40 Days Blog - Day 40 

Acts 28:1-31 In Malta and Rome

 

Endings and Beginnings 

Are you one for reading the last few pages of a book long before you reach them just  to see if it ends well? Some people think that’s a terrible thing to do. But I’ve a sneaky suspicion that if we’re honest about facing a worry - for example a diagnosis, exam results or news of your family, you’d probably wish you knew the end already.  Today we get half an ending - really because the story of the followers of Jesus is still being written. It is our story.

The account on Malta is typical of Luke’s storytelling. Miracles, healings and escape from a snake are recorded in a matter of fact way. We see a people not expecting anything receive a dramatic blessing from God. This is a God who likes to shower goodness and mercy on people.  Without this shipwreck none of this would have happened. So we again see that God calling us to be faithful ‘in the moment’, wherever we are. 

As the party finally near Rome the excitement builds. Roman Christians come out to meet the famous Paul about 50 miles from Rome, to walk in with him    Paul is welcomed.
 
He arranges a meeting with the Jewish leaders who clearly have a disconnect with the leaders in Jerusalem for they have not heard anything bad about Paul from there. As we have seen throughout Acts, some believe Paul’s arguments that Jesus is the Messiah  and some do not.  But Paul’s quote from Isaiah (vs 26-27) is incredibly sad. What sadness there is when someone turns their back on God.  But equally what rejoicing when one sinner repents.
 
Luke 15 (5-8)
(Jesus said) “And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbours together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent”.

Endings

We are reaching the end of Acts journey and ultimately Luke wraps his story up quite quickly but triumphantly.  Paul is in Rome at last and he has a 2 year ministry there, under house arrest, but relatively free.  He proclaims and debates with hundreds, having a big impact.  And from here he penned his letters to the Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians and to his friend Philemon.  Maybe you’d like to read them now in the context of what you’ve seen and experienced on this 40 day journey.
 
But we are left on a cliffhanger. What happened next? Did he win his case? Was he set free?
 
We don’t know for sure what happened. But scholars of Paul think it likely that he was freed after his case was heard and also that 2 or so years later he was executed as part of the very fierce and violent persecution that broke out when Nero (of fiddling fame) turned against the Christians. The backlash and genocide was horrific. Yet the martyrs stood firm in their faith in the one who had suffered all for them.

Beginnings

But the story we need to know is complete. Luke can roll up his scroll. This journey through Acts has shown us dependency on God’s Spirit, a pattern of prayer and hospitality among Christians we would do well to mirror, and a people always learning new things about God on their faith journey. Maybe you could take a moment today to list your top 3 ‘Acts moments or lessons’.  (More if you like).
 
Prayer
Lord thank you for what you have shown me in these last 40 days. Thank you for your faithfulness and how we have seen the promised Holy Spirit come as comforter, advocate and in  power. We pray again for our community,  knowing that you are a God of mercy who rejoices when people come to you and we pray for your Spirit to work in the hearts of our community. Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 39 

Acts 27:1-44 Heading To Rome - Shipwreck

 

Wreck and Reputation

Just when you thought things couldn’t get any worse - Shipwreck!
 
Once, when travelling in India, I was intrigued by signs as we entered a village announcing its name and population.  “Kaza - population 3231 souls”.  That word ‘souls’ struck me. Every person was someone loved by God and in need salvation. As we read today of 276 souls saved in a storm we must wonder about the ultimate salvation of their souls. And so too for Strathaven population 8180 souls, Drumclog population 100 souls*
 
Paul was a seasoned traveller.  To be shipwrecked once might be unlucky, twice might be considered very unlucky, three times just stupid - why would you ever get on a boat again?  (See 2 Corinthians 11:25). Admittedly this fourth time he didn’t have much option about getting on the ship, but he still voices his concern about the wisdom of the journey from his past experience.
 
I find the relationships in this passage fascinating.  Paul is clearly respected and liked by his guard, the centurion Julius.  Though technically a prisoner he is even allowed, “as a kindness” to go and spend some time with friends in Sidon when they land there.  I wonder how that conversation went - “Julius, do you mind if I pop off to catch up with …?”  The very fact it happens shows what kind of man Paul was - trustworthy and able to garner respect from those who were not prejudiced enemies like the Jews. 
 
Good reputation matters. It is very hard to win and can be lost in a moment.

Wreck

Did you notice back in chapter 20 (5), the subtle switch in Luke’s writing to the first person (we/us)?  From that point on Luke has been directly involved in the action.  And so this dramatic story is a pure eyewitness account of the shipwreck.  I love the detail of it - sea anchor’s, sandbars,, nor’easters, landmarks, the way the sailors bound the ship together with ropes around the hull.  It must have been utterly terrifying running before the storm, as they did, for two whole weeks until all hope is lost.

Reputation

But more than that we see Paul speaking his mind and giving warnings and advice. Then he has his, “I told you so,” moment (vs21).  So when it comes to the crunch and they decide to abandon ship, Julius sides with Paul and rescues all the prisoners from the soldiers swords. Our influence as Christians is important. We should be ready to speak out, and also be ready, as Paul did here, to encourage people (vs 33 and 36). 
 
The key moment, of course, is found in (Vs 23-24).  Paul has been reassured by an angel that he will be saved. Paul will survive. He must stand trial in Rome. The Gospel must be heard in that forum. But God’s power will be seen in the saving of everyone and this event will form part of the story of God’s plans for the advancement of the Gospel.
 
Proverbs 22:1
A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

Colossians 4:6
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
 
Prayer
Lord as we near the end of this 40 day season of prayer, help me keep in mind the need of my friends, neighbours, colleagues, and acquaintances to receive salvation in your name.  Help me keep praying for them. Help me too to guard a good reputation of integrity, generosity and faith for your sake. I pray that your name will be honoured. In Jesus name.  Amen.
 
*Online census info.

40 Days Blog - Day 38 

Acts 25:1-26:32 Before Festus & King Agrippa

 

Response and Responsibility

Two years in captivity have passed - The Roman Governship has been handed over to Festus and within days he finds that he has to sort out ‘the problem of Paul’.  The Jews in Jerusalem still want Paul silenced once and for all, but Festus wisely and reasonably convenes a proper court on his own turf. Clearly Festus is bewildered by what he sees as an internal matter for their own faith. Paul, however, takes the opportunity to ‘Appeal to Caesar” and have his case heard in Rome taking it out of the hands and influence of the Jews.
 
The second hearing, before Agrippa is important.  The Gospel was proclaimed very clearly to this, the very last Jewish King. The message of the King of Heaven was given to the last earthy king of the Jews.  But Agrippa rejected it.
 
Can you picture the dramatic scenes here? The frustration of Festus; the pomp of Agrippa’s entourage arriving at court; and Paul standing before them in chains telling his story?

Response

The response of the Governor and the King reminds us that not all will believe the Good News.  Wherever the Gospel is proclaimed, some will hear and believe, some will reject it, some will be bewildered.  Jesus said as much. We should not be disheartened by that, but rather continue faithfully to proclaim it. The Spirit applies the Gospel to the hearts and consciences of people. 
 
In speaking to Agrippa (a Jew) Paul tellingly asks “Why should any of you find it incredible that God raises the dead?”  25:26.
 
Why indeed?  If God can create an intricate universe beyond our comprehension - why should he be unable to manage this? His account of his own conversion (the third time we hear it in Acts) is tailored for specifically for Agrippa’s ears and understanding.
 
Festus thinks Paul is mad.  Agrippa dismisses him as ‘trying to make me a Christian in a short  time.’
 
But Paul’s statement in verse 25 stands out.
“Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”

Responsibility

Sometimes we are in for the long haul. Our responsibility remains to spread the word as Jesus commanded. Paul’s longing is that all would hear and respond to the Gospel.
 
Agrippa’s comment that Paul could have gone free if he had not appealed to Rome, might make us think that Paul made a mistake in making this appeal.  Yet he had wanted to go to Rome and meet the Christians there for a long time - and in the context of 2 year’s incarceration and delay this might be the very opportunity he had been waiting for. Again we see the Spirit moving in the action bringing about God’s purpose.
 
Today as we near the end of our 40 days of prayer pray specifically for response in the community to the truth of the Gospel. Pray that it will be received and understood.  We are praying for revival, renewal and regrowth.
 
Psalm 105 (1-3)
“Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.”
 
Prayer
Lord thank you that there is nothing that you cannot do.  We pray for this community again and for the progress of your Gospel in the hearts of its people.  We pray that there will be renewal of understanding and response to your Gospel; we pray that there will be be revival in people’s hearts as they listen to and accept the truth we proclaim; we pray that there will be regrowth in our church and the Christian community in the towns and villages round us.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 37 

Acts 24:1-27 Paul Pleads His Case To Felix

Court room dramas - I wonder if you find them as fascinating as I do. It’s such a powerful genre of movie and TV, and contains some of the very best screen drama ever produced. Do you have a favourite?  To Kill a Mocking Bird - 12 Angry Men - A Few Good Men - Bridge of Spies - Just Mercy. There’s so many. And then we have a whole host of TV shows. But why are they so absorbing? Well, there’s conflict, lying, false evidence, bad mouthing of character, false accusation, painting the truth either in a bad light or a good light, frustration, the pomposity of the establishment, dodgy ethics. But ultimately there’s a search for the truth, fairness and justice and that’s what we hang on to, hoping it will come out that way.
 
At this point in Acts we enter a period of courtroom dramas, and we will see all of the things above in Luke’s account.
 
For a moment let’s consider why Luke might have written his two volumes. He gives us such a clear and well researched account of Jesus’ life from birth to resurrection in Volume 1, his Gospel.  Volume 2 (Acts) details the spread and growth of the church.  It’s a brilliant resource for us as Christians.  It has been suggested that these books were prepared and written down as a legal brief for ‘most excellent Theophilus’ (Luke 1:1-3), to be used in Paul’s upcoming court case in Rome. There is some quite compelling evidence in the book of Acts itself to support this. For example, in the chapters we’ll be reading in the next couple of days, we have full accounts of Paul’s trials (lower court trials). Then there is the fact that Luke’s books explain what ‘The Way’ movement is all about. This would be important in presenting the context in which Paul finds himself. And then, as we saw yesterday, Luke is not particularly critical of the Roman authorities. That would be important in a trial before Romans in Rome.  It is the Jewish establishment that come out of it badly. Whether or not this is his reason for writing, it may be helpful for us to read the next few chapters in this context. At the very least it is sound evidence of what happened for us to consider.
 
