Acts 9:26-31
After returning from Arabia, Saul had begun to teach in the synagogues in Damascus, and because they could not disprove his arguments, they set out to kill him, a rather typical human response. Having helped in killing other Christians, he then learned what it was like to be persecuted. To escape, he returned to Jerusalem.
“And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.” (Acts 9:26)
When Saul left Jerusalem three years before, he had been a vehement adversary of Christianity. The Christians had not forgotten his efforts to destroy them. When he came claiming to be a Christian now, they suspected it was a ruse to find out how to catch them. Remembering Judas‘ betrayal of Jesus for pay, they knew that a person could claim to believe without doing so. For all they knew, Saul might be trying the same thing.
“But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.” (Acts 9:27)
Barnabas was one of the Christians who had given every thing to the Lord in Acts 4 as a result of the Spirit’s moving in his heart. He again demonstrated his submission to the Holy Spirit, meeting with Saul, and listening to his story. Following the Holy Spirit’s leading, Barnabas then introduced Saul to the apostles and explained what had happened. It is this willingness to forgive and encourage others to serve that causes Barnabas to have a huge impact on the Church, although he gets little credit. What if he hadn’t brought Saul to the apostles? Our New Testament would surely be different.
The apostles were going to other cities strengthening the believers, like when Peter and John went to Samaria to build up that church, and were not all in Jerusalem when Paul went back. Galatians 1;18 describes Paul’s visit. “Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother.”
“And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.” (Acts 9:28-30)
After three years with the Lord, and having been trained by Gamaliel in Greek and Jewish thought, Paul was well equipped to deal with the Greeks who had joined the Jewish religion, and prove his contentions. Since he had been one of them, they at first listened, but began to view him as a traitor sought to kill him after just a couple of weeks. To protect him, the Christians took him to Caesarea and then sent him to his home town of Tarsus.
It would be years before Saul spent any significant time with the other apostles. His ministry was completely based on what Jesus taught him in Arabia, and what the Holy Spirit revealed. Galatians 1:21-24 describes Paul’s relationship to the church at Jerusalem for the next several years. “Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. And they glorified God in me.”
Some have criticized the Bible because different writers give slightly different accounts of events. As one theologian said, they should have gotten together and ironed out the differences. In fact, it is the fact that they have these differences that proves that they are writing independently what they observed, rather than what they have agreed about. That Paul could not have collaborated with the other apostles, yet taught the same thing reinforces the belief that the New Testament is God’s word, not some story they made up.
Paul stresses this fact in Galatians 1:11-12. “But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.” Medical discoveries are not usually accepted until an independent lab duplicates the results, verifying the discovery. Paul’s writings serve to verify what he apostles taught. Luke is establishing Paul’s credentials as an independent observer. Two weeks would not have given sufficient time to have concocted the story, and especially when only Peter and James were present.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Trained By Christ
Acts 9:19-25
Saul had just spent the three days between his salvation and baptism in prayer and fasting, becoming physically weakened.
“And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.” (Acts 9:19)
Ananias had been told that Saul was a chosen vessel in Acts 9:15. “But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:” Acts 22:14-15 describes what he told Saul. “And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.” After a few days to recuperate, the Holy Spirit led Saul into Arabia to be taught of Christ. Paul gives additional detail in Galatians 1:15-17.
“But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.” (Galatians 1:15-17)
In Acts 1:20-22, Peter quoted Psalms in calling for another person to take Judas’ position as an apostle. He then stressed it had to be some one who had been taught by the Lord. In choosing Matthias, the apostles overlooked the fact that Jesus could teach another class. Saul appears to have spent his boyhood in Tarsus during the time Jesus ministered, then later came to Jerusalem to study with Gamaliel, who was mentioned in Acts 5:34. It was during his three years in Arabia that Paul saw and was taught by Jesus as he mentions in I Corinthians 15:8-9. “And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” It was this period that qualified him as an apostle. After completing his training, Saul returned to Damascus.
“And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. “ (Acts 9:20-22)
They hadn’t forgotten How adamantly opposed to Christianity Saul had been, even as far from Jerusalem as Damascus was. That he had completely reversed himself really attracted notice. While he had been taught by Christ himself, only practice trusting God and using the things he had learned developed his spiritual strength. Just as muscles only become strong with use, spiritual power requires use to develop.
Because of his training as a Pharisee, Paul was uniquely equipped to show the Pharisees where they misinterpreted the scripture, and demonstrate conclusively that Jesus was the Messiah, the Christ. His former associates undoubtedly viewed his teaching as a betrayal, and turned against him.
“And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.” (Acts 9:23-25)
Knowing he would leave the city sooner or later, his enemies watched the gates to try and catch him so they could kill him. God caused Saul to learn about the plot, and a group of Christians helped him escape from the city by letting him down over the wall in a basket so his enemies didn’t see him leave. He then proceeded back to Jerusalem.
Saul had just spent the three days between his salvation and baptism in prayer and fasting, becoming physically weakened.
