Day 310 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 6 November 2022 reflections
Day 310, 6 November 2022
Today, at
Calvary Community Church , Pastor Barry Regier spoke about joy-killers
based on Phillipians 2:14-18 .
14 (1Pe 4:9; 1Co 10:10) Do all things without murmuring and disputing,
15 (Mt 5:45; Dt 32:5) that you may be blameless and harmless, sons of God,
without fault, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which
you shine as lights in the world.
16 (Gal 2:2; 4:11) Hold forth the word of life that I may rejoice
on the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
17 (Ro 15:16; 2Co 12:15) Yes, and even if I am offered upon the sacrifice
and service of your faith, I take delight and rejoice with you all.
18 For this reason you also take delight and rejoice with me.
[14] Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
[15] That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke,
in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights
in the world;
[16] Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of
Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
[17] Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith,
I joy, and rejoice with you all.
[18] For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
Check Matthew 5 about happiness.
Do all things / Do everything
Titus 3:9-10
9 (2Ti 2:14; 2:23) But avoid foolish debates, genealogies, contentions,
and arguments about the law, for they are unprofitable and useless.
10 (Ro 16:17; 2Jn 1:10) Reject a divisive man after a first and second
admonition,
[9] But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and
strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
[10] A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;
1 Tim 2:8
8 (Ps 134:2; Jn 4:21) Therefore I desire that the men pray everywhere, lifting
up holy hands, without wrath or contentiousness.
[8] I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands,
without wrath and doubting.
So that we become blameless and pure children of God
Philip 2:14-16
14 (1Pe 4:9; 1Co 10:10) Do all things without murmuring and disputing,
15 (Mt 5:45; Dt 32:5) that you may be blameless and harmless, sons of God,
without fault, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which
you shine as lights in the world.
16 (Gal 2:2; 4:11) Hold forth the word of life that I may rejoice
on the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
[14] Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
[15] That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke,
in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights
in the world;
[16] Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of
Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
Romans 16:19
19 (Mt 10:16; Ro 1:8) Your obedience has become known to all men.
Therefore I am glad on your behalf. Yet I want you to be wise to that
which is good, and innocent to that which is evil.
[19] For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on
your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and
simple concerning evil.
This is the path to experiencing joy.
Philip 2:16-18
16 (Gal 2:2; 4:11) Hold forth the word of life that I may rejoice
on the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
17 (Ro 15:16; 2Co 12:15) Yes, and even if I am offered upon the sacrifice
and service of your faith, I take delight and rejoice with you all.
18 For this reason you also take delight and rejoice with me.
[16] Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of
Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
[17] Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith,
I joy, and rejoice with you all.
[18] For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
1)Acts 3-5
Acts 3
The Lame Man Healed at the Temple Gate
1 (Ps 55:17; Ac 10:30) Now Peter and John went up together to the temple
at the ninth hour, the hour of prayer.
2 (Lk 16:20; Jn 9:8) A man lame from birth was being carried,
whom people placed daily at the gate of the temple called Beautiful
to ask alms from those who entered the temple.
3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked for alms.
4 Peter, gazing at him with John, said, "Look at us."
5 So he paid attention to them, expecting to receive something from them.
6 (Ac 3:16; 4:10) Then Peter said, "I have no silver and gold,
but I give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,
rise up and walk."
7 He took him by the right hand and raised him up.
Immediately his feet and ankles were strengthened.
8 (Ac 14:10; Isa 35:6) Jumping up, he stood and walked
and entered the temple with them, walking and jumping and praising God.
9 (Ac 4:16; 4:21) All the people saw him walking and praising God.
10 (Ac 3:2) They knew that it was he who sat for alms at the Beautiful Gate
of the temple. And they were filled with wonder and amazement
at what happened to him.
[1] Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of
prayer, being the ninth hour.
[2] And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they
laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms
of them that entered into the temple;
[3] Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.
[4] And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us.
[5] And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.
[6] Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I
thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.
[7] And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately
his feet and ancle bones received strength.
[8] And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the
temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
[9] And all the people saw him walking and praising God:
[10] And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate
of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which
had happened unto him.
Peter's Speech at Solomon's Porch
11 (Jn 10:23; Ac 5:12) As the lame man who was healed held on to Peter
and John, all the people ran together to them in the entrance that is
called Solomon's Porch, greatly amazed.
12 When Peter saw it, he answered the people: "Men of Israel,
why do you marvel at this man? Or why do you stare at us,
as if by our own power or piety we had made him walk?
13 (Mt 22:32; 27:2) The God of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob,
the God of our fathers, has glorified His Son Jesus,
whom you handed over and denied in the presence of Pilate,
when he had decided to release Him.
14 (Mk 1:24; Ac 4:27; 7:52) You denied the Holy and Righteous One
and asked for a murderer to be granted to you,
15 (Ac 2:24; 2:32) and you killed the Creator of Life,
whom God has raised from the dead, of which we are witnesses.
16 (Ac 3:6; Dt 32:4) And His name, by faith in His name, has made
this man strong, whom you see and know. And faith which comes
through Him has given him perfect health in your presence.
17 (Lk 23:34; Ac 13:27) "Now brothers, I know that you acted
in ignorance, as did also your rulers.
18 (Ac 26:22-23; Lk 24:26-27) But what God foretold through
all the prophets, that His Christ should suffer, He thus fulfilled.
19 (Ac 2:38; Ps 51:9) Therefore repent and be converted, that your sins
may be wiped away, that times of refreshing may come from the presence
of the Lord,
20 and that He may send the One who previously was preached to you,
Jesus Christ,
21 (Lk 1:70; Ac 1:11) whom the heavens must receive until the time
of restoring what God spoke through all His holy prophets
since the world began.
22 (Ac 7:37; Isa 55:3-4) For Moses indeed said to the fathers,
'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me
from your brothers. You shall hear whatever He may say to you.
23 (Dt 18:19) And it shall be that every soul who will not hear
that prophet shall be utterly eliminated from the people.'
(Dt 18:15, 18-19.)
24 (1Sa 3:20; Ac 13:20) "Indeed, all the prophets since Samuel
and those who follow, as many as have spoken,
have likewise foretold these days.
25 (Ge 22:18; 12:3; Ac 2:39) You are the sons of the prophets
and of the covenant which God made with our fathers,
saying to Abraham,
'And in your seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.'-
(26 Ps 2:1-2.)
26 (Ac 3:22; Mt 1:21) God, having raised up His Son Jesus,
sent Him to you first, to bless you in turning every one of you
from your iniquities."
[11] And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the
people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly
wondering.
[12] And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel,
why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our
own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?
[13] The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers,
hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the
presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.
[14] But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be
granted unto you;
[15] And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead;
whereof we are witnesses.
[16] And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom
ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect
soundness in the presence of you all.
[17] And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also
your rulers.
[18] But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his
prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.
[19] Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted
out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;
[20] And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:
[21] Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all
things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since
the world began.
[22] For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your
God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in
all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.
[23] And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that
prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.
[24] Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as
many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.
[25] Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made
with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the
kindreds of the earth be blessed.
[26] Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless
you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.
Acts 4
Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin
1 (Lk 22:4; Ac 5:24) As they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain
of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them,
2 (Ac 17:18) being greatly troubled because they taught the people
and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.
