Agreeing on the Basics - Acts 15:1-35 - July 29, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Agreeing on the Basics – July 29, 2007

This is lesson five (5) in our series of study.

Our background scripture is Acts 15:1-35.

Our focus scripture is Acts 15:1-5; 6-15a; 23-29.

Disagreements occur in many churches. How disagreements are handled is critical. I think the LORD allows disagreements to test the heart of the leadership and the congregation. Sometimes they end in a church splitting which does not send a good message to the community. But when issues are fundamental to the faith they need to resolved or members need to reevaluate their continued membership in that church.

It is critical that all issues be evaluated using the Bible and seeking the guidance of the HOLY SPIRIT through prayer and possibly fasting.

The issue facing the early church is very critical. It involves the issue of what does it take for a person to be a Christian? This question is particularly relevant to a Gentile becoming a Christian. The church had Gentiles who were proselytes. They had been circumcised and obeyed the Jewish laws and rituals. In Antioch and the churches Barnabas, Paul and others had established involved Gentiles who had not come through the Jewish religion. As a result they had not been circumcised nor did they follow the Jewish rituals.

We must keep in mind that the Apostle Paul was trained as a Pharisee before he was converted to CHRIST. So Paul is well versed in the knowledge of the Pharisees. Also we must keep in mind that these are Christian Pharisees.

Let’s see the issue they needed to resolve.

Let’s read Acts 15:1-5:

1 Some men came down from Judea and began to teach the brothers: “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom prescribed by Moses, you cannot be saved!” 2 But after Paul and Barnabas had engaged them in serious argument and debate, they arranged for Paul and Barnabas and some others of them to go up to the apostles and elders in Jerusalem concerning this controversy. 3 When they had been sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, explaining in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and they created great joy among all the brothers. 4 When they arrived at Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church, the apostles, and the elders, and they reported all that God had done with them. 5 But some of the believers from the party of the • Pharisees stood up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them and to command them to keep the law of Moses!”

Paul and Barnabas take issue with these Christian Pharisees coming to Antioch and telling the new Gentile believers that they had to be circumcised in order to be saved. Notice that up to this point, Dr. Luke had used Barnabas first, now he mentions Paul first. Paul is the resident Christian Pharisee and defends their rational for not requiring the new believers to be circumcised or following the Jewish rituals.

The issues could not be resolved, so they went to Jerusalem to place the issues before the apostles and the elders.

The Apostle Peter is recognized as the leader of the Apostles and represents the Jews. The Apostle Paul is recognized as an apostle because he had seen CHRIST when he was converted. Paul is recognized as the Apostle to the Gentiles.

Elders were likely the older men who are recognized for their wisdom. It is believed that JESUS’ brother James is likely the head of this group of elders. James was the head of the Christian church in Jerusalem.

The Christian Pharisees cut to the chase and state the issue. These new gentile converts need to be circumcised and keep the law of Moses (likely meaning the rituals) because it was understood that Christians, Jew and Gentile alike, should obey the Ten Commandments.

Let’s read Acts 15:6-15a:
The Jerusalem Council
6 Then the apostles and the elders assembled to consider this matter. 7 After there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them: “Brothers, you are aware that in the early days God made a choice among you,[1] Other mss read us that by my mouth the Gentiles would hear the gospel message and believe. 8 And God, who knows the heart, testified to them by giving[2] Other mss add them the Holy Spirit, just as He also did to us. 9 He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith. 10 Why, then, are you now testing God by putting on the disciples’ necks a yoke that neither our forefathers nor we have been able to bear? 11 On the contrary, we believe we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way they are.”

12 Then the whole assembly fell silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul describing all the signs and wonders God had done through them among the Gentiles. 13 After they stopped speaking, James responded: “Brothers, listen to me! 14 Simeon[3] Simon (Peter) has reported how God first intervened to take from the Gentiles a people for His name. 15 And the words of the prophets agree with this,

We again see why the Apostle Peter’s heart had to be changed regarding how he viewed Gentiles. GOD dwelt with him on this issue in our earlier lesson on Cornelius. Peter addresses the assembly and shares what GOD has revealed to him.

It is so important that the leadership of a church or body not play politics but to be honest to what GOD has revealed to them.

Pay special attention to verse 11. Peter says we are all saved by grace. Both Jew and Gentile are saved by grace. We know that grace is something we cannot earn. It is something we do not deserve. It is a free gift from GOD to us for being obedient by acknowledging that GOD’S SON, JESUS, died on the cross for our sins. We must ask HIM to forgive our sins and to come into our hearts and lives. When we do miracle takes place in our lives. We are born-again in our spirit and we become children of GOD. We receive the free gift of eternal life and the assurance of salvation by the indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT in our lives as born-again believers.

We all receive grace, GOD’S unmerited favor, because we all fall short of what GOD wants for us. Our human nature interferes with our complete commitment to the LORD. So GOD cuts us some slack as HE perfects us through circumstances in life. We all are on a lifelong growth and maturing process of being perfected into the image of CHRIST. When we die and behold HIM, we will be like HIM.