So here we are, 5 days after Paul’s arrival in Caesarea, and the Jewish authorities finally show up to present their case to the Roman governor, Felix.  Felix is an interesting character. Other sources tell us that he was a freed-man who made good. He apparently rose to this position through a series of strategic society marriages, currently to Drusilla, a Jewess, and a daughter of Herod Agrippa.
 
The court room drama begins. Tertullus, the lawyer appearing on behalf of the Jewish leaders, puts forward a pretty lame, unattested, somewhat lazy and hazy case. “I don’t want to bore you… you can find out for yourself if you question the man.”  Paul has his chance to respond and does so eloquently. He is aware that Felix is knowledgeable about “the Way” and puts his case well. But Felix prevaricates, and though obviously intrigued by Paul, he cannot bring himself to believe in Jesus as the Messiah and saviour. When they talk about the judgement to come, Felix is terrified and dismisses Paul.  His opportunity is gone.  What a sad picture this is - someone rejecting Christ.
 
There we leave it for now - Paul is not guilty but Felix, unable and unwilling to decide the case, keeps him in custody for 2 years before passing the buck to Festus! But Paul still makes the most of it talking as much as he can about the Gospel.
 
"And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity." Colossians 4(3-5)

Prayer
Lord help me, I pray, to make the most of every opportunity that you give me in my day to day life, both to live out my faith in you and to talk of about you. I pray that people will listen and respond to your message of hope and eternal life through you as their Saviour.   Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 36 

Acts 23:23-35 Paul Imprisoned

I find something almost amusing about the picture of Paul’s journey to Caesarea. Paul the holy man, the exponent of a life of love and care through and for Jesus; Peace-loving  Paul who describes the fruit of the Holy Spirit filled life as “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control” (Galatians 5:22), is escorted in a pretty impressive military convoy.   Lysias, the commander in Jerusalem, aware of the substantial threat of 40 armed insurrectionists intent on murdering Paul, sends him away with a protection unit of 470 heavily armed and well trained Roman soldiers. I wonder what Paul was thinking.
 
Here is God working all things out in His plan for Paul and for the Gospel. And the might of the secular state is being used by God to fulfil what He wants. 
 
Paul’s journey to Caesarea is safely achieved and we see the progression of what Luke recorded as Paul’s commission from Jesus “…to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel.  We will keep this in mind in our readings in the next few days, for we see Paul beginning to be brought before kings and leaders to give an account of himself.  Luke is bringing his book to a real climax.
 
What do you make of Lysias’ letter to Felix the Governor at Caeserea? He seems to put a spin on it and bend the truth to make himself look like the hero of the moment, and therefore look much better in the Governor’s eyes.  Look how how many times he uses ‘I’! We might find some resonance in our society today with it’s fixation with ‘me’ and ‘I’ and painting ourselves in the best possible light, or not taking responsibility for our errors or actions.
 
Paul in the meantime is resigned to being brought safely to Caeserea. He didn’t have much option. Uncertainty, fear and ongoing threat faced him. As we will see, from this point on he didn’t have his own freedom at all for some years.  Things are certainly working out as was prophesied for Paul. In that situation we might well feel hopeless, very afraid and uncertain. God does not promise an easy, pain free, problem free, un-traumatised life.
 
Paul will later reflect that this very captivity he was just starting, serves to extend the Gospel.
 
Philippians 1 (12-14)
"Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear."

Prayer
Lord thank you that you promise to walk with me in every moment and circumstance of my life. Thank you that in the difficult and dark moments you are there.  Help me trust you more and to learn to be faithful every day and in every circumstance. Help me understand the comfort of your Spirit (the comforter) and to share my love and understanding of you with others. Amen

40 Days Blog - Day 35 

Acts 22:30-23:22 The Plot To Kill Paul

Another day, another mob. Another twist, another unexpected turn and another reassurance from the Lord.
 
Luke really is a very good writer, isn’t he! Throughout Acts we have seen how meticulous his research and information gathering is. And then he writes a cracking, fast paced, detailed, yet extremely readable story with great descriptions and clear development in the action. We will come back to why he wrote his two books tomorrow. 
 
But for the moment let’s just consider how today’s reading opens with a real scene setter.
 
Again try to picture it. Paul is released from custody by the commander (Claudius Lysias - we learn his name in the next chapter). Lysias, needing to do what was required of him for an accused Roman citizen, pursues a full and appropriate investigation. What was yesterday’s fuss really about? He wants the truth and he summons the Jewish leadership - their most important people, the whole Sanhedrin - to come and explain themselves. It was a big crowd of angry and opinionated men. They stand before the commander and the action begins.
 
The real issue is the hard boiled hearts of the Jews.  Entrenched in law observance and fiercely defensive of ‘the faith’ as they believe it to be. They cannot see the ‘wood’ for the trees. The truth Jesus brings of eternal life and hope for the ‘trees’ of tradition. Are we ever like that with our faith, where we miss out on  relationship with Jesus because our opinions hinder and distract us?
 
Into this tense, accusatory situation Paul lobs the hand grenade of ‘life after death’.  Pharisees believed in resurrection. Sadducee’s did not.  Both were Jews - and this sets the two factions so violently against each other that men were tugging Paul physically from both sides so violently, that he had to be rescued again by the commander.  Who would have had that man’s job that day!
 
One thing that may strike you in reading Acts is that the Romans Luke writes about, tend to come out of it fairly well.  He brings to his narrative ‘good Romans’ like Cornelius, a God fearing and generous man (Ch 10). And the commander in today’s account is simply, dutifully following his responsibilities under Roman Law for a Roman citizen to be treated properly. (Unlike the hastier actions of the authorities in Philippi (Ch16), it has to be said). And in the latter chapters of Acts we will meet still other Romans generally fairly disposed towards Paul.
 
What we see in this is a working out of God’s purpose and plans. Paul is aware of the hand of God in the movement of leaders hearts. He wrote…
 
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness".  2 Timothy 2(1-2)
 
The pivotal moment today is the night time encounter with the Lord. A dream? A vision? A special experience of Jesus? He spoke to Paul very clearly…. “Be encouraged, Paul.  Just as you have told people about me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome.” Vs 11 (NLT)
 
What an encouragement that must have been - especially as that is a promise he would have to hold onto for another couple of years before it was fulfilled!
 
The unexpected twist - an overheard conspiracy. 40 men so angry that they are willing to murder Paul and so Lysias is moved to seek safety for Paul.
 
Psalm 31 (14-15) “But I trust in you, Lord; I say, “You are my God.’. My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me.”
 
Today, in our 40 day prayer Journey, as you pray for the community, pray particularly for the leadership of our land - for that impacts us in so many aspects of faith, of freedom to proclaim the name of Jesus and freedom to live it out. 
 
Prayer
Lord thank you for the way you work out your promises and plans. Thank you that my times are in your hands. I trust you.  I pray for our community again today and pray in particular for those in government,  in spiritual and cultural leadership and with influence in our land.  We pray that there will be a swing to truth, honesty and integrity, and that we will be able to speak clearly of you in all situations. 

40 Days Blog - Day 34 

Acts 21:27-22:29 Paul Is Arrested In Jerusalem

A device often used by writers in novels is the ‘character of the mob’. Dickens famously did it with the French and English mobs in A tale of Two Cities, at least so my English teacher said.  The point is that the crowd has a mind, a will and a morality all of its own. It acts in a way that sets up a chain reaction of emotion.  Crowd mentality might even true of the football crowd - who may become so passionate as to indulge in behaviour that the individuals who make it up would ordinarily avoid.   But there is something especially terrifying about a lynch mob - and we have seen these in the Bible.  From Jesus’ accusers calling for his crucifixion, to our more recent reading of the riot in Ephesus.  Paul was only too aware of his own part in a similar event to the one in today’s reading. That time when he was part of a crowd that stoned Stephen. His religious standpoint and prejudice condoned Stephen’s killing.
 
The details in today’s passage give a very vivid account of what happened just about a week after Paul arrived in Jerusalem.  Try for a moment to put yourself in the action.  Try to picture the scene. Can you imagine the stifling streets; the dust in the air and on your feet (the crowd threw dust in the air); feel the anger of a ‘whole city aroused’; the shouting; the clamour; Paul being dragged out of the Temple and the doors banged shut;  and part of your crowd trying to kill him. The crowd was being dragged deeper into this unruly and dangerous act - like a fire erupting in a tinder dry house. Then imagine the intervention of the Roman ‘police’ as they clattered down the steps from their barracks and pushed through the crowd; think of Paul bound in chains and carried before you by the Roman’s for his safety; and the hush that fell on them as Paul spoke to the crowd, only to re-erupt when they were reminded of their grievance (vs 21) about a Gospel for the Gentiles. More shouting, passion and accusation.
 
But why?
 
Paul’s immediate action on arriving in Jerusalem had been to share with the leaders the amazing things that had been done in his journeys.  They were delighted by all this but remained concerned that Gentile- Jewish tension was still high in the church. Hence Paul’s ‘very Jewish’ significant period of ceremonial cleansing in yesterday’s reading.
 
Then non Christian troublemakers arrived from Asia and stirred things up with false accusations.  And what played out was exactly what had been prophesied for Paul.  He was bound, he was imprisoned. He was very nearly scourged on this occasion, but played the Roman citizen card and avoided it.
 
We see two mistaken perceptions here:

• Mistaken Identity : The Roman Commander took Paul for being an Egyptian insurrectionist. One  who was dangerous and justified being arrested.
• Mistaken Purpose : The crowd mistook Paul’s purpose - believing he was trying to destroy the Jewish faith rather than accept that Jesus was the fulfilment of the faith, being the expected Messiah. 

Again, as we see Paul tell his conversion story we see the fulfilment of his calling to preach the good news to Gentiles and Jews. And this is not the last we will hear of it.
 