3 (Ac 5:18) And they seized them and put them in custody until the next day,
for it was already evening.
4 (Ac 2:41) But many of those who heard the word believed,
and the number of the men grew to about five thousand.
5 (Ac 4:8) On the next day their rulers and elders and scribes
6 (Lk 3:2; Mt 26:3) were assembled at Jerusalem with Annas the high priest,
and Caiaphas, and John and Alexander, and all who were of the family
of the high priest.
7 (Mt 21:23; Ac 4:10) When they had stood them in the midst, they asked,
"By what power or by what name have you done this?"
8 (Ac 2:4) Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them,
"Rulers of the people and elders of Israel:
9 (Ac 3:7) If we today are being examined concerning a good deed
done to a crippled man, how this man has been healed,
10 (Ac 3:6) be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel,
that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified,
whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands before you whole.
11 (Isa 28:16; Ps 118:22-23) He is
'the stone you builders rejected,
which has become the cornerstone.' (Ps 118:22.)
12 (Mt 1:21; Jn 3:36) There is no salvation in any other,for there is
no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."
13 (Jn 7:15; Mt 11:25) When they saw the boldness of Peter and John
and perceived that they were illiterate and uneducated men, they marveled.
And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.
14 But seeing the man who was healed standing with them, they had nothing
to say against it.
15 So when they had commanded them to go outside of the Sanhedrin,
they conferred among themselves,
16 saying, "What shall we do to these men?
For, indeed, that an acknowledged miracle has been done through them is
revealed to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.
17 (Ac 5:28) But lest it spread further among the people,
let us threaten them that they no longer speak to anyone in this name."
18 (Ac 5:40) Then they called them and commanded them not to speak
or teach at all in the name of Jesus.
19 (Ac 5:29) But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it is right
in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge.
20 (Ac 22:15) For we cannot help but declare what we have seen and heard."
21 (Ac 5:26; Mt 21:46) When they had further threatened them,
they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people.
For all glorified God for what was done,
22 for the man on whom this miracle of healing
was performed was over forty years old.
Acts 4
[1] And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the
temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,
[2] Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus
the resurrection from the dead.
[3] And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for
it was now eventide.
[4] Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of
the men was about five thousand.
[5] And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and
scribes,
[6] And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as
many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at
Jerusalem.
[7] And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or
by what name, have ye done this?
[8] Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the
people, and elders of Israel,
[9] If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by
what means he is made whole;
[10] Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the
name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from
the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
[11] This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is
become the head of the corner.
[12] Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name
under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
[13] Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that
they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took
knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
[14] And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could
say nothing against it.
[15] But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they
conferred among themselves,
[16] Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable
miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in
Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.
[17] But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly
threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.
[18] And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach
in the name of Jesus.
[19] But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in
the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.
[20] For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
[21] So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding
nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men
glorified God for that which was done.
[22] For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing
was shewed.
The Believers Pray for Boldness
23 On being released, they went to their own people and reported
what the chief priests and elders had said to them.
24 (Ne 9:6) When they heard this, they lifted their voices in unity to God
and prayed, "Lord, You are God, who has made the heaven and the earth
and the sea and everything in them,
25 (Ac 1:16) and who by the mouth of Your servant David said:
'Why did the nations rage,
and the people devise vain things?
26 (Lk 4:18; Ac 10:38) The kings of the earth came,
and the rulers were assembled together
against the Lord
and against His Christ.'
27 (Mt 27:2; Ac 4:30) Indeed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate,
with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were assembled together
against Your holy Son Jesus whom You have anointed,
28 (Ac 2:23; Isa 46:10) to do what Your hand and Your counsel
had foreordained to be done.
29 (Ac 4:13; 4:31) Now, Lord, look on their threats
and grant that Your servants may speak Your word with great boldness,
30 (Ac 4:27; 3:6) by stretching out Your hand to heal and that signs
and wonders may be performed in the name of Your holy Son Jesus."
31 (Ac 2:2; 2:4) When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled
together was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit
and spoke the word of God with boldness.
[23] And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that
the chief priests and elders had said unto them.
[24] And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one
accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and
the sea, and all that in them is:
[25] Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen
rage, and the people imagine vain things?
[26] The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together
against the Lord, and against his Christ.
[27] For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed,
both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel,
were gathered together,
[28] For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be
done.
[29] And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants,
that with all boldness they may speak thy word,
[30] By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may
be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.
[31] And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were
assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they
spake the word of God with boldness.
All Things in Common
32 (2Ch 30:12; Php 1:27) All the believers were of one heart and one soul,
and no one said that what he possessed was his own. But to them all things
were in common.
33 (Ac 1:8; 1:22) With great power the apostles testified to the resurrection
of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was on them all.
34 (Ac 2:45) There was no one among them who lacked, for all those who were
owners of land or houses sold them, and brought the income from what
was sold,
35 (Ac 5:2; 2:45) and placed it at the apostles' feet. And it was distributed
to each according to his need.
36 (1Co 9:6; Mk 3:17) Joseph, whom the apostles called Barnabas
(which means, Son of Encouragement), a Levite from the land of Cyprus,
37 sold a field he owned, and brought the money
and placed it at the apostles' feet.
[32] And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one
soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed
was his own; but they had all things common.
[33] And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of
the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
[34] Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were
possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the
things that were sold,
[35] And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made
unto every man according as he had need.
[36] And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being
interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of
Cyprus,
[37] Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the
apostles' feet.
Acts 5
Ananias and Sapphira
1 Now a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property.
2 (Ac 4:37) He kept back part of the proceeds with his wife's knowledge,
and brought a part of it and placed it at the apostles' feet.
3 (Jn 13:2; 13:27) Then Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled
your heart to deceive the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the proceeds
of the land?
4 (Ac 5:3) While it remained unsold, was it not your own?
And when it was sold, was it not under your authority?
Why have you conceived this deed in your heart? You did not lie to men,
but to God."
5 (Ac 5:10-11; 2:43) On hearing these words, Ananias fell down and died.
And great fear came on all those who heard these things.
6 (Jn 19:40) The young men rose and wrapped him up
and carried him out and buried him.
7 About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened.
8 Peter said to her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for this amount?"
She said, "Yes, for that much."
9 (Ac 5:3-4; 1Co 10:9) Peter said to her, "How is it that you have agreed
together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of those who have
buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out."
10 At once she fell down at his feet and died. Upon entering,
the young men found her dead and carried her out and buried her beside
her husband.
11 (Ac 5:5; 19:17) Great fear came on the entire church
and on all those who heard these things.
[1] But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a
possession,
[2] And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and
brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
[3] But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the
Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
[4] Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it
not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart?
thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
[5] And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and
great fear came on all them that heard these things.
[6] And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried
him.
[7] And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not
knowing what was done, came in.
[8] And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so
much? And she said, Yea, for so much.
[9] Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to
tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy
husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.
[10] Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost:
and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth,
buried her by her husband.
[11] And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard
these things.
Signs and Wonders
12 (Ac 3:11; Jn 10:23) Many signs and wonders were performed
among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were
all together in Solomon's Porch.
13 (Ac 2:47; 4:21) No one else dared join them, but the people respected them.
