BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 11:22

Tuesday, 8 November 2022
 
Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. Acts 11:22
 
Verses 19-21 spoke of the preaching of the word in Antioch. As noted, there is a debate about whether the word was preached to Gentiles or only to Greek-speaking Jews. Either way, the previous verse said that a great number believed and turned to the Lord. With that stated, it now says, “Then news of these things.”
 
This is referring to the expansion of the church even as far as Antioch. This still does not answer the question as to who was evangelized, but it was a source of great news either way because word of it “came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem.”
 
Be it Jew or Gentile, the fact is that the word had gone out and was being multiplied outside of the borders of Israel. This is what is known and what has been conveyed to the people’s ears in Jerusalem. With this good tiding having come to them, they then responded, as it next says, “and they sent out Barnabas.”
 
Barnabas was introduced into the Bible in Acts 4:36 where it said several things about him that would make him an obvious choice to go. First, his name means Son of Encouragement. His real name being Joses, tells us that he was called Barnabas because it fit his character. Thus, he would be well-suited to the task of encouraging those believers he encountered.
 
Secondly, he was a Levite. By nature of their tribe, Levites were teachers of the law and those who were set aside to give instruction and help to others within the Jewish community. Therefore, he would be well-suited to such work outside of Israel. And this is especially so because it also says he was from Cyprus. As such, he would certainly be fluent in Greek and the native tongue of the area as well.
 
And so, it was he who was selected “to go as far as Antioch.” The wording means that he was not just sent “to” Antioch, but “until” Antioch. In other words, he wasn’t just sent to one location, but to wherever the reports had come back from. Those who were scattered told of Jesus here and there. Barnabas was chosen to go to those various locations and encourage and strengthen them, as will be seen in the words to come.
 
Life application: One of the things about evangelism is that it needs to be followed up with both instruction and encouragement. If someone was traveling and went to a church or a crusade meeting where he heard the gospel, he may respond by believing and receiving the Lord. However, if there is no follow-up, he may return to his hometown and settle back into his old life, never becoming productive in his salvation.
 
Or he may assume all churches are the same and go to an Episcopal church where homosexuals are ordained as priests and think that is normal. He may even stop at the local Jehovah’s Witnesses and get led astray by their nonsense. Hence, it is always good to follow up with those who have received the Lord and instruct them to get into the Bible and read it. Also, they should attend a sound church that accepts the Bible as the literal word of God.
 
Barnabas was sent out to further instruct those who had accepted the message of the Lord, ensuring that what they heard was correct and in accord with what is sound and proper. If this is not done, a person can get so far from their moment of salvation that he actually can forget he was saved. Take time to read 2 Peter 1:1-9 to see how this can come about. Verse 9 explicitly says that it is so. However, the good news is that God does not forget. The salvation of that individual is not in question as is also perfectly clear from verse 9.
 
Lord God, help us to be responsible to tell others about the saving message concerning Jesus. And Lord, help us to follow up with that by telling the important precept that those who call on Jesus should learn what that means, growing in Your word and in a closer relationship with Him each day. May we be responsible in this. Amen. 
 

Acts 11:21

Monday, 7 November 2022
 
And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord. Acts 11:21
 
The previous verse noted that those of the scattering that occurred after Stephen’s stoning who were from Cyprus and Cyrene “spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus.” As noted then, there is a dispute as to whether this was referring to Greek-speaking Jews or Gentiles. What seems likely is that it was speaking of Greek-speaking Jews. Either way, however, it now says, “And the hand of the Lord was with them.”
 
This is referring to those who preached about Jesus. The Lord’s hand was with them, and they were able to effectively communicate the good news, bringing others to salvation. That is explicitly noted with the words, “and a great number believed and turned to the Lord.”
 
Whether Greek-speaking Jew or Gentile, there was an extensive harvest of those who believed in Antioch. The church grew quickly because of the efforts of those who were a part of the scattering.
 
Life application: There are many Hebraisms brought forward from the Old Testament into the New. In reading and understanding the Old, the New is much livelier and much more easily understood. An example of this is the term “the hand of the Lord.” This is found many times in the Old Testament where the “hand” is equated to power. In this case, it is the effective power of the Lord to bring about a change.
 
An example of this is found in Exodus 14:31 –
 
“and Israel seeth the great hand with which Jehovah hath wrought against the Egyptians, and the people fear Jehovah, and remain stedfast in Jehovah, and in Moses His servant” (YLT)
 
This is translated by others as –
 
“Thus Israel saw the great work which the LORD had done in Egypt; so the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD and His servant Moses.”
 
There are an innumerable number of such terms used in Scripture to help us see how the Bible portrays things. The finger of God, the arm of the Lord, walking in the way of the Lord, and on and on. Such terms, when understood, can help us to more clearly see how God is revealing things to us.
 
As you go through the Bible next time, maybe take the time to highlight such things. As seen in the translation of the NKJV, some of these Hebraisms are translated in order to accommodate our understanding, but many are not. So, pay heed to them and think about why God chose to express Himself in these various ways. This is a great tool to help you understand the Bible more clearly.
 
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your precious word. It is a light to our understanding. It is a beacon to call us to You. It is a guide for our walk in this life. And it is a book of hope and joy for us to revel in. Indeed, O God, thank You for Your most precious word. Amen.

Acts 11:20

Sunday, 6 November 2022
 
But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. Acts 11:20
 
The last verse spoke of those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen. They traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch. While they went, they preached, but only to the Jews. However, it now says, “But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene.”
 
