BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 21:15

Tuesday, 24 October 2023
 
And after those days we packed and went up to Jerusalem. Acts 21:15
 
The Greek reads, “And after those days, having packed up, we were ascending to Jerusalem” (CG). 
 
In the previous verse, those with Paul gave up trying to dissuade him from going to Jerusalem. Therefore, it next says, “And after those days.”
 
The amount of time they remained in Caesarea is unknown, but it was spent at the house of Philip the Evangelist. Due to the proximity to Jerusalem, they could have stayed right up until the time just before the Feast of Pentecost. Once the feast was close enough for them to begin the short trek, it next says, “having packed up.”
 
This is another word found only here in Scripture, aposkeuazó. It comes from two words, meaning away and vessel. Hence, packed up gives a good sense of what they did. From there, and with their things readied, it next says, “we were ascending to Jerusalem.”
 
The verb is imperfect, giving the sense of motion. As they are heading to Jerusalem, it says “up.” A trip from any location or direction, regardless of height or the importance of the location, is always said to go up to Jerusalem. This signifies that it is the location of pinnacle importance from a biblical perspective.
 
Life application: For such a short verse, translations vary quite a bit. A few of them, with a short analysis of each, are provided –
 
“After this, we started on our way up to Jerusalem.” (NIV) The words are incomplete because of the missing content concerning packing up.
“And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.” (KJV) The words are archaic and without any modern sense. Also, the verbs do not match the intent of the original.
 
“A few days afterwards we loaded our baggage-cattle and continued our journey to Jerusalem.” (Weymouth) It is overly wordy, adding in stuff that is not reflected in the original.
 
“And after these days, having got our effects ready, we went up to Jerusalem.” (Darby) It is a good job, but still a tad wordier than the original. Also, the words “went up” can be taken as an accomplished task or as ongoing. Therefore, to reflect the imperfect, that needs tweaking.
 
“And after those days, having packed up, we were ascending to Jerusalem.” (CG) This is a super-duper translation. It reflects the original without getting overly wordy.
 
Take time to read various translations, think about why certain words were chosen, and how the variations may actually help you to get a fuller understanding of what is being said. Sometimes, two different words may have a similar meaning, but you might be unsure of what one of them means within the context of the verse. But in reading the next translation, you can then say, “I see what they were saying in the first.”
 
The more you check, compare, and study, the more likely you are to not make an error in thinking concerning one particular translation that may be incorrect, outdated, or ambiguous in meaning. Note that the KJV reflects all three of these inadequacies. It is incorrect in the tense of the first verb, outdated in the content, and ambiguous in the final verb. And this is a short, doctrinally unimportant verse!
 
Heavenly Father, may we be well studied in Your word. In some cases, people may have just one translation. At least they have that. In some cases, there may be several. That will help them to compare and consider. In some cases, there may be the original and fifty translations. How blessed are such people! In whatever we possess, may we be careful to consider Your word as a gift from You and treat it accordingly. Amen.

Acts 21:14

Monday, 23 October 2023
 
So when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The will of the Lord be done.” Acts 21:14
 
The Greek literally reads, “And he not being persuaded, we quieted, having said, ‘The will of the Lord be done’” (CG).
 
Paul just protested to those who desired him to not go up to Jerusalem. In his words, he said that he was ready not only to be bound but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. With that stated, it next says, “And he not being persuaded, we quieted.”
 
There was obviously no point in continuing. His statement meant he was fixed and firm in his decision to go as intended. Therefore, they resignedly ceased, “having said, ‘The will of the Lord be done.’”
 
As Paul invoked the name of the Lord in the preceding verse, they gave in and, in turn, invoked the will of the Lord.
 
Life application: There is a time when words are to cease, and attempts to change what shouldn't be changed should be ended. Jesus understood this, made a simple petition, and then resigned Himself to the will of His Father –
 
“Coming out, He went to the Mount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him. 40 When He came to the place, He said to them, ‘Pray that you may not enter into temptation.’
41 And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, ‘Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.’” Luke 22:39-42
 
For us, although we cannot know what the future holds, we can clue in and realize that fighting against what should occur is a futile thing to do. Paul was determined to complete his mission, he was aware of what was coming, but he knew that it was the right thing to do.
 
There are times where we may be challenged to act in a way that compromises our faith. That may include certain imprisonment or even death. But if we truly believe that Jesus has us firmly in His hands, then such an outcome is temporary. We will be rewarded for our faith. Therefore, let us choose the right path, even if things look bleak in the short term.
 
Lord God, our faith can be weakened when facing difficult prospects that may lie ahead of us. In such times, give us strengthening for the trials. Help us when we willingly choose to be obedient to Your word and Your will. Yes, be with us, O God, that we may be faithful to the calling You have called us to. Amen.

Acts 21:13

Sunday, 22 October 2023
 
Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 21:13
 
To match the Greek, the words read, “Then answered Paul, ‘What do you, weeping and pulverizing my heart? For I hold readily not only to be bound but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus’” (CG).
 
The previous verse told of those around Paul begging him not to go up to Jerusalem. With that stated, it next says, “Then answered Paul, ‘What do you?”
 