14 (Ac 2:47) Believers were increasingly added to the Lord,
crowds of both men and women,
15 (Mt 14:36) so that they even brought the sick out into the streets
and placed them on beds and mats, that at least the shadow
of Peter passing by might touch some of them.
16 (Mk 16:17-18) Crowds also came out of the cities surrounding Jerusalem,
bringing the sick and those who were afflicted by evil spirits,
and they were all healed.
[12] And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought
among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.
[13] And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people
magnified them.
[14] And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men
and women.)
[15] Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid
them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by
might overshadow some of them.
[16] There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto
Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean
spirits: and they were healed every one.
Persecution of the Apostles
17 (Ac 7:9; 13:45) Then the high priest and all those who were with him
(that is, the sect of the Sadducees) rose up and were filled with jealousy.
18 (Ac 4:3; Lk 21:12) They seized the apostles and put them in the common
prison.
19 (Ac 8:26; 16:26) But during the night an angel of the Lord
opened the prison doors and led them out, and said,
20 (Jn 6:63; 6:68) "Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people
all the words of this life."
21 (Jn 8:2) Having heard this, they entered the temple at dawn and taught.
But the high priest and those who were with him came and called together
the Sanhedrin and the senate of all the sons of Israel,
and sent to the prison to have them brought out.
22 But when the officers came and did not find them in the prison,
they returned and reported,
23 "We found the prison securely shut and the guards standing
outside before the doors. But when we opened it, we found no one inside."
24 (Ac 4:1; 5:26) Now when the high priest, the captain of the temple,
and the chief priests heard these things, they were in doubt of what might
become of this.
25 Then one came and told them, "Look, the men whom you put in prison
are standing in the temple and teaching the people."
26 (Ac 5:13; 4:21) Then the captain with his escorts went and brought them,
without force lest they should be stoned, for they feared the people.
27 When they had brought them, they stood them before the Sanhedrin.
And the high priest questioned them,
28 (Mt 27:25; Ac 7:52) saying, "Did we not strictly command you not
to teach in this name? Yet now you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching,
and you intend to bring on us this Man's blood."
29 (Ac 4:19) Peter and the other apostles answered,
"We must obey God rather than men.
30 (Ac 10:39; Gal 3:13) The God of our fathers raised Jesus,
whom you killed by hanging on a tree.
31 (Lk 24:47; 2:11; Ac 2:33) God exalted this Man to His right hand
to be a Ruler and a Savior, to give repentance to Israel
and forgiveness of sins.
32 (Jn 15:26-27; Ac 2:4) We are His witnesses to these words,
as is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him."
33 (Ac 2:37; 7:54) When they heard this, they were cut to the heart
and took counsel to kill them.
34 (Ac 22:3; Lk 2:46) But a Pharisee in the Sanhedrin named Gamaliel,
a teacher of the law honored by all the people, stood
and ordered the apostles to be put outside for a little while.
35 Then he said to them, "Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves
what you intend to do concerning these men.
36 (Ac 8:9; 21:38) For in previous days Theudas rose up, boasting
to be somebody, to whom a number of about four hundred men joined
themselves. He was killed, and all who obeyed him were dispersed
and came to nothing.
37 (Lk 2:1-2) After Theudas, Judas the Galilean rose up
in the days of the census and drew away many people after him.
This man also perished, and all who obeyed him were scattered.
38 (La 3:37; Mt 15:13) Now I tell you, keep away from these men
and leave them alone, because if this intention or this activity
is of men, it will come to nothing.
39 (Pr 21:30; Ac 7:51) But if it is of God, you will not be able
to overthrow them, lest perhaps you be found even fighting against God."
40 (Mt 10:17; Mk 13:9) They agreed with him. When they had called
in the apostles, they beat them, and commanded them not to speak
in the name of Jesus, and released them.
41 (Jn 15:21) Then they departed from the presence of the Sanhedrin,
rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.
42 (Ac 2:46; 8:35) Daily, in the temple and from house to house,
they did not cease to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
[17] Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which
is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,
[18] And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common
prison.
[19] But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought
them forth, and said,
[20] Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this
life.
[21] And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the
morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him,
and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of
Israel and sent to the prison to have them brought.
[22] But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they
returned, and told,
[23] Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers
standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man
within.
[24] Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief
priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.
[25] Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in
prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.
[26] Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without
violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.
[27] And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and
the high priest asked them,
[28] Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in
this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and
intend to bring this man's blood upon us.
[29] Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey
God rather than men.
[30] The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a
tree.
[31] Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour,
for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.
[32] And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy
Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
[33] When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to
slay them.
[34] Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a
doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to
put the apostles forth a little space;
[35] And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye
intend to do as touching these men.
[36] For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody;
to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was
slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to
nought.
[37] After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and
drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as
obeyed him, were dispersed.
[38] And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for
if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:
[39] But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found
even to fight against God.
[40] And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and
beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus,
and let them go.
[41] And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they
were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
[42] And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach
and preach Jesus Christ.
2) Our Daily Bread for 6 November 2022
Entitled "Running the Race"
Jeremiah 19:3-6,14-15
3 (1Sa 3:11; Jer 17:20) and say: Hear the word of the Lord, O kings of Judah
and inhabitants of Jerusalem. Thus says the Lord of Hosts, the God of Israel:
I will bring such disaster upon this place, at which whoever hears of it,
his ears shall tingle.
4 (Jer 2:34; 2Ki 21:16; Dt 28:20) Because they have forsaken Me
and have profaned this place by making offerings in it to other gods
whom neither they, their fathers, nor the kings of Judah have known,
and have filled this place with the blood of the innocent,
5 (Jer 32:35; Lev 18:21; Ps 106:37-38) and have built the high places
of Baal to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings to Baal,
which I did not command or decree, nor did it come into My mind-
6 (Jos 15:8; Isa 30:33) therefore, surely the days are coming,
says the Lord, when this place shall no more be called Topheth
or the Valley of Ben Hinnom, but the Valley of Slaughter.
14 (2Ch 20:5; Jer 26:2) Then Jeremiah came from Topheth, where the Lord
had sent him to prophesy. And he stood in the court of the house of the Lord
and said to all the people:
15 (Jer 7:26; 17:23) Thus says the Lord of Hosts, the God of Israel:
I am about to bring upon this city and upon all her towns all the disaster
that I have pronounced against it, because they have stiffened their necks
so that they might not heed My words.
[3] And say, Hear ye the word of the LORD, O kings of Judah, and inhabitants
of Jerusalem; Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I
will bring evil upon this place, the which whosoever heareth, his ears
shall tingle.
[4] Because they have forsaken me, and have estranged this place, and have
burned incense in it unto other gods, whom neither they nor their fathers
have known, nor the kings of Judah, and have filled this place with the
blood of innocents;
[5] They have built also the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with
fire for burnt offerings unto Baal, which I commanded not, nor spake it,
neither came it into my mind:
[6] Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that this place shall
no more be called Tophet, nor The valley of the son of Hinnom, but The
valley of slaughter.
[14] Then came Jeremiah from Tophet, whither the LORD had sent him to
prophesy; and he stood in the court of the LORD's house; and said to all
the people,
[15] Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring
upon this city and upon all her towns all the evil that I have pronounced
against it, because they have hardened their necks, that they might not
hear my words.