Notice that Barnabas is listed first and then Paul. This assembly knows Barnabas, plus Barnabas was appointed as the lead representative to go to Antioch. Barnabas chose Saul (Paul) to go with him. So Barnabas takes the lead. When he finishes his discourse, James, the brother of JESUS, speaks up. James refers to Peter as Simeon and reminds the assembly of Peter’s experience with the Gentiles. We must keep in mind that fellow Jews accompanied Peter when he went to meet Cornelius. So there are several witnesses who confirm the events on the day of the Gentile Pentecost.

James ties the Gentile event with scripture, which again confirms the authenticity of the Gentile Pentecost. These uncircumcised Gentiles received CHRIST with the manifestation of the HOLY SPIRIT, the same as the circumcised, law abiding, ritual observing Jews.

Confirming matters with scripture is vital when we have issues come before the church. This is vital today. I know we try to sweep some issues under the rug, so-to-speak, but what is written is still true today as it was the day GOD gave it to us.

The assembly agrees on a solution. So they record their decision in a letter.

Let’s read Acts 15: 23-29:

23 They wrote this letter to be delivered by them:[6] Lit Writing by their hand: From the apostles and the elders, your brothers, To the brothers from among the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Greetings. 24 Because we have heard that some to whom we gave no authorization went out from us and troubled you with their words and unsettled your hearts,[7] Other mss add by saying, “Be circumcised and keep the law,” 25 we have unanimously decided to select men and send them to you along with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, 26 who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27 Therefore we have sent Judas and Silas, who will personally report the same things by word of mouth.[8] Lit things through word 28 For it was the Holy Spirit’s decision—and ours—to put no greater burden on you than these necessary things: 29 that you abstain from food offered to idols, from blood, from eating anything that has been strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these things, you will do well. Farewell.

The letter addresses four (4) issues that they consider important. Circumcision is not listed as one of the issues. The four (4) issues are:
1) Abstain from food offered to idols.
2) Abstain from blood.
3) Abstain from eating anything strangled.
4) Abstain from sexual immorality.

These things are likely related to the worship of idols and pagan practices. The pagan temples had temple prostitutes. The pagan temples had plenty of food. So it was cheap eats to drop by the pagan temple to get a meal cheap and possibly be tempted to spend some time with a temple prostitute.

Such practices can lead one to compromise their stand as a new believer in CHRIST. It sends a confusing message to others, such as “Does this new Christian following approve of pagan practices? Is it part of idol worship?” There is also the health issue with consuming blood and sexual immorality. GOD always wants to preserve HIS children and keep them from harm.

The practice of consuming blood was especially offensive to the Jewish Christians. The Jews recognized and understood that the life of an animal was in its’ blood and blood was associated with sin.

So even through the Gentiles had the freedom not to follow these Jewish practices, the Jerusalem assembly was asking the Gentiles to follow them. Three (3) of the practices the assembly requested the Gentiles to abstain from are ritualistic and one (1) is moral. If the Gentiles would follow these four (4) practices it satisfied the Jerusalem Assembly.

The assembly confirms their decision in a letter but they send representatives, Judas and Silas, to confirm the contents of the letter. They want to show that this serious matter has been resolved. Following these requirements will bring harmony among the new believers, Jew or Gentile. Unity among believers is vital. Unity sends a healthy and positive message to all who are on the outside looking in. It also helps the body of believers to focus on growth in the LORD.

Sharing CHRIST in All Places - Acts 13:1-3; 14:1-7, 21-23 - July 22, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Sharing CHRIST in All Places – July 22, 2007

This is lesson four (4) in our study series.

Our background scripture is Acts 13:1 – 14:28.

Our focal scripture is Acts 13:1-3; 14:1-7, 21-23.

This to me has been an exciting journey. We have, through the reporting of Dr. Luke, the working of GOD in the lives of the early church builders and leaders. We saw in last week’s lesson how GOD worked in the lives of Cornelius, the Gentile and the Apostle Peter, a Jew. GOD had to reveal to Peter that HE is not a respecter of persons and Peter had to deal with tradition in his life before he could move forward to serve GOD completely.

We know the HOLY SPIRIT works in lives today to refine them to be of greater service to our LORD. Most of us have barriers that prevent us from being of complete service to the LORD. Stubbornness on our part can result in us not changing our nature and we limit our ability to be all GOD wants us to be. We have to keep in mind that GOD does not override our right to choose.

Again this week GOD gives us an opportunity to observe HIS handiwork in the area of church planting and building through Dr. Luke.

First, we see the heart of the church at Antioch. The heart of the church is reflected through the hearts of its members, particularly through the leadership of the church. Here are some of the attributes of the church at Antioch:

- It is a diversified church. Its members come from a variety of backgrounds, Jews and Gentiles.
- Barnabas was an encourager and as a result the church was an encouraging church.
- It was a giving church by sending money to the church in Jerusalem.
- It was a mission minded church.
- It was a ministering church.
- It was a teaching church.