The word means to do or to make. In essence, their words produce an action, making something happen. Today, we would say, “What are you doing to me?” Paul then explains what it is they were doing, saying, “weeping and pulverizing my heart.”
 
The first action is that of those with Paul, weeping. The response to their weeping is then Paul’s action. They were pulverizing his heart. Here, Luke introduces another word only seen once in the New Testament, sunthruptó. Strong’s defines it as break in pieces, crush, or thoroughly weaken. It is derived from two words signifying “with” and “to crumble.” Thus, one can think of someone grabbing Paul’s heart and crushing it so that it crumbles. Hence, pulverize gives a good sense of what he means.
 
His words indicate that their weeping was only making matters worse because, as he next says, “For I hold readily.” It is an adverb. Thus, the word readily appropriately gives the sense of what is being conveyed. He was set and would not be dissuaded from his mission, and he was readily set to continue on it, even if the extreme occurred. He conveys this first in relation to the prophecy, saying, “not only to be bound.”
 
This is what Agabus had prophesied. It included being handed over to the Gentiles. If such happened, who knows what might then occur? Paul, evaluating the matter and considering the greatest potential threat continues with, “but also to die at Jerusalem.”
 
Being bound meant to be considered a lawbreaker. In such a state, various judgments could be rendered, up to and including execution. This meant little to Paul if he had successfully done what he was called to do. And, of course, his calling was by the Lord. If the Lord determined that was the path for him to go, then he would take it “for the name of the Lord Jesus.”
 
It was Jesus who had called him. It was Jesus who had saved him and given him his commission. It was the Lord who had fashioned him and who would someday transform Paul’s lowly body to be like His. So why should death be any concern at all? He was fully accepting of whatever was to come because he belonged to the Lord Jesus. The victory was already won, and the path to eternal life was secured for him.
 
Life application: The words in this verse are emphatic. Paul essentially says, “You are breaking my heart.” “I, for my part, am ready . . .” His intent wasn’t merely a stoic resolve. Rather, his heart was truly broken by their sadness, but he didn't want his determination to be weakened because of it. Instead of worrying about what might happen, he had his eyes fixed on Jesus and his heart set on glorifying the Lord with his life. He was, as it were, an example of the words penned by Solomon -
 
“For love is as strong as death.” Song of Solomon 8:6
 
In the seven letters to the seven churches, Jesus said to the church at Ephesus, “...you have left your first love.” Paul was a man of doctrine. He never waffled on it, and he directly spoke against what was incorrect, even when it meant openly confronting another apostle. His inspired words are what set doctrine for the church age, and he would readily stand against anyone who incorrectly taught them or misapplied them in his walk.
 
Despite this, Paul remembered his first love before all other things. He fixed his eyes on Jesus in everything he did, including arguing sound doctrine, for the sake of that love he felt. Sound doctrine is important, but other than accepting the simple gospel as it is properly understood, doctrine is not what saves a person. Instead, it is what allows a person to mature. In maturing, the love one has for Christ should only deepen.
 
If, however, the doctrine becomes the most important point to a person, his love will grow cold. Be sure to include Jesus in every step you take towards full Christian maturity. Without it, you will never attain what you are attempting to reach. Keep the love of Jesus as the paramount point of what you do, and you will do well.
 
Lord Jesus, may we never turn our eyes from You in our attempt to become doctrinally sound believers. We can dot every i and cross every t, but without having our hearts directed toward You, our walk will be dark and cold. Help us to remember this most important point. We love You, our God and our Lord. Amen.
 

Acts 21:12

Saturday, 21 October 2023
 
Now when we heard these things, both we and those from that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem. Acts 21:12
 
A literal rendering would be, “And when we heard these things, implored him – both we and the residents – not to go up to Jerusalem” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the prophet Agabus tied himself (or Paul) up by his hands and feet and prophesied that the same would happen to Paul in Jerusalem, noting that he would be delivered into the hands of the Gentiles. Now, Luke records, “And when we heard these things.”
 
The reaction is immediate, and Luke includes himself in the words verse with the use of “we.” He and all those with him “implored him.” The word is variously translated, having several different meanings, depending on the context. In this verse, translations still vary widely: beg, intreat, entreat, beseech, urge, plead, etc.
 
In this case, it was certainly a mixture of begging and admonishing. Thus, he was implored. Further, the word is imperfect, indicating that they continued to implore him. But the words were not just from his companions alone. Rather, it next says, “both we and the residents.”
 
Here, another word unique to the New Testament is seen – entopios. It is an adjective derived from en (in) and topos (region). Hence, a single English comparable word would be “residents.”  Luke was a master of using interesting words to make simple points. Those who were residing there and heard, along with the missionaries who were going to Jerusalem with Paul, implored him “not to go up to Jerusalem.”
 
Luke and the others who accompanied Paul were fully capable of taking the gift themselves and there was no need for Paul to go and thus endanger himself. Therefore, they continued to implore him not to go with them on this final portion of the long voyage they had been on.
 
Life application: One of the things that makes a sermon, narrative, or story interesting is a wide range of words. Why use one adjective when two or even three will do? If you want to excite the minds of others, it is important not to repeat the same words in sentences if at all possible. In this, you will keep the minds of your readers active as they listen.
 