In other words, these men had been in Jerusalem, but when Stephen was stoned and the great time of tribulation came against the saints, some of the people who were scattered to the cities previously mentioned were Jews who originally came from Cyprus and Cyrene.
 
As such, they would speak the native languages and they would be able to effectively relay the word about Jesus to people in those areas. And more, they would be more comfortable having conversations with the native people, including Gentiles. Having noted that, it next says, “who, when they had come to Antioch.”
 
This is referring to the same location named Antioch in the previous verse. These Jews who spoke either Greek or the native language of the area (or both) had returned home or were in an area where they could easily converse with the local population. With that noted, the next words are highly debated, and the meaning depends on which Greek texts are correct. It says they “spoke to the Hellenists.”
 
The issue is that some manuscripts say Ἑλληνιστάς (Hellénistés) meaning Greek-speaking Jews while others say Ἕλληνας (Hellénes) meaning Gentile Greeks. As noted, the previous verse said that those scattered spoke to the Jews only. The words of this verse are set in contrast to that thought. And so, it could be assumed that these people were speaking to the Gentiles. This is how Vincent’s Word Studies takes it –
 
“The express object of the narrative has been to describe the admission of Gentiles into the church. There would have been nothing remarkable in these men preaching to Hellenists who had long before been received into the church, and formed a large part of the church at Jerusalem. It is better to follow the rendering of A. V. and Rev., though the other reading has the stronger MS. evidence. Note, also, the contrast with the statement in Acts 11:19, to the Jews only. There is no contrast between Jews and Hellenists, since Hellenists are included in the general term Jews.”
 
Albert Barnes agrees and even says, “The connection would lead us to suppose that they had heard of what had been done by Peter, and that, imitating his example, they preached the gospel now to the Gentiles also.”
 
However, this is an incorrect idea because the account is backing up to the dispersion that took place after Stephen’s stoning. The event with Peter (Acts 10) came later in time even though it is recorded earlier in this passage in Acts 11. The two accounts are now meeting up after both events have occurred –
 
Stephen was stoned resulting in persecution and a scattering of the people. After this:
 
Some of those scattered went as far as Antioch and spread the good news.
The events of Chapters 8, 9, and 10 (and Peter’s explanation in Acts 11) were ongoing at the same time.
 
As such, this does not mean that these Jews who were scattered didn’t speak to the Gentiles, which is the matter in question, but that the reasoning used by Barnes is incorrect.
 
John Gill, on the other hand, says, “which when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians; or Hellenist Jews, who were born and brought up in Greece, and spoke the Greek language; though the Alexandrian copy, and the Syriac version, read ‘Greeks’, as if they were native Greeks, and properly Gentiles, to whom these ministers spoke the word of the Lord; but the former seems most likely.”
 
A logical argument is made for either rendering, but it appears that without the knowledge of Cornelius’ conversion, these Jews would have been unlikely to speak to Gentiles directly. In fact, Paul is sought out by Barnabas in Acts 11:25. From there, he and Barnabas travel quite a bit as is recorded in Acts 13, but nothing is said of preaching to Gentiles until Acts 13:42. Before that, only interaction with Jews is made. It is in Acts 13:44-48 that this is recorded –
 
“On the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God. 45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy; and contradicting and blaspheming, they opposed the things spoken by Paul. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, ‘It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us:“I have set you as a light to the Gentiles,That you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.”’48 Now when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord. And as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed.”
 
As this is the case, the most likely translation now in Acts 11 is that this is referring to the Greek-speaking Jews, not the Gentiles. In other words, the Jews are given every chance possible to come to Christ as a nation. The majority of those in Israel had rejected the word. From there, the account will show that the majority of Jews outside of Israel will also reject the word. At that time, the account will show that the Gentiles, in contrast to the Jews, will come flooding to the good news of Jesus, setting up the Gentile-led church for the long period that has continued since. As for now, the verse finishes with the note that these people of the scattering caused by Stephen’s stoning were “preaching the Lord Jesus.”
 
The words more precisely read, “proclaiming good news - the Lord Jesus” (YLT). The word is going out from Israel to the Jews of the diaspora. This appears to be the main point of the narrative at this time.
 
As noted above, it is believed by many scholars that this is speaking of a conversion of the Gentiles, and that is a possibility. However, the internal markings of what has occurred and what will continue to occur appear to show that it is only the Greek-speaking Jews that are being referred to at this point. Either way, the main point is that word is going forth outside of the borders of Israel.
 
Life application: One of the key things to take away from these words is that God used the stoning of Stephen to expand the preaching of the gospel. Surely Stephen would approve of this, knowing that the ending of his life would be a way of bringing many others to a saving knowledge of Jesus.
 
We should be willing to have this same heart for the lost. How far are we willing to go in order that others might be saved? This is something we should ask ourselves. Our temporary afflictions, whatever they may be, can be used for great gain in the spreading of the gospel. So, let’s look for ways to have this come about. It is the most important thing that can occur in another person’s life. Without this good news, there is only bad news ahead for them
 
Let us consider this always. Stephen would certainly agree. He would tell you, “Don’t worry about this life. God has a plan that is so marvelous you just won’t believe it. Trust Him and He will do great things with you and for you.”
 
Lord God, use us now while we are here! May we be vessels ready to be poured out in whatever way You choose for the furtherance of Your good news. Help us to see the lost and to have pity on them. And then prompt us to act so that they might hear and respond while there is time. To Your glory, we pray this. Amen.
 