As we pray for Revival, Renewal and Regrowth, pray that the Gospel message we hold before our ‘crowd’ will not be mistaken and misunderstood but be clear. Pray that Jesus’ identity will be clear. Pray that our purpose will not be misinterpreted.   Our crowd may be our work colleagues, school friends, neighbours, friends, team mates. But particularly think of our role as a church as we hold out the Gospel in the community.  Pray that we may be as clear in our telling of the Gospel as Paul was in his account.
 
Jesus reassured us that, as we see here with Paul, the Sprit never leaves us to flounder on our own….
 
Luke 12 (11-12). Jesus said, “When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.”

Prayer
Lord thank you for the power of your Word to change people’s lives. Please show me today opportunities the opportunities I am given to talk of you and help me to make the most of them.  And give me, I pray, the confidence to speak out and the words to say. You promise to do this through your Spirit dwelling in me. Thank you. Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 33 

Acts 21:1-26 Paul Aims For Jerusalem

How have you been getting on with your 40 Day journey? We have been praying now for 32 days for Revival, Renewal and Regrowth locally. So this is a good moment to pause and look back on where we have been in our Acts journey, and also to take stock of our own reflections. Maybe you can take a little extra time today to do this.
 
I wonder, has your reading of Acts opened your eyes more to the Holy Spirit’s powerful work in the World? Has it changed you? Has Luke’s account amazed you, perhaps challenged you and helped focus your prayers? Or maybe you are still confused by some of the action and have more questions than answers.  It certainly has been an honest account highlighting both great successes and problems as the early church, grappled with faith, personality and significant differences of opinion. Yet the overriding story is the amazing Spirit led spread of the Gospel throughout the known world and across all national and racial groups. That is pretty unique!
 
Acts is proving to be a very necessary story in the Bible.  Without it it would be very hard for us to understand the letters to the churches in the New Testament and the issues they deal with. It gives us context for that time, but is certainly still very relevant for us today. Today’s reading with its tensions among between Gentile and Jewish believers is typical of this.
 
One thing that really struck me in our Acts journey, was God’s words to Ananias in Chapter 9 when he was asked to go and comfort Paul.  “..Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel.  And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.”  That is hardly a good job description for a new recruit! - ‘The rewards are good but you are really going to suffer in this job.’ 
 
And there was plenty of it for Paul. Stoning, imprisonment, privation, shipwreck, accusations against his reputation (something that we’d agree always hurts and frustrates!), death threats and more (see 2 Corinthians 11: 21-29 )
 
Our passage today marks a pivotal moment in the Acts story as Paul turns his face resolutely towards Jerusalem.
 
We saw yesterday that he is keen to be there for Pentecost - a celebration 50 days after the annual Passover.  He is aware of the dangers of the move - so why go ahead with it?  Paul has just discussed with his very good friends and brothers from Ephesus that he will never see them again. He has said (20:22) that hardships face him if he goes on with his plan to visit Jerusalem. 
 
He now receives several other warnings that imprisonment faces him.  And yet he is unswerving in his determination to go to Jerusalem.  It may remind you of Jesus words to his disciples (Mark 10) “We are going to Jerusalem where the son of Man will be killed and on the third day rise again”.  Paul is not going feeling that his life, his potential sacrifice is in any way similar to Jesus, but he goes in the knowledge that his Lord has suffered all he might face himself - and more.  This is for Paul surely a reassurance and a strength as it has been for so many Christians who have known true persecution or suffering since. 
 
On some occasions we have seen the Holy Spirit warning his followers off from going or being somewhere (Paul escaping from Damascus for example, or Peter leaving Jerusalem after his miraculous escape).
 
But on this occasion, despite repeated warnings and the urgent entreaties of his friends not to go through with it, Paul states that he is ready for whatever faces him. This is not disobedience to the Spirit. Paul is convinced it is necessary and his friends are ultimately content to accept the will of God - whatever happens. (Vs 14). In consequence, as we shall see, some important doors are opened to him. And it is in this attitude that Christians have gone into dangerous and hostile cultures in the World to spread the Word, ever since. 
 
So we should read this, today, in the context of Paul’s own words in Romans   “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
 
In practice then - the road ahead is not always rosy for us and we may often find ourselves in dark places, facing opposition.  Remember first that Jesus has experienced this before you and then that he is with you in that moment. And God is working out his purposes through your life, just as He did in Paul’s, as we shall see over the next few days. 
 
Prayer
Lord, thank you that I can be sure that you understand any difficulties, trials, temptations and suffering I have.  Thank you that though life may be very hard to understand at times, you walk with me and understand fully my needs.  Help me please to be ready, even brave, to stand up for you.  Amen
 
Finally As we enter the last phase of our journey let us double our efforts in prayer for Renewal, Revival & Regrowth.  Make that a priority for the last 8 days!

40 Days Blog - Day 32 

Acts 20:13-38 Farewell Speech To Friends

Paul travels hurriedly to Miletus (around 40 miles South of Ephesus on the Turkish coast). Paul is in a hurry because he wants to be in Jerusalem for the day of Pentecost.
 
He sends for the elders of the church in Ephesus, and he talks to them face-to-face for the last time. He reminisces with them of his time in Ephesus, and reminds them of his intent to reach both Jews and Greeks. He knows that he is compelled by the Holy Spirit to go to Jerusalem, but he also knows that it’s not going to be easy. He knows that prison and persecution are ahead of him. Finally, Paul exhorts them to keep to the faith when he has left them for this final time. 
 
Even with the foreknowledge of his own future troubles, Paul blesses the elders of the church at Ephesus with the gift of encouragement. He knows things will not be easy for them either. New believers will come, some will fall away. Persecution likely awaits them also. But then Jesus told us that it wouldn’t be easy; it wasn’t easy then, and it won’t necessarily be easy even now.
 
Of all Paul’s speeches, this is the only major one to a Christian audience. It has much in common with some of his letters. He reminds them of his own ministry, speaks to them of the future, warns them of false teachings, and encourages them to have healthy attitudes to material goods. Using that model, we should take heart from the work of faithful workers for Christ over the years. We should have an awareness of what realistically lies ahead as we walk the way with Christ. We should guard against false doctrines and ideas that take us away from Christ’s gospel. And we should protect ourselves from the materialism which can be so clearly seen as an idol of our age.  
 
Paul’s message remains fresh for us today. Sometimes the Spirit guides us to go forward into the heart of the battle - like Paul returning to Jerusalem. However, sometimes the Spirit tells us to hold fast, to remain faithful, to watch and pray, like the elders in Ephesus. Whatever God’s call is for each of us individually and as a church, we ought to “trust and obey for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”
 
Romans 8:38-39
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
 
Prayer
Our Lord and our God. Help us to help one another and to uphold one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. You know what the future holds and that is enough for us, for we put our trust and our faith wholly in You, our creator and our redeemer. Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 31 

Acts 20:1-12 A Young Man Falls Asleep

Our reading today begins with Paul travelling from Ephesus to Macedonia, then to Greece, and eventually to Troas (which is on the Northern tip of Tukey’s West coast).
 
Because he was only making a ‘flying visit’ to Troas, on the Sunday, Paul met with the believers there, and spoke until late into the night. As Paul speaks, we encounter Eutychus a young man, who while listening to Paul falls asleep and tumbles out of the window to his death. But Paul puts his arms around Eutychus and the young man regains life. 
 
When I was a child, I got into the habit of often falling asleep to “A Book at Bedtime” on Radio 4. Of course, nowadays we have so many other media outlets, such as podcasts, that I’ve got access to a huge choice of audio books and broadcasts to fall asleep to and never actually hear! I could probably tell you about the first five minutes of each of them. But after that …… the midnight train has definitely departed for the land of nod. 
 
It is possible to lose concentration or fall asleep in a spiritual sense. Our hearts and minds are often way-laid by the daily concerns of life so that we fail to listen for the voice of the Spirit rising within us. We can be too easily distracted from the work of growing God’s Kingdom, and actually so ignore God’s still small voice that we are effectively spiritually asleep.
 
However, when the morning eventually comes, in order that we don’t sleep-in too long, we need to be wakened-up. Sometimes that’s with a gentle hand and sometimes it’s with a deafening alarm. In whatever way God chooses to spiritually awaken us and get our attention, He does it in love and for our good. He does it so that we may grow in the depth of our relationship with Him. And He does it so that we may rise and support and encourage each other to know better our loving heavenly Father.          
 
John 15:15-17
I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.  You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit - fruit that will last - and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.  This is my command: Love each other.
 
Prayer
Lord, help us to be conscious of Your presence and Your will as we walk the way with You each day. As Your church, help us to share with one another our experience of You, so that we may all grow in love and praise for You and be fully awake to You. Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 30 

Acts 19:1-41 Success And Strife In Ephesus

While Apollos had now headed for Achaia (mainland Greece), Paul now heads from Corinth to Ephesus - where Apollos had already been. Unsurprisingly, Paul meets disciples of John the Baptist. They believed in John’s message (Matthew 3:2 “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” as well as Luke 3:16 “I baptise you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
 
But they had not yet heard that the Messiah had come; that Jesus had brought about the Kingdom of God, had died, and had risen from the dead; and that the baptism of the Holy Spirit had come at Pentecost.
 
While many received Paul’s message and came to believe, he again found that many refused to believe. So, he began to have daily discussions in the lecture hall of Tyrannus for some two years.
 
Artemis was a Greek goddess (in Roman culture identified as Diana). The Temple of Artemis was in Ephesus, and the cult of Artemis brought lucrative work to the city. However, Paul’s message threatened that work, so the craftsmen began to riot against him.
 
We can often be like these craftsmen.  Many times, we have preconceived ideas and agendas which we want to hold on to at any cost. These preconceived notions often cause us to deny the actual truth, and instead try to hold onto what we already think we know. Does our heart really desire our version of a passing truth, or God’s version of the Truth?
 
Do we sometimes behave more like disciples of John the Baptist, repenting of our sins and still waiting for the good news? Or are we like post-Pentecost disciples of Jesus? Keenly aware that our salvation has been fully purchased by God the Father through God the Son, and that we each have full access to the wondrous person of God the Holy Spirit.
 
On this ‘leap day’ do we ‘leap for joy’ at the completeness of the work that God has done for each of us? To love us. To be merciful and gracious to us. To stir within us and open our eyes to the reality of our separation from Him. And to allow us to accept His salvation and enter into His Holy presence as His own redeemed children. 
 