In 1979, archaeologist Gabriel Barkay unearthed two small silver scrolls. It
took years to delicately unroll the metal scrolls, and each was found to
contain a Hebrew etching of the blessing from Numbers 6:24-26, "The Lord bless
you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Scholars date the
scrolls to the seventh century bc. They're the oldest known bits of Scripture
in the world.
Equally interesting is where they were found. Barkay was digging in a cave in
the Valley of Hinnom, the very place where the prophet Jeremiah told the
people of Judah that God would slaughter them for sacrificing their children
(Jeremiah 19:4-6). This valley was the site of such wickedness that Jesus used
the word "Gehenna" (a Greek form of the Hebrew name for the "Valley of
Hinnom") as a picture of hell (Matthew 23:33).
On this spot, about the time Jeremiah was announcing God's judgment on his
nation, someone was etching His future blessing onto silver scrolls. It
wouldn't happen in their lifetime, but one day-on the other side of the
Babylonian invasion-God would turn His face toward His people
and give them peace.
The lesson for us is clear. Even if we deserve what we have coming,
we can cling to God's promise. His heart always yearns for His people.
By: Mike Wittmer
Reflect & Pray
What discipline from God have you deserved? How might you accept His
discipline and cling to His promise of salvation?
Father, I confess my sin and the judgment I deserve
and cling to Your promise to forgive and restore.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 4 - The Blessings of Grace Day 1 - The Joy of Confessing Christ
Romans 10:9-10
9 (Lk 12:8; Php 2:11)that if you confess with your mouth
Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from
the dead, you will be saved,
10 for with the heart one believes unto righteousness,
and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation
Teena, a college freshman, has just committed her life to Christ,
but she was apprehensive about telling anyone - until Bill appeared
on the scene. He plunked his coffee cup down on the table and smiled.
"I heard something exciting happened to you yesterday, Teena"
"Yeah", Teena paused and looked around, as if seeking an escape route.
"I , uh, well, I did it"
"Did what?"
"Well, I, ah, gave my life to God."
"That's wonderful!" Bill exclaimed.
He was still talking with Teena and encouraging he in her decision
when Maria walked by.
"Maria!" Bill called. "Teena wants to tell you something!"
Teena gasped , open-mouthed, then stammered,
" I - I committed my life to Christ."
Maria , similarly enthuasiatic, encouraged Teena in her commitment,
and within half an hour Teena was stopping her friends to tell them,
"Guess what? I've become a Christian! I belng to Jesus now!"
Teena had already surrendered her heart to Christ.
But when she confessed her decision aloud to others,
the truth of that transformation was confirmed by her.
Many of us have been raised to believe that 'faith is a private matter',
not to be discussed in polite company. Yet Paul makes clear the connection
between heart commitment and verbal confession. Just as my love for family
and friends deepens as I tell them I love them, so a person's love
for Christ is confirmed and stabilised
by speaking of that commitment to others.
Application
a) Have I been reluctant to tell others of my faith in Christ? Why?
b) What happens within me when I do tell others of my love for the Lord?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Philip 4:19
19 (Ro 2:4) But my God shall supply your every need according
to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
19 But my God shall supply all your need according
to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Reconciling Peace
Ps 85:8-13
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) I will hear what God the Lord will speak,
for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints,
but let them not turn again to folly.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Surely His salvation is near to them who fear Him,
that glory may dwell in our land.
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Mercy and truth have met together;
righteousness and peace have kissed.
11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) Truth springs from the ground,
and righteousness looks down from the sky.
12 Yes, the Lord gives that which is good,
and our land shall yield its increase.
13 Righteousness shall go before Him
and prepare a way for His footsteps.
8 I will hear what God the LORD will speak:
For he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints:
But let them not turn again to folly.
9 Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him;
That glory may dwell in our land.
10 Mercy and truth are met together;
Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
11 Truth shall spring out of the earth;
And righteousness shall look down from heaven.
12 Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good;
And our land shall yield her increase.
13 Righteousness shall go before him;
And shall set us in the way of his steps.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2021 edition?)
Newfoundland & Labrador
Total population 527000
Muslim population (est.) 2065
As of Autumn 2014, St. John's does not have a local CNMM network. Pray with us
for God's people to come together in prayer
and cooperative efforts to reach Muslims with the Good News.
St. John's has one mosque and 2 more musallas , or prayer locations, which
may grow into mosques of their own. The mosque is called Masjid an Noor,
The Mosque of the Light, and mosque historical documents record a trip in 1986
to Saudi Arabia to raise funds for the land purchase and construction costs.
A small number of Muslim families had come prior to 1964, but moved on to
other places after a short time. After this date, a small community began
to remain and grow , reaching about 25 families in the 1980s. A number
of international students also join the community annually
ranging from 25 to 60.
In 2014 the mosque website reports the community is made up of some 200
families and many university students attending Memorial University. A
small number of native Newfoundlanders have also converted to the Islamic
faith, one saying of this religion in Newfoundland, "Islam is a growing face".
With the growth of the community, the current challenge is lack of space
in the mosque, which they are now looking at expanding.
Pray for
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
6th Day of the Month
a) Pray for a more effective witness by the church in every Canadian community
(
Deut 4:6-7
6 (Job 28:28; Pr 1:7 ) Therefore, keep and do them, for this is your wisdom and
your understanding in the sight of the nations which shall hear all these
statutes, and say, "Surely this great nation is a wise and
understanding people."
7 (2Sa 7:23; Ps 46:1) For what nation is there so great, who has a god so near
to it as the Lord our God is in all things whenever we call on Him?
6 Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and
your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these
statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and
understanding people.
7 For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them,
as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?
Matt 5:13-16
13 (Lev 2:13; Lk 14:34-35) "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt
loses its saltiness, how shall it be made salty? It is from then on good for
nothing but to be thrown out and to be trampled underfoot by men.
14 (Jn 8:12; Pr 4:18) "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden.
15 (Mk 4:21; Lk 8:16) Neither do men light a candle and put it under a basket,
but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the house.
16 (1Pe 2:12; Mt 9:8; Jn 15:8) Let your light so shine before men that they
may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour,
wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing,
but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set
on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on
a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Acts 1:8
8 (Mt 28:19; Mk 16:15) "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes
upon you. And you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and
Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
8 "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 Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
)
b) Pray for the province of British Columbia
I) Pray for the leaders of Alberta, that God's Spirit would influence then to
act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards.
( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4) 1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,
prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone, 2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings
and for all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life
in all godliness and honesty, 3 (1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and
acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all
men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 for kings,
and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable
life in all godliness and honesty. 3For this is good and acceptable
in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 who will have all men to be saved,
and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
II) Pray for the churches of the province, that they would be lighthouses
beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.
III) Pray that the Lord would use the Finding the Hope Campaign and booklet
to turn many hearts to Jesus
Conclusion:
PRay to the Lord and pray to experience joy in your life.
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to be honourable in Him.
Pray to the Lord: "Father, I confess my sin and the judgment I deserve
and cling to Your promise to forgive and restore."
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to be a Good Witness.
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to remember He will provide for your needs.
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to be respect Him.