“And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.” (Acts 9:19)
Ananias had been told that Saul was a chosen vessel in Acts 9:15. “But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:” Acts 22:14-15 describes what he told Saul. “And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.” After a few days to recuperate, the Holy Spirit led Saul into Arabia to be taught of Christ. Paul gives additional detail in Galatians 1:15-17.
“But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.” (Galatians 1:15-17)
In Acts 1:20-22, Peter quoted Psalms in calling for another person to take Judas’ position as an apostle. He then stressed it had to be some one who had been taught by the Lord. In choosing Matthias, the apostles overlooked the fact that Jesus could teach another class. Saul appears to have spent his boyhood in Tarsus during the time Jesus ministered, then later came to Jerusalem to study with Gamaliel, who was mentioned in Acts 5:34. It was during his three years in Arabia that Paul saw and was taught by Jesus as he mentions in I Corinthians 15:8-9. “And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” It was this period that qualified him as an apostle. After completing his training, Saul returned to Damascus.
“And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. “ (Acts 9:20-22)
They hadn’t forgotten How adamantly opposed to Christianity Saul had been, even as far from Jerusalem as Damascus was. That he had completely reversed himself really attracted notice. While he had been taught by Christ himself, only practice trusting God and using the things he had learned developed his spiritual strength. Just as muscles only become strong with use, spiritual power requires use to develop.
Because of his training as a Pharisee, Paul was uniquely equipped to show the Pharisees where they misinterpreted the scripture, and demonstrate conclusively that Jesus was the Messiah, the Christ. His former associates undoubtedly viewed his teaching as a betrayal, and turned against him.
“And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.” (Acts 9:23-25)
Knowing he would leave the city sooner or later, his enemies watched the gates to try and catch him so they could kill him. God caused Saul to learn about the plot, and a group of Christians helped him escape from the city by letting him down over the wall in a basket so his enemies didn’t see him leave. He then proceeded back to Jerusalem.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Brother Saul
Acts 9:10-19
Because of the persecution of Christians, Acts 8:1 tells us, they were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Some had settled in Damascus, and it was this group Saul was intending to arrest when he was converted on his way to the city.
“And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.” (Acts 9:10-12)
Can you imagine the consternation Ananias must have felt, being told to go looking for the man who came to Damascus to have him and his Christian friends arrested and killed? Many Christians today would hesitate to do what God asked because somebody might get upset or they might have to settle for a reduced income. Ananias’ very life was at stake. Only an idiot would run out and ask to be killed. Some stories in Foxe’s Book of Martyrs have always troubled me.
“Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.” (Acts 9:13-14)
Ananias didn’t refuse to go, but he wanted to make sure he understood what God wanted and asked for reassurance, much like Gideon did with the fleece in Judges 6. Ananias just pointed out what he knew about Saul to explain his hesitation. He did not put any conditions on going, just asking for verification. His faith was based on the Holy Spirit’s leadership, rather than some sign.
“But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.” (Acts 9:15-16)
God seldom speaks loudly, and only those who are listening hear him. The reason most people want a big sign is that they aren’t listening. The Holy Spirit told Ananias God had a purpose for Saul, and apparently told him a lot more that isn’t mentioned, probably because Luke only knew what he’d been told. Ananias obeyed solely on God’s command.
“And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 9:17)
Although Ananias knew Saul had been converted on the way to Damascus, he seems to have been feeling apprehensive. This is the only place in the New Testament where one Christian addressed another as “Brother ___”, although they refer to them as a brother or sister in other places. Our natural family relationship is so clearly understood that we don’t have to use a title to remind our brothers of our relationship, and all the apostles were called by their first names without any prefix. Apparently Ananias was trying to insure that Saul understood he wasn’t an enemy.
Ananias was sent so Saul could regain his sight, and be filled with the Spirit. He was not sent to lead him to Christ, or to give him the Spirit. He simply laid hands on him and God used it to heal him and fill him with the Spirit.
Before we were saved we may been all kinds of sinners, but after being saved, we are no longer those old sinners, according to I Corinthians 6:9-11. “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”
Only when we understand that we have been cleansed and no longer depend on our own efforts can we submit to the Holy Spirit fully. By laying hands on him and identifying with Saul, Ananias reinforced the fact that it was taken care of. Even his apprehension made him reinforce the relationship.
“And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.” (Acts 9:18-19)
Three days before, Saul had received Christ, but had been unable to see and had spent the intervening time in prayer and fasting. He was now ready to follow the Lord fully. As soon as he received his sight, he followed the Lord’s command in baptism. Filling with the Spirit is always accompanied with obedience to God.
Because of the persecution of Christians, Acts 8:1 tells us, they were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Some had settled in Damascus, and it was this group Saul was intending to arrest when he was converted on his way to the city.
“And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.” (Acts 9:10-12)
Can you imagine the consternation Ananias must have felt, being told to go looking for the man who came to Damascus to have him and his Christian friends arrested and killed? Many Christians today would hesitate to do what God asked because somebody might get upset or they might have to settle for a reduced income. Ananias’ very life was at stake. Only an idiot would run out and ask to be killed. Some stories in Foxe’s Book of Martyrs have always troubled me.
“Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.” (Acts 9:13-14)
Ananias didn’t refuse to go, but he wanted to make sure he understood what God wanted and asked for reassurance, much like Gideon did with the fleece in Judges 6. Ananias just pointed out what he knew about Saul to explain his hesitation. He did not put any conditions on going, just asking for verification. His faith was based on the Holy Spirit’s leadership, rather than some sign.
“But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.” (Acts 9:15-16)
God seldom speaks loudly, and only those who are listening hear him. The reason most people want a big sign is that they aren’t listening. The Holy Spirit told Ananias God had a purpose for Saul, and apparently told him a lot more that isn’t mentioned, probably because Luke only knew what he’d been told. Ananias obeyed solely on God’s command.
“And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 9:17)
Although Ananias knew Saul had been converted on the way to Damascus, he seems to have been feeling apprehensive. This is the only place in the New Testament where one Christian addressed another as “Brother ___”, although they refer to them as a brother or sister in other places. Our natural family relationship is so clearly understood that we don’t have to use a title to remind our brothers of our relationship, and all the apostles were called by their first names without any prefix. Apparently Ananias was trying to insure that Saul understood he wasn’t an enemy.
Ananias was sent so Saul could regain his sight, and be filled with the Spirit. He was not sent to lead him to Christ, or to give him the Spirit. He simply laid hands on him and God used it to heal him and fill him with the Spirit.
Before we were saved we may been all kinds of sinners, but after being saved, we are no longer those old sinners, according to I Corinthians 6:9-11. “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”
Only when we understand that we have been cleansed and no longer depend on our own efforts can we submit to the Holy Spirit fully. By laying hands on him and identifying with Saul, Ananias reinforced the fact that it was taken care of. Even his apprehension made him reinforce the relationship.
“And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.” (Acts 9:18-19)
Three days before, Saul had received Christ, but had been unable to see and had spent the intervening time in prayer and fasting. He was now ready to follow the Lord fully. As soon as he received his sight, he followed the Lord’s command in baptism. Filling with the Spirit is always accompanied with obedience to God.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Drawn by the Father
Acts 9:1-8
When Stephen was stoned, a young and ambitious Pharisee was there to witness it, as we see in Acts 7:58. “And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.” Apparently he had already attained a level of authority, as Acts 8:1 tells us. “And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.”
In order to get their party’s support, both Republicans and Democrats are forced to support the Party platform without question, if they wish to advance their careers. As an aspiring leader of the Pharisees, Saul found it to his advantage to promote the high priest and his associates’ goals.
“And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.” (Acts 9:1-2)
Because he didn’t believe in Christ, he never questioned the leaders claims, according to I Timothy 1:13, “…but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.” He was just trying to promote his career by actively arresting the Christians. That it was his religious leaders who wished it made it seem legitimate.
“And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.” (Acts 9:3-5)
According to Romans 1:18-20, God reveals himself to every single person. “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath showed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:”
Some choose to reject the idea of God at all, calling themselves Atheists. Others, agnostics, decide they don’t want to know, avoiding the idea. Still others decide there must be a God, and become religious. The majority of these decide what they want God to be like and devise an explanation that fits their desires, as Romans 1:22-23 explains. "Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.”
John 3:18 informs us that it is this sin of refusing to believe that sends people to hell. “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” Every other sin is the result of rejecting God as Romans 1:28-32 makes clear.
We are surrounded by people who have rejected God, and many times, Like Saul we simply go along with their opinions. Saul had demonstrated an interest in God, even going beyond his peers, but his decisions were still based on other peoples’ beliefs. Like Saul, a lot of people who have grown up in church have just gone along with what the church told them without making a real decision for themselves. While most do not experience as dramatic a trigger event as Saul, every person comes to that same point of having to choose to believe or reject Christ. As John 6:44 tells us, they cannot be saved until God causes them to make that choice.
“And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.” (Acts 9:6-7)
Saul’s decision to believe is clear. When he asked “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?”, he was committed to believing in Christ, willing to give up what he had been doing. As John 3:336 states, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life:…”
Salvation is always an individual event. Only God and the believer are involved. Anyone else is just an observer, hearing only part of the conversation, kind of like they are overhearing someone talking on the phone. As Acts 22:9 tells us the others saw the light and heard Saul talking but did not hear God understandably.
“And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.” (Acts 9:8-9)
For the next three days, the Holy Spirit prevented Saul from being distracted by those around him. He spent those three days in fasting and prayer, allowing the Holy spirit to teach him. While most new Christians are not physically unable to see after being saved, there is usually a period where they are protected from the evil around them, giving them a chance to understand what they have. It is exhilarating to be present during that period and see how God works in their lives, as sins drop away and the attitude changes.
When Stephen was stoned, a young and ambitious Pharisee was there to witness it, as we see in Acts 7:58. “And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.” Apparently he had already attained a level of authority, as Acts 8:1 tells us. “And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.”
In order to get their party’s support, both Republicans and Democrats are forced to support the Party platform without question, if they wish to advance their careers. As an aspiring leader of the Pharisees, Saul found it to his advantage to promote the high priest and his associates’ goals.