Having said that, it is important for translations of Scripture to convey the meaning of the words as originally presented. There are various ways of doing this. The first and most obvious is a literal translation. The word noted above is a single plural adjective preceded by a plural article indicating “those residents.” That is the most literal way to translate it.
 
However, it is not the only way to do so. Saying “the residents” means the same thing because the plural marker in English sufficiently carries the meaning. It also sounds smoother to the ear than “those residents” when taken in the context of the rest of the sentence. The words can also be translated in an equivalent paraphrase: those of that place, they of that place, the locals, the people there, etc.
 
A literal translation will often get clunky or cumbersome to the mind of the hearer. Thus, the equivalent rendering may be preferred. Don’t get too negatively excited over varying translations. Instead, look at them as opportunities to understand more fully what is being conveyed while also learning to expand your own lexicon and ability to form interesting sentence structures.
 
This appears to be Luke’s goal as he continuously introduces nifty new words to Scripture. Remember that in order to fully understand the meaning of his words, it is often necessary to refer to a concordance, lexicon, or formal word study. As this is so, then it may be that you had to read an entire paragraph, or more, just to get what is being said. Therefore, a single translation will never fully express what the intent of the entire original text is saying.
 
Study! Enjoy! And then turn around and express. Use your words in a way that will bless and benefit others without overwhelming them. Be one that will excite the minds of those around you. The Bible has shown, right in the diverse and unique words that it uses, that this is a commendable thing to do.
 
Lord God, You have given us a precious word meant to excite our minds and fill our thoughts with delight and wonder. Thank You for this precious gift. May we be willing to study it deeply all the days of our lives and then use our words in a manner that will also bless and excite others. Praise to You, O God, for the gift of Your precious word. Amen.

Acts 21:11

Friday, 20 October 2023
 
When he had come to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’” Acts 21:11
 
The words are more closely rendered, “And having come to us, and having taken up the belt of Paul, having bound his hands and feet, he said, ‘Thus says, the Holy Spirit, “The man whose is this belt, thus will bind in Jerusalem the Jews, and will deliver into the hands of Gentiles.”’”
 
The previous verse told of the coming down of Agabus from Judea to the missionaries staying in Caesarea. In his coming, it next says, “And having come to us, and having taken up the belt of Paul.”
 
There is no indication of how long he was there before this occurred, but Luke, using participles to show action, writes his words to make it seem as if it is the first thing that happens. Agabus was just called a “certain prophet.” So, one gets the sense of this prophet arriving at Caesarea, walking up to Paul, and then lifting Paul’s belt off of him.
 
The belt noted here is zóné. It indicates a girdle, belt, or waistband. This is not a belt to hold up the pants as we use today. Rather, it would be worn on the outside of the loose-fitting garments worn by men. They would pull it tight to remove the slack from the garment. Thus, to lift it off of Paul would be a simple process.
 
At times, such a belt would be hollow and used as a money belt. This is why some versions will say “girdle.” Of this belt that was just taken up by Agabus, it next says, “having bound his hands and feet.”
 
It is generally believed that Agabus tied his own hands and feet, not Paul’s, but some scholars think maybe it was Paul. Different manuscripts use a reflexive pronoun that would definitely indicate it was Agabus tying himself up rather than Paul. Also, the words vary in order saying either “hands and feet” or “feet and hands.”
 
It would be hard to tie up one’s feet if the hands were already bound. Therefore, the action may be tying up Paul, or it may be Agabus tying himself up. Either way, it is a symbolic gesture not unlike many other examples found in the Old Testament and which are worthy to be considered, such as –
 
“In the year that Tartan came to Ashdod, when Sargon the king of Assyria sent him, and he fought against Ashdod and took it, 2 at the same time the Lord spoke by Isaiah the son of Amoz, saying, ‘Go, and remove the sackcloth from your body, and take your sandals off your feet.’ And he did so, walking naked and barefoot.” Isaiah 20:1, 2
 
With that action directed, the Lord then explains the command –
 
“Then the Lord said, ‘Just as My servant Isaiah has walked naked and barefoot three years for a sign and a wonder against Egypt and Ethiopia, 4 so shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptians as prisoners and the Ethiopians as captives, young and old, naked and barefoot, with their buttocks uncovered, to the shame of Egypt. 5 Then they shall be afraid and ashamed of Ethiopia their expectation and Egypt their glory. 6 And the inhabitant of this territory will say in that day, “Surely such is our expectation, wherever we flee for help to be delivered from the king of Assyria; and how shall we escape?”’” Isaiah 20:3-6
 
As for the action taken by Agabus, he then proclaims, “Thus says, the Holy Spirit, ‘The man whose is this belt, thus will bind in Jerusalem the Jews.’”
 
Just as Isaiah was used as a warning and an object lesson for Israel, Agabus’ action is also an object lesson to warn Paul. The Lord, through Agabus, has given an advanced sign to Paul and those with him that what will occur has been ordained by Him and that it is the way that things were supposed to be.
 
Israel at Isaiah’s time could not say that what occurred to them was not the will of the Lord. Likewise, those who saw Paul being bound could not say that this was out of the will of the Lord or something that they should act against. It was a part of a greater plan, already known and authorized by God. From there, it next says that the Jews “will deliver into the hands of Gentiles.”
 
