Acts 10:46-48), Ananias continues, saying, “and wash away your sins.”
 
Baptism for repentance is what John the Baptist told Israel to do and which all of Israel would have been aware of. However, in Luke 7 it says –
 
“And when all the people heard Him, even the tax collectors justified God, having been baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the will of God for themselves, not having been baptized by him.” Luke 7:29, 30
 
Paul was in this group. The people of Israel were then admonished to be baptized into Jesus in Acts 2. There is no record of the other apostles having been baptized. However, Paul was told to be baptized “and wash away your sins.” In Acts 2, Peter instructed the people, saying –
 
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” Acts 2:38, 39
 
This implies that their sin (as with Paul) was not connected with the law, which could have been forgiven on the Day of Atonement. Instead, they were connected with “the Just” mentioned in verse 14, meaning the Messiah. Paul, like Israel, had rejected the Messiah. Israel had to repent (change their minds) concerning this. Their minds needed to be converted from rejection to acceptance.
 
At this point, however, Paul does not need to repent. He has already changed his mind about who Jesus is. And yet, he was still told to be baptized to wash away his sins. Those in Acts 10 did not need to do this. They were baptized as an outward demonstration of the faith they possessed, and which had saved them. In both instances, baptism is required, but the underlying reason is different.
 
As for the word translated as “wash away,” it is apolouó. It is a compound word, coming from words meaning “away” and “wash.” It is only used here and in 1 Corinthians 6:11. However, louo is used in an important passage during Jesus’ ministry, John 13:10. In that verse, a picture of both justification and sanctification are given by using two different words for “wash,” louo and nipto. Paul needs to be “washed,” meaning sanctification and justification, in order to be cleansed from his sins.
 
Those in Acts 10 received this immediately. Paul, having previously rejected Jesus, needed to go through the process of baptism for this purpose, just as those in Acts 2 did. In his baptism, he was to enter into a new life in Messiah while “calling on the name of the Lord.” 
 
The Greek word translated as “Lord” is used, kurios. Some manuscripts simply say, calling on His name. Either way, it is implying that the Just is the Lord because only God can forgive sins. Once again, the text clearly indicates that Jesus the Man is the embodiment of Yehovah of the Old Testament. Thus, He is the God/Man. 
 
As for the giving of the Spirit to Paul, nothing is said of when he received it. However, it can be inferred that the Spirit only came upon him after the act of Baptism. Notice the necessary conditions for those Jews who had first rejected Jesus –
 
For Israel on Pentecost: “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” Acts 2:38, 39
 
For Paul as noted in Acts 9: “And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, ‘Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.’ 18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.” Acts 9:17, 18
 
For Paul while speaking to Israel in Acts 22: “And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Acts 22:16
 
Without telling us when Paul received the Spirit, it can be inferred that it occurred only after he was baptized. The sin of rejection by these early Jews was to be overcome through water baptism. The reason for this is because it is a sign to national Israel of their need to be identified with the Messiah in order to be saved as a nation. That is actually prefigured in typology in Joshua 3 and 4. Take time to watch the Superior Word sermons on those chapters to more fully understand this.
 
Life application: Today, a person who accepts Jesus is saved by faith and he is immediately sealed with the Spirit. At that moment, he is sanctified and justified before the Lord. Water baptism follows this as an outward sign of the inner change that has taken place.
 
It is a command of the Lord that baptism takes place, just as taking the Lord’s Supper is a command. Such rites are obviously important to the Lord and He expects us to follow through with them. Salvation is not tied up in either, but it is sure that rewards are. Be sure to receive baptism if you have never done so, and then be sure to take the Lord’s Supper when you meet.
 
Also, take time to read the Bible each day. Consider it in its intended context and think about why things occur as they do in Scripture. There is always a logical reason for why things are detailed as they are. So, contemplate the word as you go about your day.
 
Heavenly Father, thank You for salvation by grace through faith. Thank You that when we believe, we are saved and sealed for the day of redemption. We no longer have to fear death or condemnation. Rather, we can look to the future with hope and joy because of the work of Jesus our Lord! Thank You for Jesus. Amen.

Acts 22:15

Sunday, 3 December 2023
 
“For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard. Acts 22:15
 
Paul was just told by Ananias that the God of their fathers had chosen him to know His will and to personally see and hear the Just, meaning Jesus. With that, he next says, “For you will be His witness.”
 
At this point, Paul leaves off the words of Acts 9:15. Those words would have been completely abhorrent to them –
 
“But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.’”
 
The part about “the children of Israel” would have been no problem, but mentioning the Gentiles would have put them into attack mode, as will soon be seen. Rather than that, he tells the crowd that he was selected to be the Lord’s witness.
 