Pray for in Newfoundland and Labrador
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for a more effective witness by the church in every Canadian community.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
Today, at
Calvary Community Church , Pastor Barry Regier spoke about joy-killers
based on Phillipians 2:14-18 .
14 (1Pe 4:9; 1Co 10:10) Do all things without murmuring and disputing,
15 (Mt 5:45; Dt 32:5) that you may be blameless and harmless, sons of God,
without fault, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which
you shine as lights in the world.
16 (Gal 2:2; 4:11) Hold forth the word of life that I may rejoice
on the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
17 (Ro 15:16; 2Co 12:15) Yes, and even if I am offered upon the sacrifice
and service of your faith, I take delight and rejoice with you all.
18 For this reason you also take delight and rejoice with me.
[14] Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
[15] That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke,
in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights
in the world;
[16] Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of
Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
[17] Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith,
I joy, and rejoice with you all.
[18] For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
Check Matthew 5 about happiness.
Do all things / Do everything
Titus 3:9-10
9 (2Ti 2:14; 2:23) But avoid foolish debates, genealogies, contentions,
and arguments about the law, for they are unprofitable and useless.
10 (Ro 16:17; 2Jn 1:10) Reject a divisive man after a first and second
admonition,
[9] But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and
strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
[10] A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;
1 Tim 2:8
8 (Ps 134:2; Jn 4:21) Therefore I desire that the men pray everywhere, lifting
up holy hands, without wrath or contentiousness.
[8] I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands,
without wrath and doubting.
So that we become blameless and pure children of God
Philip 2:14-16
14 (1Pe 4:9; 1Co 10:10) Do all things without murmuring and disputing,
15 (Mt 5:45; Dt 32:5) that you may be blameless and harmless, sons of God,
without fault, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which
you shine as lights in the world.
16 (Gal 2:2; 4:11) Hold forth the word of life that I may rejoice
on the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
[14] Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
[15] That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke,
in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights
in the world;
[16] Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of
Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
Romans 16:19
19 (Mt 10:16; Ro 1:8) Your obedience has become known to all men.
Therefore I am glad on your behalf. Yet I want you to be wise to that
which is good, and innocent to that which is evil.
[19] For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on
your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and
simple concerning evil.
This is the path to experiencing joy.
Philip 2:16-18
16 (Gal 2:2; 4:11) Hold forth the word of life that I may rejoice
on the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
17 (Ro 15:16; 2Co 12:15) Yes, and even if I am offered upon the sacrifice
and service of your faith, I take delight and rejoice with you all.
18 For this reason you also take delight and rejoice with me.
[16] Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of
Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
[17] Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith,
I joy, and rejoice with you all.
[18] For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
1)Acts 3-5
Acts 3
The Lame Man Healed at the Temple Gate
1 (Ps 55:17; Ac 10:30) Now Peter and John went up together to the temple
at the ninth hour, the hour of prayer.
2 (Lk 16:20; Jn 9:8) A man lame from birth was being carried,
whom people placed daily at the gate of the temple called Beautiful
to ask alms from those who entered the temple.
3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked for alms.
4 Peter, gazing at him with John, said, "Look at us."
5 So he paid attention to them, expecting to receive something from them.
6 (Ac 3:16; 4:10) Then Peter said, "I have no silver and gold,
but I give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,
rise up and walk."
7 He took him by the right hand and raised him up.
Immediately his feet and ankles were strengthened.
8 (Ac 14:10; Isa 35:6) Jumping up, he stood and walked
and entered the temple with them, walking and jumping and praising God.
9 (Ac 4:16; 4:21) All the people saw him walking and praising God.
10 (Ac 3:2) They knew that it was he who sat for alms at the Beautiful Gate
of the temple. And they were filled with wonder and amazement
at what happened to him.
[1] Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of
prayer, being the ninth hour.
[2] And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they
laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms
of them that entered into the temple;
[3] Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.
[4] And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us.
[5] And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.
[6] Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I
thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.
[7] And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately
his feet and ancle bones received strength.
[8] And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the
temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
[9] And all the people saw him walking and praising God:
[10] And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate
of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which
had happened unto him.
Peter's Speech at Solomon's Porch
11 (Jn 10:23; Ac 5:12) As the lame man who was healed held on to Peter
and John, all the people ran together to them in the entrance that is
called Solomon's Porch, greatly amazed.
12 When Peter saw it, he answered the people: "Men of Israel,
why do you marvel at this man? Or why do you stare at us,
as if by our own power or piety we had made him walk?
13 (Mt 22:32; 27:2) The God of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob,
the God of our fathers, has glorified His Son Jesus,
whom you handed over and denied in the presence of Pilate,
when he had decided to release Him.
14 (Mk 1:24; Ac 4:27; 7:52) You denied the Holy and Righteous One
and asked for a murderer to be granted to you,
15 (Ac 2:24; 2:32) and you killed the Creator of Life,
whom God has raised from the dead, of which we are witnesses.
16 (Ac 3:6; Dt 32:4) And His name, by faith in His name, has made
this man strong, whom you see and know. And faith which comes
through Him has given him perfect health in your presence.
17 (Lk 23:34; Ac 13:27) "Now brothers, I know that you acted
in ignorance, as did also your rulers.
18 (Ac 26:22-23; Lk 24:26-27) But what God foretold through
all the prophets, that His Christ should suffer, He thus fulfilled.
19 (Ac 2:38; Ps 51:9) Therefore repent and be converted, that your sins
may be wiped away, that times of refreshing may come from the presence
of the Lord,
20 and that He may send the One who previously was preached to you,
Jesus Christ,
21 (Lk 1:70; Ac 1:11) whom the heavens must receive until the time
of restoring what God spoke through all His holy prophets
since the world began.
22 (Ac 7:37; Isa 55:3-4) For Moses indeed said to the fathers,
'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me
from your brothers. You shall hear whatever He may say to you.
23 (Dt 18:19) And it shall be that every soul who will not hear
that prophet shall be utterly eliminated from the people.'
(Dt 18:15, 18-19.)
24 (1Sa 3:20; Ac 13:20) "Indeed, all the prophets since Samuel
and those who follow, as many as have spoken,
have likewise foretold these days.
25 (Ge 22:18; 12:3; Ac 2:39) You are the sons of the prophets
and of the covenant which God made with our fathers,
saying to Abraham,
'And in your seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.'-
(26 Ps 2:1-2.)
26 (Ac 3:22; Mt 1:21) God, having raised up His Son Jesus,
sent Him to you first, to bless you in turning every one of you
from your iniquities."
[11] And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the
people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly
wondering.
[12] And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel,
why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our
own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?
[13] The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers,
hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the
presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.
[14] But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be
granted unto you;
[15] And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead;
whereof we are witnesses.
[16] And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom
ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect
soundness in the presence of you all.
[17] And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also
your rulers.
[18] But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his
prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.
[19] Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted
out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;
[20] And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:
[21] Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all
things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since
the world began.
[22] For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your
God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in
all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.
[23] And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that
prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.
[24] Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as
many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.
[25] Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made
with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the
kindreds of the earth be blessed.
[26] Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless
you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.
Acts 4
Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin
1 (Lk 22:4; Ac 5:24) As they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain
of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them,
2 (Ac 17:18) being greatly troubled because they taught the people
and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.
