BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 17:14

Sunday, 4 June 2023
 
Then immediately the brethren sent Paul away, to go to the sea; but both Silas and Timothy remained there. Acts 17:14
 
In the previous verse, the Jews from Thessalonica came to Berea and stirred up the crowds there. With that remembered, it next says, “Then immediately the brethren sent Paul away.”
 
It is obviously Paul that the Jews had the problem with. Thus, in order to calm things down, the believers there knew it would be expedient to remove him from the area. His life, or at least his freedom, would be in jeopardy if he remained. And so, sending him out of the area was the proper avenue to take. This they did without any delay. However, they didn’t just walk him out of the city on a trek down the best Roman road. Rather, in conducting him, it was “to go to the sea.”
 
There is a slight variation in the reading of texts here. Some read heós (ἕως) while others read hós (ὡς). With this variation, the text will either read “as it were to the sea” or “as far as the sea.” In the first, it would be a feinting maneuver where they pretended to go to the sea but then conducted him on the road to Athens. If the latter, it would mean they took him all the way to the sea where they would sail to Athens.
 
However, even the first could read, “even to the sea.” This appears more likely as there is nothing said of any stops between Berea and Athens. But the distance between the two is so great that not mentioning such stops seems unlikely. Either way, however, these men conducted Paul either from Berea to the sea and then to Athens by ship, or they pretended to go to Athens by ship and then accompanied him all the way to Athens.
The important point of this is that they would be far enough away from the miscreant Jews to not have them hounding him from town to town. The distance between the two is somewhere around four hundred miles. With this having taken place, it next says, “but both Silas and Timothy remained there.”
 
This makes it obvious that Paul was the object of the Jews’ disfavor. These two men could stay and continue to teach those in Berea without the trouble that Paul brought. They would also be close to Thessalonica and could quickly travel there to check on the church.
 
As for Timothy, he has not been mentioned since Acts 16:1. However, it is obvious that he came with Paul as he traveled. This is certain at least as far as Philippi. However, it is likely that he went with Paul and Silas all the way, but he was not mentioned because Paul and Silas were the main focus of the narrative until this point. With Paul gone to Athens, Timothy is now mentioned in a prominent role along with Silas.
 
Life application: Although it is speculation, the words of this verse give us an indication that Paul required others to be with him. He speaks of an affliction that he had in 2 Corinthians 12. One speculation is that his eyes were poor. Whether this or something else, it is seen throughout Acts and even in his epistles that he is normally accompanied by others. In this verse, he is conducted by others out of the city and even to Athens.
 
Supposing it is true that he had an affliction that necessitated others to tend to him. Is that a cause of shame? To Paul, it obviously was not. His reliance on others allowed them to tend to him. Thus, both benefitted through the interactions that these people willingly participated in.
 
Quite often, we want to carry the heavy loads of life all by ourselves, but the Bible would teach us otherwise. Solomon speaks of this –
 
“Two are better than one,Because they have a good reward for their labor.10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.But woe to him who is alone when he falls,For he has no one to help him up.11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm;But how can one be warm alone?12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
 
Let us be willing to allow others the honor and privilege of helping us out when the need arises. At the same time, let us not be a burden on others by having them carry our loads unnecessarily. Taking advantage of others is never a good thing. So, let us have balance in our lives as we interact with others, blessing them according to our abilities and our limitations.
 
Lord God, thank You for those people who come into our lives and bless us with their presence, help, and encouragement. May we be prompted to reach out today and give them a word of thanks and blessing for their kindness toward us. Amen.

Acts 17:13

Saturday, 3 June 2023
 
But when the Jews from Thessalonica learned that the word of God was preached by Paul at Berea, they came there also and stirred up the crowds. Acts 17:13
 
In the previous verse, it said that many in Berea believed. Now the narrative continues, starting with, “But when the Jews from Thessalonica.” Berea is said to be 45 miles southwest of Thessalonica. Today, that would be a quick drive, but at the time of Acts, it would take a couple of days to travel the distance.
We are not told how the word got back to those at Thessalonica, but it is probable Paul and Silas stayed at Berea for some time once converts had been made. The word about the conversion of people would naturally be passed along and nothing sinister should be inferred. However, for the most part, the Jews in Thessalonica had rejected the gospel and caused the city to get stirred up. With this remembered, it next says they “learned that the word of God was preached by Paul at Berea.”
 
The NKJV skips over a necessary conjunction. It more rightly says, “learned that the word of God was preached by Paul also in Berea.” This would have gotten their dander up. They probably thought that with Paul and Silas having been run out of town, that would be the end of their preaching. However, not only were there believers in Thessalonica because of them, but they were also now making converts in Berea.
 
The Jews’ sphere of influence was dwindling because of the evangelism of these men. And so, with apparently nothing better to do than to cause trouble elsewhere, it next says that “they came there also and stirred up the crowds.” Rather, the verb is a present participle. The clause reads, “they came there also, stirring up the crowds.”
 
The word translated as stirring up, saleuó, is found in the Greek translation of the Old Testament where it refers to the stirring up of the oceans. This is what these people were like. They went among the multitudes and were stirring them up and causing trouble because of their jealousy concerning the success of the gospel.
 
The irony of the matter is that they were working against the Messiah whom they said they were waiting for. But a Messiah who came to die for the sins of the people meant that they were sinful people. In their arrogance, they rejected this premise. Their idea of a Messiah is one that would welcome them in their state of supposed superiority and elevate them above the world of Gentiles among whom they dwelt.
 