The other apostles were told they would be His witnesses as well –
 
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8
 
As for what Paul is expected to witness, it is to be directed “to all men.” This would include the “Gentiles, kings, and children of Israel” of Acts 9:15. Any and all whom he encountered would be those he was to tell the good news about. This would have been much easier for him than the other apostles.
 
He was raised in a Gentile land; he was a Roman citizen, making his testimony more likely to be received by many; he was comfortable around highly placed leaders; he spoke many languages, allowing him to travel more easily throughout the empire, etc. What the other apostles would struggle at, he would be able to effortlessly accomplish, speaking to any and all. With that noted, Ananias continues with, “of what you have seen and heard.”
 
These things are not merely referring to the encounter he is now describing. Instead, it will encompass the personal revelations that he will receive directly from the Lord, his encounters with others, as he travels, and so forth.
 
Of his personal revelations, he mentions these in several passages, such as 2 Corinthians 12:1-4, Galatians 1:11-17, Ephesians 3:1-7, etc.
 
Life application: Paul was deeply rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures. He didn’t need to be trained in what was contained there, something that takes much of one’s life to even begin to grasp. The other apostles did not have this wealth of knowledge.
 
Where they could easily tie Jesus in with the more common parts of Scripture, Paul could give the theology behind why it was so. This was especially necessary because he would be dealing largely with Gentiles. Because of this, a deeper theology would be needed to overcome barriers that naturally existed.
 
Today, Christian theology is highly refined because of the words of Paul. But it was not this way at the time of the early church. Paul’s evangelism made this possible, and his writings continued to do so during his life. And because they were maintained by those who received them, they continue to provide clarity even today.
 
Unfortunately, people spend more time reading about the Bible than reading it. This is unfortunate because it does not provide a sufficient grounding to know if what is presented aligns with Scripture or not. Above all, we must put reading and studying of the word, directly from the word, as the most important part of our day each day.
 
On the day this commentary was typed, a note from someone who attends the Superior Word Church messaged with the following comments –
 
“I sit on my couch today ... and I just read Galatians. ... Today the scriptures have come alive in me like never before. ... I understand belief, faith and grace like never before and ... I wanted to share it because I truly feel free today in my spirit and I understand why Christ had to come to die. I before always had the head knowledge but now I have it written on my heart. I just wanted to share my testimony with you. ... Your constant encouragement to read the scriptures have [made them] come alive in my heart today.”
 
This person, whether attending online or in the building, has heard many sermons, but through direct study of the word, the book of Galatians made a particular impact that could not have come otherwise.
 
Each day, be sure to pick up and read the Bible, the source of our knowledge of God in Christ. You will be blessed as you do.
 
Lord God, Your word truly is a lamp for our feet and a light to our path! Thank You for Your precious and glorious word. Amen.

Acts 22:14

Saturday, 2 December 2023
 
“Then he said, ‘The God of our fathers has chosen you that you should know His will, and see the Just One, and hear the voice of His mouth. Acts 22:14
 
The Greek reads, “And he said, ‘The God of our fathers has before-handed you to know His will, and to see the Just, and to hear the voice from His mouth.” (CG).
 
Paul’s sight was just restored at the word of the Lord through Ananias. Now, Ananias will speak again in order to explain to Paul his commission. That begins with a statement concerning his calling. This is detailed to the crowd, beginning with, “And he said.”
 
He is referring to Ananias. Paul makes note of the divine appointment given through this Jew who was in good standing in regard to the law. The exact words of Ananias begin with “The God of our fathers.”
 
The meaning of “the God of our fathers" is obvious. He is Yehovah, the one true God. Paul has been selected to know His will. Understanding that in verse 3, he said, “I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the strictness of our fathers’ law, and was zealous toward God as you all are today,” this statement by Ananias is all the more astonishing.
 
How could someone, brought up in the strictness of “our father's law” not “know His will?” Wasn't it written down for all to know? How much more this man! And yet, he obviously was completely clueless as to what the will of God was.
 
This is an obvious conclusion because of his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, his blindness, and now his forthcoming instruction. As for this will, Ananias is next noted to have said that their God “has before-handed you.”
 
The word is procheirizó. It was first used in Acts 3:20 and it will be seen one more time in Acts 26:16. It comes from pro, before, and cheir, hand. Thus, it is literally before-handed, meaning divinely handpicked in advance. The Pulpit Commentary notes, “In classical Greek it means mostly ‘to get anything ready beforehand.’” The words bring to mind the calling of Jeremiah –
 
“Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying:5 ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you;Before you were born I sanctified you;I ordained you a prophet to the nations.’” Jeremiah 1:4, 5
 
What was said to Jeremiah is summed up in this word, translated as before-handed. Paul’s calling was “to know His will.” Paul’s preselection was to know the will of the Lord. Again, it obviously meant that he did not know this will. Therefore, his persecution of believers was not in accord with the will of the Lord. Ananias was sent first to begin to set this straight.
 
