November 18, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 22

¹ Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you.

² (And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,)

³ I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.

⁴ And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.

⁵ As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished.

⁶ And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me.

⁷ And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

⁸ And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.

⁹ And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.

¹⁰ And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.

¹¹ And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.

¹² And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there,

¹³ Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.

¹⁴ And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.

¹⁵ For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.

¹⁶ And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

¹⁷ And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;

¹⁸ And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.

¹⁹ And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee:

²⁰ And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.

²¹ And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.

²² And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.

²³ And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air,

²⁴ The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and bade that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they cried so against him.

²⁵ And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?

²⁶ When the centurion heard that, he went and told the chief captain, saying, Take heed what thou doest: for this man is a Roman.

²⁷ Then the chief captain came, and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a Roman? He said, Yea.

²⁸ And the chief captain answered, With a great sum obtained I this freedom. And Paul said, But I was free born.

²⁹ Then straightway they departed from him which should have examined him: and the chief captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.

³⁰ On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Acts Chapter 22 describes the Apostle Paul’s defense speech before an agitated Jewish crowd in Jerusalem. Paul seizes the opportunity to recount his conversion story and his mission as a witness of Christ. He emphasizes his Jewish heritage, his zeal for the Law, and his dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. The chapter illustrates how Paul, despite facing resistance and persecution, steadfastly defends his calling while simultaneously exercising his Roman rights to avoid further mistreatment.

Commentary

Paul’s speech is a powerful testimony of his conversion and his apostolic mission. By choosing to speak in Hebrew and emphasizing his Jewish background, he attempts to build a bridge with his audience. His narrative demonstrates how his life was radically transformed by his encounter with Christ. Particularly impressive is the role of Ananias, who calls Paul to baptism and commissions him into service for God.

Paul also reveals his former hostility toward Christians and confesses his involvement in persecuting believers like Stephen. This openness serves not only as a self-accusation but also underscores the transformative power of the Gospel. However, mentioning his mission to bring the Gospel to the Gentiles provokes the crowd and leads to renewed uproar.

The interaction with the Roman authorities shows how Paul wisely uses his citizenship rights to avoid mistreatment. His reference to his Roman citizenship puts the commander in a difficult position, preventing further flogging. This passage illustrates both Paul’s courage and his strategic wisdom in dealing with political and religious opposition.

Summary

In Acts Chapter 22, Paul defends himself before the Jewish crowd in Jerusalem by outlining his background, his conversion, and his divine mission. He recounts his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus and his calling to preach the Gospel. The crowd becomes particularly enraged when Paul speaks of his mission to the Gentiles.

As the situation escalates, the Roman authorities intervene. Paul is bound and is about to be flogged, but he prevents this by invoking his Roman citizenship. The Roman commander is startled by this revelation and treats Paul more cautiously. The next day, Paul is brought before the Jewish Sanhedrin, where the investigation of his case continues.

The chapter highlights Paul’s steadfastness and unwavering faith, even in the face of intense opposition. At the same time, it underscores the tensions between the various political and religious groups that shaped his life and ministry.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/18-11-2024-acts-chapter-22-believe-his-prophets/

November 17, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 21

¹ And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:

² And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth.

³ Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.

⁴ And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.

⁵ And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.

⁶ And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again.

⁷ And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.

⁸ And the next day we that were of Paul’s company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.

⁹ And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.

¹⁰ And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.

¹¹ And when he was come unto us, he took Paul’s girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.

¹² And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.

¹³ Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.

¹⁴ And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.

¹⁵ And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.

¹⁶ There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge.

¹⁷ And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.

¹⁸ And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present.

¹⁹ And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.

²⁰ And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:

²¹ And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.

²² What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.

²³ Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them;

²⁴ Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.

²⁵ As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.

²⁶ Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.

²⁷ And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,

²⁸ Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.

²⁹ (For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)

³⁰ And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.

³¹ And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.

³² Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them: and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of Paul.

³³ Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.