“And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.” (Acts 9:1-2)
Because he didn’t believe in Christ, he never questioned the leaders claims, according to I Timothy 1:13, “…but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.” He was just trying to promote his career by actively arresting the Christians. That it was his religious leaders who wished it made it seem legitimate.
“And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.” (Acts 9:3-5)
According to Romans 1:18-20, God reveals himself to every single person. “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath showed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:”
Some choose to reject the idea of God at all, calling themselves Atheists. Others, agnostics, decide they don’t want to know, avoiding the idea. Still others decide there must be a God, and become religious. The majority of these decide what they want God to be like and devise an explanation that fits their desires, as Romans 1:22-23 explains. "Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.”
John 3:18 informs us that it is this sin of refusing to believe that sends people to hell. “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” Every other sin is the result of rejecting God as Romans 1:28-32 makes clear.
We are surrounded by people who have rejected God, and many times, Like Saul we simply go along with their opinions. Saul had demonstrated an interest in God, even going beyond his peers, but his decisions were still based on other peoples’ beliefs. Like Saul, a lot of people who have grown up in church have just gone along with what the church told them without making a real decision for themselves. While most do not experience as dramatic a trigger event as Saul, every person comes to that same point of having to choose to believe or reject Christ. As John 6:44 tells us, they cannot be saved until God causes them to make that choice.
“And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.” (Acts 9:6-7)
Saul’s decision to believe is clear. When he asked “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?”, he was committed to believing in Christ, willing to give up what he had been doing. As John 3:336 states, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life:…”
Salvation is always an individual event. Only God and the believer are involved. Anyone else is just an observer, hearing only part of the conversation, kind of like they are overhearing someone talking on the phone. As Acts 22:9 tells us the others saw the light and heard Saul talking but did not hear God understandably.
“And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.” (Acts 9:8-9)
For the next three days, the Holy Spirit prevented Saul from being distracted by those around him. He spent those three days in fasting and prayer, allowing the Holy spirit to teach him. While most new Christians are not physically unable to see after being saved, there is usually a period where they are protected from the evil around them, giving them a chance to understand what they have. It is exhilarating to be present during that period and see how God works in their lives, as sins drop away and the attitude changes.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
The Evangelist At Work
Acts 8:26-40
Philip, the only person referred to as an evangelist in scripture, had started a church in Samaria. Peter and John had come down to help establish the church, with the result that the people were filled with the Spirit. We have no indication how long Philip or the apostles spent building u the church, but once they had accomplished their purpose, the apostles preached in various villages on their way back to Jerusalem. Philip appears to have remained in Samaria for a time, teaching them, until God directed him to leave.
“And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.” (Acts 8:26)
The city of Samaria was a large city. There were many people being saved and the church was growing spiritually. Now God instructs Philip to leave it and go to a desert place where nobody lives? It makes me think of the people who told my dad he was wasting his time going to the Navajo reservation because there weren’t enough people to build a big church. It would be better to go to a country with a larger population so he could reach more people. Thankfully, Dad, like Philip, listened to the Lord, rather than to human wisdom.
“And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.” (Acts 8:27-28)
There was only one person in that place, and he was an Ethiopian, a black man, and a powerful leader of the country, traveling in the equivalent of a modern day Rolls Royce. Ordinary people walked or rode donkeys. He had a definite desire to know God, having just been to Jerusalem to worship, and was reading the scriptures in an effort to understand what God expected. Perhaps, he’d heard enough in Jerusalem to want to go beyond just what the scribes and priests were teaching.
“Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?” (Acts 8:29-30)
Philip did approach the man because he was the only one there, but because the Holy Spirit commanded him to. When he approached the chariot, the man was reading aloud in an effort to understand what the scriptures were saying. Frequently reading aloud, observing the punctuation and ignoring verse divisions will clarify confusing passages, but it wasn’t working for this man. Philip asked if he understood what he was reading.
“And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? ” (Acts 8:31-34)
He was reading the prophecy in Isaiah 53, and recognized he had no basis to understand what the scriptures were saying. It is a key element of going as a missionary to people who have never heard. Even the Samaritans had an understanding of who Isaiah and the Messiah were, and would naturally assume that Isaiah was speaking of the Messiah. The Ethiopian eunuch had no such background. We were surprised when we came to the reservation that many Navajo’s only concept of a god was some historical being who gave them some benefit or caused a problem. Before they could understand what we were talking about, they needed a clear concept of who God was.
“Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.” (Acts 8:35)
Teaching, like traveling, has to start from where one is. It is not possible to start from New York if I am in Albuquerque, nor is it possible to learn about God without starting with what we already know. Philip started where the man was, and taught him who Jesus was and what the prophecy was talking about, in a one on one setting. Clearly, the man had heard about or seen people being baptized, from his next question.
“And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” (Acts 8:36-38)
The eunuch asked what would be required for him to be baptized. Philip’s answer was that he had to believe in Jesus Christ with all his heart he could be, implying that baptism is meaningless unless one truly believes. John 3:36 declares, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”
The eunuch’s response clearly fulfills Romans 10:9-10. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
Since Philip could have simply dipped up some water to sprinkle or pour it over the man’s head, as many do today, it seems obvious that immersion is what the passage is referring to.