Life application: Today, it is easier to cause trouble for others than ever before. If someone proclaims a message that offends others, he can be hounded by those who don’t like what they hear.
 
For example, if you are a preacher in a church who has made such enemies, they can hack your church website and fill it with vile material. They can give poor ratings or reviews on various sites that provide evaluations of companies, products, churches, restaurants, etc. They can say harmful things on YouTube videos. The inventiveness of people to harm others is almost limitless. One must be prepared to take such things in stride and continue to proclaim the truth of the gospel with proper theology and sound doctrine.
 
There is often little you can do about such people, so you must be consistent and demonstrate that they are the miscreants by your continued proper proclamation of the word of God. It was not easy for Paul and Silas, it was not easy for those who spoke against the abuses of the church throughout the past millennia, and it is not easy today. These things must be expected. But press on as best you can. The Lord is building his church despite such agitators.
 
Lord God, be with Your people through the many trials that arise. When sound pastors and preachers are attacked because of their proclamation of the gospel, reassure them in their hearts and lives. Bless the work of their hands because it is the work You have set forth for them to do. Be glorified in Your people, O God. Amen.
 

Acts 17:12

Friday, 2 June 2023
 
Therefore many of them believed, and also not a few of the Greeks, prominent women as well as men. Acts 17:12
 
The NKJV changes the structure of the second clause so that it does not reflect the Greek. The verse more precisely reads, “Many, indeed, therefore, of them believed, and of the prominent Greek women, and men, not a few” (CG). This will be used in the evaluation.
 
The previous verse noted the eagerness of the Bereans to examine the Scriptures daily to find out whether the words of Paul and Silas were true or not. As a result, it now says, “Many, indeed, therefore, of them believed.”
 
Though a little clunky in the English translation, the words carefully provide the result of what was just stated –
 
They “searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.”
“Many, indeed, therefore, of them believed.”
 
Instead of just hearing Paul on the Sabbath and then going home like the Thessalonian synagogue, these people went each day to search out what they had heard. Because of their diligent effort, the result was exactly what one would expect. The Scriptures pointed to Jesus. Jesus had come. In comparing what Scripture prophesied with what Paul proclaimed, they came to the obvious conclusion that the words of Paul were correct and that the gospel was true. From there, it next says, “and of the prominent Greek women.”
 
The word translated as prominent is the same as that used in Acts 13:50. It is affixed to the women, not to the men next to be mentioned, just as it was in Acts 13 –
 
“But the Jews stirred up the devout and prominent women and the chief men of the city, raised up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region.”
 
The word itself is derived from two words signifying “well” and “form.” Thus, it means well-fashioned or well-formed. HELPS Word Studies notes that it “is used in Koine Greek of a person who properly uses influence, especially by serving in a high (respected) position.”
 
Many translations incorrectly affix the word to both the women and the men. But the intent is that these women were influential, perhaps connected with ranking families in the society. Along with them, it only next says, “and men, not a few.”
 
These were probably mostly proselytes, but there could be some that were talked to by Paul and Silas during the week and who then came to the synagogue to continue to hear what they had to say. Whoever they were, it says that they believed.
 
The main point of the words is that there was a large number of both Jews and Greeks who believed, including influential women among them. This can all be attributed to the leadership of the synagogue. Unlike Thessalonica, there was a true desire to search out Scripture that had to have come from one man or a few men who truly desired to know the truth concerning the words of Scripture. Without being named, it is a testimony to the integrity of the person or people who led the synagogue.
 
Life application: The leadership in a church will direct its heart for the word. If a pastor is passionate about the Bible, those who attend will be as well. Those who are not passionate about it will simply not attend. Instead, they will go looking for a church that suits their preferences. However, those who stay and continue will do so because they appreciate his zeal for Scripture. Thus, they will naturally be geared toward doing their own daily studies, talking about the word, sharing the word, etc.
 
If you love the Bible and are looking around for a church to attend in your area, you should not be satisfied until you find one that will fill your desire. If you start attending a church that is weak in this area, you may eventually find your zeal for the word waning. Don’t let this happen to you. Keep close to the word, attend where it is properly taught, and keep the fire alive by doing your own reading each and every day. It is your roadmap along life’s highway, so use it to keep you going in the right direction!
 
What a wonderful and precious word You have given to us, O God. Thank You for it. Help us to always stick close to it and to grow in our knowledge of its contents as each new day arrives. Yes, Lord God, thank You for Your magnificent and superior word. Amen.
 

Acts 17:11

Thursday, 1 June 2023
 
These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. Acts 17:11
 
The previous verse detailed Paul and Silas having traveled to Berea and their going into the synagogue of the Jews upon their arrival. With that remembered, it next says, “These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica.”
 
The NKJV, following after the KJV, omits a necessary conjunction. It should read, “And these,” “Now these,” or something similar. “And these were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica.” As for the word “fair-minded,” it is eugenes, translated as nobel, but signifying “well born.” Using “fair-minded” is more of a paraphrase than a translation, even if the thought is properly conveyed.
 
These people were brought up properly and told not to just trust what they first heard but were to instead check for themselves. In other words, they were not gullible, but they were also not dismissive. In Thessalonica, some of the Jews were persuaded but there were a great many Greeks who came to believe.
 
As Paul had clearly reasoned from the Scriptures, and as the majority of the Jews there did not believe, it indicates their dismissive attitude toward what was clearly presented in their writings. On the contrary, concerning those in Berea, it next says, “in that they received the word with all readiness.”
 