Acts 11:19

Saturday, 5 November 2022
 
Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. Acts 11:19
 
With the matter of Gentile inclusion clearly established and settled based on Peter’s words to those in Jerusalem, the narrative now takes on a new and significant direction. The direction and focus of Acts will now begin to head out into the world beyond the borders of Israel and, eventually, the gospel will predominantly be seen to go forth to the Gentiles. In order to reveal this, the account will also go back to events that occurred in previous chapters so that the narrative catches up with events that occurred there, such as in Acts 7, 8, and 9.
 
With that understood, the words begin with, “Now those who were scattered.” This takes the reader back to Acts 8:1 –
 
“Now Saul was consenting to his death.At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.”
 
This was referring to the events that took place among the Jews and it occurred “after the persecution that arose over Stephen.”
 
This goes back even further, to Acts 7 and the account of Stephen’s stoning. The persecution that is recorded in Acts 8:1 is based upon that. Also, rather than “persecution,” the Greek word here signifies “tribulation.” It is a wholly different word than that used in Acts 8:1. The persecution led to tribulation. Because of this, these Jews were not only scattered within the borders of Israel, but they continued on and “traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch.”
 
The first location, Phoenicia, is introduced here. The name is believed to come from the Greek word phoinix, meaning a palm tree, most especially the date palm. Albert Barnes describes the location, saying, “Phoenice, or Phoenicia, was a province of Syria, which in its largest sense comprehended a narrow strip of country lying on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean, and extending from Antioch to the borders of Egypt. But Phenice Proper extended only from the cities of Laodicea to Tyre, and included only the territories of Tyre and Sidon. This country was called sometimes simply ‘Canaan.’”
 
The next location, Cyprus, is also introduced here, although the name of the inhabitants was mentioned in Acts 4:36. The origin of the name is uncertain. Again, Barnes describes it, saying, “An island off the coast of Asia Minor, in the Mediterranean Sea.”
 
Finally, this is also the introduction of Antioch. Albert Barnes again describes the place, saying, “There were two cities of this name, one situated in Pisidia in Asia Minor (see Acts 13:14); the other, referred to here, was situated on the Orontes River, and was long, the capital of Syria. It was built by Seleucus Nicanor, and was called Antioch in honor of his father Antiochus. It was founded in 301 b.c. It is not mentioned in the Old Testament, but is several times mentioned in the Apocrypha and in the New Testament. It was long the most powerful city of the East, and was inferior only to Seleucia and Alexandria. It was famous for the fact that the right of citizenship was conferred by Seleucus on the Jews as well as the Greeks and Macedonians, so that here they had the privilege of worship in their own way without molestation. It is probable that the Christians would be regarded merely as a sect of Jews, and would be here suffered to celebrate their worship without interruption.”
 
With these locations noted, the verse finishes with the thought that those scattered were “preaching the word to no one but the Jews only.” Although true to some extent, this is not so much because they “had the common prejudices of the Jews, that the offers of salvation were made only to the Jews” (Barnes), but that they probably had no idea that Gentiles would even be included in God’s offer of Christ Jesus.
 
In other words, it is true that the Jews had these prejudices, but without even knowing something is available to others, those prejudices would not even arise. Peter found out that Gentiles could be included, and he set aside any such prejudices. These Jews were as of yet uninformed as to what God was going to do for the Gentiles. Therefore, they simply went about telling their own fellow Jews that the Messiah had come.
 
Life application: The narrative in Acts is marvelously structured to show how events unfolded, but the events are placed in a manner that allows us to go forward with certain events and then go back to older events to see how other things occurred while those first set of recorded events were happening.
 
In this, we can get a marvelous sense of how the narrative is simultaneously unfolding in several directions. As you read Acts, consider such things and think about why each section is placed where it is. Like all of Scripture, God is slowly and methodically revealing to us what His plans are for the people of the world. At the same time, He is showing us why trouble has come upon Israel during this dispensation and where He would lead things during their time of exile.
 
Everything is carefully and meticulously placed to help us see how the great story of man’s redemption through the Person and work of Jesus Christ has come about, is coming about, and will continue to come about. Luke’s record of Acts is a wonderful part of this. If we pay heed to how he has laid things out, we can get a marvelous sense of the structure of this beautiful plan.
 
Lord God, thank You for the careful detail You have placed in Your word to help us know and understand why things are the way they are. You have set a plan for man’s redemption, and it is so beautifully and methodically detailed for us to see. Give us insight into Your word so that we can more fully grasp every nuance that You have placed there for us to understand what is going on. Thank You, O God. Amen.

Acts 11:18

Friday, 4 November 2022
 
When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.” Acts 11:18
 
Peter just noted that the Gentiles had been given the same gift as the Jews by simple belief. Because of this, he asked how he could withstand God by not accepting them. The obvious but unstated answer was that he could not. As such, it now says, “When they heard these things, they became silent.”
 
The clause in the Greek begins with an aorist participle and a conjunction, “And they, having heard these things, became silent.” In other words, they held their tongues in accusation against Peter. They had accused him of wrongdoing in verse 11:3, saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them.” That is what they now are silent over. Because of how Peter described the events, and especially with the note concerning the coming of the Spirit upon the Gentiles, there could no longer be any accusation against Peter. He stood innocent of any transgression. As such, and in this state of understanding, it next says, “and they glorified God.”
 