3 (Ac 5:18) And they seized them and put them in custody until the next day,
for it was already evening.
4 (Ac 2:41) But many of those who heard the word believed,
and the number of the men grew to about five thousand.
5 (Ac 4:8) On the next day their rulers and elders and scribes
6 (Lk 3:2; Mt 26:3) were assembled at Jerusalem with Annas the high priest,
and Caiaphas, and John and Alexander, and all who were of the family
of the high priest.
7 (Mt 21:23; Ac 4:10) When they had stood them in the midst, they asked,
"By what power or by what name have you done this?"
8 (Ac 2:4) Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them,
"Rulers of the people and elders of Israel:
9 (Ac 3:7) If we today are being examined concerning a good deed
done to a crippled man, how this man has been healed,
10 (Ac 3:6) be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel,
that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified,
whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands before you whole.
11 (Isa 28:16; Ps 118:22-23) He is
'the stone you builders rejected,
which has become the cornerstone.' (Ps 118:22.)
12 (Mt 1:21; Jn 3:36) There is no salvation in any other,for there is
no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."
13 (Jn 7:15; Mt 11:25) When they saw the boldness of Peter and John
and perceived that they were illiterate and uneducated men, they marveled.
And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.
14 But seeing the man who was healed standing with them, they had nothing
to say against it.
15 So when they had commanded them to go outside of the Sanhedrin,
they conferred among themselves,
16 saying, "What shall we do to these men?
For, indeed, that an acknowledged miracle has been done through them is
revealed to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.
17 (Ac 5:28) But lest it spread further among the people,
let us threaten them that they no longer speak to anyone in this name."
18 (Ac 5:40) Then they called them and commanded them not to speak
or teach at all in the name of Jesus.
19 (Ac 5:29) But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it is right
in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge.
20 (Ac 22:15) For we cannot help but declare what we have seen and heard."
21 (Ac 5:26; Mt 21:46) When they had further threatened them,
they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people.
For all glorified God for what was done,
22 for the man on whom this miracle of healing
was performed was over forty years old.
Acts 4
[1] And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the
temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,
[2] Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus
the resurrection from the dead.
[3] And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for
it was now eventide.
[4] Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of
the men was about five thousand.
[5] And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and
scribes,
[6] And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as
many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at
Jerusalem.
[7] And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or
by what name, have ye done this?
[8] Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the
people, and elders of Israel,
[9] If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by
what means he is made whole;
[10] Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the
name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from
the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
[11] This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is
become the head of the corner.
[12] Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name
under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
[13] Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that
they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took
knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
[14] And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could
say nothing against it.
[15] But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they
conferred among themselves,
[16] Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable
miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in
Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.
[17] But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly
threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.
[18] And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach
in the name of Jesus.
[19] But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in
the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.
[20] For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
[21] So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding
nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men
glorified God for that which was done.
[22] For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing
was shewed.
The Believers Pray for Boldness
23 On being released, they went to their own people and reported
what the chief priests and elders had said to them.
24 (Ne 9:6) When they heard this, they lifted their voices in unity to God
and prayed, "Lord, You are God, who has made the heaven and the earth
and the sea and everything in them,
25 (Ac 1:16) and who by the mouth of Your servant David said:
'Why did the nations rage,
and the people devise vain things?
26 (Lk 4:18; Ac 10:38) The kings of the earth came,
and the rulers were assembled together
against the Lord
and against His Christ.'
27 (Mt 27:2; Ac 4:30) Indeed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate,
with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were assembled together
against Your holy Son Jesus whom You have anointed,
28 (Ac 2:23; Isa 46:10) to do what Your hand and Your counsel
had foreordained to be done.
29 (Ac 4:13; 4:31) Now, Lord, look on their threats
and grant that Your servants may speak Your word with great boldness,
30 (Ac 4:27; 3:6) by stretching out Your hand to heal and that signs
and wonders may be performed in the name of Your holy Son Jesus."
31 (Ac 2:2; 2:4) When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled
together was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit
and spoke the word of God with boldness.
[23] And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that
the chief priests and elders had said unto them.
[24] And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one
accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and
the sea, and all that in them is:
[25] Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen
rage, and the people imagine vain things?
[26] The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together
against the Lord, and against his Christ.
[27] For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed,
both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel,
were gathered together,
[28] For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be
done.
[29] And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants,
that with all boldness they may speak thy word,
[30] By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may
be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.
[31] And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were
assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they
spake the word of God with boldness.
All Things in Common
32 (2Ch 30:12; Php 1:27) All the believers were of one heart and one soul,
and no one said that what he possessed was his own. But to them all things
were in common.
33 (Ac 1:8; 1:22) With great power the apostles testified to the resurrection
of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was on them all.
34 (Ac 2:45) There was no one among them who lacked, for all those who were
owners of land or houses sold them, and brought the income from what
was sold,
35 (Ac 5:2; 2:45) and placed it at the apostles' feet. And it was distributed
to each according to his need.
36 (1Co 9:6; Mk 3:17) Joseph, whom the apostles called Barnabas
(which means, Son of Encouragement), a Levite from the land of Cyprus,
37 sold a field he owned, and brought the money
and placed it at the apostles' feet.
[32] And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one
soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed
was his own; but they had all things common.
[33] And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of
the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
[34] Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were
possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the
things that were sold,
[35] And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made
unto every man according as he had need.
[36] And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being
interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of
Cyprus,
[37] Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the
apostles' feet.
Acts 5
Ananias and Sapphira
1 Now a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property.
2 (Ac 4:37) He kept back part of the proceeds with his wife's knowledge,
and brought a part of it and placed it at the apostles' feet.
3 (Jn 13:2; 13:27) Then Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled
your heart to deceive the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the proceeds
of the land?
4 (Ac 5:3) While it remained unsold, was it not your own?
And when it was sold, was it not under your authority?
Why have you conceived this deed in your heart? You did not lie to men,
but to God."
5 (Ac 5:10-11; 2:43) On hearing these words, Ananias fell down and died.
And great fear came on all those who heard these things.
6 (Jn 19:40) The young men rose and wrapped him up
and carried him out and buried him.
7 About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened.
8 Peter said to her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for this amount?"
She said, "Yes, for that much."
9 (Ac 5:3-4; 1Co 10:9) Peter said to her, "How is it that you have agreed
together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of those who have
buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out."
10 At once she fell down at his feet and died. Upon entering,
the young men found her dead and carried her out and buried her beside
her husband.
11 (Ac 5:5; 19:17) Great fear came on the entire church
and on all those who heard these things.
[1] But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a
possession,
[2] And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and
brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
[3] But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the
Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?
[4] Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it
not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart?
thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.
[5] And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and
great fear came on all them that heard these things.
[6] And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried
him.
[7] And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not
knowing what was done, came in.
[8] And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so
much? And she said, Yea, for so much.
[9] Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to
tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy
husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.
[10] Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost:
and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth,
buried her by her husband.
[11] And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard
these things.
Signs and Wonders
12 (Ac 3:11; Jn 10:23) Many signs and wonders were performed
among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were
all together in Solomon's Porch.
13 (Ac 2:47; 4:21) No one else dared join them, but the people respected them.