Let’s read Acts 13:1-3: (This is Antioch of Syria)

Preparing for the Mission Field
1 In the local church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger (NIGH guhr), Lucius (LYOO shuhs) the Cyrenian (sigh REE nih uhn), Manaen (MAN uh en), a close friend of • Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they were ministering to[1] Or were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work that I have called them to.” 3 Then, after they had fasted, prayed, and laid hands on them,[2] See note at Ac 6:6 they sent them off.

Leadership is critical in any church. In Antioch of Syria the LORD had equipped the church with both prophets and teachers. Prophets can be those who the LORD reveals the future or they can be those who preach the word. It is believed these prophets were those who preached and revealed the future. This is important for any growing and expanding church. Vision is critical for the growth of any church.

Teachers are those who reveal GOD’S plan as revealed through the scriptures and through prophesy. Teachers reveal truth as they are lead by the HOLY SPIRIT to build and strengthen the body of believers and equip those the LORD has chosen to serve HIM.

Many scholars believe the five (5) listed members of the Antioch church were considered to be both prophets and teachers. Some speculate that Simeon was the Simon who carried the cross of JESUS.

Manaen (MAN uh en) was a close friend of Herod the tetrarch. The word used for “close friend” carries the meaning that he was raised, educated and trained along side of Herod. This is thought to be the likely source of much of Dr. Luke’s intimate information regarding Herod Antipas.

Notice Paul is still referred to as Saul but later on in Acts he becomes Paul.

As they were ministering or worshiping and fasting, the LORD through the HOLY SPIRIT spoke to them. The HOLY SPIRIT said “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work that I have called them to.”

Notice the words in bold. First, GOD chose two (2) specific people by name. Then HE chose them for a specific task “the work” HE had. This is so important in serving our LORD. You have heard me say that we try to please GOD by doing something good for the LORD. This effort is us trying to perform for GOD. The key is that we do what GOD wants us to do and wait upon HIM to show us what work HE has for us. When HE reveals to us the work HE has, that is our invitation to join HIM in that work.

Many people have a problem when someone says the LORD spoke to him or her. The LORD speaks in many different ways. In fact HE speaks any way HE chooses to reveal HIS message to the person or group. Often HE speaks through HIS Word (the Bible), through prayer, through the church, through fellow Christians and any way HE knows HE can get your attention. HE spoke to Moses through a burning bush and HE spoke to Jonah in the belly of a large fish.

Once the LORD revealed that HE had called Barnabas and Saul for service, the church members fasted, prayed and laid hands upon them. This commissioned them for service. Today most churches commission those who are called for specific work for the LORD.

As we discussed in last week’s lesson, the laying on of hands does not impart special power but it is a symbol authorizing those called to go with their blessings. Also, implied with the commissioning is a commitment of those not going to support those going, especially through prayer.

This launches Paul’s first missionary journey as he and Barnabas are commissioned by this young church Antioch of Syria to go as the LORD has requested. This shows the heart of the church. The LORD called the church to send Barnabas and Saul. What a step of faith by the early church. They had the heart to share the good news of JESUS CHRIST and fulfill the great commission.

Let’s read Acts 14:1-7: (To see what happened in the previous city skip to Acts 13:42-52 printed following this scripture.)

Growth and Persecution in Iconium
1 The same thing happened in Iconium; they entered the Jewish • synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed. 2 But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up and poisoned the minds[1] Lit and harmed the souls of the Gentiles against the brothers. 3 So they stayed there for some time and spoke boldly, in reliance on the Lord, who testified to the message of His grace by granting that signs and wonders be performed through them. 4 But the people of the city were divided, some siding with the Jews and some with the apostles. 5 When an attempt was made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to assault and stone them, 6 they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian towns called Lystra (LISS truh) and Derbe (DUHR bih), and to the surrounding countryside. 7 And there they kept evangelizing.
This scripture begins with, “The same thing happened in Iconium.” We need to go to the previous scripture to know what had happened.

Let’s read Acts 13:42-52: (This is in Antioch of Pisidia)

42 As they[16] Paul and Barnabas were leaving, they[17] Other mss read they were leaving the synagogue of the Jews, the Gentiles [18] The people begged that these matters be presented to them the following Sabbath. 43 After the synagogue had been dismissed, many of the Jews and devout • proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas, who were speaking with them and persuading them to continue in the grace of God. 44 The following Sabbath almost the whole town assembled to hear the message of the Lord.[19] Other mss read of God 45 But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to oppose what Paul was saying by insulting him. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas boldly said: “It was necessary that God’s message be spoken to you first. But since you reject it, and consider yourselves unworthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles! 47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us: I have appointed you as a light for the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the ends[20] Lit the end of the earth.”[21] Isaiah 49:6 48 When the Gentiles heard this, they rejoiced and glorified the message of the Lord, and all who had been appointed to eternal life believed. 49 So the message of the Lord spread through the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the religious women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas and expelled them from their district. 51 But shaking the dust off their feet against them,[22] Mt 10:14 they proceeded to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.