“And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.” (Acts 8:39)
The Eunuch returned to Ethiopia and is believed to have started the Coptic church which, while having departed from the scriptures, endured until the communist took over of Ethiopia in the 1970’s. Though it appeared to have limited potential, Philip’s ministry to that man had a huge impact on Ethiopia for 1900 years, with Emperor Haile Selassie begging for missionaries to preach the gospel and turn Ethiopia back to God during the 1960’s.
“But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.” (Acts 8:40)
The Holy Spirit then took Philip to Azotus, where he began teaching in every city along the way, eventually arriving in Caesarea, the home of Cornelius, some time after Peter preached there in Acts 10. His ministry is our only example of an evangelist’s office.
Philip, the only person referred to as an evangelist in scripture, had started a church in Samaria. Peter and John had come down to help establish the church, with the result that the people were filled with the Spirit. We have no indication how long Philip or the apostles spent building u the church, but once they had accomplished their purpose, the apostles preached in various villages on their way back to Jerusalem. Philip appears to have remained in Samaria for a time, teaching them, until God directed him to leave.
“And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.” (Acts 8:26)
The city of Samaria was a large city. There were many people being saved and the church was growing spiritually. Now God instructs Philip to leave it and go to a desert place where nobody lives? It makes me think of the people who told my dad he was wasting his time going to the Navajo reservation because there weren’t enough people to build a big church. It would be better to go to a country with a larger population so he could reach more people. Thankfully, Dad, like Philip, listened to the Lord, rather than to human wisdom.
“And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.” (Acts 8:27-28)
There was only one person in that place, and he was an Ethiopian, a black man, and a powerful leader of the country, traveling in the equivalent of a modern day Rolls Royce. Ordinary people walked or rode donkeys. He had a definite desire to know God, having just been to Jerusalem to worship, and was reading the scriptures in an effort to understand what God expected. Perhaps, he’d heard enough in Jerusalem to want to go beyond just what the scribes and priests were teaching.
“Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?” (Acts 8:29-30)
Philip did approach the man because he was the only one there, but because the Holy Spirit commanded him to. When he approached the chariot, the man was reading aloud in an effort to understand what the scriptures were saying. Frequently reading aloud, observing the punctuation and ignoring verse divisions will clarify confusing passages, but it wasn’t working for this man. Philip asked if he understood what he was reading.
“And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? ” (Acts 8:31-34)
He was reading the prophecy in Isaiah 53, and recognized he had no basis to understand what the scriptures were saying. It is a key element of going as a missionary to people who have never heard. Even the Samaritans had an understanding of who Isaiah and the Messiah were, and would naturally assume that Isaiah was speaking of the Messiah. The Ethiopian eunuch had no such background. We were surprised when we came to the reservation that many Navajo’s only concept of a god was some historical being who gave them some benefit or caused a problem. Before they could understand what we were talking about, they needed a clear concept of who God was.
“Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.” (Acts 8:35)
Teaching, like traveling, has to start from where one is. It is not possible to start from New York if I am in Albuquerque, nor is it possible to learn about God without starting with what we already know. Philip started where the man was, and taught him who Jesus was and what the prophecy was talking about, in a one on one setting. Clearly, the man had heard about or seen people being baptized, from his next question.
“And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” (Acts 8:36-38)
The eunuch asked what would be required for him to be baptized. Philip’s answer was that he had to believe in Jesus Christ with all his heart he could be, implying that baptism is meaningless unless one truly believes. John 3:36 declares, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”
The eunuch’s response clearly fulfills Romans 10:9-10. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
Since Philip could have simply dipped up some water to sprinkle or pour it over the man’s head, as many do today, it seems obvious that immersion is what the passage is referring to.
“And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.” (Acts 8:39)
The Eunuch returned to Ethiopia and is believed to have started the Coptic church which, while having departed from the scriptures, endured until the communist took over of Ethiopia in the 1970’s. Though it appeared to have limited potential, Philip’s ministry to that man had a huge impact on Ethiopia for 1900 years, with Emperor Haile Selassie begging for missionaries to preach the gospel and turn Ethiopia back to God during the 1960’s.
“But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.” (Acts 8:40)
The Holy Spirit then took Philip to Azotus, where he began teaching in every city along the way, eventually arriving in Caesarea, the home of Cornelius, some time after Peter preached there in Acts 10. His ministry is our only example of an evangelist’s office.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The Laying on of Hands
Acts 8:13-25
The Samaritans were a mixture of various ethnic groups that the Assyrians had brought in to occupy the old Kingdom of Israel after they went into captivity. Because God brought judgment for their failure to serve him, Jewish priests were brought in to teach them how to worship God. The Samaritans thus were a mixed people who worshiped God, and various other gods, as described in II Kings 17:28-34. In many respects they were like a lot of groups today with a religion composed of a mixture of idolatry and pseudo Christianity. The Jews shunned them.