The verb is now aorist. Once they ceased their accusation, they next broke forth in acknowledgment of the works of God. What else could they do? The Gentiles had received the Spirit in the middle of Peter’s words, cutting off the need for anything else to be said. The simplicity of the gospel had been conveyed, the Gentiles believed what they heard, and the Spirit came upon them. The work of Jesus Christ was proven to be all-sufficient for the conversion of a person who had never spent a moment of his existence living out the Law of Moses. The fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah had come to pass –
 
“Indeed He says,‘It is too small a thing that You should be My ServantTo raise up the tribes of Jacob,And to restore the preserved ones of Israel;I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles,That You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth.’” Isaiah 49:6
 
This is openly noted by them in their next words, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.” It must be remembered what transpired at the house of Cornelius. Peter spoke, the Gentiles heard, the Gentiles believed (with no record of them saying a single word), and the Holy Spirit came down upon them. That is all that Luke recorded, and that is all that God, therefore, wants us to know.
 
It also needs to be remembered what the word “repentance” means. It signifies “to change the mind.” As such, the words “repentance to life” mean a changing of the mind leading to salvation (eternal life as noted in John 3:16). The speaking forth of the gospel, when accepted, leads to a changing of the mind about God. If these believers thought that they needed to do good stuff in order to be saved, they no longer needed to believe that. If they believed that praying to Artemis was what was needed, they changed their mind about that. And so on.
 
The word “repentance” here does not mean “stopping sinning and making oneself right.” It means “to change the mind” and nothing more. Until these now-saved people are instructed on what it means to be pleasing to God, they cannot change in the right direction. One must first come to believe in the finished work of Jesus and be saved. He is what we change our minds to accept. He is God’s provision for restoration. This is what Peter conveyed to the house of Cornelius in Acts 10:43, saying, “To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.”
 
These Gentiles changed their mind about God and what He expects, they believed in Jesus as the One to provide restoration, and they were saved. Deal done.
 
Life application: The gospel is an amazingly simple thing that God has laid out for us. And yet, it is one of the most mis-explained or totally ignored things imaginable. Paul details in 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4 –
 
“For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.”
 
How can we add to that and not cause damage to the message? We cannot. Let us present this life-changing news in the simple form in which it is presented in Scripture. We can talk around it as Peter did in Acts 10 by providing other truths about Jesus, but we must clearly provide the substance of the gospel without addition or deletion. It is by faith in this provision of God that man is saved. Let us thank God for the simplicity of this glorious message!
 
Yes, Lord God, how thankful we are to You for what You have done for us. You have saved us through the giving of Your Son. He died to pay our sin debt, He was buried, and He rose again. All glory to You for this wonderful word of restoration. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Acts 11:17

Thursday, 3 November 2022
 
“If therefore God gave them the same gift as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?” Acts 11:17
 
Peter had just recalled the words of Jesus concerning the giving of the Spirit. As those at the house of Cornelius have been given the Spirit, Peter asks a logical rhetorical question concerning that fact, beginning with, “If therefore God gave them the same gift.”
 
In other words, Peter acknowledges that the Spirit is a gift given by God. It is not something earned, nor is it something bestowed by the apostles. Those gathered in Acts 2 had received the gift apart from any merit. Those in the house of Cornelius had likewise only heard the gospel and they had obviously believed what was said. In their belief, the gift was given to them as well. Peter confirms this to those with him, saying, “as He gave us when we believed.”
 
Belief is the only condition set forth for the reception of the Spirit. It was true for the disciples, and it was true for the Gentiles in the house of Cornelius. As God is the Source, and as the requirement for bestowal of the Spirit had been met, then what the apostles may have thought about Gentiles in the past is now wholly irrelevant. God had accepted them and therefore the matter was settled. Peter then continues with a specific note about where the belief was directed, saying, “on the Lord Jesus Christ.”
 
Anyone can believe anything. Nothing stops a person from believing that Buddha is the path to enlightenment. But this does not make it true. Someone may believe the world is flat, but if it is not true, then it is wasted faith. Incorrect belief is not always a major issue, but sometimes it is. A person may wake up believing it is Thursday when it is actually Wednesday. If his routine doesn’t change between those days, it doesn’t really matter. But a person may believe a bottle of water is safe, drink it, and get a serious intestinal infection.
 
In the case of restoration with God, one’s belief must be properly directed. If it is, then apart from any merit of words, societal class, wealth, or any other distinction restoration is made. All other aspects of the person’s life are irrelevant. Cornelius and those with him met God’s standard for reception of the Spirit and God gave them the Spirit. The matter was settled. Because of this, Peter finishes with, “who was I that I could withstand God?”
 
This is the point of the discourse. In verses 11:2 and 11:3, it said –
 
“And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision contended with him, 3 saying, ‘You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them!’”
 
Peter carefully explained what happened, finishing his words with a logical rhetorical question about the matter. In essence, he is saying to them, “What on earth could it matter if I stayed with these Gentiles and ate with them? God has accepted them. Am I going to fight against that? Not a chance.”
 
Life application: So, who is it that baptized the believers with the Spirit? In Matthew 3, John the Baptist said –
 
“I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Matthew 3:11
 
Now in Acts 11, Peter said it was God who did this. But Jesus gives more explicit meaning to that saying –
 
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” John 14:26
 
And yet, Jesus then says –
 
“But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.” John 15:26
 
What is obvious from these and other verses is that the giving of the Spirit is a result of the work of the Father and the Son and that they are distinct despite being one. But more, reviewing statements about the Spirit elsewhere in Scripture tells us the same thing about Him. There is a distinction clearly made between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. And yet, they are each fully God.
 