The words “in that” are not in the original and should be italicized. It simply says, “they received the word with all readiness.” They obviously listened to Paul and absorbed what he said, not being dismissive of what he presented. That is the first part of the necessary equation for being noble. The second part is that after hearing, they then “searched the Scriptures.”
 
The word searched should read examined. It is the Greek word anakrinó. It signifies to examine, investigate, or question. This is unlike Jesus’ words of John 5:39 –
 
“You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me.”
 
There, the word is ereunaó. It signifies to search or seek. In Berea, Paul told them what the Scriptures said. There was no need to search. Rather, if Paul said, “The prophet Isaiah said xxx,” they would go to Isaiah and examine if Paul was correct or not.
 
They were not dismissive of hearing, but they were also not gullible in accepting. After hearing, they went to the source of their faith and they checked out if what Paul had said matched what God had told them in the law, prophets, and writings. This shows care about getting to the truth of the matter. It also demonstrates a willingness to not be haughty or arrogant in matters they had not previously considered, dismissing things as if they already knew it all. And more, they did it “daily.”
 
After hearing Paul’s words on the Sabbath, they didn’t just say, “We’ll hear more next Sabbath,” which is exactly what is implied concerning those at Thessalonica –
 
“Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures.” Acts 17:2
 
Rather, those in Berea decided to come back each day, probably either before or after a long day of work, and continue to search and contemplate what Paul had said. This shows a caliber of person who truly wants to know the truth of the word. They did this “to find out whether these things were so.” Of this, Albert Barnes gives four sound reasons for their actions –
 
(1) That it is proof of true nobleness and liberality of mind to be willing to examine the proofs of the truth of religion. What the friends of Christianity have had most cause to lament and regret is, that so many are unwilling to examine its claims; that they spurn it as unworthy of serious thought, and condemn it without hearing.
 
(2) the Scriptures should be examined daily. If we wish to arrive at the truth, they should be the object of constant study. That man has very little reason to expect that he will grow in knowledge and grace who does not peruse, with candor and with prayer, a portion of the Bible every day.
 
(3) the constant searching of the Scriptures is the best way to keep the mind from error. He who does not do it daily may expect to ‘be carried about with every wind of doctrine,’ and to have no settled opinions.
 
(4) the preaching of ministers should be examined by the Scriptures. Their doctrines are of no value unless they accord with the Bible. Every preacher should expect his doctrines to be examined in this way, and to be rejected if they are not in accordance with the Word of God.
 
Albert Barnes is correct in his analyses and each of us would do well to pay heed to the lesson of those in Berea.
 
Life application: If there is a God, and there is every logical reason to believe there is, then the most important thing a man can ever do is learn about Him. If God has revealed Himself through some sort of communication, then it is man’s responsibility to consider what He is saying.
 
God has revealed Himself through creation, communicating things about Himself through a process we call general revelation. God has generally revealed Himself to us so that we can consider Him and His nature. David touches on this in the 19th Psalm. Paul writes about it in Romans. The book of Job and elsewhere convey this to us as well.
 
The wise person will consider what God has done and be grateful to Him for the provision He provides, the beauty He offers, the order and harmony of things that allow us to use the creation for our benefit, etc.
 
But God has done more than offer a general way for us to consider Him. He has also specifically revealed Himself to us through His word. We call this special revelation. God has purposefully and specifically revealed Himself through speaking to and through prophets, communicating to us what we need to know to have a close and personal relationship with Him.
 
The wise person will go beyond simply acknowledging this and will determine to read this word, study it, defend it, proclaim it, and so on. The wise person will make this word the central focus of his life because Jesus is the central focus of this word. Jesus is God’s special revelation par excellence. He is the point, purpose, and meaning of all other aspects of God’s word. Therefore, to properly know God, one must know Jesus Christ. And to know Jesus Christ, one must know the words of the Bible that tell us of Jesus Christ. Read your Bible. Know your Bible. Find Jesus in God’s precious and sacred word!
 
Glorious Lord God, help us to use our time wisely, searching out who You are and what You are like through the ways You have revealed Yourself to us. May we not squander our time in futility, but consider You at all times, especially when we intimately fellowship with You through Your word. Yes, may it be so, to Your glory. Amen.

Acts 17:10

Wednesday, 31 May 2023
 
Then the brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea. When they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews. Acts 17:10
 
In the previous verse, security was taken from Jason and those with him and they were released. Now, it continues, saying, “Then the brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away.”
 
This may have been something mentioned by those who held their bail. Part of the conditions may have been to get Paul and Silas out of Jason’s house, or it could be that they were to hand them over to the city leaders and to avoid that, they sent them away. It could also just be that they knew Paul and Silas were targets of the Jews and wanted to keep them from being harmed.
 
The latter reason, because it is so similar to Paul’s other interactions with disbelieving Jews, seems most likely. However, regardless of the reason, Paul and Silas were immediately sent away, “by night.”
 
The Greek reads, dia nyktos, through night. Under the cover of night, they were sent out of the area. This is not unlike what occurred in Acts 9 –
 
“Now after many days were past, the Jews plotted to kill him. 24 But their plot became known to Saul. And they watched the gates day and night, to kill him. 25 Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.” Acts 9:23-25
 
In sending Paul and Silas away, it next says that it was “to Berea.” The name Berea comes from the word peran, meaning “over,” “on the other side,” or “beyond.” Thus, it is the region beyond the coastline. Of this location, Wikipedia says –
 
“Berea was in southwestern Macedonia. The city's foundation stood where Veria, or Kar-Verria, in Greece is today. It is a unique position [and] has had a variety of terrain surrounding the city since then.
 