Mark 1:15
After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
 
Prayer
Father God, we are so aware of our need for You. You have created us and  we cannot ever be fully human without being in relationship with You. Thank You for loving us so much that we may each enter into and grow in that wondrous loving relationship with You, our Lord and our redeemer. Fill us with the Holy Spirit that we may worship You in all that we say and do. Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 29 

Acts 18:1-28 Corinth

Paul travelled from Athens to Corinth, where he then stayed for around 18 months. Here he first meets Priscilla and Aquila who were tentmakers, like Paul. In AD 49, Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome and so Priscilla and Aquila - both Jewish coverts to Christianity - travelled from Rome to Corinth. 
 
Paul initially went to the synagogue every Sabbath, trying to persuade the Jews and Greeks. But Paul found himself being opposed and abused. So – at least in Corinth – Paul declared that he’d only go to the gentiles. (It reminds me of N T Wright’s  amusing comment that as the then Bishop of Durham “Wherever St Paul went, there was a riot. Wherever I go, they serve tea!”).
 
Eventually, Paul along with Priscilla and Aquila travels to Ephesus. Paul leaves them there, and travels on to Caesarea. But back in Ephesus, Priscilla and Aquila meet Apollos, a powerful speaker and disciple of John the Baptist. Apollos only knew of John’s baptism, and so Priscilla and Aquila spent time with him, and told him of Jesus and of the gospel more completely.
 
Is it not wonderful how Paul (having left Silas and Timothy) finds Christian fellowship with Priscilla and Aquilla? Is it not inspiring that despite Paul being opposed by many Jews, he finds that Crispus – the synagogue leader – believed and was baptised? And is it not heartening that, in Ephesus, Priscilla and Aquilla mentor Apollos, who then went on to play an important role in developing the early churches in both Corinth and Ephesus?
 
These records witness to us the importance of gathering together as God’s church, supporting one another in the Spirit, developing the gifts of the Spirit, and in the fullness of time seeing the harvest of the fruits of the Spirit.           
 
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
 
Prayer
Father, we thank you that as Your children, we have brothers and sisters in Christ. Help us to know how best to support and encourage each another. We thank You that we can do this through our love for You and for fellow Christian’s. Lord God, guide us in how to bear one another’s burdens and uphold each other, so that we may each grow in Christ and be conformed to the image of Your Son. Amen.  

40 Days Blog - Day 28 

Acts 17:16-34 In Athens

Paul finds himself in Athens without Silas and Timothy. In that city which had given birth to so many schools of philosophical thought, now filled with false idols, he gets into a debate with Epicurean and Stoic philosophers.
 
Epicureans and Stoics disagreed with one another. Epicureans were materialists,  and religious sceptics They were a form of hedonist in that they believed pleasure to be an intrinsic goal, and the absence of fear and pain the greatest pleasure. In contrast, Stoics believed that virtue was sufficient to achieve a well-lived life, and practiced the four virtues of wisdom, courage, temperance and moderation. However, it seems that many of them were less interested in seeking after the truth as such, but rather in simply discussing new ideas - like a new fashion fad. Had the Areopagus become little more than a talking shop, and Athens a home for housing everyone’s idols?
 
In that atmosphere, Paul stands and explains to them the identity of their own ‘UNKNOWN GOD’ using contemporary sources to awake their interest. At verse 28, he quotes Cretan philosopher Epimenide ‘For in Him we live and move and have our being’. And at verse 29, he quotes from the Stoic philosopher Aratus ‘We are His offspring.’ Some understood and received the message, others mocked, while others responded on an intellectual level only.
 
Paul’s experience is similar to our experience today in many ways. We live in an age where we often feel that the heyday of the church in our country has passed. Where we are surrounded by a spirit not of God, but of scepticism and cynicism. A landscape filled with new false idols of celebrity and self. Where the God-shaped hole in many is either left empty or filled by self-love.
 
But yet so many people today still say that they believe in “SOMETHING.” What or who is this “something” or “someone”? We dare to proclaim boldly that this “UNKNOWN GOD” is CHRIST. For only Christ, God the Son, offers us reconciliation and relationship with Him and with God the Father, and with God the Holy Spirt who guides, strengthens and upholds us.
 
1 Corinthians 1:22-24
Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles,  but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
 
Prayer
Lord, guide us to encounter and reach-out to people where we find them, in language which resonates with them of You. You know the hearts of each of us Father. Give us hearts that are softened by Your grace and mercy to reach out with Your love. Amen.    

40 Days Blog - Day 27 

Acts 17:1-15 Into Thessalonica And Berea

Today’s passage sees Paul and his companion’s travel from Philippi to Thessalonica. The Via Egnatia had been built by the Romans from what is now Istanbul in the East to the Adriatic Sea in the West. Part of that road joined Philippi and Thessalonica - a distance of around 100 miles.
 
We are told that in Thessalonica many believed, but also that many did not. The message certainly caused strong reactions one way or another. In Philippi and Thessalonica, they encounter mixed reactions, but they don’t allow this to detract them from their mission. They were only in Thessalonica for a few weeks, but long enough to start a small yet effective church.

Later, in 1 Thessalonians 1:4-8, Paul writes to the church at Thessalonica saying:
 
‘For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so, you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia - your faith in God has become known everywhere.’ 
 
“Rang out” is the translation of the Greek word “execheo” from which the English word “echo” comes. Those in Thessalonica had received the gospel and then they relayed the gospel. Yes, they had initially been in receive mode, but then they switched to transmit mode. The good news “rang out” from them. They echoed it.
 
Where do we find ourselves as a church and as individuals? Are we merely passive observers or are we actively echoing? Are we media consumers or are we the very media that helps the good news to “ring out”? We are not all like Paul, but we are all like those in Thessalonica. We’ve been given the good news and we can pass it on to those in our area, in our sphere. It’s the best news that any one of us can ever hear or ever accept. And it’s the greatest news that we can ever relay to others.
 
Romans 10:9-10
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.
 
Prayer
Lord, guide us how to pass on your good news to our needy world, whether by what we say or what we do. Help us to understand our total dependence on You, not only in each moment of our earthly lives, but for each moment of eternity. You came to seek and to save the lost. Help us to be Your voice, Your hands, in this place and time. Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 26 

Acts 16:11-40 In Phillipi

In today’s reading we find Paul in Phillipi during four very different episodes. Firstly, Lydia’s heart is opened to the message taught by Paul. Secondly, Paul and Silas are dragged through the streets, beaten and imprisoned because of the vengeful actions of the owners of a slave girl that Paul had rid of an evil spirit. Thirdly, Paul and Silas are in prison ‘praying and singing hymns to God’ when there’s an earthquake, and the prison doors open. And finally, they receive an apology from the magistrates who now know that they are Roman citizens.  
 
The Holy Spirit is present in each episode. However, in each scene, the Spirit's actions and the outcome of those actions, is very different. In the first, by the Spirit, Lydia’s heart is opened, and Paul and Silas are invited to stay with her. In the second, by the Holy Spirit, Paul rids the slave girl of an evil spirit, but Paul and Silas find themselves humiliated and in prison. In the third and fourth, again through the Holy Spirit, Paul and Silas worship God, then find themselves comforting their jailer, gaining souls for Christ, and getting an apology from their persecutors.
 
In each episode Paul and Silas stay firm in their intention of reaching out with the gospel message. Individually and as a church, what would we say is our purpose; our main intent? Is it to glorify God in all circumstances and to proclaim the good news of salvation? To be in mission mode rather than maintenance mode. Or is that something for others, the professionals, the better equipped, the better educated?
 
Rev John Harper found himself on the sinking Titanic. He fully recognised the urgency to preach the gospel message to his fellow passengers. It is reported that he preached a verse from today’s reading - Acts 16:31 'Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.'
 
By the end of today’s passage, despite their ordeals, Paul and Silas leave Philippi having won new believers. It is clear that sometimes new believers come to Christ by hearing and responding to the word like Lydia. But it is also clear that other times, new believers come to Christ in harrowing circumstance like the jailer. The same Holy Spirit gave four very different circumstances to Paul and Silas, but in each they were willing witnesses to the Word.         
 
Isaiah 8:9-10
"‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts,  neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. 'As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways  and my thoughts than your thoughts …’”
 
Prayer
Father, we often cannot fathom Your ways, Your wisdom.  You are full of grace, mercy, love and wisdom. Lord, guide us that we might follow You always, and open our eyes to the opportunities which the Holy Spirit gifts to each of us to witness to Your Son. Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 25 

Acts 15:36-16:10 A Second Trip Starts Badly

In our reading today Paul and Barnabas initially agree to make return visits to Syria, Cilicia and Cyprus. However, they quickly disagree about who to take with them. Paul doesn’t want to take Barnabas’ cousin, John called Mark. But Barnabas (whose name means ‘Son of Encouragement’) was determined to take Mark.
 
Paul was concerned that Mark had let them down on a previous occasion, but perhaps Barnabas thought that to show trust in Mark would rebuild Mark’s confidence. Also, we should remember what we read on Day 15 at Acts 9:26-27:
 
‘When he [Paul then known as Saul] came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple.  But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.’ 
 
What would have happened if in Jerusalem Barnabas had not shown trust in Paul? The spread of the gospel throughout the Mediterranean would have looked very different. And we know that later Paul shows a new-found appreciation for Mark, saying at 2 Timothy 4:11:
 
‘Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.’
 
So, two teams head-out, one with Paul and one with Barnabas. The two teams likely had very different leadership styles - neither wrong, just different, and critically sharing a unity of purpose.
 
As we then read, Timothy joins Paul’s team, and to ensure that there are no false barriers to anyone hearing the message, Paul has Timothy circumcised out of consideration for the Jews. Then we find Paul and his companions being prevented by the Holy Spirit from going certain places. 
 
Does all this seem like success as we measure it? Pointed disagreements, conformity to unnecessary religious standards, paths blocked from intended destinations? Yet we know that, despite all these things, the gospel spread through Paul and all the others faithfully witnessing to Christ, and being firm in their shared purpose.
 
1 Corinthians 9, 22-23
'I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.'
 
Prayer
Father, we pray for unity of purpose. To witness together as a church to Your grace and to Your love. Guide us Holy Spirit as to what You want from us so that we may glorify You and You alone. Amen.   