A greater plan was going to be worked out which included Paul being handed over to the Gentiles. Therefore, the people who saw these things come about should not interfere with the events, nor should they think that Paul was out of favor with the Lord. The events to take place were meant to be, and those who would interact with Paul should do so with this in mind.
 
Life application: As reading the Bible is an important part of the things we do each day, take a few more minutes and read one or more of the following object lessons that are found in the Old Testament: 1 Kings 22:10-12; Jeremiah 13:1-11; Jeremiah 27:2-11; Ezekiel 4:1-13; Ezekiel 5:1-10; Ezekiel 12:1-14; Ezekiel 24:15-24.
 
There are other such object lessons to be found. The book of Hosea is built around such an idea, where the prophet is asked to marry an unfaithful woman. Throughout the book, the interactions of the prophet with her, as directed by the Lord, mirror the interactions of the Lord and Israel.
 
Consider the things you are reading in Scripture and why the Lord places such things there. In the end, we can more fully understand the mind and intent of the Lord, His faithfulness even in our unfaithfulness, etc. The Bible tells us that God has everything under control and that we should trust that His plan is being worked out in a way that will bring His people to a very happy end, even if the road we are currently on may be a bit rocky.
 
Lord God, thank You for Your tender care of us. We can know from Your word that You have a plan that is already set and that will lead us back to Yourself. Help us to faithfully endure in this life and to walk in a manner that is pleasing to You, knowing that our actions reflect our trust in You as we continue our trek to our heavenly home. Amen.

Acts 21:10

Thursday, 19 October 2023
 
And as we stayed many days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. Acts 21:10
 
The Greek reads, “And remaining many days, a certain prophet came down from Judea, by name Agabus” (CG).
 
The last verse was a short note about Philip’s four daughters who prophesied. Luke next says, “And remaining many days.”
 
The adjective which is used here is given in the comparative degree. Therefore, Ellicott believes that this means that they stayed longer than originally intended. But because there was still time available, either because of quicker travel on the voyage to Israel than expected, or because they cut another stop short, they stayed on for a while.
 
The only time limitation that is known to be weighing on them is what it said in Acts 20:16 –
 
“For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.”
 
Therefore, even if they stayed with Philip longer than intended, as long as they had time to spare before the short trip to Jerusalem, it was of no great matter. It is during these “many days” that “a certain prophet came down from Judea, by name Agabus.”
 
This Agabus is probably the same prophet who was first seen in Acts 11. At that time, it was said that he had come down from Jerusalem to Antioch. Now, it says that he has come down from Judea. Thus, it is highly probable that this is the same prophet again being drawn into the narrative.
 
Life application: We should be prepared to expect the unexpected. We don’t know what the future holds, and our plans are just that, plans. They may or may not come to pass. If you are in the Lord and living in accord with His word, then wherever you are – regardless of whether your plans are coming about – the Lord has you exactly where He needs you to be.
 
It may not be comfortable for you, or the changes that come up may be surprisingly nice. But it is where you are, so make the best of it. Throughout the book of Acts, people make plans, and they don’t always come out as originally intended, but time has gone on, and the lives of these people came out in the way God knew they would.
 
If you can have this attitude when plans get changed or frustrated, you will be much better off in your own mind. Don’t become discouraged but look for opportunities that may have been placed in your path. You are the Lord’s, so have the proper attitude about the situation you are in. He has you there for a purpose.
 
Lord God, help us to be content in the situations we find ourselves. We make plans, but ultimately it is Your will that we need to be obedient to. If we are living in accord with Your word, then we are in Your will. May we find peace, joy, and contentment in that. Amen.

Acts 21:9

Wednesday, 18 October 2023
 
Now this man had four virgin daughters who prophesied. Acts 21:9
 
The Greek reads, “And to him were four daughters, virgins, prophesying” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, it noted that Paul and his companions departed and came to Caesarea. There, they entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, one of the seven. Now, that continues, saying, “And to him were four daughters.”
 
The verb is imperfect, signifying that it was ongoing and indeterminate in duration. It cannot be implied that this was their permanent state. As for Philip, he was an evangelist. He held the duty of “preaching the full message of Christ’s salvation” (HELPS Word Studies). Having four daughters meant he had a wife.
 
Therefore, this is contrary to the false doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church that those who are in such a position were to remain celibate. This is obvious from Paul’s pastoral epistles, but it is a valid point of doctrine that is substantiated here and elsewhere. Of his daughters, it next says that they were “virgins.”
 
Luke takes care to mention this. Therefore, it has a bearing on their state. Otherwise, it would be a pointless addition to the context of his note. Being virgins, they were still living in his house, awaiting the time when they would be married. If they never married, they would remain in his house. The matter would have been decided as families determined such things at the time and within the culture. Finally, Luke notes that they were “prophesying.”
 
This is not unique in Scripture. It is something that several women of the Old Testament did. Deborah, the Judge of Israel, was a prophetess. A married woman named Huldah, the wife of the keeper of the wardrobe, was noted as a prophetess in 2 Kings 22:14. These and others were noted as having this ability.
 