Berea sat at the base of Mount Bermius, which is part of the Vermio Mountains and provides an ample supply of water for the city and the region. The main sources of water were the Haliacmon and Axios Rivers, which supported apple, peach and pear orchards. The area is prosperous with a hydroelectric dam on the Haliacmon powering the area's industrial sector.”
 
With that noted, it next says, “When they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews.” 
 
This is Paul’s standard way of entering into a new city, at least as far as Luke’s focus is concerned. Nothing else is recorded concerning their arrival and time in Berea until he goes to the synagogue. It shows that Paul’s main focus was to first bring the word to his own people and any proselytes who were there. From that point, he could then continue to branch out in his evangelistic efforts.
 
It also shows that, despite repeated attacks from his own people, he was willing to continue to evangelize them. It reflects the attitude of his words to those in Rome. Paul desperately wanted his own countrymen to come to a saving knowledge of Christ. He was willing to expend himself and even place his life in danger to do so.
 
Life application: It would be an argument from silence to say that Paul did not speak to any Gentiles while before going into the synagogue in Berea. Luke’s focus for the narrative is to show that Paul was always willing to go into the synagogue and share his faith with them as his top priority.
 
However, if Paul and Silas arrived in Berea on a Tuesday, they would have several days until the Sabbath to talk to others. It is unlikely they would have said, “No, we have to wait to give the good news to the synagogue first.” Rather, they would have spoken to whoever as the occasion arose. The focus of the narrative is to highlight Paul’s modus operandi, not to give a complete record of everything he and Silas did.
 
As you read the Bible, be sure to contemplate why things are recorded as they are. A single turn of the page can be a jump ahead in time of weeks, months, or even years. Innumerable things are skipped over because they are not relevant to the narrative. Consider the main focus of what God is conveying to you and think about His reasons for doing so. This is a great help in understanding why things are laid out as they are.
 
Heavenly Father, may our time in Scripture be a time of fellowshipping with You, understanding Your mind as it is revealed to us, and as a light and guide for our own lives as we draw nearer and nearer to You. Help us to consider Your word as being a guide for humanity to understand You and our relationship with You. Thank You for the coming of Jesus, O God, who then makes all this clear and understandable. Amen.

Acts 17:9

Tuesday, 30 May 2023
 
So when they had taken security from Jason and the rest, they let them go. Acts 17:9
 
In the last verse, the evil men who had gathered a mob were said to have troubled the crowd and the rulers of the city by their sayings. With that, it next says, “So when they had taken security.”
 
The Greek word is hikanos. It is a noun meaning “sufficiency.” Like bail today, they took a sufficient sum to ensure proper conduct on the account of a person and his guests, and to sufficiently meet any charges that may be brought against the individual. In this case, it was “from Jason.”
 
As he was the owner of the house where those who were the brunt of the accusations, meaning Paul and Silas, were staying, he was held accountable for a certain sum. Along with him, it next says, “and the rest.”
 
This would be the “some brethren” mentioned along with Jason in verse 17:6. Because they were all in the same quarters with Paul and Silas, it could be that they were complicit in any wrongdoings. Until the matter was investigated and sorted out, there would be a particular sum held to protect the interests of the city. With that complete, it says, “they let them go.”
 
Like bail today, once the deposit was made, it was considered sufficient to ensure compliance for any future matters.
 
Life application: There are those who fall under the umbrella of Christianity but who refuse to participate in society in any meaningful way. Some refuse to participate in the military. If the reason is as a conscientious objector, that is one thing. But if it is only because of not participating in affairs of government, that is another. Some will not vote. Some will refuse any public office.
 
However, if one of these people is arrested, you can bet your bottom dollar they will pay the necessary bail to be released. They will also pay taxes, toll fees, entrance fees at national monuments, etc. The incorrect nature of such thinking is totally contradictory. Be sure to consider the lessons found right in Scripture.
 
If you are a member of a particular society, there is nothing at all wrong with participating in that society, including military service, government service, and exercising civic responsibilities such as voting. Think clearly. Be a responsible, active participant in those things that daily affect your life. If you don’t, when things go bad for you, you will only have yourself to blame.
 
Lord God, may we be shining examples of faithfulness to You all our days. If that can be done while in service to the nations in which we live, may it be so. May we not isolate ourselves from our surroundings in this world where You have placed us. What a difference we can make if called to do so! And so, may we do so to Your glory. Amen.
 

Acts 17:8

Monday, 29 May 2023
 
And they troubled the crowd and the rulers of the city when they heard these things. Acts 17:8
 
In the previous verse, those who came against the believers charged them with “acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying there was another king – Jesus.” With that, it now continues, saying, “And they troubled the crowd.”
 
In stirring up those standing there, they would have more effect in their hopes of bringing harm to the believers. The word “crowd” is singular, giving the sense of a hive mind where everyone will act as a unified whole. In other words, verse 17:5 noted that a mob was gathered. This then “set all the city in an uproar.”
 
With this expanding frenzy, the whole multitude has become alarmed. It is the common tactic of incitement that builds from something small to something ubiquitous. Along with the multitude it next says, “and the rulers of the city.”
 
The city rulers see the excitement of the crowd and, being rulers, they knew they could easily become the object of the crowd’s displeasure. Were that to take place, they would be subject to harm or even death. This is what occurred “when they heard these things.”
 