40 Days Blog - Day 24 

Acts 15:1-35 Council Of Jerusalem

1. So far in our daily studies we have seen how the gospel has been made available to all, through the work of the Holy Spirit.  It has also been interesting to read of opposition and tough times for Peter, Barnabas, Paul and others.
2. Nevertheless, in God’s grace and mercy, many folk have heard the good news and, in a range of places, have responded in faith and put their trust in our Lord Jesus Christ.
3. This section of the Acts has been called the watershed and the turning point in Luke’s account.   The meeting of the church in Jerusalem comes after Paul’s first missionary journey and before the start of His second trip.
4. The problem is outlined in the first two verses – a few Jewish believers were urging some new Gentile converts to be circumcised in order to be saved and to know God’s salvation. This needed urgent clarification so Paul and Barnabas were appointed to go to Jerusalem to consult with the apostles and elders there.
5. After much discussion, Peter again makes a convincing speech and underlines the fact that the Holy Spirit makes no distinction between Jew or Gentile or anyone else.   All of us are sinners and need God’s salvation.    
6. Paul and Barnabas told the whole assembly of the amazing signs and wonders that God had done through them on their travels.  Then James, the brother of Jesus, is next to speak.  He makes it clear that the inclusion of Gentiles is what God had promised to do and he suggests that a letter should be written and sent to all these people.
7. The letter to these churches asked the Gentiles to refrain from habits that would make fellowship with Jewish believers difficult, namely eating food previously offered to idols, eating meat not properly butchered and avoiding sexual immorality.
8. Judas (called Barsabbas) and Silas were chosen to take the letter and accompany Paul and Barnabas to Antioch. The people there were encouraged by what they read and the apostles continued to teach and preach the word of the Lord. 

Prayer     
Gracious God,  we thank you again today for the events of the early church and the spread of the gospel message.   Help us always to understand and apply your truth and not to be influenced by others.  We recognise there will always be opposition for us nowadays.   Help us to cope with that in your mercy and grace.   Thank you Lord Jesus.  Amen

40 Days Blog - Day 23 

Acts 14:1-28 The Church Grows

1. Arriving in Iconium, Paul & Barnabas headed to the Synagogue and there they preached so effectively in the power of the Holy Spirit that many more people believed in Jesus and in the gospel message.
2. However, wherever God is working we can expect opposition and this continued - with false accusations being made about the apostles.  Unbelieving Jews stirred up other doubters and the result was, despite speaking boldly for some time, the two men fled to the cities of Lystra and Derbe.
3. Paul’s first miracle was performed in Lystra on the crippled man and the people were amazed and thought they were gods! – Barnabas being called Zeus, the god of the sky while Paul was called Hermes, son of Zeus!
4. Both men quickly assured the crowd that they were ordinary men like them but they brought the message from the living God to turn from their worthless ways and trust in Him who provides the rain and the crops and food and who “fills your hearts with joy” verse 17
5. Meanwhile, we have heard nothing of Peter and we presume he continued to preach and address the crowds back in Antioch, seeing many others responding in faith to the gospel message.
6. Some Jews came over from Antioch and from Iconium and got the crowd on their side.   However, we read that Paul was stoned by some folk and dragged outside the city but, in God’s goodness, he survived that attack & the next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.
7. Once there they preached the good news of the gospel and a large number of people became disciples.  Later they retraced their steps to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, appointing elders in these new churches and strengthening and encouraging each one in their new faith – an important exercise for all our church families in these difficult days in which we live.
8. At the end of chapter 14, both men return to their sending church in Antioch in Syria.   They gathered the church members together and reported all that had been achieved with God’s help over the previous months on their missionary journey.

Prayer
Dear Father God, thank you for this account of these early missionaries and their boldness in proclaiming your Word to so many, despite opposition and physical attacks and persecution.  Please help us, Lord, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to be strong in our faith and to seize every opportunity to speak well of you and all you mean to us.  Amen

40 Days Blog - Day 22 

Acts 13:13-52 Events In Pisidian Antioch

1. As was their good custom, Paul & Barnabas visit the synagogue first of all.   There’s no evidence of competition between these two men but, from here on in Luke’s careful account of the early church, Paul in mentioned first – probably rightly so due to his giftedness and good leadership qualities.
2. As someone once observed - “It takes more grace than I can tell to play the second fiddle well!”  - something we should keep in mind as we pray for and support others in leadership. Barnabas certainly played a great supporting role.
3. In a major speech from verse 16, Paul outlines some of Israel’s history, emphasising in verse 26 that the message and gift of salvation are now for all mankind.  The resurrection of Jesus is the guarantee of salvation and the forgiveness of sins – achieved through faith in Jesus (verse 38).
4. God had prepared the way for the coming of the Saviour (v16 – 23) and had sent John as the forerunner (v 24, 25).   Yet the Jewish rulers rejected him – as do so many millions nowadays!
5. Paul urges those listening to him not to duplicate their dreadful mistake. In their privileged position of knowing the background to all this, they had the responsibility of responding wisely and appropriately.   Hallelujah!  - some did respond properly and found forgiveness and salvation that day (v 42,43).
6. On the next Sabbath day a huge number attended but alas the leaders of the Jews who showed their envy and jealousy (as in Acts ch 5 v 17)  start to contradict and upset Paul.
7. Consequently, having given the Jews first chance, Paul now turns to speak to the Gentile crowd who gave him a pleasing reception.

From verse 49 – 52 Luke reports :-

• The wider spread of the gospel
• More people repenting and giving their lives to Jesus in faith
• Growing opposition from the Jews
• The symbolic shaking of dust off their feet (see Luke ch 9 v 5)
• Fullness of joy and the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers 

Throughout this passage, Luke emphasises that all this is God’s work and it is His plan that we see being unfolded.
 
Prayer
Please help me, Father, to support our leaders in prayer and to encourage them in all the work they do for you.  Thank you for all of our church activities and for the time and hard work put in by our leaders.  Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 21 

Acts 13:1-12 Events In Cyprus

In verse 2 of this chapter, we read “The Holy Spirit said . . . .” – just one example of the 22 direct voices of God in the text of the Acts of the Apostles.    The majority of these encourage the early church (and indeed each of us nowadays) to move out of the comfort zone and take real steps of faith – but only with God’s help and the Holy Spirit’s power! 

1. Dr Luke, the author of the Acts, clearly writes the account of the selection of Barnabas and Saul for the first missionary journey.   At Antioch the prophets and teachers fasted and prayed and commended these two men to the work of God and the extension of His kingdom through the preaching of the gospel and the saving of precious souls.
2. So they sailed to Cyprus and, after landing at Salamis, they preached in the synagogues and travelled through the whole island to Paphos – still today a lively town and holiday centre.
3. It is interesting to note from this point onwards the change in name and in the order – “Paul and Barnabas” is usually the preferred order, the apostle Paul being a more robust and stronger character while Barnabas became his ‘man Friday’ and was a strong supporter and encourager.
4. Opposition came early through the Jewish sorcerer but his boss the proconsul asked to meet the two missionaries as he wanted to hear the word of God.  Paul spoke directly to the false prophet  “You are a child of the devil . . .”  The man became blind and, on witnessing this, the proconsul believed and became a Christian. 

Some lessons from this chapter:

• The mission of the church is wholly dependent on the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.
• The boldness of Paul and the disciples in their preaching of the good news of the gospel in pursuit of lost souls.
• The fact that there has always been opposition to the gospel and probably always will be.
• The first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas resulted in branches of the church being set up in areas far away from Jerusalem. 

Prayer   
Dear Heavenly Father,  we thank you from our hearts today for the pioneering spirit of these early disciples and their boldness in preaching your message of salvation. Please help each one of us to know and to exercise this boldness, with the Holy Spirit’s help and encouragement, in our lives.  Amen.       

40 Days Blog - Day 20 

Acts 12:1-25 Peter Escapes Prison

This chapter 12 which had begun so well for Herod, and looked so dark for the early church (ie. the death of the apostle James and the imprisonment of the apostle Peter), ends with the remarkable freedom of Peter, the death of King Herod and the beginning of the mission to the Gentiles !

1. The key to this amazing change in fortunes is the fact that the people were praying – a major lesson for us all as we underline the importance of daily prayer, not only on a personal basis but also in the corporate life of our church!
2. We need to get hold of this because, as most of us know, the decline in the effectiveness of the church, particularly in the Western world, is due to the fact that we fail to pray enough!
3. Despite his plight and the strong guards around him, Peter is in a deep sleep.   Just imagine his alarm and astonishment when the angel wakens him and tells him to get dressed and follow him – past the first and second guards and through the big iron gate!
4. In this passage we are again reading about the ‘God of the Impossible’  Nothing is too hard for our God.   All things are possible with our Heavenly Father..   Just think of the story in Genesis ch 18 when Abraham & Sarah in their old age were told they would have a son !  Verse 14 asks “ Is anything too hard for the Lord?”   All of us need to believe this!
5. Having walked out of the heavily guarded prison, Peter is now aware that this is not another vision !  The angel leaves Peter and he walks to the house of Mary where many folk were praying.  These folk perhaps didn’t really expect their prayers to be answered as they were astonished to see Peter standing there!
6. Herod got his just deserts when he failed to give praise to God.  As we might expect, the Word of God continued to increase and spread Many and more people heard about Jesus and the gospel message of salvation.

Prayer
Dear Father, as we read this amazing chapter we think of and we pray for many people across our world who are wrongly imprisoned and in many cases because they are Christians and love the Lord Jesus.  Please minister to each one and give them the daily strength and help that they need.  Amen

40 Days Blog - Day 19 

Acts 11:19-30 The Church In Antioch

There’s such exciting news in this section when the disciples (or followers of Jesus) moved extensively throughout the region to tell others about the good news of the gospel!
  
It is often helpful in such studies to consult a map of the Eastern Mediterranean area – if only to understand and appreciate some of the distances these men travelled in their zeal to tell others about Jesus.