³⁴ And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle.

³⁵ And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people.

³⁶ For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, Away with him.

³⁷ And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek?

³⁸ Art not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?

³⁹ But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.

⁴⁰ And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Acts Chapter 21 depicts the final stage of Paul’s journey to Jerusalem. It is a chapter filled with tension and turning points, showcasing the Apostle’s courage and dedication. Paul travels from Miletus through Caesarea to Jerusalem, where he is warmly received by the believers there. Despite repeated warnings of impending danger, Paul remains determined to follow his calling. The chapter highlights the challenges Paul faces in his ministry, including misunderstandings, slanders, and ultimately his arrest. It stands as a powerful testimony of his faithfulness to the Gospel.

Commentary

The chapter emphasizes Paul’s central role as an ambassador of the Gospel while simultaneously highlighting the tensions between his message and Jewish traditions. The journey to Jerusalem is marked by heartfelt encounters with believers who encourage him and bless him for the upcoming challenges. Particularly noteworthy is the prophetic warning from Agabus, which does not deter Paul from continuing his path.

In Jerusalem, Paul is both welcomed and opposed. Misunderstandings about his teachings reveal the tensions between the young church and traditional Jewish laws. By participating in a vow, Paul attempts to build bridges and clarify misunderstandings about his stance on the Law. However, his efforts are sabotaged by Jewish opponents who accuse him of breaking the Law and desecrating the temple.

Paul’s arrest marks a turning point. The agitated crowd and the intervention of Roman soldiers highlight the political and religious volatility of his mission. Despite the violence, Paul remains steadfast and requests to speak to the crowd. This scene demonstrates his courage and determination to proclaim the Gospel even under adverse circumstances.

Summary

Acts Chapter 21 describes Paul’s journey from Miletus to Jerusalem, his interactions with believers, and his eventual arrest. On his way to Jerusalem, Paul stops in Tyre, where believers warn him not to enter the city. Despite these warnings, he continues his journey and encounters the prophet Agabus in Caesarea, who prophesies his forthcoming suffering. In Jerusalem, Paul is warmly received by James and the elders, who urge him to take a vow to clarify misunderstandings about his position on the Law.

The situation escalates when Paul is accused by Jews from Asia of defiling the Law and the temple. An enraged crowd attempts to kill him before Roman soldiers intervene and arrest him. Despite the violence, Paul remains calm and asks to speak to the crowd. The chapter concludes with the preparations for his speech, which he delivers in the next episode. It is a chapter that highlights Paul’s dedication and bravery in the face of persecution and misunderstandings.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/17-11-2024-acts-chapter-21-believe-his-prophets/

1.What was the essential difference in the expressions of faith between Abraham and Thomas? What can we learn from their stories?

The essential difference between Abraham and Thomas in their expressions of faith lies in the nature of their trust in God’s promises and how they deal with uncertainties.

1. Abraham: Abraham trusted in God’s promises even when they seemed humanly impossible. His faith was marked by trust without visible evidence or immediate fulfillment. He followed God’s call, left his land, and believed that he would become the father of many nations, despite having no children. Abraham’s faith shows us the willingness to trust in God’s word even when circumstances and evidence are lacking. It is a faith that combines patience and hope.

2. Thomas: In contrast, Thomas set conditions for his faith. After Jesus’ resurrection, he demanded visible and tangible evidence before he could believe. His “see it and believe it” attitude shows that his faith was tied to concrete confirmation. When Jesus showed Thomas His wounds, Thomas was led to believe. However, Jesus emphasized that those who believe without seeing are blessed.

Lessons from the stories of Abraham and Thomas:

• Faith requires trust: Abraham’s story teaches us that faith often means trusting God even when we have no tangible evidence. This is an invitation to grow deeper in our faith and practice patience.

• God meets us in our doubts: Thomas’ story shows that doubt can be a natural part of the faith journey. God does not condemn us for our doubts but meets us in them. However, it also encourages us not to limit our trust to visible evidence.