The Jews of the synagogue started the trouble because of their envy. Enlisting miscreants to join them and stir up the masses, a general frenzy broke out. From there, the multitude began to fear the commotion. That led to fear by the rulers. From a little plan, a large turmoil has developed.
 
Life application: If the words of this account in Acts seem difficult to believe, just remember the events of January 6, 2020. The US government placed operatives in the midst of a peaceful group of protestors. They incited the people to act against the government. From there, the leaders in the capitol complex became exceedingly fearful and were quickly ushered out of the capitol building.
 
Just what the Jews instigated in Thessalonica is what the US government instigated against an entire party of people in the nation. This is a very simple way of gaining control over others. It has been used in communist rebellions many times in the past century.
 
All people should be extremely careful about joining large crowds that are being whipped into a frenzy. If you are a part of those who are to be targeted, your mere presence at the event may wind up with you being charged with sedition and rebellion. Be obedient to the rules of your land, but do not trust your government to do what is right. 
 
Lord God, it is so good that we have a hope that transcends this world. There is nothing here for us of any true value. We long for the day when we live for eternity solely under the loving care of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May that Day be soon. Amen.
 

Acts 17:7

Sunday, 28 May 2023
 
“Jason has harbored them, and these are all acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying there is another king—Jesus.” Acts 17:7
 
In the previous verse, Jason and some of his guests were dragged out of his house to the rulers of the city. There, the accusation was “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too.” Their words now continue with, “Jason has harbored them.”
 
The Greek word simply means “received,” but with the full intent of being received under one’s roof as a guest. However, the intent very well may be the stronger “harbored,” as if they were hiding enemies of the state. That is certainly what is being conveyed in the next words, “and these are all acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar.”
 
To form a charge against these men, of which Paul and Silas would be included because of the word “all,” a different tact had to be followed in Thessalonica than in Philippi. Because Philippi was a Roman colony, the accusation was the teaching of customs not lawful for Roman citizens to observe.
 
Thessalonica was not a colony, but it still fell under the authority of Rome. If Caesar had issued an edict, it would apply in any location under Roman rule. As such, they not only say that these men were acting contrary to the decrees of Caesar, but the specific charge is that they were “saying there is another king—Jesus.”
 
It is the same accusation made against Jesus when He stood before Pilate. Of this, Vincent’s Word Studies, citing Merivale, says –
 
“The law of treason, by which the ancient legislators of the republic had sought to protect popular liberty from the encroachments of tyranny, ...was gradually concentrated upon the emperor alone, the sole impersonation of the sovereign people. The definition of the crime itself was loose and elastic, such as equally became the jealousy of a licentious republic or of a despotic usurper.” (Merivale, “History of the Romans under the Empire”).
 
The words of those who believed could easily be taken out of context just as the words of Jesus were. Proclaiming a kingdom meant one was proclaiming a king. But the kingdom spoken of concerning Jesus at that time was a spiritual, not a temporal kingdom. Despite being apples and oranges, those making the charges have taken all the fruit and tossed it into one basket for their accusations.
 
Life application: It is not difficult to twist the intent of people’s words and actions to say something that was never the original thought. In the past, getting a few miscreants to make something up would add to the accusation. That happened with Jesus at his trial before the Sanhedrin. It is what occurs in this verse with the believers in Thessalonica.
 
Today, that is even easier to do. Deepfake voices and videos are becoming more difficult to tell from reality. Add in a few left-leaning government operatives who want someone silenced, and the charges seem more probable by the moment. It has happened to citizens of various nations, and it has even happened to President Trump.
 
Once the left has assumed total control, which is not out of probability at this point, false charges will be made against anyone who will not fall in line with their demented ideology. True Christians, who are not dements, will be targeted for their stand on what is right, moral, and proper. If the rapture has not occurred before that time, they will not be spared from the wicked machinations of the government. Be prepared to stand on your faith in Christ and never cave in your morals and principles. The time is coming, so be prepared now.
 
Glorious Lord God, the world has tried to quiet the message of the gospel since the very beginning. That will only grow in the world as it slides into total wickedness and enmity with You. Give us strength, wisdom, and the necessary fortitude to stand on Your word and on the faith that we profess in Jesus Christ. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.
 

Acts 17:6

Saturday, 27 May 2023
 
But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some brethren to the rulers of the city, crying out, “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too. Acts 17:6
 
In the previous verse, a mob had set the city in an uproar and attacked Jason’s house, seeking to bring Paul and Silas out to the people. However, it now says, “But when they did not find them.”
 
Paul and Silas were probably out instructing others or evangelizing at the time. This did not pacify the mob though. Instead, “they dragged Jason and some brethren.”
 
It is the same word used by Luke in Acts 8:3 –
 
“As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.”
 
The men were forcibly taken and hauled off. Fortunately, the crowd was not in such a heated rage as to kill them. However, they did drag them “to the rulers of the city.”
 
This is a marvelous set of words that confirm Luke’s careful attention to the details of the surrounding situation. Luke uses the word politarchés. Of this, Vincent’s Word Studies says –
 
“Another illustration of Luke’s accuracy. Note that the magistrates are called by a different name from those at Philippi. Thessalonica was not a colony, but a free city..., and was governed by its own rulers, whose titles accordingly did not follow those of Roman magistrates. The word occurs only here and Acts 17:8, and has been found in an inscription on an arch at Thessalonica, where the names of the seven politarchs are mentioned. The arch is thought by antiquarians to have been standing in Paul’s time.”
 