Eventually, Paul would personally receive revelation from the Lord (Galatians 1:2), but this was a necessary first step in preparing him for that. This explains why Paul quite often opened his letters stating that he was an apostle according to the will of God. He does this in 1 Corinthians 1:1; 2 Corinthians 1:1; Ephesians 1:1; and Colossians 1:1. Ephesians 1:1-11 actually gives an entire commentary on this. Next, Ananias says, “and to see the Just.”
 
This term, “the Just,” comes from an adjective, dikaios. It means correct, righteous, innocent, etc. Being prefixed by an article, and without any other words to further qualify it, the meaning is a single individual who embodies what the adjective signifies. It is a term that any Jew would have understood as referring to the Messiah. Many Old Testament passages would have immediately flooded their minds, such as Psalm 2, Isaiah 11:1-5, Isaiah 53:11, etc.
 
The words of Ananias continue, saying, “and to hear the voice from His mouth.” It is a phrase that carries great weight. To hear the voice from His mouth meant that Paul was being granted a prophetic office.
 
If his words to the crowd were true, and they could be verified by Ananias if he was still alive, Paul was being given a commission that raised him to the level of any true prophet of Israel. His words would carry the same weight and effect as those of their own Scriptures.
 
Paul was not being called to do another thing than the other selected apostles, but to carry the same word of the Lord to another group of people, making understandable to them what God was doing in and through Israel. That will be seen in the next verses.
 
Life application: There is one prophetic plan that is being worked out in redemptive history. It is being developed in various steps. The Mosaic Covenant was one step. That was replaced by the New Covenant. Gentile inclusion in the New Covenant was to be a part of that plan, not something separate from it.
 
Israel’s rejection of Jesus was known by God before it happened. During their time of rejection, God has been working out His New Covenant through a Gentile-led church, but it is still the same covenant that will be continued through the Jews at a future point. This is completely certain because Paul, writing to the Gentiles, appeals to the New Covenant in 1 Corinthians 11 –
 
“For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’ 25 In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.’” 1 Corinthians 11:23-25
 
Watch out for heretical doctrines that attempt to separate what God is doing for the Jews and for the Gentiles. There is one New Covenant. The nation of Israel has temporarily rejected the offer. But because of His faithfulness to His covenant promises, they too will be brought into the New Covenant someday.
 
In the meantime, any Jew or Gentile can come into the New Covenant in exactly the same way. That Israel, the nation, will be given this opportunity is explicitly stated in Hebrews 9:15 –
 
“And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.”
 
Hold fast to what is sound and proper. The New Covenant is one thing. It was given to the House of Israel and the House of Judah, as noted in Jeremiah 31:31 and Hebrews 8:8. They will be brought into it in due time. Until then, the one and only gospel is currently going forth to any individual who will receive it.
 
O God, Your faithfulness is everlasting. What concern should we have that You would ever not fulfill every word You have spoken forth? Rather, we can read Your word and know, with absolute surety, that You will perform as You have spoken. Praises be to You, our great and faithful Lord! Amen.

Acts 22:13

Friday, 1 December 2023
 
“came to me; and he stood and said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And at that same hour I looked up at him. Acts 22:13
 
The Greek reads, “Having come to me and having stood, said, ‘Saul, brother, look up.’ And I, the same hour, looked up to him” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Paul told the crowd about Ananias, a devout man according to the law and who had a good testimony with the Jews. Of him, it now says, “Having come to me and having stood, said.”
 
Luke’s use of participles makes each step carefully anticipate the next. In Acts 9, Ananias was told by the Lord to go to Paul and put his hand on him in order to restore his sight. Paul skips this information and simply notes that an observant Jew was the one taking the action. This would have had a more profound effect on the crowd.
 
They were gathered outside the temple, accusing Paul of being a violator of the law. And yet, everything he is presenting to them concerned adherence to the law by those he was associated with. As the temple was still standing, it would be an affront to the sensibilities of the Jews to do otherwise when among them.
 
As for Ananias, once he had come to Paul, he then spoke, “Saul, brother, look up.” The word is anablepó. It literally means “look up.” However, it is also used to indicate the recovery of sight, such as in Matthew 11 –
 
“Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: 5 The blind see and [anablepó: look up] the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them. 6 And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.’” Matthew 11:5, 6
 
Therefore, many translations simply say, “receive youryou sight.” With that stated, Paul next says, “And I, the same hour, looked up to him.”
 
He uses the same word, anablepó, that was just used. Paul received his sight right then. The word was spoken, and the sight was immediately restored. Thus, it was certainly a miracle. Further, it was performed by a Jew in good standing and it was performed on Paul.
 
This would have had a pronounced effect on them. This would not only validate that Ananias was capable of such things, but that it was the Lord Jesus who was ultimately behind the act. This is because he had already noted in verse 10 that it was Jesus who directed the events.
 