Abraham and Thomas demonstrate two aspects of faith: unconditional trust and a faith that grows in the search for evidence. Together, they teach us that true faith often goes beyond what we can see and understand and that God is faithful even when we do not comprehend everything.

2.Encourage those who are willing to testify about Jesus, as we have seen in the Gospel of John. Although the accounts are different: What do people say, and how do they all testify to the same Lord?

In the Gospel of John, we see a variety of testimonies about Jesus, each offering different perspectives but ultimately testifying to the same Lord and His divine nature. People like John the Baptist, the Samaritan woman at the well, Thomas, and Mary of Bethany each uniquely witness their encounter and understanding of Jesus. Here are some key statements they all make about Jesus, helping us understand His nature and work:

1. John the Baptist: John describes Jesus as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). His testimony emphasizes Jesus’ role as the Redeemer and the sacrifice He will make. John recognizes Jesus as the messenger sent by God to free people from their sins.

2. The Samaritan Woman at the Well: Her testimony begins with an encounter at the well and develops into the realization that Jesus is the Messiah. She testifies to the people in her village, saying, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could this be the Messiah?” (John 4:29). Her words invite others to meet Jesus and know Him for themselves.

3. Thomas: After Jesus’ resurrection, Thomas confesses, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Thomas’ testimony is a clear statement of Jesus’ divinity, showing that Jesus is more than just a teacher—He is God Himself.

4. Mary of Bethany: Mary’s act of anointing Jesus with expensive oil is a silent but powerful testimony. She shows her devotion and reverence for Jesus by sacrificing the most valuable possession she has. Her testimony portrays Jesus as a king and one worthy of her highest dedication.

Common Statements and Connections: Although the testimonies are different, they all reveal the same Lord in various ways. Each recognizes Jesus’ uniqueness and divine nature. John the Baptist presents Him as the Redeemer, the Samaritan woman as the Messiah, Thomas as God, and Mary as the worthy King. Together, these individuals testify that Jesus has the power to change lives, that He is God and Savior, and that He is the one the world has been waiting for.

Connection for Today: These testimonies encourage us to shape our own lives as a living testimony for Jesus. Whether through words or actions, each of us can uniquely testify how Jesus has changed our lives and why we believe in Him. Our testimonies may differ, but they carry the same message: Jesus is the Lord and Savior who gives us love, forgiveness, and hope.

3.Pilate asked a very philosophical question: “What is truth?” Answer this question in light of all that we have studied in the Gospel of John.

In light of the Gospel of John, the question “What is truth?” is answered in a profound and clear manner. Jesus Himself embodies the truth. In the Gospel of John, He says, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Here, truth is not presented as an abstract concept or mere knowledge but as a person—Jesus Christ. He is the truth because He reveals the very nature of God, brings light into darkness, and shows the way to eternal life.

Throughout the Gospel, John testifies that truth is not only found in words or philosophical thoughts but in the relationship with Jesus. In Him, God’s nature becomes fully visible: His love, His justice, and His grace. Jesus demonstrates that truth is not just intellectual knowledge but a deeper reality that transforms lives and connects people with God.

When Pilate asked, “What is truth?”, the answer was right before him. Instead of following the truth He recognized, Pilate chose to succumb to the crowd’s pressure out of fear. The Gospel of John makes it clear that true understanding is not only about knowledge but about a decision: choosing to follow Jesus and building one’s life on Him.

In this sense, truth in the Gospel of John is alive, concrete, and experiential. It is not relative or dependent on opinions but finds its source in God and is perfectly revealed in Jesus. Truth means knowing and trusting Jesus—for He alone is the way to God and the light that penetrates our darkness.

4.Look at the prophecies in Daniel 2 and 7. People in Jesus’ time knew these two chapters, but what great advantage do we have today that they did not when it comes to seeing these prophecies fulfilled and thus having even more reasons to believe?