Such societies are especially vulnerable to charlatans who pass themselves off as a powerful religious figure, using supposed miracles to convince people of supernatural power. Like many others, Simon had used the situation to set himself up as a spiritual power according to Acts 8:9-11. The Holy Spirit convicted him of his need of a savior, and he began to associate with Philip. He was especially intrigued that Philip could do real wonders that he could not even fake, and didn’t use it for his own benefit.
“Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.” (Acts 8:13)
Hearing the reports about what was happening in Samaria, the church at Jerusalem sent Peter and John down to assist in establishing the church. While they had received salvation, the Samaritan Christians had not been yet been filled with the holy Spirit.
“Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 8:14-17)
In the Old Testament, laying on of hands was a way of identifying with something. Leviticus 16:21-22 describes laying hands on the scapegoat, identifying him as the one who was to carry the guilt for the sins of Israel. “And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness: And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited: and he shall let go the goat in the wilderness.” It was also used to identify the a person who was being blessed as Jacob did in blessing Joseph’s sons in Genesis 48, or one who was guilty of sin in Leviticus 24.
The seven deacons were already men filled with the Spirit when the apostles laid hands on them in Acts 6:6, identifying with them in their new ministry, and this passage and the story of Ananias coming to Paul are the only passages where any connection is made between the laying on of hands and receiving the Holy Spirit. It was not involved on the day of Pentecost, or when Peter spoke to the gentiles in Acts 10. Why in this passage?
The Samaritan woman in John 4:9 was surprised that Jesus would talk to her or ask for a drink because the Jews would have nothing to do with Samaritans. While Philip had come down, the Samaritans were still expecting to be viewed as inferior. For the apostles to touch them and identify with them would have a tremendous emotional impact, eliminating any lingering feelings of inferiority or doubt. Suddenly, the people are prepared for the filling of the Holy Spirit.
While emotions are only one part of human life, and is largely reactive, it is a very important part and greatly affects our spiritual attitudes. Touch is an essential ingredient for emotional health, giving us a sense of being connected, and is part of normal human interaction. The laying on of hands, sharing and identifying with certain events has tremendous psychological impact. Coupled with real spiritual power it is far more than just a psychological phenomenon, but as a ritual, offers only an immediate emotional sensation with no real spiritual benefit, similar to baptism for an unbeliever.
“And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 8:18-19)
When first saved, they still have the same old habits of thought they have learned. Simon had developed an habit of trying to promote himself, and being able to give the Holy Spirit would enable him to keep his prestige. It seemed like a profitable investment.
“But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.” (Acts 8:20-23)
Simon’s focus on advancing himself is very common. It is the source of competition and envy between pastors, missionaries, and church members, and between different churches and religious organizations. It is the same attitude Jesus described in Matthew 23:1-15. It is always the result of a heart that is not right with God, controlled by selfish carnal impulses.
“Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.” (Acts 8:24)
New Christians come into the church with many ungodly attitudes and customs derived from their culture and experiences. If ignored, they are deemed acceptable and become entrenched. The Holy Spirit enabled Peter to discern the problem before it became entrenched in Simons life, and confront him about it, resulting in repentance.
“And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.” (Acts 8:25)
Once the church was firmly established, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem, stopping to preach in many of the surrounding villages along the way. We have no idea how long they spent, except that it seems to have been a considerable time. It was clearly not the typical evangelistic trip or missions trip of today.
The Samaritans were a mixture of various ethnic groups that the Assyrians had brought in to occupy the old Kingdom of Israel after they went into captivity. Because God brought judgment for their failure to serve him, Jewish priests were brought in to teach them how to worship God. The Samaritans thus were a mixed people who worshiped God, and various other gods, as described in II Kings 17:28-34. In many respects they were like a lot of groups today with a religion composed of a mixture of idolatry and pseudo Christianity. The Jews shunned them.
Such societies are especially vulnerable to charlatans who pass themselves off as a powerful religious figure, using supposed miracles to convince people of supernatural power. Like many others, Simon had used the situation to set himself up as a spiritual power according to Acts 8:9-11. The Holy Spirit convicted him of his need of a savior, and he began to associate with Philip. He was especially intrigued that Philip could do real wonders that he could not even fake, and didn’t use it for his own benefit.
“Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.” (Acts 8:13)
Hearing the reports about what was happening in Samaria, the church at Jerusalem sent Peter and John down to assist in establishing the church. While they had received salvation, the Samaritan Christians had not been yet been filled with the holy Spirit.
“Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 8:14-17)
In the Old Testament, laying on of hands was a way of identifying with something. Leviticus 16:21-22 describes laying hands on the scapegoat, identifying him as the one who was to carry the guilt for the sins of Israel. “And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness: And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited: and he shall let go the goat in the wilderness.” It was also used to identify the a person who was being blessed as Jacob did in blessing Joseph’s sons in Genesis 48, or one who was guilty of sin in Leviticus 24.
The seven deacons were already men filled with the Spirit when the apostles laid hands on them in Acts 6:6, identifying with them in their new ministry, and this passage and the story of Ananias coming to Paul are the only passages where any connection is made between the laying on of hands and receiving the Holy Spirit. It was not involved on the day of Pentecost, or when Peter spoke to the gentiles in Acts 10. Why in this passage?