This is the doctrine of the Trinity. It is not something to be taken lightly. If this doctrine is taught in Scripture, and if it defines the very nature and workings of God, then it is to be heeded carefully. And more, as this is the presentation of God as it is revealed in Scripture, and as He is the One who accepts people by restoring them to Himself, then we should consider this carefully as well.
 
First, John tells us that if we do not accept the Son, we also do not have the Father (see 1 John 2:23). This is not merely speaking about the humanity of Jesus. It is speaking of Him as the God/Man. Logically, if we deny this, then we also do not have the Spirit because the Spirit comes from the Father and through the Son (as evidenced above). And if one does not have the Spirit, then he is not restored to God.
 
Secondly, though we may not like someone very much, we need to remember that if he does have the Son, he also has the Father. And if this is so, then God has accepted him by sealing him with the Spirit. As such, we should not attempt to fight against God by rejecting that person. If God has accepted him, we need to consider that and accept him as well.
 
But a note of warning from John is also given –
 
“Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; 11 for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds.” 2 John 1:9-11
 
The doctrine of Christ is that God has united with human flesh in order to redeem man. The Father is God, and the Son is God. They are distinct and yet they are One. This also extends to the Spirit even though it is not specifically stated by John in these verses. One who does not accept the doctrine of Christ does not have God. As such by greeting him, we are validating his incorrect belief. In doing so, you are sharing in that person’s evil deeds. There should be no fellowship with such a person.
 
Be attentive to these things. God has set forth who He is and what His nature is like so that we can avoid error. Let us hold fast to the truth of God in Christ and not be swayed by those who have a perverse agenda through distorting God’s stated revelation of Himself.
 
Lord God, You have made the gospel so very simple, and yet it is hardly proclaimed correctly in the world today. How much more is this the case with the weightier doctrines laid out in Scripture? May we be carefully attentive to Your word and how it reveals You to us. Help us in our understanding and give us hearts that are directed to a fuller and more complete understanding of who You are. Amen.

Acts 11:16

Wednesday, 2 November 2022
 
“Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, ‘John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ Acts 11:16
 
Peter just noted that even as he began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon the believers at Cornelius’ house. He then said, “as upon us at the beginning.” With that, he next says, “Then I remembered the word of the Lord.”
 
Peter had seen the salvation of these uncircumcised Gentiles. They heard the word, they obviously believed, and then the Holy Spirit fell upon them. This was the same as when the Jews had received the Spirit. As such, it is a confirmation that the fulfillment of the Feast of Pentecost is not merely a particular day in the calendar year, but a particular event that occurs in a believer’s life.
 
The fact that it first occurred on a particular day was to show the believers at that time that the feast had found its fulfillment in the giving of the Spirit. But this was not a one-time thing. It was the beginning of an ongoing event. Peter suddenly realized this, and so he continues with, “how He said.”
 
Peter is now remembering something that Jesus said and he then processed the Lord’s words in a fuller and more complete way, which is, “John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
 
This comes from Jesus’ words just prior to the ascension –
 
“And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, ‘which,’ He said, ‘you have heard from Me; 5 for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.’” Acts 1:4, 5
 
Jesus was speaking to those gathered with Him at the Mount of Olives. This was to Jews who had followed Him and believed. They had seen His crucifixion and His resurrection. It was they who had received the Holy Spirit. Now, a group of people who were not Jews had likewise heard, believed, and been given the Holy Spirit in an outward display. Pentecost did not just apply to Jews then. Rather, its significance continued on with the acceptance of Gentiles as well.
 
But more, this was even without the baptism of repentance that came to Israel at the call of John. These Gentiles had not repented because there was nothing to repent of. They were never under the law, and they had never needed to turn back to Moses or turn back to the Messiah they had rejected. They simply heard the word concerning Jesus and they believed unto salvation. Peter will next explain the logical conclusion of this to those gathered before him.
 
Life application: The feasts detailed in Leviticus 23 are not “Jewish” feasts. They are also not “the feasts of Israel.” They are “the feasts of the Lord.” They are then laid out in order by the Lord –
 
The Sabbath.
The Passover.
*Unleavened Bread.
Firstfruits.*Weeks (beginning with Pentecost).
Acclamation.
Atonement.
*Tabernacles.
 
(* indicates a pilgrim feast)
 
These deal with the work of the Lord and/or the state of the believer in Christ. The Sabbath is the rest offered to God’s people upon belief in Christ’s work (Hebrews 4:3). The Passover deals with the believer’s redemption from sin by the work of Jesus (1 Corinthians 5:7). Unleavened Bread anticipates the state of the believer in Christ because of Christ’s redemptive work (1 Corinthians 5:8). Firstfruits deals with the resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:20). Weeks anticipates the acceptance of believers despite their sinful nature (Acts 2:1, Romans 16:5, and 1 Corinthians 16:15). Acclamation anticipates the incarnation of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:48, 49). Atonement is fulfilled in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Romans 3:24, 25). And Tabernacles anticipates Christ dwelling in a “tent” of flesh and the believers’ walk in this life “tenting” with Him (2 Corinthians 5:7).
 
The only thing these feasts had to do with Israel were anticipatory annual celebrations of the Lord’s coming. Like all things under the law, they were shadows given so that when He came, the world could see Him and His work as the fulfillment of them (see Colossians 2:15, 16). In Christ is the substance, and in Christ is found the realization and fulfillment of what these annual celebrations only anticipated.
 