1. Some went to Antioch, way in the north of Syria and the Holy Spirit touched many lives to respond to the good news of salvation.   Verse 21 indicates that a great number of people turned from their old ways and gave their lives to God in faith.  
2. The church in Jerusalem heard this good news and sent Barnabas (known as the ‘son of encouragement’) to Antioch.  He was thrilled to see what was happening there and went further north to Tarsus to seek out Paul and bring him back.
3. For a full twelve months both these men met regularly with the growing church family there, teaching them the scriptures and preaching the gospel. The disciples were called ‘Christians’ or followers of Christ there – interestingly the term is used only three times in the New Testament – twice in Acts and then in 1 Peter ch 4.
4. Antioch soon became a focal point of the early believers and also developed as a mission sponsoring church, sending Paul and Barnabas to various places on tours of evangelism.  They preached the gospel and met many folk who acknowledged their sins and turned to Christ for salvation.   
5. During that exciting period some other prophets came north to Antioch from Jerusalem.   It was predicted that a severe famine would spread over the Roman world.  The disciples in Antioch responded positively and sent funds with Paul and Barnabas to those in need - a principle which we will see extended in later chapters of Acts. 

Prayer   
Our Father we want to thank you today for these stories of the early church and the work of the Holy Spirit in convincing folk of their need of a Saviour.  Please help us to realise our position as we thank you again Lord Jesus for dying on that awful cross of Calvary for our sins.   Thank you so much for our salvation and your protecting care over us day by day.  Amen

40 Days Blog - Day 18 

Acts 11:1-18 Peter's Explanation To The Church

In the scriptures when a story or experience is repeated it underlines the importance of that event and here in chapter 11 Peter again relates his vision and the dramatic opening up of the possibilities for all mankind to be part of God’s great worldwide family, and not just the Jews, as formerly. 

1. This amazing event with the vision of all these animals and birds in that sheet let down from heaven accelerates the journey of the development of the gospel and the message of Jesus into the Gentile world and beyond.
2. Peter returns to Jerusalem and explains to the church leaders how the Holy Spirit has fallen on a group of Gentiles in Caesarea.  Imagine his excitement because of all that was taking place!
3. However, the imperfect state of human nature is such that even some godly people were displeased to hear that the Word of God had been received by others and that Peter had shared a meal with them!
4. Peter graciously explains that he had been invited to tell these folk about Jesus.   Perhaps we too should look out for opportunities to relate to our friends, relatives and neighbours what God has done in our lives and how much He loves and cares for us all.
5. Peter’s vision taught him that as Jesus had declared all food clean ( Mark ch 7 v 19 ) He similarly declared all people now have the potential to ask God to forgive their sins and become Christians.   
6. Tomorrow we will read of the great number of new believers and how the Holy Spirit empowered the early church to expand the Kingdom of God 

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, help us to appreciate the saving work of the Holy Spirit even today as He touches the lives of many folk across our world week by week.   Help me to know the benefits of Him in my life and without doubt, that I have a place in Heaven in a day to come due to my faith and trust in Him.  Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 17 

Acts 10:10-48 The Gospel Is For Everyone

Two men here are being prepared by God for a real breakthrough in the then history of mankind – the good news of the saving power of the gospel is not only for the Jews but for all others – men, women, boys and girls across the whole world!

1. Cornelius, a military man who was devout and respected God had a vision when an angel acknowledged his prayers and gifts to the poor people around him.    He told Cornelius to send men to Joppa (remember Jonah !) and to bring back to Caesarea a man called Peter.  (Verses 1 - 8)
2. On his way there with other men, Peter had a remarkable vision and was asked to kill and eat these various animals and birds, let down from heaven before him in a sheet !  His response was that he had never eaten anything impure or unclean – in line with the commands way back in Leviticus Ch. 20.  (Verses 9 – 20)
3. The apostle Peter meets with Cornelius.   The centurion bows before the former fisherman ! (v25).   Peter is just an ordinary man, albeit a servant of God and tells the gathered company that, regardless of the law against Jews meeting with Gentiles, he nevertheless came as requested to meet Cornelius.  (Verses 21 - 33)
4. Peter’s major speech from verse 34 underlines the amazing revelation that, no matter their background or upbringing, everyone is loved by God and His love and care are for the whole world !  
5. While Peter was speaking to them the Holy Spirit convicted these folk of their sin and their standing before God Almighty.  The result was that all of them were converted and were baptised.  (Verses 44 – 48) 

Some moral lessons from this chapter include :-

• No man or woman is saved or can count on a place in Heaven some day due to their good works.
• Being a devout person and respecting God are not enough to secure a relationship with God.
• All Jewish people respected Cornelius and his conversion helped Jewish believers to accept Gentile converts who had given their lives to God in faith.  
• A major change and dramatic expansion of the target audience for the gospel occurred in this chapter of Acts.    

Prayer 
Dear God please help me to remember that the gospel is for all people.   Thank you, Lord Jesus, for dying for my sins on Calvary’s cross.  Amen. 

40 Days Blog - Day 16 

Acts 9:32-43 A Healing by Peter   

Aeneas’ healing (v33); and Dorcas’ incredible raising from the dead, understandably caused a huge stir and an increase in the number of people turning to the Lord (v35; v42).  So why doesn’t God work like this today?
 
He does: people today are healed directly through prayer; they come to faith and grow in faith. However, it could be that in the western world, miraculous healing is less common now than in New Testament times.  Some say it is more common in Africa and South America where Christianity is growing rapidly, than in western world where it is in decline.  To know the facts would require a rigorous study of statistics.
 
What we do know is that not everyone in New Testament times who sought healing, was healed. Paul’s struggles with his ‘thorn in the flesh’ (2 Corinthians 12:7-9) is one example.
 
We all know people whom we would dearly love to experience healing.  We can and should pray in confidence for God to act but cannot dictate to Him how He should answer our prayers.  He knows what we do not know; He sees what we do not see; He is a God who loves us and will always act for the overall good.
 
Widows were vulnerable and needed support, but they also had an important ministry (v39; v41). Are there some in our church who are excluded from using their gifts based on age, gender, or ethnicity?  God works not only through signs and wonders, but also through quiet acts of Christian kindness; often by those we think unlikely.
 
Prayer
Father, help us always to remember to whom we pray – the Creator God of the Universe who is also our Heavenly Father and always has our well-being in His heart.  Help us in our congregational life to welcome everyone who genuinely wants to use their gifts for Your glory.  Help us to treat others as Jesus would.  Amen.   

40 Days Blog - Day 15 

Acts 9:1-31 The Conversion of Saul  

Saul (soon to be called Paul)’s conversion was not so much a change of faith, as the realisation that Jesus really is the fulfilment of all God’s plans and promises outlined in the Old Testament.  His Jewish faith was completed in Jesus. His blinding and subsequent restoration of sight summed this up.  He saw things in a new way; the light dawned.
 
We meet Jesus in different ways.  For some there is a definite moment when the light dawns; others may experience a series a small steps.  Some may have turned completely from one set of beliefs to another.  The key thing is that like Saul, we meet the Risen Jesus, who gives us new life and new purpose.  We are changed, and He keeps on changing us.
 
The change in Saul brought him big trouble.  His fellow Jews, unable to refute his arguments, prepared to murder him.  The name given at that time to Jesus’ disciples was ‘followers of the Way’ (v2).  Some of them were understandably suspicious of Saul, but thankfully others helped him escape to Jerusalem, to get away from the attempts on his life. If it hadn’t been for Barnabas who vouched for his genuine faith (v27), Saul would not have been accepted by the Apostles.
 
Church is not always easy.  There will be misunderstanding, tension and disagreement.  Newcomers don’t always fit in.  That is why we need people like Barnabas, with the wisdom and sensitivity to see what God is doing in others, and the courage to speak up in love on their behalf.  How like Barnabas are we?
 
Prayer
Father, thank You for showing us the Way.  Help us to know Jesus more clearly each day that passes. We pray for our own church family, that Your Holy Spirit would work in our hearts when we say something unthinkingly or unkindly.  Help us to be like Barnabas, to be peacekeepers.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 14 

Acts 8:26-40 Philip Meets An Ethiopian 

A friend completed his probationary period in a busy, vibrant church in Central Scotland and was looking for his first charge as a minister.  A charge from the most northerly part of the mainland asked if they could meet with him.  His reaction? ‘There’s no way I am going to the back of beyond’! 
 
Soon afterwards, his wife picked up her copy of the Church of Scotland magazine, ‘Life and Work’.  It fell open at a page with an article about that very same charge.  It concluded, ‘The back of beyond?  No, the centre of God’s love’.  They answered the call to the ‘centre of God’s love’!
 
Philip was in the middle of a Samaritan revival when God called him to travel a remote desert road.  No reason was given; but obedience and trust were required.  The result was the amazing
encounter with the Ethiopian government official.  He was serious about seeking God, or he wouldn’t have read Isaiah 53! (vv32-33).  He needed Philip to explain that centuries before Jesus came, God was preparing the way.  Jesus was rejected so that we might be accepted.  Realising this truth for himself, the Ethiopian asked for immediate baptism.  What an amazing moment!
 
We’ll meet people in whom the Holy Spirit is already at work, preparing them to hear about Jesus.  How open are we to the Holy Spirit’s prompting, so that like Philip, He can work through us too?
 
Prayer
Father, remind us of the power of the Bible to speak to us and to others.  Grant us sensitivity to what the Spirit is doing in the lives of people we meet each day, and a trusting and obedient spirit, in Jesus’ name.  Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 13 

Acts 8:1-25 The Church is Scattered  

The very same day that Stephen was killed, persecution of Jesus’ followers in Jerusalem really ramped up. So did the zeal of the man called Saul, determined to rid the land of this ‘sect’.  The believers scattered, so we might have expected them to keep a low profile.  The exact opposite happened, so we know God used even these awful events to spread the Good News of Jesus.  
 
Amongst the scattered believers was Stephen’s fellow ‘helper’, Philip (v5).  God’s power was evident in his preaching and actions, resulting in many turning to the Lord and being baptised.  But the Holy Spirit had not come upon the Samaritan believers.  There are various theories as to why this happened, but the important point is that when the Apostles heard what was happening, they sent Peter and John, who prayed for the believers, so the Spirit filled them (v17).
 
Except the Sorcerer Simon.  The spiritual battle between good and evil often takes subtle forms. Simon wanted what the Apostles had, but for self-gain, not God’s glory. His well-deserved rebuke hopefully brought him to his senses.
 