14 (Ac 2:47) Believers were increasingly added to the Lord,
crowds of both men and women,
15 (Mt 14:36) so that they even brought the sick out into the streets
and placed them on beds and mats, that at least the shadow
of Peter passing by might touch some of them.
16 (Mk 16:17-18) Crowds also came out of the cities surrounding Jerusalem,
bringing the sick and those who were afflicted by evil spirits,
and they were all healed.
[12] And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought
among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.
[13] And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people
magnified them.
[14] And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men
and women.)
[15] Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid
them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by
might overshadow some of them.
[16] There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto
Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean
spirits: and they were healed every one.
Persecution of the Apostles
17 (Ac 7:9; 13:45) Then the high priest and all those who were with him
(that is, the sect of the Sadducees) rose up and were filled with jealousy.
18 (Ac 4:3; Lk 21:12) They seized the apostles and put them in the common
prison.
19 (Ac 8:26; 16:26) But during the night an angel of the Lord
opened the prison doors and led them out, and said,
20 (Jn 6:63; 6:68) "Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people
all the words of this life."
21 (Jn 8:2) Having heard this, they entered the temple at dawn and taught.
But the high priest and those who were with him came and called together
the Sanhedrin and the senate of all the sons of Israel,
and sent to the prison to have them brought out.
22 But when the officers came and did not find them in the prison,
they returned and reported,
23 "We found the prison securely shut and the guards standing
outside before the doors. But when we opened it, we found no one inside."
24 (Ac 4:1; 5:26) Now when the high priest, the captain of the temple,
and the chief priests heard these things, they were in doubt of what might
become of this.
25 Then one came and told them, "Look, the men whom you put in prison
are standing in the temple and teaching the people."
26 (Ac 5:13; 4:21) Then the captain with his escorts went and brought them,
without force lest they should be stoned, for they feared the people.
27 When they had brought them, they stood them before the Sanhedrin.
And the high priest questioned them,
28 (Mt 27:25; Ac 7:52) saying, "Did we not strictly command you not
to teach in this name? Yet now you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching,
and you intend to bring on us this Man's blood."
29 (Ac 4:19) Peter and the other apostles answered,
"We must obey God rather than men.
30 (Ac 10:39; Gal 3:13) The God of our fathers raised Jesus,
whom you killed by hanging on a tree.
31 (Lk 24:47; 2:11; Ac 2:33) God exalted this Man to His right hand
to be a Ruler and a Savior, to give repentance to Israel
and forgiveness of sins.
32 (Jn 15:26-27; Ac 2:4) We are His witnesses to these words,
as is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him."
33 (Ac 2:37; 7:54) When they heard this, they were cut to the heart
and took counsel to kill them.
34 (Ac 22:3; Lk 2:46) But a Pharisee in the Sanhedrin named Gamaliel,
a teacher of the law honored by all the people, stood
and ordered the apostles to be put outside for a little while.
35 Then he said to them, "Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves
what you intend to do concerning these men.
36 (Ac 8:9; 21:38) For in previous days Theudas rose up, boasting
to be somebody, to whom a number of about four hundred men joined
themselves. He was killed, and all who obeyed him were dispersed
and came to nothing.
37 (Lk 2:1-2) After Theudas, Judas the Galilean rose up
in the days of the census and drew away many people after him.
This man also perished, and all who obeyed him were scattered.
38 (La 3:37; Mt 15:13) Now I tell you, keep away from these men
and leave them alone, because if this intention or this activity
is of men, it will come to nothing.
39 (Pr 21:30; Ac 7:51) But if it is of God, you will not be able
to overthrow them, lest perhaps you be found even fighting against God."
40 (Mt 10:17; Mk 13:9) They agreed with him. When they had called
in the apostles, they beat them, and commanded them not to speak
in the name of Jesus, and released them.
41 (Jn 15:21) Then they departed from the presence of the Sanhedrin,
rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.
42 (Ac 2:46; 8:35) Daily, in the temple and from house to house,
they did not cease to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
[17] Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which
is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,
[18] And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common
prison.
[19] But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought
them forth, and said,
[20] Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this
life.
[21] And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the
morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him,
and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of
Israel and sent to the prison to have them brought.
[22] But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they
returned, and told,
[23] Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers
standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man
within.
[24] Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief
priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.
[25] Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in
prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.
[26] Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without
violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.
[27] And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and
the high priest asked them,
[28] Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in
this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and
intend to bring this man's blood upon us.
[29] Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey
God rather than men.
[30] The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a
tree.
[31] Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour,
for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.
[32] And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy
Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
[33] When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to
slay them.
[34] Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a
doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to
put the apostles forth a little space;
[35] And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye
intend to do as touching these men.
[36] For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody;
to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was
slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to
nought.
[37] After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and
drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as
obeyed him, were dispersed.
[38] And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for
if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:
[39] But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found
even to fight against God.
[40] And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and
beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus,
and let them go.
[41] And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they
were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
[42] And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach
and preach Jesus Christ.
2) Our Daily Bread for 6 November 2022
Entitled "Running the Race"
Jeremiah 19:3-6,14-15
3 (1Sa 3:11; Jer 17:20) and say: Hear the word of the Lord, O kings of Judah
and inhabitants of Jerusalem. Thus says the Lord of Hosts, the God of Israel:
I will bring such disaster upon this place, at which whoever hears of it,
his ears shall tingle.
4 (Jer 2:34; 2Ki 21:16; Dt 28:20) Because they have forsaken Me
and have profaned this place by making offerings in it to other gods
whom neither they, their fathers, nor the kings of Judah have known,
and have filled this place with the blood of the innocent,
5 (Jer 32:35; Lev 18:21; Ps 106:37-38) and have built the high places
of Baal to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings to Baal,
which I did not command or decree, nor did it come into My mind-
6 (Jos 15:8; Isa 30:33) therefore, surely the days are coming,
says the Lord, when this place shall no more be called Topheth
or the Valley of Ben Hinnom, but the Valley of Slaughter.
14 (2Ch 20:5; Jer 26:2) Then Jeremiah came from Topheth, where the Lord
had sent him to prophesy. And he stood in the court of the house of the Lord
and said to all the people:
15 (Jer 7:26; 17:23) Thus says the Lord of Hosts, the God of Israel:
I am about to bring upon this city and upon all her towns all the disaster
that I have pronounced against it, because they have stiffened their necks
so that they might not heed My words.
[3] And say, Hear ye the word of the LORD, O kings of Judah, and inhabitants
of Jerusalem; Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I
will bring evil upon this place, the which whosoever heareth, his ears
shall tingle.
[4] Because they have forsaken me, and have estranged this place, and have
burned incense in it unto other gods, whom neither they nor their fathers
have known, nor the kings of Judah, and have filled this place with the
blood of innocents;
[5] They have built also the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with
fire for burnt offerings unto Baal, which I commanded not, nor spake it,
neither came it into my mind:
[6] Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that this place shall
no more be called Tophet, nor The valley of the son of Hinnom, but The
valley of slaughter.
[14] Then came Jeremiah from Tophet, whither the LORD had sent him to
prophesy; and he stood in the court of the LORD's house; and said to all
the people,
[15] Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring
upon this city and upon all her towns all the evil that I have pronounced
against it, because they have hardened their necks, that they might not
hear my words.