In other words, Peter is just now more fully realizing what people all over the world still fail to realize today. The work of Jesus Christ is a unified work that extends to all – Jews and Gentiles. There is one salvation and one gospel –
 
“For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, 15 having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, 16 and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. 17 And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. 18 For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.” Ephesians 2:14-18
 
If someone comes to you with any other doctrine, tell him, “Beat it heretic, I’m following Jesus, not the law and not just ‘one’ of His gospels, but His one and only gospel.”
 
Lord God, it is so wonderful that all are saved in the same manner – by simple faith in the full, final, and forever work of Jesus Christ our Lord. Thank You that we do not have to observe the law, be circumcised, or do any other such thing. All we have to do is to believe in what Jesus has done. From there, help us to demonstrate our gratitude by being observant of His will. May it be so for all our days. Amen. 

Acts 11:15

Tuesday, 1 November 2022
 
And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, as upon us at the beginning. Acts 11:15
 
Peter has explained how he wound up at Cornelius’ house in Caesarea. Once there, he now tells what transpired, saying, “And as I began to speak.”
 
Though it is a very short explanation of the events in the house, it is not incorrect. The use of the word “begin” as recorded by Luke does not necessarily mean the starting of the action, but the action itself. In Luke 4:21, Jesus said, “And He began to say to them, ‘Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.’” Peter’s discourse began immediately after Cornelius had finished explaining why he had summoned Peter. After Cornelius’ words, it then said –
 
“Then Peter opened his mouth and said: ‘In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. 35 But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. 36 The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of all— 37 that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree. 40 Him God raised up on the third day, and showed Him openly, 41 not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by God, even to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead. 42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.’” Acts 10:34-43
 
Peter had no idea that the Spirit would come upon the believers while he was speaking. He was probably prepared to continue speaking for a lengthy span, but his words were cut short once the substance of the gospel had been presented and the hearts of those attending had accepted what was presented. Thus, to say, “And as I began to speak,” is an all-inclusive statement of his short discourse. With that, he next says that “the Holy Spirit fell upon them.”
 
This is exactly what is recorded in Acts 10. There it said, “While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word.” In the middle of his discourse, and certainly before he had finished his thoughts – and yet at the time when the substance of the gospel was given – the Holy Spirit fell upon those who were listening.
 
Peter’s words noted the death, burial (implicitly stated because Jesus rose on the third day), and resurrection of Christ. This is the exact same gospel referred to by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 and which Paul testifies is the same gospel preached by Peter and the other apostles (1 Corinthians 15:11). And the same effect occurred as that which came upon those in Jerusalem, just as Peter says, “as upon us at the beginning.”
 
The reference is to the event of Acts 2:3. The believers were gathered together, and the Spirit sat upon each of them. With that, it then said, “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” In Acts 10:46, it said, “For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.”
 
The same gift came upon the Gentiles as had come upon the Jews at Pentecost. The event occurred apart from any law observance or rite of the Jews such as circumcision, and apart from the act of baptism. It simply happened when they heard the gospel and believed. God had shown no favoritism of Jews over Gentiles. He graciously accepted these people apart from any work of any kind.
 
Life application: If one reads the substance of what occurred as is recorded in this short commentary on Acts 11:15 and then takes to heart what it means, several truly insidious heresies could be done away with in that person’s thinking.
 
One is that of the need for law observance in order to be saved. Another is the notion that Jesus is not God. Another is that Jesus was not actually a human who could suffer. Another is that there are two gospels, one for Jews and one for Gentiles.
 
These false teachings have as their main goal to distract from the truth of who Jesus Christ is or to tear apart the scope and importance of what He has done. Each of them will lead people astray to a false Jesus and thus a false gospel. Be attentive to what people are saying, check their words against what is presented in Scripture, and be sure to make a right analysis of what is recorded there. And the only way you can do that is to continue to read and contemplate what Scripture says. Be sure to read your Bible!
 
Heavenly Father, we are accepted because of the giving of Your Son for us. We stand in awe of the marvel of Your goodness toward us and we thank You for the coming of Jesus. May Your glorious name be praised forever and ever! Hallelujah to You for Your goodness toward us and Your kind care of us. Amen.

Acts 11:14

Monday, 31 October 2022
 
who will tell you words by which you and all your household will be saved.’ Acts 11:14
 
Peter’s previous words were citing what he was told by Cornelius. He had seen an angel in his house who directed him to call for Simon Peter who was in Joppa. Now, Peter continues relaying Cornelius’ words, saying, “who will tell you words.”
 
Peter is being called to specifically speak to Cornelius. One might wonder why the angel didn’t just tell him what he needed to know, but that would be overlooking the purpose and intent of Acts. Acts is given to show how the early church was established. It was also given to confirm the message and authority of the apostles. Peter was given a particular position among the apostles which was to verify those who were accepted into the church.
 
In other words, a plan had been set forth, the parameters were laid out in advance, and the gospel was being proclaimed within those parameters. As for Peter speaking to Cornelius, it is exactly that “by which you and all your household will be saved.”
 
The words of Peter were to be the good news of salvation, the gospel. Upon conveying them, those who believed would be saved. As for the term, “you and all your household,” this does not mean that Cornelius’ salvation would lead directly to the salvation of his household as if his faith was sufficient to cover everyone.
 