And more, this power of the Lord through Ananias was in approval of Paul’s coming ministry. Paul’s words thus far would have had a weighty effect on those listening.
 
Life application: By following the progression of thought one step at a time, it is evident that Paul’s ministry was a particular one that was directed and commissioned by the Lord. He was not a rogue Jew who was out of control among his people and among the Gentiles.
 
Rather, he was called by the Lord, healed by the power of the Lord, commissioned as an apostle by the Lord, and then sent forth to his ministry by the Lord. As he was not one of the twelve apostles sent forth to the house of Israel, it means that his ministry served an entirely different purpose.
 
There is overlap in what the apostles taught, but the focus of Paul’s ministry was different than that of the others. This clearly indicates that the Gentile-led church, though being brought into the commonwealth of Israel (Ephesians 2:12), is not a replacement of Israel. Nor is it the fulfillment of the promises to Israel.
 
These things have to be carefully considered. Otherwise, there will be a defect in one’s understanding of proper doctrine, sound eschatology, etc. Keep the boxes straight, and the Bible will be rightly divided regarding sound dispensational theology.
 
Lord God, give us wisdom and discernment in how to interpret Your word properly. It is a big book, filled with many difficulties. And so, be with us as we actively engage in it through reading and study. May our doctrine be sound as we go forth telling others about the great plan You have set forth for the people of the world in this wonderful word. Amen.
 

Acts 22:12

Thursday, 30 November 2023
 
“Then a certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good testimony with all the Jews who dwelt there, Acts 22:12
 
The words are more exactingly translated, “And a certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law, being testified to by all the Jews dwelling there” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Paul noted to the crowd that he could not see because of the light, and so he was led by the hand to Damascus. Continuing now, it says, “And a certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law.”
 
Only the term “disciple” was used of Ananias in Chapter 9. Now, for the sake of this Jewish audience and to show that the man would have been acceptable in their eyes, he calls him a devout man according to the law.
 
This is the fourth and last time that the word eulabés is found in Scripture. It is found only in Luke’s writings. Once in his gospel (Luke 2:25) and three times in Acts. It is a compound word that literally means “‘taking hold of what is good.’ It focuses on the outward response someone gives to what they feel is truly worthwhile (worthy of respect)” (HELPS Word Studies). At times, translators say, “God-fearing” which is more of a paraphrase, but it implies that a godly fear is instilled in the person. With that, Paul next says, “being testified to by all the Jews dwelling there.”
 
This would be easily verifiable, and it shows that Ananias was obedient in his actions as a faithful Jew. The resentment of followers of the Way was obviously not as pronounced elsewhere as it was in Jerusalem.
 
And even at this time, it was perceived by most that followers of the way were considered obedient Jews. This is an obvious truth from the fact that James and the other apostles moved freely about. Gloag says that this “affirms that he was not introduced to Christianity by an opponent of Judaism, but by a strict Jew” (Paton James Gloag).
 
Paul’s argument before the people is a petition for reason concerning faith in Jesus that does not contradict their faith. However, as the author of Hebrews (probably Paul) notes –
 
“In that He says, ‘A new covenant,’ He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.” Hebrews 8:13
 
It was understood that law observance would eventually be ended. Thus, there is nothing deceitful by Paul in living as a Jew among Jews, as a Gentile among Gentiles, and promoting law observance among the Jews during the time that the temple was still standing.
 
As for the ending of the law, Hebrews notes that it will come at some future point. According to Daniel 9:27, Scripture reveals that point will be after the seven years of tribulation, whenever that occurs. Since the destruction of the temple, believing Jews and Gentiles are not bound to law observance, nor could they be. Without a temple, it would be impossible.
 
At the rapture, all believers will be taken to glory. After that, a temple will be rebuilt, and temple rites and law observance will return to Israel temporarily to consummate the times set forth by the Lord in Daniel 9.
 
Life application: The words of Hebrews 8:13 are written to the Hebrew people. They do not apply to the Gentiles. The Gentiles were never under law observance. As the New Covenant supplants the Old, it is insane theology to teach that a Gentile must observe the law, in part or in whole. This is why Paul is so adamant about this issue in Galatians.
 
To go to the Law of Moses, after coming to Christ, means that Christ’s finished work has been rejected. Is this where you really want to stand? Is your hope in your own meriting of God’s favor. If so, you will be sorely disappointed.
 
Be sure to trust in Christ, rest in Christ, and find your eternal security in the grace of God that is found in Jesus Christ our Lord.
 
Lord God Almighty, how can we be pleasing to You? Your word tells us. We are pleasing to You through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Help us to never attempt to merit Your favor through observance of the law that He came to fulfill. How good it is to simply rest in His finished work. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Hallelujah and amen.