The Samaritan woman in John 4:9 was surprised that Jesus would talk to her or ask for a drink because the Jews would have nothing to do with Samaritans. While Philip had come down, the Samaritans were still expecting to be viewed as inferior. For the apostles to touch them and identify with them would have a tremendous emotional impact, eliminating any lingering feelings of inferiority or doubt. Suddenly, the people are prepared for the filling of the Holy Spirit.
While emotions are only one part of human life, and is largely reactive, it is a very important part and greatly affects our spiritual attitudes. Touch is an essential ingredient for emotional health, giving us a sense of being connected, and is part of normal human interaction. The laying on of hands, sharing and identifying with certain events has tremendous psychological impact. Coupled with real spiritual power it is far more than just a psychological phenomenon, but as a ritual, offers only an immediate emotional sensation with no real spiritual benefit, similar to baptism for an unbeliever.
“And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 8:18-19)
When first saved, they still have the same old habits of thought they have learned. Simon had developed an habit of trying to promote himself, and being able to give the Holy Spirit would enable him to keep his prestige. It seemed like a profitable investment.
“But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.” (Acts 8:20-23)
Simon’s focus on advancing himself is very common. It is the source of competition and envy between pastors, missionaries, and church members, and between different churches and religious organizations. It is the same attitude Jesus described in Matthew 23:1-15. It is always the result of a heart that is not right with God, controlled by selfish carnal impulses.
“Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.” (Acts 8:24)
New Christians come into the church with many ungodly attitudes and customs derived from their culture and experiences. If ignored, they are deemed acceptable and become entrenched. The Holy Spirit enabled Peter to discern the problem before it became entrenched in Simons life, and confront him about it, resulting in repentance.
“And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.” (Acts 8:25)
Once the church was firmly established, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem, stopping to preach in many of the surrounding villages along the way. We have no idea how long they spent, except that it seems to have been a considerable time. It was clearly not the typical evangelistic trip or missions trip of today.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
The First Missionary
Acts 8:5-13
When people first do something wrong, they are very cautious, afraid they will get caught. If they succeed, they and appear to have gotten away with it, they will almost certainly repeat it. If there are no effective actions to stop them, it will escalate. This can be seen in alcoholism, drug addiction, Gang violence and sexual sin.
Having crucified Jesus, It was not a major step to killing Stephen, but when they killed him, and the majority of people went along with it, and the Roman authorities didn’t intervene immediately, the Jewish leadership felt they were free to do as they pleased, and began persecuting the Christians, forcing many to flee Jerusalem. As the church shrank, the seven deacons were free to do other things.
“Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.” (Acts 8:5)
Just before his ascension into heaven, Jesus told the disciples, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth,” in Acts 1:8. Philip went as the first missionary, to the neighboring country of Samaria, preaching the Gospel, and fulfilling the next part of the verse. That Paul is generally considered the first missionary only demonstrates the superficiality of much Bible teaching.
Most books about great preachers today devote considerable time to his upbringing and training. The Bible does not do so because it really isn’t relevant, and the focus is on how the Holy Spirit empowered them rather than on the man.
We know that Philip was filled with the Holy Spirit and had a good reputation, because it was required to be selected as a deacon. His work is described briefly, then no further record appears until Acts 21:8, where it is clear he was still involved in ministry. “And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.”
This is one of only three times the word ‘evangelist’ is used in the entire Bible. The other places are Ephesians 4:11, “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;” and II Timothy 4:5, “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” Philip is the only one referred to as an evangelist, but it is obvious that it is an important position from Ephesians 4:11.
The Greek word translated as “evangelist” means “one who announces the Gospel.” No announcement is needed for people who have already heard. Each of the offices listed refer to what was needed by the church at the time. We know that the office of the apostles ended when the apostles died. We also know that the office of prophet would end when the scripture was complete from I Corinthians 13:8-10, because it would no longer be needed. That does not mean that God cannot give individual prophecies, but that the gift of prophecy has ended.
Timothy was beginning his ministry as a Pastor, taking over a church Paul had started, and building it up spiritually after Paul left. Paul instructed him to “do the work of an evangelist,” clearly implying that Timothy was not an evangelist, but that evangelism was part of his job. If the pattern holds, of the office ending when it is no longer needed, then the evangelist’s responsibility would be taken over by the pastors and teachers. Since Philip is the only one referred to as an evangelist, we will need to examine his work to understand the office and duties of an evangelist. We’ve already seen that he went to another country and people.
“And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city.” (Acts 8:6-8)
Philip was doing exactly the same thing in Samaria that the apostles did in Jerusalem, preaching Jesus Christ, healing the sick, and delivering them from satanic spirits, and reaching the local people. The only difference was he was in another country, working with a different culture.
“But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.” (Acts 8:9-11)
In Jerusalem, the apostles had to contend with an entrenched Jewish religion that had many elements similar to what Christians believed, but whose leaders would do anything they could to retain their power. The big difference was that the Jewish religion was all about the flesh, as opposed to the Spiritual life. The temptation was to fall back into the old way of doing things.