Rather, this is a new line of thought not directly introduced in chapter 10. There, it said –
 
“Now send men to Joppa, and send for Simon whose surname is Peter. 6 He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. He will tell you what you must do.” Acts 10:5, 6 
 
However, it said this previously –
 
“There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment, 2 a devout man and one who feared God with all his household.” Acts 10:1, 2
 
The family was already a family that feared God. The saving of the household spoken of now is a salvation that was based upon the faith they already possessed. It just needed to be directed properly towards the One whom God had offered for this very purpose, meaning Jesus Christ.
 
This will be similar to the account in chapter 16 where Paul says something similar to the jailer, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household” (Acts 16:31). After saying this, it then says, “Now when he had brought them into his house, he set food before them; and he rejoiced, having believed in God with all his household” (Acts 16:34).
 
Paul and Silas were not telling him that his salvation would result in their salvation, but that the necessary condition for any of them was to believe. Those who did, meaning all his household, were saved.
 
Life application: Since the Bible’s completion, there is now a way that man is saved that has been detailed in Scripture itself. We are to go out and tell others about Jesus. In hearing the word, and in believing that word, people will be saved.
 
This is explicitly stated in various verses, such as Romans 10:14-17 and elsewhere. As this is so, and as this is God’s word, there should be no reason to believe any story where someone claims that the message was conveyed any other way. Visitations by Jesus, angels, or any other such thing are not now how God tells us about salvation. It does not come through dreams or visions. Rather, it comes through people getting out and doing what the word instructs us to do.
 
It is our right, our responsibility, and our honor to convey this word to others. Don’t suppose that God will “get the message to them some other way.” You are the means of getting it to them if you are obedient to the word. If not you, then who? Be willing to speak!
 
Glorious God almighty, thank You for the simplicity of the gospel. We don’t have to learn long and difficult points of theology to direct others to You. We have a simple gospel that conveys the simple message that any can understand. Help us to be willing to speak it out to others so that they may be saved. To Your glory, we pray! Amen.

Acts 11:13

Sunday, 30 October 2022
 
And he told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house, who said to him, ‘Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon whose surname is Peter, Acts 11:13
 
Peter just explained that the Spirit had told him to go and not doubt and that six men accompanied him. Upon arriving at Caesarea, they all entered his house. With that stated, he now explains what occurred with Cornelius, beginning with, “And he told us how he had seen an angel.”
 
Rather, it is “the angel,” or “the messenger.” What Peter had heard as a rumor from the men sent to collect him from Joppa is now a definite claim by Cornelius. And further, the angel was “standing in his house.”
 
The words are from an aorist participle. More correctly, it reads, “having stood in his house.” The angel was there, and he was clearly positioned in the house. The thought of the words is not unimportant. If an angel, a messenger from God, had stood in the house of Cornelius, it could not be that Peter could then refrain from entering the house as if it was defiled. And more, it could not be that those gathered together could charge him with wrongdoing either.
 
A messenger from God is a holy messenger. To refuse entry after such an appearance would be as if Peter was claiming a holiness greater than the angel himself. Grasping this truth, Peter next continues, saying “who said to him, ‘Send men to Joppa.’”
 
Again, it is an aorist participle. It more appropriately reads, “having said to him, ‘Send men to Joppa.’” The narrative is very direct and clear in how it is presenting each word. The angel gave very specific instructions as well. Cornelius was in Caesarea and yet the angel is directing him to send men to a city quite some distance away with a particular intent. That intent was “and call for Simon whose surname is Peter.”
 
This clearly settles the matter that Simon Peter is the object of the discourse and that his actions were wholly in accord with the will of God. To identify a particular person in a particular city in a vision from God can mean nothing other than his presence is needed, it is called for, and what will afterward transpire is wholly in accord with the will of God.
 
The narrative will continue, but it will do so with the understanding that Peter is the key point of focus and that what he does is fully acceptable to the Lord, even if it was somehow unacceptable to those he was speaking to.
 
Life application: Peter was specifically called to go into the house of a Gentile. This occurred after a vision that specifically showed him that God had declared all the animals and birds clean before him. The law had set up barriers between Israel and the people of the world for a set and specific purpose and those barriers were now removed with the completion of Jesus’ work.
 
In Job, it asks –
 
“How then can man be righteous before God?Or how can he be pure who is born of a woman?” Job 25:4
 
In and of ourselves, this is impossible. However, because of Jesus, it is not only possible, it has come about. God is looking for people of faith. He is not at all concerned about deeds accomplished by people who are unclean before Him. Their deeds, no matter what they are, are unacceptable to Him because the people are already defiled.
 
However, for those who are cleansed by the shed blood of Christ, God can now look upon us and have a relationship with us. Our deeds, when done in faith concerning the Lord, are acceptable to Him. A new standard is introduced, and it is one that places us in a completely different category than we ever were before.
 
Being “in Christ” is to be united to God, once and forever, as adopted sons of God. Let us remember this as we live out our lives. We may fail Him, but He is no longer counting such things against us. However, He is reckoning our deeds of faith to an account that will bring eternal rewards. Think about this and be pleased to rest in the wonderous position you have now been granted. God has accepted you. Thank God for Jesus who has made this possible!
 
Most glorious and gracious heavenly Father, thank You for what You have done. We were Your enemies and yet You sent Jesus. We stand in awe of Your great love with which You have loved us. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Acts 11:12

Saturday, 29 October 2022
 
Then the Spirit told me to go with them, doubting nothing. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house. Acts 11:12
 
The previous verse told of the three men who were sent from Caesarea and who came and stood before the house where Peter was. This happened at the very moment his vision had ended. With that, it next says, “Then the Spirit told me to go with them.”
 