Other scholars place the dating of this arch to the time of Vespasian, a few years after the time of Paul’s visit to Thessalonica. Either way, the accuracy of Luke concerning the title is incontrovertible.
 
Next, once the men were dragged before these city rulers, it says they were “crying out, ‘These who have turned the world upside down have come here too.’”
 
Another new word in Scripture, anastatoó, is seen here. HELPS Word Studies identifies its root as anistémi, to raise or rise up. Hence, it would signify turning something over, from up to down. It is obviously a complete exaggeration, except as any Jews would be aware. The incident at Philippi was only three Sabbaths earlier and the city leaders would not have been the ones to convey the events to those in Thessalonica as they were in the wrong and would want them forgotten.
 
Thus, if any word had gotten to the city, it would have been because of some Jewish person recognizing them from some other synagogue or even from a visit to Israel. The previous verse clearly places the blame for the incitement on the Jews. And so, it is most likely that they alone fabricated the matter. It may be that Paul and Silas had told them they had been persecuted during their various travels. Once the message about Jesus was rejected by them, they could have turned around and bitten at the missionaries like rabid dogs.
 
Life application: The message of the good news about Jesus is a simple and direct matter. Man has sin, God sent His Son into the world to pay our sin debt, and if a person believes that he will be forgiven. In this act of forgiveness, a new birth occurs. Life is bestowed and reconciliation is realized.
 
What is it about this simple offering of love by God that is so offensive to the world? Man has a problem, God offers to resolve it without any strings attached, and all the person needs to do is believe. It seems generous and gracious enough that if someone didn’t believe, he would just tell the person speaking to him, “Yes, that’s great. Thank you for telling me. Your words are kind and generous, but I just don’t believe what you say.”
 
That would be a normal and understandable note of rejection. However, the world bizarrely doesn’t just provide a “No thanks.” Rather, Christians have been killed and persecuted constantly since the coming of Jesus. It is almost incomprehensible. If someone was dying of thirst and another person offered water to save his life, you would not expect that person to fight against the offer and even kill the one with the water. And yet, that would be comparable to the attitude of people in relation to hearing and rejecting the gospel.
 
The reason for this is sin. Man does not want to acknowledge that he is a sinful being. Further, when confronted with sin, man does not want to admit that he can do nothing about his sinful state. It means that his life, his destiny, and his relationship with God are totally out of his hands. This is unpalatable to people. Unless they can come to the end of themselves and admit that they stand condemned without Jesus, a feeling of enmity will always exist. The more boastful and proud a person is, the more likely he is to hate the message of Jesus.
 
Obviously, there are other lesser reasons for people to despise the gospel. They may already have their own god or gods. Being told that those gods are not gods can be a real problem. But even something like that ultimately goes back to the sin issue. It is good to understand this. If you are ever faced with such enmity because of your faith, you at least will have a sense of why.
 
Be prepared to defend your faith but also be prepared to receive grief for doing so. It is to be expected. Sin is a strong master.
 
Glorious God, we know that You have done all that is necessary to bring us back to Yourself. Thank You for Jesus who has made this possible. We are grateful for the life You have granted to us because of His work. May we be willing to share this message with all people, even if it means we may face persecution in the process. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

Acts 17:5

Friday, 26 May 2023
 
But the Jews who were not persuaded, becoming envious, took some of the evil men from the marketplace, and gathering a mob, set all the city in an uproar and attacked the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people. Acts 17:5
 
The verbs of the NKJV just don’t get it. A closer rendering is, “But the unbelieving Jews, having become envious, and having taken to them certain evil men of the market-loungers, and having gathered a crowd, were setting the city in uproar. And having assailed the house of Jason, they were seeking them to bring out to the people” (CG).
 
The previous verse noted that some of the people were persuaded to believe based on Paul’s reasoning from Scripture, including a great multitude of the Greeks and not a few of the leading women. With that, there would instantly be a church of no small size formed in the city. This would obviously steal attention away from the synagogue. As this is so, the same thing that has happened to Paul previously comes about once again, saying, “But the unbelieving Jews, having become envious.”
 
Paul had reasoned with the Jews from Scripture. They refused to believe the words of their own writings as they pointed to Jesus. But with so many believing, the congregation of the synagogue would suddenly be significantly reduced. This would obviously mean less attention for them, less revenue coming in, etc. That immediately elicited feelings of jealousy. Because of that, they schemed against Paul and Silas. As it says, “and having taken to them certain evil men of the market-loungers.”
 
The word translated as market-loungers, agoraios, is found only here and in Acts 19:38. It is derived from agora, the market which is the central hub of the city. Thus, it signifies “relating to the marketplace.” As these are defined as evil men, it is assumed that it means they hung around the market where the magistrates were and sought to stir things up, looking for whatever opportunity they had to do so. One can think of a gaggle of lawyers that hangs around the courthouse today. With such a vulgar bunch now aligned with them, the words continue with, “and having gathered a crowd.”
 
This is a word found only once in Scripture, ochlopoieó. It is derived from two words signifying crowd and to make. Thus, it gives the sense of raising a public disturbance. With this accomplished, it goes on to say they “were setting the city in uproar.”
 
With probably no care at all about the cause of the Jew’s discontentment, nor any clue about those they were riling the masses up against, they just went forth agitating the people into a frenzy. Once such an event begins, it will usually take on its own legs and mind. This was the hope of the Jews who had been deprived of their usual Saturday crowds. Next, it says, “And having assailed the house of Jason.”
 