As an evangelist or missionary, Philip had to introduce the gospel and persuade people to leave their old customs and worship. Simon was as jealous of his power as the chief priests were in Jerusalem. The biggest difference is that Philip was less familiar with the religion of Samaria.
“But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” (Acts 8:12)
The Holy Spirit produced the same results in Samaria as he did in Jerusalem. Those who believed got baptized. It’s the first indication that their faith is real, and are committed to the Lord, that they do the first thing he asks a Christian to do. The failure to commit by being baptized indicates a lack of real faith. I am suspicious of the person who claims thousands saved, yet only sees one or two baptized. As James 2:26 says, “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.”
It is clear from these verses that belief and baptism are separate, and John 3:36 makes it clear that belief is the crucial element of salvation. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” At the same time, it is clear that those who believed also got baptized.
“Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.” (Acts 8:13)
The same power of the Holy Spirit reached Simon as reached the rest of the people, just like it reached many of the priests in Jerusalem. Romans 10:12 states, “For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.”
When people first do something wrong, they are very cautious, afraid they will get caught. If they succeed, they and appear to have gotten away with it, they will almost certainly repeat it. If there are no effective actions to stop them, it will escalate. This can be seen in alcoholism, drug addiction, Gang violence and sexual sin.
Having crucified Jesus, It was not a major step to killing Stephen, but when they killed him, and the majority of people went along with it, and the Roman authorities didn’t intervene immediately, the Jewish leadership felt they were free to do as they pleased, and began persecuting the Christians, forcing many to flee Jerusalem. As the church shrank, the seven deacons were free to do other things.
“Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.” (Acts 8:5)
Just before his ascension into heaven, Jesus told the disciples, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth,” in Acts 1:8. Philip went as the first missionary, to the neighboring country of Samaria, preaching the Gospel, and fulfilling the next part of the verse. That Paul is generally considered the first missionary only demonstrates the superficiality of much Bible teaching.
Most books about great preachers today devote considerable time to his upbringing and training. The Bible does not do so because it really isn’t relevant, and the focus is on how the Holy Spirit empowered them rather than on the man.
We know that Philip was filled with the Holy Spirit and had a good reputation, because it was required to be selected as a deacon. His work is described briefly, then no further record appears until Acts 21:8, where it is clear he was still involved in ministry. “And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.”
This is one of only three times the word ‘evangelist’ is used in the entire Bible. The other places are Ephesians 4:11, “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;” and II Timothy 4:5, “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” Philip is the only one referred to as an evangelist, but it is obvious that it is an important position from Ephesians 4:11.
The Greek word translated as “evangelist” means “one who announces the Gospel.” No announcement is needed for people who have already heard. Each of the offices listed refer to what was needed by the church at the time. We know that the office of the apostles ended when the apostles died. We also know that the office of prophet would end when the scripture was complete from I Corinthians 13:8-10, because it would no longer be needed. That does not mean that God cannot give individual prophecies, but that the gift of prophecy has ended.
Timothy was beginning his ministry as a Pastor, taking over a church Paul had started, and building it up spiritually after Paul left. Paul instructed him to “do the work of an evangelist,” clearly implying that Timothy was not an evangelist, but that evangelism was part of his job. If the pattern holds, of the office ending when it is no longer needed, then the evangelist’s responsibility would be taken over by the pastors and teachers. Since Philip is the only one referred to as an evangelist, we will need to examine his work to understand the office and duties of an evangelist. We’ve already seen that he went to another country and people.
“And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city.” (Acts 8:6-8)
Philip was doing exactly the same thing in Samaria that the apostles did in Jerusalem, preaching Jesus Christ, healing the sick, and delivering them from satanic spirits, and reaching the local people. The only difference was he was in another country, working with a different culture.
“But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.” (Acts 8:9-11)
In Jerusalem, the apostles had to contend with an entrenched Jewish religion that had many elements similar to what Christians believed, but whose leaders would do anything they could to retain their power. The big difference was that the Jewish religion was all about the flesh, as opposed to the Spiritual life. The temptation was to fall back into the old way of doing things.
As an evangelist or missionary, Philip had to introduce the gospel and persuade people to leave their old customs and worship. Simon was as jealous of his power as the chief priests were in Jerusalem. The biggest difference is that Philip was less familiar with the religion of Samaria.
“But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” (Acts 8:12)
The Holy Spirit produced the same results in Samaria as he did in Jerusalem. Those who believed got baptized. It’s the first indication that their faith is real, and are committed to the Lord, that they do the first thing he asks a Christian to do. The failure to commit by being baptized indicates a lack of real faith. I am suspicious of the person who claims thousands saved, yet only sees one or two baptized. As James 2:26 says, “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.”
It is clear from these verses that belief and baptism are separate, and John 3:36 makes it clear that belief is the crucial element of salvation. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” At the same time, it is clear that those who believed also got baptized.
“Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.” (Acts 8:13)
The same power of the Holy Spirit reached Simon as reached the rest of the people, just like it reached many of the priests in Jerusalem. Romans 10:12 states, “For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.”
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