It is, however, noted in 1 Corinthians 14 that women (or wives, the word can mean either) are to remain silent in the churches. It may be that being noted as virgins provides an exception to the prohibition of 1 Corinthians. But their prophesying cannot extend to teaching or having authority over men. That is explicitly forbidden in 1 Timothy 2:11, 12.
 
Further, Paul’s words concerning the selection of elders and deacons in the pastoral epistles are directed to males only. There is no provision in Scripture to allow for the ordination of women. Thus, Luke’s words here must bear these limitations. These women prophesied. Nothing more can be gleaned from the narrative.
 
The coming verses will mention another man who will prophesy over Paul. What he says is very clearly recorded by Luke. Such is not the case with these four daughters of Philip. Therefore, their ability to prophesy obviously did not include the matter that would be brought forth by him.
 
What is possible is that Luke’s note concerning these women is a generous acknowledgment of their ability to pass on what has already been received by Philip. This would be similar to the first noted woman to prophesy in Scripture, Miriam, the sister of Moses. In Exodus 15, it says –
 
“Then Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took the timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances. 21 And Miriam answered them:‘Sing to the Lord,For He has triumphed gloriously!The horse and its riderHe has thrown into the sea!’” Exodus 15:20-21
 
Miriam’s prophesying was not her own words but those already given by Moses –
 
“Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the Lord, and spoke, saying:‘I will sing to the Lord,For He has triumphed gloriously!The horse and its riderHe has thrown into the sea!’” Exodus 15:1
 
In the case of these four daughters, it is best to take the most conservative view of their words, keeping them also completely in line with what is elsewhere stated as doctrine for the church.
 
Life application: Q: Is this verse prescriptive or descriptive? It is a descriptive verse that sets no doctrine forth for the conduct of the church.
 
These words, along with scattered other verses in the Bible, are incorrectly used at times to justify women preachers and “prophetesses.”  In doing this, one must completely disregard the prescriptive and authoritative writings of Paul. Further, context is necessary to understand what is going on. Outside of this descriptive verse, there is no additional context to justify women instructors or preachers with authority over men in a New Testament context. Rather, exactly the opposite is the case.
 
If one is to logically claim that the words of this verse mean that women today also are entitled to prophesy as these girls did, then the entire description of them must be considered applicable. Luke was careful to note that they were the daughters of an evangelist. Therefore, only the daughters of an evangelist would meet the requirements.
 
Next, he takes special care to note that they were parthenoi, virgins. Therefore, that must be applied as a required standard. As such, it would mean that this ability only applies to virgins. As they were not married, they also wielded no authority over a man. Should they marry, they would then fall under the authority of their husbands. Luke is being careful to show that their role in no way contradicted what Paul was already teaching concerning women.
 
These daughters prophesied because they were, at least for a season, set apart as virgins to prophesy. This was probably to other women while Philip was conducting evangelism. There is no need to go beyond what is written here and assume that they held any other duties than those intended for women by women. Their status as virgins is what sets them apart as acceptable for ministry. Should their status change, it would mean a change in their life roles.
 
Finally, as no other gifts are listed, the most one could claim is that the gift of prophesying alone could be appropriated by virgin daughters of evangelists. This is not a verse that allows for women to prophesy in a congregation. It is not a verse that allows for teaching or having authority over men in a congregation. It is also not a verse that would allow for the ordination of women. None of these things can be deduced or appropriated by women from the words of this verse.
 
Lord God, help us to stay in the proper lanes as we travel on life’s highway. May we be careful never to take single verses out of their intended context in an attempt to justify what Your word elsewhere forbids. May we be obedient to the overall standards that prescribe our conduct as clearly revealed in Your precious and sacred word. Amen.
 

Acts 21:8

Tuesday, 17 October 2023
 
On the next day we who were Paul’s companions departed and came to Caesarea, and entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him. Acts 21:8
 
The Greek reads, “And on the morrow, they about Paul having gone out, came to Caesarea. And having entered into the house of Philip, the evangelist – being of the seven – remained with him” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the missionaries had completed their voyage from Tyre to Ptolemais. Having arrived there, they greeted the brethren and stayed one day with them. Next, it now says, “And on the morrow.”
 
It is the completion of the one day spent with the brethren in Ptolemais. At this point, various manuscripts read differently in the next words. In some, it says, “they about Paul,” meaning those who accompanied him on the journey. In other manuscripts, those words are not included.
 
If the words belong in the text, it is telling us that not everyone who is mentioned in the previous verse would continue the travel. Maybe some who had accompanied him to Ptolemais were staying there, or it may simply indicate that those they visited in Ptolemais would not be accompanying the team when they departed. Regardless, now that the missionaries were heading to Caesarea, those who were his companions on the journey continued the travel toward Jerusalem. That is seen in the words, “they about Paul having gone out, came to Caesarea.”
 
This is now Paul’s third recorded visit to Caesarea. His other visits were in Acts 9:30 and Acts 18:22. Once they arrived in Caesarea, it next says, “And having entered into the house of Philip, the evangelist.”
 