The great advantage we have today when examining the prophecies from Daniel 2 and 7 is that we can see many of their historical fulfillments in hindsight. In Jesus’ time, many of these events were still future or in their early stages, whereas today we can observe the complete unfolding of these prophecies in history. This provides us with additional reasons to believe in the reliability and truth of the Bible, as the prophecies have been fulfilled accurately.

In Daniel 2, the image of the great statue is described, with various parts (gold, silver, bronze, iron, and clay) representing successive world empires. These empires—Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome—are clearly recognizable in world history today. Additionally, Daniel saw in the vision a stone that, without human intervention, destroys the statue, symbolizing the coming of God’s kingdom, which will endure beyond all human kingdoms. This historical fulfillment gives us today the assurance that God directs history and that His kingdom will ultimately triumph over everything.

In Daniel 7, Daniel has a vision of four beasts, which also represent different kingdoms. The fourth beast, particularly terrifying and describing the rise of a small horn with great power, is often associated with the Roman Empire and later developments. Here too, we can see historical events and powers that align with this prophecy, confirming God’s oversight and influence in history.

The advantage we have today is that we have witnessed the historical accuracy of these prophecies. We can see that the coming of God’s kingdom—ultimately embodied in Jesus Christ—has been foretold for centuries. These fulfillments strengthen our faith by showing that God’s word is reliable and that biblical prophecies are not vague or accidental but have occurred in specific and detailed ways.

This historical perspective provides us with additional reasons to believe because we see that the Bible does not tell outdated stories but contains timeless truths and God’s plans for the world. It strengthens our hope that God’s kingdom, as prophesied, will one day come in its fullness, as promised through Jesus Christ.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-7-blessed-are-those-who-believe-7-7-questions-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

November 16, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 20

¹ And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.

² And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,

³ And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.

⁴ And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.

⁵ These going before tarried for us at Troas.

⁶ And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.

⁷ And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.

⁸ And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.

⁹ And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.

¹⁰ And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.

¹¹ When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.

¹² And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.

¹³ And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.

¹⁴ And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.

¹⁵ And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.

¹⁶ For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

¹⁷ And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.

¹⁸ And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,

¹⁹ Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:

²⁰ And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,

²¹ Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

²² And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:

²³ Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.

²⁴ But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

²⁵ And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.

²⁶ Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.

²⁷ For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

²⁸ Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

²⁹ For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.

³⁰ Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

³¹ Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.

³² And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

³³ I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.

³⁴ Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.

³⁵ I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

³⁶ And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.

³⁷ And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him,

³⁸ Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

In Acts Chapter 20, Paul continues his journey, taking him from Macedonia through Greece to Troas and finally to Miletus. This chapter highlights the Apostle’s deep connection with the believers and culminates in a moving farewell speech to the elders of Ephesus. Paul senses that he will face persecution and suffering in Jerusalem, yet he is prepared to fulfill his ministry to the end. This passage underscores Paul’s dedication and his sense of responsibility for the young church.

Commentary

Acts 20 provides insight into Paul’s heartfelt attitude and dedication. It begins with his encouragement to the believers and showcases his passion for proclaiming the Gospel. The story of Eutychus, who falls asleep during Paul’s lengthy sermon and subsequently falls out of a window, illustrates both the dangers and the harsh life of early Christians. On the other hand, it also demonstrates the power of God as Paul raises the young man back to life.

Particularly significant is the farewell speech to the elders of Ephesus. Paul urges them to remain vigilant and warns them of the challenges that will face the congregation after his departure. He speaks openly about the temptations and dangers posed by false teachers who could threaten the church from both within and without. This speech is not only a poignant testimony of his ministry but also a call to the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith. Paul emphasizes the selflessness of his service and the example he sets for the elders and the church.

