Day 316 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 12 November 2023 reflections
Day 316, 12 November 2023
Today at Calvary Community
Church Pastor Bev Sesink spoke on A Spirit Filled community,
A Generous Life
Acts 2:42-45
Life Among the Believers
42 (Ac 1:14; 20:7; 2:46) They continued steadfastly in the apostles'
teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in the prayers.
43 Fear came to every soul. And many wonders and signs were done through
the apostles.
44 (Ac 4:32) All who believed were together and had all things in common.
45 They sold their property and goods and distributed them to all,
according to their need.
46 (Ac 5:42; 20:7) And continuing daily with one mind in the temple,
[42] And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship,
and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
[43] And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by
the apostles.
[44] And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
[45] And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as
every man had need.
Acts 4:32-35
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.
[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.
A) Identify An Opportunity for Generosity
Romans 12:2
2 (Ro 12:1; 1Pe 1:14) Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed
by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good
and acceptable and perfect will of God.
[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable,
and perfect, will of God.
B) Take An Opportunity for Generosity
Matthew 14:19-21
19 (1Sa 9:13; Lk 24:30) Then He commanded the crowds to sit down
on the grass. He took the five loaves and the two fish,
and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves
to His disciples; and the disciples gave them to the crowds.
20 (Lk 9:17) They all ate and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets
full of the fragments that remained.
21 Those who had eaten were about five thousand men,
besides women and children.
[19] And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the
five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and
brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the
multitude.
[20] And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the
fragments that remained twelve baskets full.
[21] And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and
children.
Matthew 5:16
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.
[16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
1)Acts 4, Acts 5, Acts 6
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.
[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.
Acts 6
The Seven Helpers
1 (Ac 4:35; 2:41) Now in those days, as the disciples were multiplied,
there was murmuring among the Hellenists against the Hebrews,
because their widows were overlooked in the daily distribution.
2 So the twelve called the multitude of disciples together and said,
"It is not reasonable for us to leave the word of God and serve tables.
3 (Dt 1:13; Ac 2:4) Brothers, look among yourselves for seven men
who are known to be full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom,
whom we will appoint over this duty.
4 (Ac 1:14) But we will give ourselves continually to prayer
and to the ministry of the word."
5 (Ac 11:24; 6:3) And what was said pleased the whole multitude,
and they chose Stephen, who was a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit,
and Philip, and Procorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas,
a proselyte from Antioch,
6 (Ac 1:24; 8:17) whom they presented before the apostles. And when they had
prayed, they placed their hands on them.
7 (Ac 12:24; 19:20) So the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples
grew rapidly in Jerusalem, and a great number of the priests
were obedient to the faith.
[1] And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied,
there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their
widows were neglected in the daily ministration.
[2] Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and
said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve
tables.
[3] Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report,
full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
[4] But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of
the word.
[5] And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a
man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and
Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:
[6] Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid
their hands on them.
[7] And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples
multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were
obedient to the faith.
The Arrest of Stephen
8 Now Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders
and miracles among the people.
9 (Mt 27:32; Ac 15:23) Then some men rose up from what is called
the Synagogue of the Freedmen (Cyrenians, Alexandrians,
and those from Cilicia and of Asia), disputing with Stephen.
10 (Lk 21:15) But they were not able to withstand the wisdom
and the Spirit by which he spoke.
11 (Mt 26:59-60) Then they secretly instigated men who said, "We have
heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God."
12 So they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes,
and came upon him and seized him and led him to the Sanhedrin,
13 (Ac 6:11; 21:28) and set up false witnesses who said,
"This man does not cease to speak blasphemous words against this holy place
and the law.
14 (Da 9:26; Ac 15:1) For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth
will destroy this place, and will change the customs which Moses handed down
to us."
15 (Ecc 8:1) All who sat in the Sanhedrin, gazing at him,
saw his face as the face of an angel.
[8] And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles
among the people.
[9] Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue
of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia
and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.
[10] And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he
spake.
[11] Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous
words against Moses, and against God.
[12] And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and
came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,
[13] And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak
blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:
[14] For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy
this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.
[15] And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his
face as it had been the face of an angel.
2) Our Daily Bread for 12 November 2023 Titled
Cling to Jesus
Matthew 9:18-22
The Ruler's Daughter and a Woman Healed
Mk 5:21-43; Lk 8:40-56
18 (Mt 8:2; Mk 5:22-43) While He was speaking these things to them,
a certain ruler came and worshipped Him, saying,
"My daughter is even now dead. But come and lay Your hand on her,
and she will live."
19 Jesus rose and followed him, and so did His disciples.
20 (Mt 14:36; Dt 22:12T) hen a woman, who was ill with a flow of blood
for twelve years, came behind Him and touched the hem of His garment.