In the UK today, we face apathy or not-so subtle opposition about what we believe, rather than overt persecution.  The courage of these first believers challenges us to consider our commitment to sharing our faith with those who have differing opinions.  The passage also reminds us that we too, are engaged in the spiritual battle between good and evil.  How aware of this are we?  Do we seek the Spirit’s power to lead us?
 
Prayer
Father, if there is anyone to whom You want us to speak about Jesus today, may that opportunity become clear.  Holy Spirit, fill us with Your wisdom and power to speak as You would have us, giving all glory to Jesus.  Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 12 

Acts 7:1-60 Stephen Speaks of Jesus 

In response to the accusations against him, Stephen didn’t try to defend himself; instead, he told a story!  His impressive, concise summary of Israel’s history grabbed the attention of the Jewish leaders, especially the ‘warts and all’ presentation of the Israelites’ response to God’s will.  
 
Through slavery, famine, treachery and migration, God’s promises to His people remained.  Yet the major obstacle to God’s will, Stephen pointed out, was the nearly universal rejection of God’s chosen leaders by His own people. It included Joseph (v9) and Moses (v35).  The eventual exile to Babylon was God’s judgement on their blindness (v43).
 
Could we write church history in similar terms?  Do we feel God was, and still is, at work, despite the church’s failings?
 
Stephen accused the Sanhedrin directly of resisting the Holy Spirit and failing to obey the Law.  The final straw was pointing out that God cannot be confined to any physical place (v49-50).  They ground their teeth in anger and dragged him out to be stoned, watched by a man called Saul.  Yet even in this unjust and terrible end, God was still at work.  Stephen’s face shone with God’s glory.
 
We could judge Stephen’s accusers very harshly.  But instead of casting stones, let’s examine our own hearts, to see where we might be ignoring what God is saying to us.
 
Prayer
Father, forgive us for the times we’ve been jealous, preventing us from seeing You working through others. Enable us to have wisdom like Stephen so we know what to say when challenged about our faith. Help us to have courage like Stephen.  Help us to shine with Jesus’ love.  Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 11 

Acts 6:1-15 Troubles - Opposition Grows

Ever felt undervalued or ignored?  That is how the Greek-speaking Jews who had settled in Jerusalem felt, when their widows experienced discrimination.  They felt the Hebrew and Aramaic -speaking Jews favoured their own widows in the distribution of food. As internal tensions quickly surfaced, the unity of the believers depended on how the leaders handled this delicate situation. 
 
They called a meeting allowing everyone to be involved in decision-making.  Seven dependable, wise and mature people were chosen to deal with the ‘administrative’ side of church life, to free the Apostles to concentrate on preaching and teaching. Although this solved the issue (v7), roles weren’t tightly defined.  Those in the new role were as able to share their faith as well.
 
Negative responses often arise when we feel threatened.   That is how the Jewish leaders felt; and why they reacted towards Stephen in the way they did.  He was so gracious (v15) yet provoked such hostility; they couldn’t refute his arguments so resorted to lies and deceit.  It was all part of the opposition Luke highlighted (4:2-7; 5:11; 17).
 
One of the roles of God’s Word is to correct wrong thinking, especially when our viewpoint displaces Jesus.  We may not react as viciously as the Jewish leaders did to Stephen, but sadly, we don’t always see when we are wrong, and rarely enjoy having it pointed out to us. 
 
Prayer
Forgive us Father for straying from You; when own church traditions replace Jesus in our journey of faith.  Forgive us too when we show favouritism towards some; and ignore the needs of others. Help us to see others as Jesus sees them; to love others as Jesus loves them.  Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 10 

Acts 5:17-42 Persecution Begins

Jealousy abounded amongst the Jewish religious leaders as they saw the Jesus movement growing daily (v17).  They tried to shut it down by having the Apostles arrested and imprisoned.  However, they were powerless to stop it as God miraculously intervened and sent an angel to release the Apostles from prison.  They went straight back to the Temple to continue preaching the Good News (v20).
 
When the prison guards and the Sanhedrin discovered they had gone but the jail doors still locked, they were left scratching their heads. Then, discovered preaching in the Temple again, the Apostles were re-arrested and brought back before the seething leaders. 
 
Opposition is always most deadly when it comes from those who claim religious faith (v33).  By contrast, the courage of the Apostles was admirable, stemming from their overwhelming conviction that others desperately needed to know the message of Jesus’ love.
 
How badly is this message of hope and new life needed today?  We too may face opposition as we share His love, but let’s remember the lesson of this passage.  God will not be stopped.  He used Gamaliel to remind the Sanhedrin of this (v39).  He is still the same God today.
 
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we pray for those who are in prison because of their faith in Jesus.  Fill them with Your peace.  We pray for those who suffer persecution because they follow Jesus.  Grant them Your strength.  When others mock what we believe, give us courage to speak truth in love.  Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 9 

Introduction to Acts Chapters 5-9

The early church is often seen as a great example of how to ‘do’ church growth and community outreach. However, that isn’t the whole story.  These first Jesus followers were far from perfect.  Church growth brings diverse groups of people, including troublesome members (5:1-11), and culture clashes (6:1-7).  How a church deals with these issues is fundamental to its growth.
 
To begin with, the disciples based themselves in the Temple and worked only with the Jewish community. Yet, because the Jewish leaders were deeply offended by their claims about Jesus, their anger resulted in Stephen becoming the first Christian martyr.
 
The Jewish leaders had lost sight of the fact that ‘all peoples see His glory’ (Psalm 97:6).   Thankfully, Jesus’ followers did not.  They broke free from the misconception that this was a message only for Jews and from the demands that Jewish tradition be imposed on Gentiles.
 
This is why these chapters describe the launch pad for what became a global mission.  Without it, you and I wouldn’t be who we are!
 

Acts 5:1-16 Ananias and Sapphira

Two gifts for God laid at the Apostles feet.  One was acceptable; the other not.  Disaster resulted.
 
We read yesterday that Barnabas held nothing back (4:36-37).  By contrast, Ananias and Sapphira pretended they were giving everything in a public show. They didn’t have to do this but wanted to impress, so they lied.  The shock of their deception being uncovered caused them to drop dead.
 
Harsh judgment?  This deceit wasn’t just trying to fool the Church.  It was opening a door to evil (v3); lying to God (v4); and putting the Holy Spirit to the test (v9).  The future of the Christian community was at stake: would they take holiness seriously; or would they be corrupt?  A wrong attitude to sin can ruin a community of believers.  How serious are we about being ‘wholly holy’?
 
The passage moves onto the story of the Apostles miraculously healing the sick (v14), as Jesus promised (John 14:12).  More and more people became believers. Despite evil’s attempts to disrupt the early church’s mission, it is cast out!
 
So why aren’t our prayers for healing for ourselves and others always answered? Well actually, they are – always as needed, but not necessarily as wanted.   Not everyone followed Jesus because He healed them.  That is still true today.  We seek Jesus, not what He can do for us.
 
Prayer
Father, forgive us for times of pretence when impressing others has been more important than the truth.  Jesus said the truth ‘shall set you free’.  Please set us free from falsehood and heal us of the things that hold us me back.  Enable us to follow Jesus, today and every day.  Amen.

40 Days Blog - Day 8 

Acts 4:23-237 Praying and Sharing

One thing about a compass is that you know that it will always point towards the north magnetic pole.  Here’s a question to consider today – what or who is your magnetic north?                           

Yesterday we saw that the disciples had become “confident witnesses” speaking boldly about their faith in the risen Jesus despite heavy weight opposition.  After being locked up, questioned and threatened, the believers returned to their people. 

How do you respond when you are threatened unjustly, falsely accused or unfairly overlooked?  Often, we immediately seek vindication, we demand our rights or begin to plan revenge.  Our emotions drive us.  They do say that what lies inside you comes out of you in times of trial.  Well for the disciples we see that despite the disorientation of the unfair treatment at the hands of the religious authorities, they are not driven by emotions but they return to their magnetic north…………. which is prayer.  It appears that what lies behind these men becoming “confident witnesses” is that they have developed a “Kingdom concern” which leads them to instinctively look to the Lord in all situations.  They do not lash out emotionally or try to solve the issues themselves, no they turn to prayer first, humbly recognising that God is the one who is in control.   Notice how they pray:

• worshipfully v24,
• biblically vs25-27,
• dependently v29, and
• expectantly v30.

In the face of terrifying threats from the same people who murdered Jesus, the disciples lift their eyes to God in prayer, focussing on His Kingdom rather than their problems.  This serves as an important reminder to us that our God is bigger than ANY problem that we might face and we do well to lift our eyes to him in times of trial.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 Be joyful always pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Prayer – Lord forgive me for the times when my immediate response to difficulties is to lash out in anger or malice.  Please help me to develop a “Kingdom concern” whereby prayer is my natural inclination.

40 Days Blog - Day 7 

Acts 4:1-22 Before the Sanhedrin

“Christianity is just a crutch for the weak!”  Perhaps you have heard that said before, how do you respond?  One author states, “I agree, Christianity is for the weak.  To say that it functions as a crutch is an understatement.  It not only props me up, it enables me to walk through each day in faith, without it there is no hope.” 

Whilst Christianity strengthens the weak it is also not the easy option, that’s why Jesus said, “take up your cross and follow me.”  Wherever Christ is proclaimed and lived out there will be opposition.  In our text the disciples are essentially arrested and charged with the crime of being Christians (although that was not what they were known as at this time).  Yet despite this many more believed!

Today’s passage underlines the enabling power of the Holy Spirit as the geography of the events reminds us of when Peter denied Jesus three times just outside the courtyard.  In these far more threatening conditions before the Sanhedrin leaders, Peter proclaims the resurrection and pronounces salvation in Christ alone in no uncertain terms!

Whilst the disciples were unjustly arrested and threatened, note the difference in behaviour between them and their opposition:

• The priests, the captain of the temple guard and the Sadduccess were: Greatly disturbed v2
• The Rulers, Elders and teacher of the law were: Quietened v14 / Unsure v16 /Worried v17
• The disciples were: Obedient v19 / Vocal vv8 ff/ Decisive v20

There is no doubt that they fulfilled their calling and acted as “confident witnesses”.  You too can be a “confident witness” in the face of opposition as you seek and depend upon the equipping power of the Spirit of God who is with you.