Barnabas and Paul leave Antioch of Pisidia and proceed to Iconium filled with joy and the confirmation of the HOLY SPIRIT that they had been obedient to their calling. The results are always in GOD’S hands.

Now back to Iconium - Barnabas and Paul go to the local synagogue in Iconium to spread the good news of JESUS. A number of both Jews and Greeks became believers. Satan uses every tool he can to prevent the spread of the Gospel. The Jews become jealous and poison the minds of the Gentiles against the new believers. Peer pressure is a very hard thing to deal with especially in a small town. It took courage for the new believers to remain loyal to their faith in CHRIST. But once you have seen the truth, know the truth and know that CHRIST is the ONE you have been seeking, it is hard to turn your back on the truth.

Barnabas and Paul did not run from the situation but stayed to preach and teach. GOD performed signs and wonders to confirm HIS presence and to confirm their message. Signs and wonders also confirmed to the new believers that their faith in CHRIST is on a firm foundation.

The city was divided and those opposing the message of Barnabas and Paul planned to stone them. They learn of the plan and leave the city. They stayed there long enough to establish a church. They made sure the new believers were well founded in the faith before they left.

In ministry we never know when our time might be cut short.

Barnabas and Paul leave Iconium and travel to Lystra preaching the gospel of CHRIST. Lystra is about twenty (20) miles away from Iconium. The Jews from Antioch of Pisidia join forces with the Jews in Iconium they find Barnabas and Paul in Lystra. The Jews focus on Paul because he is a fellow Jew and can relate to Jews. Paul is also a Roman citizen and he can relate to the Gentiles. They dragged Paul out of Lystra and stone him. They left him for dead.

Acts 14:19-20: (The Jews mentioned here are from Antioch of Pisidia.)

19 Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium, and when they had won over the crowds and stoned Paul, they dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead. 20 After the disciples surrounded him, he got up and went into the town. The next day he left with Barnabas for Derbe.

Paul never misses a beat. The next day he leaves with Barnabas for Derbe which is about sixty (60) miles southeast of Lystra. Just think about being stoned (in the literal sense of people throwing large rocks at you), left for dead and then continue to minister, only the love for our LORD and assurance can produce that commitment.

I think Paul died when he was stoned because of testimony he gives in 2 Corinthians 12:2-6:
2 I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago--whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows--such a one was caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I know such a man--whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows-- 4 how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. 5 Of such a one I will boast; yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities. 6 For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me.

Let’s read Acts 14:21-23:
Church Planting
21 After they had evangelized that town and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, to Iconium, and to Antioch (of Pisidia), 22 strengthening the hearts[5] Lit souls of the disciples by encouraging them to continue in the faith, and by telling them, “It is necessary to pass through many troubles on our way into the kingdom of God.” 23 When they had appointed elders in every church and prayed with fasting, they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.

Barnabas and Paul leave Derbe and return to Lystra, the very city where they had stoned him and left him for dead. Can you imagine what ran through the minds of those who had stoned Paul when they saw him enter their city alive and well? This the news must have spread like wild fire through the inhabitants of Lystra. The Jews knew the story of Jonah. They had just witnessed a sign and wonder. Only GOD could resurrect the dead. This had to confirm in their hearts that GOD was at work.

Any one having been stoned by an angry mob of Jews had to be well founded in their faith regarding the gospel they were preaching. Paul was committed to ensuring that all the new believers in each city where they had already ministered were growing and maturing in the LORD. He was also showing that he indeed was alive and well and still preaching the gospel of CHRIST. It is likely that the news of Paul’s stoning had been spread but his appearance laid that message to rest.

Paul wanted to make sure the church was on solid ground before he retuned to Antioch of Syria. He wanted these new churches to be well organized and equipped with strong leadership before he moved on. So he appointed Elders or shepherds to ensure that all believers continued to be nourished with spiritual food and to remain strong in the faith because of the potential for persecution. The idea of Elders came from the Jewish religion. Elders were older men who were strong n their faith and knew the scriptures.

In the case of the early church the Elders were likely men who were well founded in their faith regarding JESUS. They were likely men who knew how to relate the existing scriptures to the life, dead and resurrection of CHRIST to show that CHRIST is the SAVIOR of mankind.

This is a vital message and practice for us today. It is vital that all new believers are well grounded in the scriptures and that they grow and mature in the LORD.

Barnabas’s and Paul’s return to each city they had already visited showed their resolve to serve the LORD and to depend upon the power of the HOLY SPIRIT to prepare the way.

In any mission effort the LORD prepares the way. Prayer and support from those remaining behind is vital. Christians need to pray for each other and for those serving the LORD through missions.