Summary

Acts 20 describes the final leg of Paul’s third missionary journey and concludes with his heartfelt farewell to the elders of the Ephesian church. Paul travels through Macedonia and Greece, strengthening the believers and reviving the young Eutychus in Troas, who fell out of a window during a long sermon. On his way to Jerusalem, Paul stops in Miletus, where he calls the Ephesian elders to meet him. In his farewell speech, he reminds them of his faithful proclamation of the Gospel and urges them to protect their flock from false teachers. Deeply moved, the elders bid farewell to Paul, knowing they will likely never see him again. This chapter highlights Paul’s willingness to sacrifice and his loyalty, as well as his concern for the young Christian community.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/16-11-2024-acts-chapter-20-believe-his-prophets/

7.6 Summary
Faith Without Seeing – The Path to True Blessing

Lesson 7 covers various witnesses who testify about Jesus in the Gospel of John and how their testimonies inspire and challenge us today.

1. Abraham: Jesus refers to Abraham to show the historical depth of faith. Abraham’s faith and the promises he received illustrate that God’s plan of salvation spanned generations and is fulfilled in Jesus. We are also invited to follow this example of faith.

2. Mary: Mary’s act of anointing Jesus with precious oil demonstrates her devotion and love. She provides a deep testimony of gratitude and dedication, teaching us to use our own gifts in service to Jesus, even when others do not understand.

3. Pilate: Pilate’s judgment shows how external pressures can prevent us from following the truth. Although Pilate recognized Jesus’ innocence, he succumbed to the crowd’s pressure. This reminds us to remain steadfast in our faith and not be swayed by external influences.

4. Thomas: Thomas’ doubt and need for evidence lead him to a personal encounter with the risen Jesus. His story teaches us that doubt can be part of the faith journey and that Jesus meets us in our doubts. True faith often grows by trusting without seeing everything.

5. Our Testimony About Jesus: Finally, we as today’s followers are invited to give our own testimony about Jesus. Even though we have not witnessed the same miracles as the early disciples, we have many reasons to believe in Jesus: the fulfillment of prophecies, the spread of the gospel, and the personal experience of His presence. Our daily lives and actions are powerful testimonies of faith that show others that Jesus lives and is still at work today.

This lesson calls us to appreciate the testimony of other believers, reflect on our own doubts, and be a living, authentic testimony of our faith in Jesus Christ.

The lesson about the witnesses of faith has a direct connection to our everyday life and faith because it shows us that faith is not only about great events or miracles but also about everyday actions and decisions. Each of the witnesses discussed in this lesson—Abraham, Mary, Pilate, Thomas, and the disciples—represents a specific challenge or experience that we also encounter in our faith.

1. Abraham teaches us to trust in God’s promises, even when their fulfillment seems far off. In everyday life, this means remembering that God’s plan is greater than our immediate experiences and that patience and trust are central to faith.

2. Mary shows how devotion and gratitude can express our faith, even when others do not understand. In our daily lives, we can ask ourselves how we can show our love for Jesus through small and large sacrifices, whether through time, compassion, or concrete help for others.

3. Pilate reminds us of the danger of being influenced by societal pressure. His example challenges us to remain steadfast and defend the truth, even if it means going against the tide or facing criticism. Our daily lives offer many moments where we can stand up for our convictions.

4. Thomas teaches us that doubt is a natural part of the faith journey and that Jesus meets us in our doubts. In everyday life, this means that we are allowed to bring our questions and uncertainties to God without shame. True faith often grows through wrestling and seeking, and this is an invitation to trust God in difficult times.

5. Our own testimony challenges us to witness for our faith through our behavior and our lives. It means making Jesus visible through our actions, whether in kindness, forgiveness, or how we handle difficult situations.

This lesson shows us that every person—regardless of how strong or weak they feel—has a role in God’s plan and that our faith is strengthened through lived experiences. It invites us to make God visible in every aspect of our lives and to experience how faith shapes our daily reality.

Faith is not only shown in great deeds but also in the faithfulness and love we live out every day.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-7-blessed-are-those-who-believe-7-6-summary-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/