It is the first of three times the term “evangelist” is seen in the Bible. The other two times are in Ephesians 4:11 and in 2 Timothy 4:5. It indicates one who shares the good news, meaning the gospel. More specifically, however, it is the person’s vocation. This then would include preaching the entire message about salvation in Christ. In Ephesians 4, it says this, demonstrating that evangelists are an integral part of what God has ordained in order to meet the goals of the church –
 
“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.” Ephesians 4:11-16
 
Of Philip, it says, “being of the seven.” This is referring to the seven chosen deacons of Acts 6. After being a deacon, he was part of the dispersion after the death of Steven in Acts 8:5, having gone to Samaria to preach the gospel there. Later in Acts 8, he was the one told by the angel of the Lord to preach to the Ethiopian eunuch. After that, Acts 8 finished with these words –
 
“But Philip was found at Azotus. And passing through, he preached in all the cities till he came to Caesarea.” Acts 8:40
 
As for their arrival at the house of Philp, it next says that they “remained with him.” The duration of the stay is not stated, but they will eventually leave the area in verse 21:15.
 
Life application: It is the duty of every Christian to share the gospel. However, only some make it their full-time vocation. It is a calling of the Lord, and when He calls, He will supply what is needed for the person to accomplish his mission. This was true of Philip. It should be noted, though, that Paul was present at the time of Stephen's death, condoning his execution.
 
The meeting here between Paul and Philip shows that truly all things are new in Christ. Philip fully received Paul as an apostle. His work as an evangelist would not make any sense if he preached forgiveness and salvation through Christ, but he then failed to forgive Paul himself. There is new life in Christ.
 
Even if you are not an evangelist, if you are a believer in Christ, it is your ever-present duty to tell others about your faith in Him. If not you, then who?
 
Glorious God, help us to forgive what should be forgiven. Help us to speak what should be spoken. Certainly, this means that we should never withhold the news about the love You have displayed in the giving of Your Son for our sins. Help us to be bold and to speak. May it be so to Your glory. Amen. 

Acts 21:7

Monday, 16 October 2023
 
And when we had finished our voyage from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, greeted the brethren, and stayed with them one day. Acts 21:7
 
The words are better rendered, “And we, having completed the voyage from Tyre, came to Ptolemais and, having greeted the brethren, stayed one day with them” (CG).
 
The previous verse indicated that the missionaries had boarded the ship to depart from Tyre. Now, it says, “And we, having completed the voyage from Tyre.”
 
Another word found only here in the New Testament is seen here, dianuó. It means to finish. Luke seems to enjoy finding new words to improve the reading skills of his audience. This word is from dia, through, and anuo, to effect. It is a word found commonly in classical Greek to indicate finishing a voyage, completing a journey, or coming to the end of a race. Here, the trip from Tyre is complete a s the men “came to Ptolemais.”
 
In modern Israel, Ptolemais is known as Akko. It first appeared in Judges 1:31 during the time of the Canaanite rule. At that time, the name was Akko. It was a part of Asher’s land grant, but they failed to conquer it. Later it was conquered and rebuilt, being named after Ptolemy Soter who was the king of Egypt. It was he who rebuilt the city. Abarim says that to a Greek speaker, the name Ptolemais would be understood as Bellicose or Warlike.
 
Since Israel has retaken control of the area in modern times, the original name of Akko has been revived. In Scripture, there is no record of who evangelized this area, but it could have been by Philip the Evangelist. Or these believers could have been some of those who were scattered after Stephen's martyrdom (see Acts 11:19). What is certain is that there were believers in the area. That is seen in the next words, “and, having embraced the brethren, stayed one day with them.”
 
It is the same word just used in the previous verse, aspazomai. It means to greet, salute, embrace, etc. The idea is that of enfolding in the arms. Being fellow believers, it is probable they met and gave hearty hugs and fraternal kisses. Then, after staying for just one day, they traveled from this point by land. That will be seen in the next verse.
 
Life application: Having arrived at Ptolemais, it is evident that the first thing these men did was to seek out the believers in the town. Although in Western culture, not everyone is disposed to bringing a bunch of people into their homes that they may not know very well, or for people who are traveling to impose upon those they meet up with, it is right that these men sought out the believers in the area.
 
Those of the faith would not have been great in number. Israel had obviously rejected Jesus, and they were on their way to rejecting anyone who had called on Jesus as Messiah. Therefore, meeting up with other believers would be something that bolstered their faith and encouraged them.
 
If you are going to a place that has become less friendly to Christians, it would be good for you to seek out those faithful Christians who remain and give them a time of encouragement. Just meeting up with other believers is a point of letting them know they are cared about and thought of. A little effort will, therefore, go a long way in their hearts and minds.
 
Heavenly Father, thank You for the fellowship we can experience with others, simply because they have called on Jesus and now share in the same faith that we possess. Help us to encourage those of the faith to stand strong and be uplifted in Your goodness because of what Jesus has accomplished for us. Such reminders are never without a positive benefit in the lives of others. Amen. 

Acts 21:6

Sunday, 15 October 2023
 
When we had taken our leave of one another, we boarded the ship, and they returned home. Acts 21:6
 
The words more closely read: “And having embraced one another, we went up into the ship, and they returned to their own” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the disciples and their families accompanied the missionaries till they were outside the city. There, they bowed their knees to pray on the shore. With that complete, it next says, “And having embraced one another.”
 