Matthew 4:19 “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.”

Prayer - Living God so often I find it hard to speak out about my faith to others who do not believe, in these situations please help me to focus on you and be aware of your enabling Spirit at work within me.

40 Days Blog - Day 6 

Acts 3:11-26 Peter Sets Out A Challenge

I once heard a preacher say “every time I preach, I seek to challenge the comfortable and bring comfort to the challenged.”  In our text today, we see Peter (equipped by the Spirit) speak out and address the crowd with absolute clarity bringing both the challenge and comfort of the gospel.  We need to know the bad news before we understand how good the good news is!

Peter brings the bad news challenge by highlighting:

• the reality of SIN v15
• the living presence of JESUS v16
• the need for REPENTANCE v19

?The message of the gospel is offensive as it confronts us with our sin and inability to stand before God and for that reason many will resist it.  The work of the Spirit enables us to see our failings and desperate need for a sin saviour.  This is uncomfortable and challenging and is an attack upon human pride.  I remember the first time I heard this message, not from Paul, but from Billy Graham in Murrayfield and I too was cut to the core (along with hundreds of others).

Peter then brings the comfort and good news of the gospel by stating that Jesus:

• wipes sins away v19
• can refresh our souls v19
• will one day restore all things v21

After being confronted by the darkness of sin, this is indeed good news for today and eternity! 

Be aware of the modern tendency to short circuit the gospel with a message that simply says “God has a plan for your life” (which is true, however, as we see from Paul’s address there is a far bigger challenge within the gospel than that).

Have you been convicted of sin and confronted by your need for a saviour? Have you personally called upon the name of Jesus and asked for His forgiveness?  Be reminded of the good news today that Jesus delights in forgiving sins, refreshing souls and ultimately one day will restore all things to Himself – whatever you are going through today, take hold of this good news!

Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes."

Prayer – Lord we thank you for the precious pearl that is the gospel, an offense to many but the power to save for all who believe.  Help me to be reminded today of the wonder of sins forgiven.

40 Days Blog - Day 5 

Acts 3:1-11 The Healing of the Lame Beggar

Today we have a beggar known by the religious folks who went to the temple.  In truth though he was only part of the scenery of the day for those passers-by.  Everyday he would take up his prime begging spot at the temple Gate called Beautiful.  This was as near as he could get to the temple as he was deemed unclean on account of his disability.  The common ancient belief was that such conditions were caused by sin (either his sin or that of a family member – a view  that Jesus disagreed with).  This man was not only contending with his disability but also with the stigma of shame.  Consequently, he was blocked from engaging with others and was very much an outsider.  In some ways this acts as a picture of us all in our standing before God without the saving grace of Jesus – we are spiritual beggars, lost, broken and outside the Kingdom of God.

Whilst Peter and John had passed by the beggar hundreds of times before, on this particular day, the Spirit of God prompted them to engage him.   Suddenly they saw him differently, he was no longer merely part of the scenery, now they saw a person in need and they shared Jesus with him.

At Pentecost the Spirit of God overcame the barrier of languages, here He removes the blockers of disability, stigma and shame.  As Jesus enters into the beggar’s life, the barriers are toppled so that he can now enter the temple courts “walking and praising God.”  No longer unclean and stuck, now healed and free.  This is a wonderful picture which applies to all who trust in Jesus as their saviour.

• Have you received the saving grace of Jesus removing the barriers to God in your life?  If so, rejoice!
• Are you open to the direction of the Spirit to disturb your plans and unexpectedly lead you to others? 
• Be reminded that the Holy Spirit removes barriers of class, creed and colour so that there is no blocker to Jesus other than pride.

Ephesians 2:13 "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ."

Prayer – Heavenly Father please help me to tune into the promptings of the Holy Spirit so that I might see the brokenness of others around me and reach out to them in your strength and love.  

40 Days Blog - Day 4 

Acts 2:14-47 Peter's Address

What happens when that daring bungee jumper steps off the bridge?  Well, that’s the moment when the harness/rope fully comes into play - it moves, it stretches, and it pulls the individual back to a place of safety.  Note this though, it’s not until the person jumps that the power and protecting elements of the bungee rope are fully known.  So too with us in relation to the Holy Spirit.  If we remain within our comfort zone, never being stretched or challenged, we will miss out on knowing the enabling, equipping and transforming power of the Spirit of God.  The Christian who plays it safe is like the person who attaches a full harness and bungee rope around themselves but will only jump from their two foot garden wall and no higher!

Well, here’s Peter’s bungee moment!  The crowd that gathered had a variety of responses and something needed to be said.  This was no easy situation, he had no speech prepared and no notes to consult!  Peter stepped forward and jumped!  As he did so, the bungee rope of the Holy Spirit came into play and he was given the words to say – words that came with power.  He explained what was happening at Pentecost, the people’s part in the death of Jesus and pointed to the way of repentance.  Peter addressed the crowd with clarity bringing about the conviction of his listeners who “were cut to the heart”.

Is there a situation in your life today where God is calling you to step out, jump and trust in the power of the Holy Spirit?  Why play it safe when we have the most powerful and reliable enabler imaginable?!

Psalm 18:29 "For in you I can charge an army and with my God I can scale a wall."

Prayer – Lord forgive me for the times when I refuse to step out of my comfort zone.  Help me to see the wonder of the enabling power of the Holy Spirit that you have given me through faith in Jesus. 

40 Days Blog - Day 3 

Acts 2:1-13 Pentecost

At Pentecost we are told that there was a sound like the blowing of violent wind and there seemed to be tongues of fire as they spoke in other languages as the Spirit enabled them.  What a scene! 

• the gale – speaks of power
• the fire – speaks of purity
• the different languages – speaks of presence?

Despite this amazing display of God among the people, note the three different responses: some were amazed, some questioned, whilst others ridiculed the believers.  Since His birth, right through to the present-day, people have responded in these different ways to Jesus.  We should not be surprised when others make fun of us for attending church or holding Christian beliefs.

There are many tasks in life where we need a crucial piece of equipment, otherwise we are completely stuck and unable to make progress.  You cannot do the mathematical calculation without the calculator, you cannot build the IKEA flat pack without your hammer and you cannot make the pavlova without your whisk.  The followers of Jesus were not able to undertake the task of being witnesses and spreading the good news of Jesus without the gift of the Holy Spirit and that was why they had been told to wait.  So too with us. 

At Pentecost we have the big moment when this ordinary group of resurrection believers were given the enabling gift of the Holy Spirit, the difference-maker.  This is the power, purity and presence of God available to all who believe.  The same Holy Spirit today can equip and empower you and me for the work of God.  It is worth weighing that up alongside what Billy Graham said, “ninety five percent of today’s church activities would continue if the Holy Spirit were removed from us.  In the early Church, ninety five percent of all her activities would have stopped if the Holy Spirit were removed.”  Let’s be a church who refuses to operate in our own strength and let’s pray for God to do the extraordinary within our ordinary activities!

Joel 2:28 "I will pour out my Spirit on all people.  Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions."

Prayer – Heavenly Father please give me an enhanced understanding of what it means to depend upon and be aware of the work of the Holy Spirit in and through me as I seek to serve you.

40 Days Blog - Day 2 

Acts 1:12-26 Matthias Chosen as an Apostle

The disciples returned to Jerusalem, as they were told to do. Immediately we see a willingness to put the word of God into action, as one commentator notes “they did not forget the sermon.”

Our text today contains striking proof of the resurrection. Verse 14 tells us that they all joined together in prayer and look who was part of the prayer group!!!!! “Mary the mother of Jesus and his brothers.” Earlier on in Mark’s gospel we are told that his own family said, “He is out of his mind.” We have no record of Jesus’ brothers being supportive of his ministry prior to his death, but now they join together with others to worship and praise Him– something changed and that thing was the resurrection.

This passage is a bit controversial as there is much discussion about the fact that the disciples chose the replacement for Judas by casting lots. Some suggest that they made a mistake and that’s why we do not go onto hear much more about Matthias! Whatever our thoughts might be on this there are good things that we can notice from the disciples:

• they were in obedience – verse 12 they “returned to Jerusalem.”
• they were in unity – verses 13-14 we see the list of those gathered
• they were in prayer – verse 14 “they all joined together constantly in prayer.”

Did the disciples make a mistake in casting lots? I’m unsure, but what I do know is that we do well to apply the above 3 principles when making any major decisions, as all too often we are overly influenced by immediate feelings and the culture of society rather than looking to God first.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight.

Prayer – Lord help me to depend upon you first and foremost and help me to recognise when I am being negatively influenced by my own emotions and the pull of society around me when making decisions.

40 Days Blog - Day 1 

Acts 1:1-11 The Ascension of Jesus

Welcome to the online blog which will follow our 40 days through the book of Acts. This is an exciting journey, and we hope that this will provide you with a source of encouragement as well as being a reminder that we’re in this together!

Today we are reminded that the disciples were ordinary men who would soon go on to do extraordinary things once empowered by the Spirit. In these opening verses we find them making two mistakes which reveals their human failings!

1. In verse 6 they asked a question which according to John Calvin has more theological errors in the sentence than there are words! It
appears that they still didn’t understand that the Kingdom of God is not a political one!

2. In verse 10 there is a comical moment where they stare into space, and it takes the visitation of two angels to redirect their focus.
These disciples hardly appear to be world beaters who would be able to take the gospel to Jerusalem far less the ends of the earth! But here’s the thing, despite their flaws, they believed in the resurrection and were willing to follow wherever God led them….. what about you? Do you believe in the resurrection? Are you willing to do what God calls you to? As the phrase goes “your best ability is your availability.”

For now, the followers must wait for the Holy Spirit to equip them to carry out the task of being witnesses. No rushing on ahead, no running around like headless chickens, instead they must wait upon the Lord.

So notice the tension here, they were not to stand still, staring into space but they were also not to run on ahead, no, they had to wait. Sometimes we think that waiting is a waste of time but not here, not when it comes to waiting on the Lord! This acts as a reminder to us that we should not stand purposely staring into space, equally we should not run ahead of God. No, we must learn to be people who intentionally wait on the Lord.

Psalm 130:6 "My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning."

Prayer – Lord please help me to learn what it means to intentionally wait upon you, not to stare into space doing nothing and not running ahead of your will.