21 For she said within herself, "If I may just touch His garment,
I shall be healed."
22 (Lk 7:50; Mt 9:2; Mk 10:52) But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her,
He said, "Daughter, be of good comfort. Your faith has made you well."
And the woman was made well instantly.
[18] While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain
ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come
and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.
[19] And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his disciples.
[20] And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve
years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment:
[21] For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be
whole.
[22] But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be
of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made
whole from that hour.
Dizziness struck me in the stairwell of the office building. Overwhelmed, I
gripped the banister because the stairs seemed to spin. As my heart pounded
and my legs buckled, I clung onto the banister, thankful for its strength.
Medical tests showed I had anemia. Although its cause wasn't serious and
my condition was resolved, I'll never forget how weak I felt that day.
That's why I admire the woman who touched Jesus. She not only moved through
the crowd in her weakened state, but she also showed faith in venturing out to
approach Him (Matthew 9:20-22). She had good reason to be afraid: Jewish law
defined her as unclean and by exposing others to her uncleanness, she could
face serious consequences (Leviticus 15:25-27). But the thought If I only
touch His cloak kept her going. The Greek word that's translated as "touch"
in Matthew 9:21 is not mere touching but has the stronger meaning of "to hold
on to" or "to attach oneself." The woman tightly held on to Jesus.
She believed He could heal her.
Jesus saw, in the midst of a crowd, the desperate faith of one woman. When we
too venture out in faith and cling to Christ in our need, He welcomes us and
comes to our aid. We can tell Him our story without fear of rejection or
punishment. Jesus tells us today, "Cling to Me."
By: Karen Huang
Reflect & Pray
What’s caused you suffering and fear? To what or whom have you turned
for help and healing? How can you cling to Jesus today?
Dear God, thank You for Your love.
I don't have to feel ashamed and afraid.
You accept me and call me Your child.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 1 - God's Perspective
Philip 4:13
13 (2Co 12:9-10; Eph 3:16) I can do all things because
of Christ who strengthens me.
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Many of us live out self-fulfilling prophecies. We believe
what we tell ourselves - or what we have been told by others:
"You're stupid", "You're ugly", "You'll never amount to anything,"
"You can't do anything right."
We programme ourselves for spiritual failure as well.
"I just can't memorise Scripture," we say. "It comes and goes,
and I can't seem to get it to stay." Yet daily we memorise
volumes of information that is less significant than the
Scriptures - telephone numbers, identification codes,
songs lyrics, advertising jingles.
The answer to the dilemma of negativism is not positive
thinking, but right thinking - biblical thinking, according
to what the Bible reveals of God's perspective. God says,
"You are worthwhile. You are valued. You are loved. I created you
just as you are, and whatever I call you to do,
I will give you the strength to do it.
The context of Phillipians 4:13 shows that Paul had learned
this important secret of spiritual strength. Paul had known
poverty and plenty, trouble and victory. But he also knew
he did not have to let circumstances determine his response to God's will.
We need not be controlled by the negative messages life throws in our paths
- even those self-defeating pronouncements we make to ourselves.
Rather, we can respond according to God's perspective, with the
conviction that God has given us strength we need to meet the
challenges we face.
Application
a) What challenges do I face that make me realise my own insufficiencies?
IS memorising Scripture one of those challenges for me?
b) How does today's memory verse help me face those challenges?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Ps 1:3
He will be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,
that brings forth its fruit in its season;
its leaf will not wither,
and whatever he does will prosper.
3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,
That bringeth forth his fruit in his season;
His leaf also shall not wither;
And whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Angry of Vengeful
James 1:19-25
Hearing and Doing the Word
19 Therefore, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear,
slow to speak, and slow to anger,
20 for the anger of man does not work the righteousness of God.
21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and remaining
wickedness and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able
to save your souls.
22 Be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man
viewing his natural face in a mirror.
24 He views himself, and goes his way,
and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.
25 But whoever looks into
the perfect law of liberty, and continues in it,
and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work,
this man will be blessed in his deeds.
19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear,
slow to speak, slow to wrath:
20 for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness,
and receive with meekness the engrafted word,
which is able to save your souls.
22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only,
deceiving your own selves.
23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer,
he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
24for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway
forgetteth what manner of man he was.
25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty,
and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer,
but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
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
12th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
(Proverb 11:1
1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord,
but a just weight is His delight.
1 A false balance is abomination to the LORD:
But a just weight is his delight.
)
b) Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to be a Brave and Honest witness to the Lord via
The Holy Spirit.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, thank You for Your love.
I don't have to feel ashamed and afraid.
You accept me and call me Your child."
Pray to the Lord and pray ask for His Help to know the Word.
Pray to the Lord and pray to be rooted in the Lord.
Pray to the Lord and pray to be slow to anger.