It is the same word used elsewhere at times like this, such as in Acts 20:1, aspazomai. It is variously translated. Some say encouraged, greeted, embraced, saluted, etc. It is repeatedly used by Paul in Romans 16 as he greets individuals in the church, but the word itself signifies to enfold in the arms.
 
Therefore, it includes some type of body motion, maybe an embrace or a waving of the arm. In this case, it was most probably a close embrace. The tenderness of having accompanied these men to the ship demonstrates the closeness of the relationship, even as if they were family. Next, it says, “we went up into the ship.”
 
The word anabainó means to ascend or go up. This is just what one does when he gets on a ship, ascending a plank or set of stairs to get to the deck. As for the ship itself, there is an article in front of the word, and so it is likely, but not certain, that this was the same ship that they had arrived on. It had been unloaded and then reloaded during their stay. As no new ship is mentioned, and as Luke is the great detailer of such things, this is most probable. With that considered, the verse ends with words about the disciples and their families, saying, “and they returned to their own.”
 
The most probable meaning is “their own homes,” but Luke leaves that unstated, simply giving the word that signifies possession, such as a family, home, property, etc.
 
Life application: These people truly cared about the missionaries that had come to them. The fact that not only they but their entire families joined them to the shore shows this. Someday, we will be brought to the Lord at the rapture. But we aren’t going to just be brought directly to the bema seat where Christ will be sitting, there to receive our judgment.
 
Rather, the word tells us that the Lord will meet us in the air, having descended from heaven. Imagine the significance of that! Even before we are brought to the Bema Seat of Christ for our judgment, we will be met by Him. Let us endeavor to act in a similar manner toward those we are set to meet. If we can receive them at a restaurant upon their arrival in town or wait outside for them to then bring them into our dwellings, it shows an extra level of attention.
 
God determined before He created anything that He would come to us rather than us coming to Him. He sent Jesus to this fallen world to redeem us. He will again send Jesus to meet us on our return to glory. And He will come again to Israel as detailed in Revelation 19. Our God meets us where we are. Let us consider this and do likewise to those we interact with as well.
 
Lord God, how good You are to look upon us with favor. You have given us a way to be restored to You through the coming of Jesus Christ. Help us to also step out and tell others about this wonderful blessing. May we never withhold the good news of Jesus when it is in our power to share it. Help us to be faithful in this, O God. Amen.

Acts 21:5

Saturday, 14 October 2023
 
When we had come to the end of those days, we departed and went on our way; and they all accompanied us, with wives and children, till we were out of the city. And we knelt down on the shore and prayed. Acts 21:5
 
The verbs of the verse are far different than those of the NKJV – “And when it was that we completed the days, having set out, we were going; they, accompanying us – with wives and children – as far as outside the city. And, having bowed the knees upon the shore, having prayed” (CG).
 
The previous verse noted the disciples repeatedly warning Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem. Despite that, his eyes were fixed and set for the journey. Therefore, Luke next records, “And when it was that we completed the days.”
 
Luke uses a word that is only found elsewhere in 2 Timothy 3:17 - exartizó. It means completely furnished or equipped. It is used to indicate the ending of the days of their stay. This would be the seven days noted in the previous verse. With the span of their stay now complete, and certainly because the ship they had booked passage on was now loaded and set to sail, it continues, saying, “having set out, we were going.”
 
The verb is imperfect. They started out, and they continued going, the destination of which will be noted at the end of the sentence. But the imperfect verb gives the sense of time and motion being stretched out. That then transfers to the emotions of the people who are faced with being parted when the going finally ends. From there, Luke explains the reason for this, saying, “they, accompanying us.”
 
It is the disciples mentioned in the previous verse. Luke’s masterful way of describing the situation through the use of participles and various tenses brings us into the narrative with him. The disciples didn’t just say goodbye at the house, give them a hug, and wave as the missionaries left. Rather, they were there with them, accompanying them with each step. Luke is reminding the reader of the words just stated in the previous verse, “They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem.”
 
They knew trouble lay ahead, and they wanted to share as much time as they could with him before he was gone, maybe forever. And more, as a touching note of how they esteemed him, it next says, “with wives and children.”
 
Along with the disciples came their entire families, even children, who are mentioned for the first time in the Christian church context. One can almost hear the conversation before they left. “This is a great man, willing to give everything for the cause of the Lord. Tomorrow, we will join him to the harbor and see him off.” And so, they accompanied them “as far as outside the city.”
 
It is probable that things were set up much like they are today. When one is getting on board a ship or an airplane, those with him can only go so far before there are custo ms agents, ticketing agents, etc. Whatever was set up for such travel, this would be the point where those with Paul and his team would have to stop and say their final words. Further, as is to be expected from such devoted people, it next says, “And, having bowed the knees upon the shore, having prayed.”
 
It would have been a beautiful sight to see. The missionaries, the disciples, and the accompanying wives and children all kneeling. Those who saw them probably took a moment to consider what they were seeing. If there were smartphones available at the time, everyone in sight would have them out to record what they were seeing.
 