Their objectives in revisiting the churches were:
- Encourage
- Strengthen
- Challenge
- Establish qualified leadership (Elders).
- Commend the leadership to the care of the LORD to continue the work.
- And I think to show that Paul was alive and well and still strong in the faith, even after being stoned (Rocks).

The fact that Barnabas and Paul returned after leaving under a cloud of anger was a testimony of their commitment to the LORD JESUS to the new believers as well as those who had refused to believe. This had to be extremely reassuring, encouraging and strengthening to the new believers.

Our continued walk with our LORD is a witness when we face and endure situations life brings our way. Such strength only comes from the LORD through the power and indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT in our lives.

As our church prepares to send a team to Poland, I ask for your prayers for the team.

Sharing CHRIST With All People – Acts 10:1-48 - July 15, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – Sharing CHRIST With All People – July 15, 2007

This is lesson three (3) in our series of study.

Our background and focus scripture is Acts 10:1-48.

The dynamics in the scripture is awesome. We have the opportunity to see how GOD works in the hearts and lives of those HE calls to serve HIM. The same is true for each of us as we serve our LORD.

We will see how GOD is working in the lives of Cornelius, a Gentile and the Apostle Peter, who is a converted Jew.

Let’s read Acts 10:1-48: (With Comments)

Cornelius’ Vision
1 There was a man in Caesarea named Cornelius, a • centurion of what was called the Italian • Regiment. 2 He was a devout man and feared God along with his whole household. He did many charitable deeds for the [Jewish]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. people and always prayed to God. 3 At about three in the afternoon[1] Lit about the ninth hour he distinctly saw in a vision an angel of God who came in and said to him, “Cornelius!” 4 Looking intently at him, he became afraid and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he told him, “Your prayers and your acts of charity have come up as a memorial offering before God. 5 Now send men to Joppa and call for Simon, who is also named Peter. 6 He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” 7 When the angel who spoke to him had gone, he called two of his household slaves and a devout soldier, who was one of those who attended him. 8 After explaining everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.

Cornelius is a Gentile Roman centurion. As a centurion he had command of one hundred (100) soldiers. We see from the scripture that Cornelius was devout and in awe of GOD. Not only was he in awe of GOD but his entire household. He was searching for truth and doing all he could to find truth. He was very charitable which included the Jews. GOD looks at the heart and GOD saw that Cornelius’s heart was pure. GOD allowed an angel to appear to Cornelius and give him specific instructions.

Cornelius had a decision to make. Was this from GOD or his imagination? His actions reveal that Cornelius was sincere in his search for GOD and to be righteous before GOD. Cornelius selects three (3) men to go to Joppa to find this person called Simon who is staying with Simon the tanner. Joppa is about thirty (30) miles from Caesarea.

We know based upon our last week’s lesson that Peter went to Joppa because Tabitha was ill but she died before he arrived at her house. GOD used that event to raise Tabitha from the dead and as a result many people in that area became believers. Peter remained in Joppa.

The Apostle Peter is a devout Christian Jew. He was steeped in tradition which resulted in a devout Jew keeping separate from a Gentile. Peter is the leader of the apostles. As we k now the leader sets the path others will follow.

Tradition is good but it can interfere with serving the LORD. GOD knew the heart of Peter and HE knew HE had to prepare Peter’s heart to serve HIM fully. The next scripture tells us while Cornelius’s men were traveling to meet Peter, GOD was preparing Peter’s heart for the job HE had for him to accomplish.

Leadership has it responsibilities. It is so important for leaders to know themselves and make sure they are not harboring any prejudice in their heart.

Peter’s Vision
9 The next day, as they were traveling and nearing the city, Peter went up to pray on the housetop at about noon.[2] Lit about the sixth hour 10 Then he became hungry and wanted to eat, but while they were preparing something he went into a visionary state. 11 He saw heaven opened and an object coming down that resembled a large sheet being lowered to the earth by its four corners. 12 In it were all the four-footed animals and reptiles of the earth, and the birds of the sky. 13 Then a voice said to him, “Get up, Peter; kill and eat!” 14 “No, Lord!” Peter said. “For I have never eaten anything common[3] Perhaps profane, or non-sacred; Jews ate distinctive food according to OT law and their traditions, similar to modern kosher or non-kosher foods. and unclean!” 15 Again, a second time, a voice said to him, “What God has made clean, you must not call common.” 16 This happened three times, and then the object was taken up into heaven.

GOD had to prepare Peter’s heart before he could serve HIM fully. Peter is the leader of the apostles and he must have his heart in the right place so he will not be a stumbling block in spreading the gospel to all people.

GOD had given certain rules to HIS chosen people to separate them from the pagan and heathen practices. The rules were to protect them but the Jewish religious leaders, over the years, connected the food to be avoided to include avoiding the people who ate the forbidden food. In other words, those who ate the forbidden food also became unclean and should be avoided. A devout Jew could not touch a Gentile and could not enter the house/cross the threshold of a Gentile.