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 that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Pray that the Nepal government will stop its oppression of those who
convert to Christianity.
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 Bev Sesink spoke on A Spirit Filled community,
A Generous Life
Acts 2:42-45
Life Among the Believers
42 (Ac 1:14; 20:7; 2:46) They continued steadfastly in the apostles'
teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in the prayers.
43 Fear came to every soul. And many wonders and signs were done through
the apostles.
44 (Ac 4:32) All who believed were together and had all things in common.
45 They sold their property and goods and distributed them to all,
according to their need.
46 (Ac 5:42; 20:7) And continuing daily with one mind in the temple,
[42] And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship,
and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
[43] And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by
the apostles.
[44] And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
[45] And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as
every man had need.
Acts 4:32-35
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.
[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.
A) Identify An Opportunity for Generosity
Romans 12:2
2 (Ro 12:1; 1Pe 1:14) Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed
by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good
and acceptable and perfect will of God.
[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable,
and perfect, will of God.
B) Take An Opportunity for Generosity
Matthew 14:19-21
19 (1Sa 9:13; Lk 24:30) Then He commanded the crowds to sit down
on the grass. He took the five loaves and the two fish,
and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves
to His disciples; and the disciples gave them to the crowds.
20 (Lk 9:17) They all ate and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets
full of the fragments that remained.
21 Those who had eaten were about five thousand men,
besides women and children.
[19] And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the
five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and
brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the
multitude.
[20] And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the
fragments that remained twelve baskets full.
[21] And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and
children.
Matthew 5:16
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.
[16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
1)Acts 4, Acts 5, Acts 6
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.
[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.
Acts 6
The Seven Helpers
1 (Ac 4:35; 2:41) Now in those days, as the disciples were multiplied,
there was murmuring among the Hellenists against the Hebrews,
because their widows were overlooked in the daily distribution.
2 So the twelve called the multitude of disciples together and said,
"It is not reasonable for us to leave the word of God and serve tables.
3 (Dt 1:13; Ac 2:4) Brothers, look among yourselves for seven men
who are known to be full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom,
whom we will appoint over this duty.
4 (Ac 1:14) But we will give ourselves continually to prayer
and to the ministry of the word."
5 (Ac 11:24; 6:3) And what was said pleased the whole multitude,
and they chose Stephen, who was a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit,
and Philip, and Procorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas,
a proselyte from Antioch,
6 (Ac 1:24; 8:17) whom they presented before the apostles. And when they had
prayed, they placed their hands on them.
7 (Ac 12:24; 19:20) So the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples
grew rapidly in Jerusalem, and a great number of the priests
were obedient to the faith.
[1] And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied,
there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their
widows were neglected in the daily ministration.
[2] Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and
said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve
tables.
[3] Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report,
full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
[4] But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of
the word.
[5] And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a
man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and
Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:
[6] Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid
their hands on them.
[7] And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples
multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were
obedient to the faith.
The Arrest of Stephen
8 Now Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders
and miracles among the people.
9 (Mt 27:32; Ac 15:23) Then some men rose up from what is called
the Synagogue of the Freedmen (Cyrenians, Alexandrians,
and those from Cilicia and of Asia), disputing with Stephen.
10 (Lk 21:15) But they were not able to withstand the wisdom
and the Spirit by which he spoke.
11 (Mt 26:59-60) Then they secretly instigated men who said, "We have
heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God."
12 So they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes,
and came upon him and seized him and led him to the Sanhedrin,
13 (Ac 6:11; 21:28) and set up false witnesses who said,
"This man does not cease to speak blasphemous words against this holy place
and the law.
14 (Da 9:26; Ac 15:1) For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth
will destroy this place, and will change the customs which Moses handed down
to us."
15 (Ecc 8:1) All who sat in the Sanhedrin, gazing at him,
saw his face as the face of an angel.
[8] And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles
among the people.
[9] Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue
of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia
and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.
[10] And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he
spake.
[11] Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous
words against Moses, and against God.
[12] And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and
came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,
[13] And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak
blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:
[14] For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy
this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.
[15] And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his
face as it had been the face of an angel.
2) Our Daily Bread for 12 November 2023 Titled
Cling to Jesus
Matthew 9:18-22
The Ruler's Daughter and a Woman Healed
Mk 5:21-43; Lk 8:40-56
18 (Mt 8:2; Mk 5:22-43) While He was speaking these things to them,
a certain ruler came and worshipped Him, saying,
"My daughter is even now dead. But come and lay Your hand on her,
and she will live."
19 Jesus rose and followed him, and so did His disciples.
20 (Mt 14:36; Dt 22:12T) hen a woman, who was ill with a flow of blood
for twelve years, came behind Him and touched the hem of His garment.
21 For she said within herself, "If I may just touch His garment,
I shall be healed."