In their kneeling, they lifted up their prayers to the Lord and readied themselves for the final parting. The plural pronouns used here appear to indicate that prayers were offered by a number of people, not just Paul. It is a very touching scene to contemplate. The ending of the verse seems incomplete because it finishes with an aorist participle. However, the next verse will continue with another verb. This will resolve the tension now being seen.
 
Life application: There are obviously times when it is not possible to make a wedding, a funeral, or a parting of company at the port of call. But when time permits, it is a good thing to participate in such things with those you know. If someone is in the hospital, make time to go visit. If you are not in the same town, order some flowers for the person. If someone has bought a new house, take them a “welcome to your new home” gift.
 
Such small things will go a long way with the people who are on the receiving end. So do your best to reach out and join with those you are close to. It shows an extra level of attention that is often lacking in our rushed, cold, and uncaring world today. These accounts in Scripture reveal to us a slower, more methodical approach to friendship that is comforting to the soul and worthy of emulation.
 
Glorious Heavenly Father, You have created us as social beings. We have needs and desires, as do those around us. Help us to be attentive to those who need a caring bit of hospitality. May we be willing to rejoice with those who are rejoicing, mourn with those who are mourning, and carry the burden of those whose loads are heavy. Help us to have these things in our minds as we interact with others. Amen.

Acts 21:4

Friday, 13 October 2023
 
And finding disciples, we stayed there seven days. They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem. Acts 21:4
 
The verse more closely reads, “And having found the disciples, we continued there seven days: who were saying to Paul, through the Spirit, not to go up to Jerusalem” (CG).
 
Paul and his fellow missionaries just arrived at Tyre where the ship’s cargo was to be unloaded. Next, it says, “And having found the disciples.”
 
This is a word peculiar to Luke - aneuriskó. It implies that a search was made, and then the disciples were found. The only other time it is used is in Luke 2:16, at the birth of the Lord when the shepherds came looking for Him.
 
Having to look for the disciples reveals a couple of things. First, there were probably only a few of them. Secondly, they were probably not Jews, or they were Jews who no longer attended the synagogue. Instead, they met privately. Otherwise, Luke would have given those details, as is often the case in Acts. With that considered, it next says, “we continued there seven days.”
 
As the narrative continues, it will note that they will board the ship. This certainly means the same ship that they had just arrived on. Otherwise, Luke would probably have said so. They had a full week in Tyre while the boat was being unloaded, and new supplies were being loaded. During this week, they would be to attend at least one meeting on the Lord’s Day.
 
During this week, Luke records of these disciples, “who were saying to Paul, through the Spirit.”
 
As for this advice, more might be inferred here than is necessary. The Holy Spirit is certainly who is being referred to. The word “who” is plural, but “Spirit” is singular. Hence, it is not their individual spirits. These disciples kept saying (the verb is imperfect) the same thing to him which was “not to go up to Jerusalem.”
 
Rather than a command not to go, it is reasonable to assume that they simply received a confirmation that Paul would face troubles. This is what will be seen coming up in verse 11. In verse 12, those who hear what is prophesied will plead with him not to go. The same thing is happening here.
 
These disciples at Tyre are adding in their own warnings to not go to Jerusalem. It is not likely that the Spirit directly warned Paul to not go and he then simply ignored the Spirit. This has already been confirmed to him in the previous chapter –
 
“And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. 24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” Acts 20:22-24
 
Life application: Regardless of how the words of this verse are interpreted, one thing that is on prominent display is the doctrine of free will. The Spirit does not override the will of man in the sense that there is no desire or will to resist, even if He strongly compels the person at times.
 
There is a point that an individual will simply give up and do what he should have done all along. However, the fact that he did not do (or desire to do) what he should have from the beginning demonstrates that he has free will. This is seen, for example, in the prophet Jeremiah –
 
“Then I said, ‘I will not make mention of Him,Nor speak anymore in His name.’But His word was in my heart like a burning fireShut up in my bones;I was weary of holding it back,And I could not.” Jeremiah 20:9
 
In his state of being compelled, Jeremiah could have jumped off a cliff and ended it all. Instead, he yielded to the will of the Lord, even if his own will wanted to rebel. The point of this is that we can either yield to the Spirit of the Lord or not. As the Bible is given under inspiration (2 Timothy 3:16,17; 2 Peter 1:21; etc.), it is incumbent on us to yield to the will of the Spirit by being obedient to the word He has given.
 
If we fail to do so, we are the ones who will suffer. God has spoken out His word. Those who have received Jesus are God’s people. Is the Spirit overriding our will as we stand in disobedience to His word? Your answer may depend on how you perceive what is happening in your life as God chastises you, but the answer is “No.”
 
Your free will means that the troubles that arise from disobeying His word are the result of your choices. Until this is understood, your walk before the Lord will not be sound. Learn the word, meditate upon what it says, and then apply to your life what you know you should do. In this, you will be pleasing to God. Don’t fight the Spirit by rebelling against the word of God.
 
Lord God Almighty, Your word is given to instruct us. Help us to understand this and to not rebel against what You have set forth in its precious pages. May we be willing to submit our wills to Your direction. In this, our walk will surely be pleasing to You. May it be so, to Your glory. Amen.