GOD knew Peter’s heart had to be changed before he could be obedient to HIM and reach out to Cornelius. This is a critical event which would pave the way to open the gospel to the Gentiles.

GOD made it clear to Peter that HE is the creator of all things and don’t call HIS creations common or unclean. Peter knew that the Jews did consider the things he had seen to be unclean. GOD is telling him that HE can make that which is considered unclean by man to be clean. GOD is in the cleaning business. HE cleans our lives through the shed blood of JESUS. When we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR our sins are poured into CHRIST and CHRIST’S righteousness is poured into us.

Peter Visits Cornelius
17 While Peter was deeply perplexed about what the vision he had seen might mean, the men who had been sent by Cornelius, having asked directions to Simon’s house, stood at the gate. 18 They called out, asking if Simon, who was also named Peter, was lodging there. 19 While Peter was thinking about the vision, the Spirit told him, “Three men are here looking for you. 20 Get up, go downstairs, and accompany them with no doubts at all, because I have sent them.” 21 Then Peter went down to the men and said, “Here I am, the one you’re looking for. What is the reason you’re here?” 22 They said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who has a good reputation with the whole Jewish nation, was divinely directed by a holy angel to call you to his house and to hear a message from you.” 23 Peter[4] Lit He then invited them in and gave them lodging. The next day he got up and set out with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa went with him. 24 The following day he entered Caesarea. Now Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 When Peter entered, Cornelius met him, fell at his feet, and worshiped him. 26 But Peter helped him up and said, “Stand up! I myself am also a man.” 27 While talking with him, he went on in and found that many had come together there. 28 Peter[5] Lit He said to them, “You know it’s forbidden for a Jewish man to associate with or visit a foreigner. But God has shown me that I must not call any person common or unclean. 29 That’s why I came without any objection when I was sent for. So I ask, ‘Why did you send for me?’ ” 30 Cornelius replied, “Four days ago at this hour, at three in the afternoon,[6] Lit at the ninth hour I was[7] Other mss add fasting and praying in my house. Just then a man in a dazzling robe stood before me 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your acts of charity have been remembered in God’s sight. 32 Therefore send someone to Joppa and invite Simon here, who is also named Peter. He is lodging in Simon the tanner’s house by the sea.’[8] Other mss add When he arrives, he will speak to you. 33 Therefore I immediately sent for you, and you did the right thing in coming. So we are all present before God, to hear everything you have been commanded by the Lord.”

WOW!!! What an event.

GOD prepared the heart of Peter. Peter met the Gentile men that Cornelius had sent. Verse 23 reveals that GOD had gotten Peter’s attention because he invited them into the place he was staying. They spent the night there. The next morning they left for Caesarea.

When they arrived Cornelius had invited his relatives and close friends to hear what this man, whom GOD has sent to them, has to say.

Cornelius bows down to Peter. It is likely an act of honor and respect but Peter responds immediately by helping him up and tells him that he is a mere man like himself. This is very revealing about Peter. GOD had just used Peter sometime earlier to raise Tabitha from the dead. This reveals to us that Peter’s heart is not puffed up or arrogant. Peter is a mere man doing GOD’S work.

That is all any of us are doing. We are GOD’S people doing the will of GOD as HE directs.

Peter made it clear to Cornelius and his guests that since Peter was a Jew, he was “forbidden” to associate with a foreigner. Forbidden means unlawful or it is a violation of the established order. Peter did not violate the forbidden order because the Old Testament forbids a Jew from entering into a contract or marriage with Gentiles. This was to keep the Jewish nation pure. The Jews then added to this principle, that any and all contact with Gentiles must be avoided. But Peter quickly made it clear that GOD had set him straight. We will see how profound this revelation is to Peter in our next scripture when Peter sees truth come together.
As Cornelius recounts the events that resulted in him sending his men to get Peter, this recount must have sent a sense of awe of GOD’S greatness down Peter’s spine.

Oh what a joy it is to see the hand of GOD at work.

Good News for Gentiles
34 Then Peter began to speak: “In truth, I understand that God doesn’t show favoritism, 35 but in every nation the person who fears Him and does righteousness is acceptable to Him. 36 He sent the message to the sons of Israel, proclaiming the good news of peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of all. 37 You know the events[9] Lit thing, or word that took place throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John preached: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He went about doing good and curing all who were under the tyranny of the Devil, because God was with Him. 39 We ourselves are witnesses of everything He did in both the Judean country and in Jerusalem; yet they killed Him by hanging Him on a tree. 40 God raised up this man on the third day and permitted Him to be seen, 41 not by all the people, but by us, witnesses appointed beforehand by God, who ate and drank with Him after He rose from the dead. 42 He commanded us to preach to the people, and to solemnly testify that He is the One appointed by God to be the Judge of the living and the dead. 43 All the prophets testify about Him that through His name everyone who believes in Him will receive forgiveness of sins.”