Peter has been telling of the events before the men came. Now in a supportable defense against those who were accusing him, he notes that his actions were Spirit-directed. He had a vision that may or may not have immediately clued him into what was being said, but now a direct confirmation that he was accompanying these men who arrived at the house is given. Along with that, he was to be “doubting nothing.”
 
The meaning is that he was to accompany them without any misgivings, although some manuscripts change the word from the middle to the active voice. In this, the sense is changed to “make a distinction,” meaning that he should not discriminate against those who had come to collect him. Either way, the directive is given by the Spirit and Peter was to go with the men without any qualms. From there, it next says, “Moreover these six brethren accompanied me.”
 
The words are clearly intended to show that it wasn’t just Peter who had gone with the Gentiles, but that the whole group had. If any of them had brought a charge against Peter for staying with the Gentiles, these six would not have first accompanied them. As such, there were many more witnesses than required by the law to substantiate everything that he was saying. And more than just going with them, Peter was completely obedient to the situation as directed by the Spirit because he next says, “and we entered the man’s house.”
 
Here, Peter changes the accusation of verse 3 where the plural was used, “uncircumcised men.” Rather, he says in the singular “the man’s house.” It wasn’t as if he was having a party with a bunch of uncircumcised men. Rather, he was called to a specific house owned by a certain man. The number of people in the house was irrelevant and the status of the man was as well. Peter was given a clear and specific set of instructions and he followed through with them accordingly.
 
Life application: Peter clearly ate with the uncircumcised, as is indicated in verse 11:3. He did this in Antioch as is recorded in Galatians 2:11 as well. And yet, in the very next verse, Galatians 2:12, he withdrew himself from their fellowship when the Jews who came from James showed up. He failed to conduct himself as he had previously been instructed to do by the Spirit.
 
His weakness caused harm to the purity of the gospel and Paul called him out on it. However, it became a later lesson to those who were troubled by the Judaizers in Galatia. And it should be a continuing lesson for those who are troubled by the false teachers of the Hebrew Roots movement today.
 
God can take our faults and our failings and turn them around for good. So don’t beat yourself up too much when you have a moment of doubt or weakness. Like Peter, turn back to the straight path and live out your freedom in Christ as you should. And when you have the chance, you can tell others about how you failed. Sometimes people need to hear that they are not alone in falling into temptations.
 
In the end, each of us has our own failings, but Jesus is greater than them. If you are in Christ, He has already forgiven you. So, press on and do what is right henceforth.
 
Lord God, thank You for the forgiveness we possess because of what Jesus has done. In Him, we have a surety that goes beyond our failings because He has prevailed. We know that nothing can separate us from You again, but we may need reminders at times that it is so. Help us to be refreshed in this thought often so that our walk before You will be one of joy. Amen.
 

Acts 11:11

Friday, 28 October 2022
 
At that very moment, three men stood before the house where I was, having been sent to me from Caesarea. Acts 11:11
 
After Peter explained that the object with all the animals in it had been drawn up into heaven, he now says, “At that very moment.” Though the intent is the same, the Greek more closely says, “And behold, immediately...”
 
Exactly as the vision ended, the next event occurred. Because the two events are connected, as he later discovered, it highlights the purposeful intent of the vision coming at the exact time it did. The next event is that “three men stood before the house where I was.”
 
As noted in the previous commentary, it seems that there may be a connection between the three times the vision repeated itself and the three men coming. Peter would possibly have made this mental correlation. Whether this is the case or not, the three times the event occurred were certainly provided to ensure to him that God had determined the matter and it was set. God determines what is clean and what is unclean. When He does, the matter is settled. With this stated, the verse finishes with the note that the men were at the house, “having been sent to me from Caesarea.”
 
The length of such a trip meant that the arrival could have come at any time. Peter had no idea if they left long before sunrise or if they left the day before. They may have made one stop or four. All he knew was at the exact moment the vision was complete, these Gentiles had shown up at his door. The connection was obvious, and he is explaining it as such to those before him.
 
Life application: There are certainly times in our lives when something happens, and we struggle to understand why things occurred as they did. It may be the loss of a job, the death of a loved one, or a flat tire on the way to Bible class.
 
At such times, our confusion about the matter may cause frustration, sadness, or other feelings that burden us. And yet, in due time, the event brings about some other event that perfectly suits our life. If that thing didn’t happen, then this thing would not have happened. Such things may be “time and chance” as Solomon says in Ecclesiastes 9:11, or there may have been a greater purpose that God intended all along.
 
Either way, we cannot change time and chance, and we cannot know what God has planned. So, we should do our best to take life as it comes and have gratitude towards God in all things. One thing is for certain: He has a grand plan that is being brought about and we, because of our faith in Jesus, are a part of that plan. So, let us be convinced that our lives are being directed toward that good end.
 
Because we are in Christ, He is carefully tending to us each step of the way. Let us be confident in that. David had that attitude. He may not have had all the information concerning a given matter, but he handed the events of his life over to the Lord –
 
“Wait on the Lord;Be of good courage,And He shall strengthen your heart;Wait, I say, on the Lord!” Psalm 27:14
 
Let us have a like-minded attitude. Let us wait patiently on His guiding hand in all things.
 
Lord God, thank You for directing our steps on the path of life. We may not always know where the next step will lead, but we can be confident that, ultimately, they all are getting us to the wonderful goal which You have promised Your people. Thank You that our path is known to You and that You are directing us on it according to Your wisdom. Amen.