In 1979, archaeologist Gabriel Barkay unearthed two small silver scrolls. It
took years to delicately unroll the metal scrolls, and each was found to
contain a Hebrew etching of the blessing from Numbers 6:24-26, "The Lord bless
you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Scholars date the
scrolls to the seventh century bc. They're the oldest known bits of Scripture
in the world.
Equally interesting is where they were found. Barkay was digging in a cave in
the Valley of Hinnom, the very place where the prophet Jeremiah told the
people of Judah that God would slaughter them for sacrificing their children
(Jeremiah 19:4-6). This valley was the site of such wickedness that Jesus used
the word "Gehenna" (a Greek form of the Hebrew name for the "Valley of
Hinnom") as a picture of hell (Matthew 23:33).
On this spot, about the time Jeremiah was announcing God's judgment on his
nation, someone was etching His future blessing onto silver scrolls. It
wouldn't happen in their lifetime, but one day-on the other side of the
Babylonian invasion-God would turn His face toward His people
and give them peace.
The lesson for us is clear. Even if we deserve what we have coming,
we can cling to God's promise. His heart always yearns for His people.
By: Mike Wittmer
Reflect & Pray
What discipline from God have you deserved? How might you accept His
discipline and cling to His promise of salvation?
Father, I confess my sin and the judgment I deserve
and cling to Your promise to forgive and restore.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 4 - The Blessings of Grace Day 1 - The Joy of Confessing Christ
Romans 10:9-10
9 (Lk 12:8; Php 2:11)that if you confess with your mouth
Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from
the dead, you will be saved,
10 for with the heart one believes unto righteousness,
and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation
Teena, a college freshman, has just committed her life to Christ,
but she was apprehensive about telling anyone - until Bill appeared
on the scene. He plunked his coffee cup down on the table and smiled.
"I heard something exciting happened to you yesterday, Teena"
"Yeah", Teena paused and looked around, as if seeking an escape route.
"I , uh, well, I did it"
"Did what?"
"Well, I, ah, gave my life to God."
"That's wonderful!" Bill exclaimed.
He was still talking with Teena and encouraging he in her decision
when Maria walked by.
"Maria!" Bill called. "Teena wants to tell you something!"
Teena gasped , open-mouthed, then stammered,
" I - I committed my life to Christ."
Maria , similarly enthuasiatic, encouraged Teena in her commitment,
and within half an hour Teena was stopping her friends to tell them,
"Guess what? I've become a Christian! I belng to Jesus now!"
Teena had already surrendered her heart to Christ.
But when she confessed her decision aloud to others,
the truth of that transformation was confirmed by her.
Many of us have been raised to believe that 'faith is a private matter',
not to be discussed in polite company. Yet Paul makes clear the connection
between heart commitment and verbal confession. Just as my love for family
and friends deepens as I tell them I love them, so a person's love
for Christ is confirmed and stabilised
by speaking of that commitment to others.
Application
a) Have I been reluctant to tell others of my faith in Christ? Why?
b) What happens within me when I do tell others of my love for the Lord?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Philip 4:19
19 (Ro 2:4) But my God shall supply your every need according
to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
19 But my God shall supply all your need according
to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Reconciling Peace
Ps 85:8-13
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) I will hear what God the Lord will speak,
for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints,
but let them not turn again to folly.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Surely His salvation is near to them who fear Him,
that glory may dwell in our land.
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Mercy and truth have met together;
righteousness and peace have kissed.
11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) Truth springs from the ground,
and righteousness looks down from the sky.
12 Yes, the Lord gives that which is good,
and our land shall yield its increase.
13 Righteousness shall go before Him
and prepare a way for His footsteps.
8 I will hear what God the LORD will speak:
For he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints:
But let them not turn again to folly.
9 Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him;
That glory may dwell in our land.
10 Mercy and truth are met together;
Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
11 Truth shall spring out of the earth;
And righteousness shall look down from heaven.
12 Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good;
And our land shall yield her increase.
13 Righteousness shall go before him;
And shall set us in the way of his steps.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2021 edition?)
Newfoundland & Labrador
Total population 527000
Muslim population (est.) 2065
As of Autumn 2014, St. John's does not have a local CNMM network. Pray with us
for God's people to come together in prayer
and cooperative efforts to reach Muslims with the Good News.
St. John's has one mosque and 2 more musallas , or prayer locations, which
may grow into mosques of their own. The mosque is called Masjid an Noor,
The Mosque of the Light, and mosque historical documents record a trip in 1986
to Saudi Arabia to raise funds for the land purchase and construction costs.
A small number of Muslim families had come prior to 1964, but moved on to
other places after a short time. After this date, a small community began
to remain and grow , reaching about 25 families in the 1980s. A number
of international students also join the community annually
ranging from 25 to 60.
In 2014 the mosque website reports the community is made up of some 200
families and many university students attending Memorial University. A
small number of native Newfoundlanders have also converted to the Islamic
faith, one saying of this religion in Newfoundland, "Islam is a growing face".
With the growth of the community, the current challenge is lack of space
in the mosque, which they are now looking at expanding.
Pray for
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
6th Day of the Month
a) Pray for a more effective witness by the church in every Canadian community
(
Deut 4:6-7
6 (Job 28:28; Pr 1:7 ) Therefore, keep and do them, for this is your wisdom and
your understanding in the sight of the nations which shall hear all these
statutes, and say, "Surely this great nation is a wise and
understanding people."
7 (2Sa 7:23; Ps 46:1) For what nation is there so great, who has a god so near
to it as the Lord our God is in all things whenever we call on Him?
6 Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and
your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these
statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and
understanding people.
7 For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them,
as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?
Matt 5:13-16
13 (Lev 2:13; Lk 14:34-35) "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt
loses its saltiness, how shall it be made salty? It is from then on good for
nothing but to be thrown out and to be trampled underfoot by men.
14 (Jn 8:12; Pr 4:18) "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden.
15 (Mk 4:21; Lk 8:16) Neither do men light a candle and put it under a basket,
but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the house.
16 (1Pe 2:12; Mt 9:8; Jn 15:8) Let your light so shine before men that they
may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour,
wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing,
but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set
on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on
a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Acts 1:8
8 (Mt 28:19; Mk 16:15) "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes
upon you. And you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and
Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
8 "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 Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
)
b) Pray for the province of British Columbia
I) Pray for the leaders of Alberta, that God's Spirit would influence then to
act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards.
( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4) 1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,
prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone, 2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings
and for all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life
in all godliness and honesty, 3 (1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and
acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all
men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 for kings,
and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable
life in all godliness and honesty. 3For this is good and acceptable
in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 who will have all men to be saved,
and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
II) Pray for the churches of the province, that they would be lighthouses
beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.
III) Pray that the Lord would use the Finding the Hope Campaign and booklet
to turn many hearts to Jesus
Conclusion:
PRay to the Lord and pray to experience joy in your life.
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to be honourable in Him.
Pray to the Lord: "Father, I confess my sin and the judgment I deserve
and cling to Your promise to forgive and restore."
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to be a Good Witness.
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to remember He will provide for your needs.
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to be respect Him.
Pray for in Newfoundland and Labrador
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for a more effective witness by the church in every Canadian community.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.