Peter began to preach the gospel of CHRIST. His first words are “In truth”. This is a very revealing statement. Peter knew that GOD had spoken to him in Joppa. Cornelius revealed to Peter that GOD, through an angel, had spoken to him in Caesarea. Peter connected the dots and saw clearly that GOD had spoken to both of them. This is a revealed truth and it is a clear example that GOD does not show favoritism. The word “favoritism” as used here means judging a person based upon how they look, their ethnicity, or their circumstances or any combination of these.

Peter continued his message that CHRIST came to the Jews first but now it was clear that CHRIST is also for all other people. The fact that CHRIST judges both the living and the dead reveals that CHRIST has complete authority on earth and in heaven.

Gentile Conversion and Baptism
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came down on all those who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers[10] Jewish Christians who stressed circumcision; Ac 11:2; 15:5; Gl 2:12; Col 4:11; Ti 1:10 who had come with Peter were astounded, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. 46 For they heard them speaking in [other]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. languages and declaring the greatness of[11] Or and magnifying God. Then Peter responded, 47 “Can anyone withhold water and prevent these from being baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to stay for a few days.

While Peter was speaking, he was interrupted by the HOLY SPIRIT being manifested among those believing in CHRIST as their SAVIOR and LORD.

GOD needed to confirm in Peter’s heart and the hearts of the Jews who came with him that GOD is no respecter of people and that salvation is free to all who believe. This must have been and awesome experience.

Peter saw that the same HOLY SPIRIT which had come upon the people at Pentecost had now come to the Gentiles. The Gentiles were speaking in other languages just as what happened on the day of Pentecost. This was not ecstatic utterances but other known languages, again just like Pentecost. In essence this is the Gentile Pentecost. GOD did not have to send the HOLY SPIRIT twice but HE had to show that the HOLY SPIRIT is for everyone including the Gentiles.

There was an outward manifestation of the HOLY SPIRIT when the Samaritans accepted CHRIST as their SAVIOR as reported in Acts 8:14-25:

14 When the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had welcomed God’s message, they sent Peter and John to them. 15 After they went down there, they prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For He had not yet come down on[4] Or yet fallen on any of them; they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 When Simon saw that the Holy[5] Other mss omit Holy Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power too, so that anyone I lay hands on may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 But Peter told him, “May your silver be destroyed with you, because you thought the gift of God could be obtained with money! 21 You have no part or share in this matter, because your heart is not right before God. 22 Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.” 24 “Please pray[6] Gk words you and pray are plural to the Lord for me,” Simon replied, “so that nothing you[7] Gk words you and pray are plural have said may happen to me.” 25 Then, after they had testified and spoken the message of the Lord, they traveled back to Jerusalem, evangelizing many villages of the • Samaritans.

As with any one who has accepted CHRIST as their SAVIOR, baptism is the next step of obedience. Baptism does not save but it is a symbol to show that in accepting CHRIST as SAVIOR a new believer has died to their old way of life and has been resurrected to walk in their born-again life. In essence, at the moment we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR, we died with CHRIST and have been resurrected with CHRIST. Just as CHRIST has eternal life, every believer also has eternal life. We have been born into GOD’S family and are children of GOD, just as JESUS is GOD’S SON.

If you have not asked CHRIST to forgive you of your sins do it now. Become a child of GOD. No matter what you have done GOD will forgive you and welcome you into HIS family.

Finding Our Place of Service - Acts 6:1-7; 9:36-40; 11:29-30 - July 8,2007

Sunday School Lesson – Finding Our Place of Service – July 8, 2007

This is lesson two (2) in our study series.

Our background scripture is Acts 6:1-7; 9:36-43; 11:27-30.

Our focal scripture is Acts 6:1-7; 9:36-40; 11:29-30.

Finding our place of service in church and life in general is important. The key is that we serve where GOD wants us to serve. The HOLY SPIRIT will confirm our place of service in our hearts and will guide us as we serve our LORD.

As we serve, often GOD will reveal to us how HE is working through us to minister to the living body of believers and others. We are all called to ministry.

Our study has three sections:
- We can serve in different ways.
- We can serve through our skills.
- We can serve through giving.

We can serve in different ways:

Let’s read Acts 6:1-7:

1 In those days, as the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint by the Hellenistic Jews[1] Jews of Gk language and culture against the Hebraic Jews[2] Jews of Aram or Hb language and culture that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution. 2 Then the Twelve summoned the whole company of the disciples and said, “It would not be right for us to give up preaching about God to wait on tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom, whom we can appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the preaching ministry.” 5 The proposal pleased the whole company. So they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a • proselyte from Antioch. 6 They had them stand before the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.[3] The laying on of hands signified the prayer of blessing for the beginning of a new ministry. 7 So the preaching about God flourished, the number of the disciples in Jerusalem multiplied greatly, and a large group of priests became obedient to the faith.