Paul’s connection to Jason (Greek: Iasón) is seen in verse 17:7. From that verse, it appears that this is where Paul and Silas stayed while in the city. It may be that this is the same Jason as is found in Romans 16:21, where Paul calls him one of “my countrymen.” However, the name was not an uncommon one. It belonged to the hero of the Argonauts of Greek legend. It was also the name of a noted tyrant and of an apostate high priest of Israel seen in the book of 2 Maccabees.
 
James Strong places his name as coming from the word iaomai, to heal, saying it means “about to cure.” Because of its similarity to the Greek spelling of the name Joshua or Jesus, it may have been adopted by Jews of that name as a Greek equivalent. Of this person, along with Paul and Silas, it says, “they were seeking them to bring out to the people.”
 
They were probably thinking on just the same lines as those in Philippi. “Let’s get them out into the public while the mob is stirred up and they will get a beating, maybe imprisoned, and maybe even kicked out of the city.”
 
Life application: This same type of treatment was seen on Paul’s first missionary journey. It was also just seen in Philippi. The Bible is carefully demonstrating the continued theme that the Jews in general were in the process of rejecting their Messiah. This was the case in the land of Israel, and it is continuing throughout Acts.
 
As such, we are being shown the reason that the Gentiles became the predominant force in furthering the gospel. The rejection of the gospel by Israel did not mean the end of the faith. It meant a new direction was taking place. God didn’t send His Son into the world just to have that marvelous news die off.
 
But more than this, it isn’t that the main focus of the gospel went to the East or to the South where those who descended from Ham settled. Rather, it has been carefully directed to the area where the sons of Japheth settled. It is from this line of the sons of Noah that the gospel would most completely be accepted and transmitted to the world.
 
These things do not mean, nor should it be inferred, that the Jews are not welcome to share in the gospel, nor does it mean that the others of the lines of Shem or Ham are not welcome into the church as believers. Rather, it only means that the sons of Japheth are the line by which the most effective acceptance, understanding, and transmission of the gospel would take place.
 
Further, this also does not mean that the Jewish people have been replaced by the church. Rather, the prophecy of Noah found in the blessing of his sons in Genesis 9 only implies that the Gentiles of Japheth would carry the spiritual banner for a certain amount of time. Eventually, that will revert to the line of Shem, meaning the nation of Israel. Their unfaithfulness to the Lord does not negate His faithfulness to the covenant that He made with them.
 
God is using the most opportune avenue of sending forth the gospel during this dispensation. He has directed it accordingly, and all who hear the message and believe will be saved. Someday, the church will be taken out at the rapture. At that time, the banner will return to the line of Shem and the care of the Jewish people.
 
Lord God, Your wisdom is beyond our ability to grasp. But You have given us clues of what You are doing and how You are doing it right in Your word. We are in awe of how You have laid out the world and the ages, bringing all things together to form a body of people for Your own. Thank You for allowing us to be a part of that. Help us to continue to share this message while we can. Amen.
 

Acts 17:4

Thursday, 25 May 2023
 
And some of them were persuaded; and a great multitude of the devout Greeks, and not a few of the leading women, joined Paul and Silas. Acts 17:4
 
A more literal rendering than that of the NKJV needs to be used – “And some of them were persuaded and joined themselves to Paul and to Silas, along with a great multitude of the worshiping Greeks, and not a few of the leading women” (CG).
 
Paul has been in the synagogue at Thessalonica for three Sabbaths discussing the matter concerning Israel’s Messiah. He has just said, “This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ.” With that, it now notes, “And some of them were persuaded.”
 
Some translations say, “believed,” but this is not the word pisteuo found in verses such as John 3:16. Rather, this word, peithó, means to urge or to persuade. It is the root of the word pistis, or faith. They were persuaded, having faith that what they were told was true. Even if the meaning is that they believed, it is based on Paul’s teaching and urging. In this, they were persuaded, “and joined themselves to Paul and to Silas.”
 
It is a word found only here in Scripture, proskléroó. It signifies to assign by lot, to associate with, or to follow as a disciple. The basis of the word is kléroó, to assign by lot. Hence, it is to share common lot with another.
 
They have accepted the message that Jesus is the Christ and have thrown their lot in with those who proclaim Him. This has been referring to the Jews in the synagogue. However, they are not the only ones who have been so persuaded. It next notes, “along with a great multitude of the worshiping Greeks.”
 
Calling them “worshiping Greeks,” means that they were proselytes to some degree or another. They had already accepted that the God proclaimed in the Jewish Scriptures was the true God and had worshiped Him as such. However, they have now been convinced, right from those same Scriptures, that Jesus is the fulfillment of them. He, in fact, is the promised Messiah. As a note of the universality of the message, it next says, “and not a few of the leading women.”
 
These would be influential women who were probably connected with ranking families within the community. They may have been proselytes, or they may have been the wives of some of the proselytes who came and they wanted to identify with their husbands. The main point is that the women were not excluded from this fellowship and these women were influential in their circles. Thus, they would become a means of attracting others as they developed in their own faith.
 
Of the status of women in Macedonia, the Pulpit Commentary says –
 
“Popular prejudice, and the verdict of Grecian wisdom in its best age, asserted her natural inferiority. The Athenian law provided that everything which a man might do by the counsel or request of a woman should be null in law. She was little better than a slave. To educate her was to advertise her as a harlot. Her companions were principally children and slaves. In Macedonia, however, monuments were erected to women by public bodies; and records of male proper names are found, in Macedonian inscriptions, formed on the mother's name instead of on the father's. Macedonian women were permitted to hold property, and were treated as mistresses of the house.”
 