22 (Lk 7:50; Mt 9:2; Mk 10:52) But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her,
He said, "Daughter, be of good comfort. Your faith has made you well."
And the woman was made well instantly.
[18] While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain
ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come
and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.
[19] And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his disciples.
[20] And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve
years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment:
[21] For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be
whole.
[22] But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be
of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made
whole from that hour.
Dizziness struck me in the stairwell of the office building. Overwhelmed, I
gripped the banister because the stairs seemed to spin. As my heart pounded
and my legs buckled, I clung onto the banister, thankful for its strength.
Medical tests showed I had anemia. Although its cause wasn't serious and
my condition was resolved, I'll never forget how weak I felt that day.
That's why I admire the woman who touched Jesus. She not only moved through
the crowd in her weakened state, but she also showed faith in venturing out to
approach Him (Matthew 9:20-22). She had good reason to be afraid: Jewish law
defined her as unclean and by exposing others to her uncleanness, she could
face serious consequences (Leviticus 15:25-27). But the thought If I only
touch His cloak kept her going. The Greek word that's translated as "touch"
in Matthew 9:21 is not mere touching but has the stronger meaning of "to hold
on to" or "to attach oneself." The woman tightly held on to Jesus.
She believed He could heal her.
Jesus saw, in the midst of a crowd, the desperate faith of one woman. When we
too venture out in faith and cling to Christ in our need, He welcomes us and
comes to our aid. We can tell Him our story without fear of rejection or
punishment. Jesus tells us today, "Cling to Me."
By: Karen Huang
Reflect & Pray
What’s caused you suffering and fear? To what or whom have you turned
for help and healing? How can you cling to Jesus today?
Dear God, thank You for Your love.
I don't have to feel ashamed and afraid.
You accept me and call me Your child.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 1 - God's Perspective
Philip 4:13
13 (2Co 12:9-10; Eph 3:16) I can do all things because
of Christ who strengthens me.
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Many of us live out self-fulfilling prophecies. We believe
what we tell ourselves - or what we have been told by others:
"You're stupid", "You're ugly", "You'll never amount to anything,"
"You can't do anything right."
We programme ourselves for spiritual failure as well.
"I just can't memorise Scripture," we say. "It comes and goes,
and I can't seem to get it to stay." Yet daily we memorise
volumes of information that is less significant than the
Scriptures - telephone numbers, identification codes,
songs lyrics, advertising jingles.
The answer to the dilemma of negativism is not positive
thinking, but right thinking - biblical thinking, according
to what the Bible reveals of God's perspective. God says,
"You are worthwhile. You are valued. You are loved. I created you
just as you are, and whatever I call you to do,
I will give you the strength to do it.
The context of Phillipians 4:13 shows that Paul had learned
this important secret of spiritual strength. Paul had known
poverty and plenty, trouble and victory. But he also knew
he did not have to let circumstances determine his response to God's will.
We need not be controlled by the negative messages life throws in our paths
- even those self-defeating pronouncements we make to ourselves.
Rather, we can respond according to God's perspective, with the
conviction that God has given us strength we need to meet the
challenges we face.
Application
a) What challenges do I face that make me realise my own insufficiencies?
IS memorising Scripture one of those challenges for me?
b) How does today's memory verse help me face those challenges?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Ps 1:3
He will be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,
that brings forth its fruit in its season;
its leaf will not wither,
and whatever he does will prosper.
3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,
That bringeth forth his fruit in his season;
His leaf also shall not wither;
And whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Angry of Vengeful
James 1:19-25
Hearing and Doing the Word
19 Therefore, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear,
slow to speak, and slow to anger,
20 for the anger of man does not work the righteousness of God.
21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and remaining
wickedness and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able
to save your souls.
22 Be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man
viewing his natural face in a mirror.
24 He views himself, and goes his way,
and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.
25 But whoever looks into
the perfect law of liberty, and continues in it,
and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work,
this man will be blessed in his deeds.
19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear,
slow to speak, slow to wrath:
20 for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness,
and receive with meekness the engrafted word,
which is able to save your souls.
22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only,
deceiving your own selves.
23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer,
he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
24for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway
forgetteth what manner of man he was.
25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty,
and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer,
but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
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
12th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
(Proverb 11:1
1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord,
but a just weight is His delight.
1 A false balance is abomination to the LORD:
But a just weight is his delight.
)
b) Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to be a Brave and Honest witness to the Lord via
The Holy Spirit.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, thank You for Your love.
I don't have to feel ashamed and afraid.
You accept me and call me Your child."
Pray to the Lord and pray ask for His Help to know the Word.
Pray to the Lord and pray to be rooted in the Lord.
Pray to the Lord and pray to be slow to anger.
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 that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Pray that the Nepal government will stop its oppression of those who
convert to Christianity.
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.