Life application: In 1 Thessalonians 1:9, Paul says to those in the congregation, “...how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.” This would obviously be people other than those who were mentioned in Acts 17:4. What can be inferred is that Paul and Silas talked to others throughout the week. Their soul-focus (pun intended) was not just on those at the synagogue, but it extended to pagans as well.
 
Though it was Paul’s practice to teach at the synagogue, it was also his passion to speak about Jesus to anyone at any time. It is a good lesson for us all. Our interactions with others regarding Jesus do not have to be limited to our time at church. Rather, we should be ready and willing to interact with people at all times. When the opportunity arises, let us open our mouths and speak!
 
Lord God, may we never withhold the precious, saving message of Jesus. Rather, give us the boldness to always tell others about His goodness. May You be glorified in our willingness to share the gospel often and with zeal. Be with us as we do! Amen.
 

Acts 17:3

Wednesday, 24 May 2023
 
explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ.” Acts 17:3
 
The translation is more closely rendered, “opening and presenting that the Christ must suffer and rise from the dead, and that this is the Christ – Jesus, whom I proclaim to you” (CG). This will be used to evaluate the verse.
 
The previous verse noted that Paul spent three Sabbaths in the synagogue of Thessalonica reasoning with them from the Scriptures. That included “opening.”
 
The word translated as “opening” is used for the last time in the Bible. It signifies to open fully. It can be a literal opening, such as the opening of the womb in Luke 2:23, but its uses in Scripture are more directed toward perception. Its other uses include the opening (restoration) of the ears and tongue of a man in Mark 7:34; the spiritual opening of the eyes in Luke 24:31; the opening of Scripture for understanding in Luke 24:45; the opening of the heavens for Stephen’s spiritual discernment in Acts 7:56; and the opening of Lydia’s heart in Acts 16:1.
 
The meaning here is certainly to be taken in the sense of spiritual discernment as in Luke 24:45, which says, “And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.” In this case, however, it doesn’t mean that these men will believe what Paul presents, but he is taking Scripture and he is opening it for their understanding, if they will believe. In this, he was opening “and presenting.”
 
This Greek word comes from two words signifying “beside” and “lay.” The idea is to set forth, set before, demonstrate, present, and so on. Paul is taking the Scriptures and drawing out the intended meaning and presenting it before his hearers, demonstrating “that the Christ must suffer.”
 
This was obvious and needed proof for his case because of his knowledge of who the Christ is. The Jewish idea of the Christ, meaning the Messiah, was a champion before God. He was to be a man to lead the people, free them from oppression, and set them above the nations. All of these things are true, but the manner in which they were to come about, and the order of events in how they would come to pass, was obscured and misunderstood by them.
 
In the case of the true Messiah, He was to first suffer “and rise from the dead.” The people anticipated a Messiah, but they misunderstood what the purpose of the Messiah was to be because they misidentified what their major shortcoming before God was, meaning the issue of sin.
 
They assumed that the provisions within the law made them acceptable before God because they never considered the temporary and instructive nature of the law. They considered it as a means to an end, not a steppingstone to a fuller and more complete relationship with God.
 
Therefore, Paul had to go back to the basics concerning what Scripture was saying, then explain the role of the Messiah in His suffering and resurrection. When One came and fulfilled these roles, they would then know “that this is the Christ.”
 
Their Scriptures clearly anticipated that the Messiah would experience these things. The Psalms, the prophets, and the writings all hinted at this. Some of it was in pictures or typology. Some of it was poetic in nature. Some of it was allegorical. But it all was there and had to be dealt with. This is what Paul opened and presented to the synagogue. And this was all fulfilled in one Man. As he says, “Jesus, whom I proclaim to you.”
 
The New Testament fills in much of the relevant detail concerning Jesus. Where He was born, what tribe He was from, His descent from David, and so forth. However, those things were not yet written down, or they had at least not yet been widely distributed if they were written down. Paul could make such claims to the people, but it would not be as effective as conveying to them what was explicitly known.
 
That is why it says that he focused on the suffering and resurrection of Jesus. Those things were right in their own Scriptures and the people would have heard at least this much concerning Jesus. Paul could add the other details during his discourse, but the main presentation would have been on the role of the Messiah as fulfilled by Jesus.
 
The claims had been made based on events they would have heard of, they fit what Scripture said, and Paul opened those Scriptures to them so that the two could be harmonized in the minds of those in Thessalonica.
 
Life application: Today, we have the full record of what transpired in the life of Jesus along with the details of His genealogy, place of birth, and so forth. There is nothing wrong with using these things in an evangelistic presentation. However, the gospel focuses on the problem and its solution. The problem is sin. The solution to that is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.
 
We can type up long lists of fulfilled prophecies and give numerical calculations about what the chances are of any one person fulfilling them. But these things cannot bring a person to salvation. If those things are never mentioned, a person can still be saved through a simple understanding that he is not right before God and that God has taken the necessary steps to resolve the matter.
 
Don’t get sidetracked in your zeal to convince others about Jesus. It is good to have all of the impressive facts and figures about Scripture to help convince people about the surety that Jesus is the fulfillment of it. But one must be presented with the main problem and its solution during the presentation or the presentation is a failure. Always share the gospel when explaining who Jesus is.
 
Lord God, may we be precise when talking to others about their need for Jesus. There is a problem in us, sin, and there is a resolution to that problem which is found in the giving of Your Son for us. May we never exclude this most important aspect of man’s need and of what You have done about it when telling others about Jesus. Amen.