Church growth can be challenging. This happened to the early church. The solution to their challenge has been a pattern for churches today. The Apostles decided that they needed to stay focused on presenting the gospel. But here is the situation.

The early church had believers from various backgrounds. Our scripture tells us about the problem that arose between the Hellenistic Jews and the Hebraic Jews, both groups now believers in CHRIST. The Hellenistic Jewish widows complained that they were not receiving their share of the daily distribution. Apparently, the Hebraic Jews were in charge of the distribution and the Hellenistic Jewish believers felt like they were being cut short of the daily distribution.

The Hellenistic Jews lived outside the immediate area of Jerusalem and spoke Greek. These were the Jews dating back to the time the Jews were in exile in the Babylonian area. They came to worship in Jerusalem but lived far from Jerusalem and spoke Greek. The Hebraic Jews lived in or close to Jerusalem and spoke Aramaic.

The Apostles called the entire congregation and told them they wanted to stay focused on presenting the gospel and did not want to compromise their time with having to serve the daily distribution. The daily distribution was food and could have included money. They then asked the congregation to choose seven (7) men of good reputation, full of the SPIRIT and wisdom to handle the distribution. They asked the congregation to do the selecting and to give their names to them and they would appoint them for the task of serving the table and ensuring all received their fair share.

Some believe this was the selection of the first deacons but most do not.

This pleased the congregation. Churches today follow this example in selecting believers for service. The key is there are many ways to serve our LORD. Those serving tables allowed the Apostles to serve/preach the gospel. All were in the service of the LORD.

So the congregation chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit (The first recorded Christian martyr), and Philip (Who approached the Ethiopian eunuch), Prochorus (PRAHK-uh-ruhs), Nicanor (nigh-KAY-nawr), Timon (TIGH-mahn), Parmenas (PAHR-mih-nuhs), and Nicolaus, a proselyte from Antioch.

All seven (7) men had Greek-sounding names. This would indicate that the congregation selected them to restore harmony with the Hellenistic Jewish believers. There is also an implied trust that these same Greek-speaking men would not discriminate against the Hebraic Jewish believers.

The congregation had these seven (7) men stand before the Apostles. The Apostles prayed for them and laid their hands on them. The laying on of hands did not impart some magical power. It was an outward expression by the Apostles to the congregation and a confirmation to those selected, that those selected, had the authority to carry out the administration of the daily distribution to the widows. In other words it was an outward expression to show the transfer of authority for them to carry out the duty for which they had been chosen.

Just because they were chosen did not make them more important then those serving in other capacities. Ministry is ministry whether it is teaching, preaching, serving tables, cleaning up or caring for the children.

GOD was already providing food and possibly money for distribution to the believers. GOD provided an opportunity for the Apostles to seek a solution. It was a test of where was their heart. Do they, as leadership, seek a solution or just let it go? Can they trust the believers (Congregation) to select the right believers to do the job?

GOD allows challenges to come into our churches to test those in leadership and to reveal the heart of the church. Is leadership focused on seeking the guidance of GOD or making decisions based upon human wisdom? We as humans are limited in our resources but GOD can take a few fish and a few loaves of bread and feed many. The purpose of the body is to equip the members of the body and to reach out to the lost.

The bottom line GOD provides.

We serve through our skills.

Let’s read Acts 9:36-40:

36 In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas.[12] Dorcas = Gazelle She was always doing good works and acts of charity. 37 In those days she became sick and died. After washing her, they placed her in a room upstairs. 38 Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples heard that Peter was there and sent two men to him who begged him, “Don’t delay in coming with us.” 39 So Peter got up and went with them. When he arrived, they led him to the room upstairs. And all the widows approached him, weeping and showing him the robes and clothes that Dorcas had made while she was with them. 40 Then Peter sent them all out of the room. He knelt down, prayed, and turning toward the body said, “Tabitha, get up!” She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up.

A lady named Tabitha (Her Aramaic name) or Dorcas (Her Greek name) was an expert seamstress but in addition she is a believer, she was always doing good works and acts of charity. In particular she had a ministry with the widows.

The Apostle Peter was in near-by Lydda, which is about ten (10) miles from Joppa. Tabitha became ill and the believers in Joppa sent two (2) messengers to ask the Apostle Peter to come. They asked Peter to come quickly. But Tabitha died before Peter arrived.

The widows met Peter and showed him all the garments and items Tabitha had made for them. The word “showed” implies that the women were wearing the items Tabitha had made for them and showed them to Peter. They were in the room where they had placed Tabitha’s body. There is no evidence that they asked Peter to restore her. But she must have not been dead long because it was custom to bury the body soon after the person died. They had washed her and placed her in this upstairs room. Were they hoping that she would be restored to life?

Peter sends them out of the room. I pondered why did Peter send them out of the room? One thought is there would be a lot of crying and wailing and Peter needed peace and quiet to seek GOD’S will in what GOD had in mind regarding the death of Tabitha. There are times we need to be alone to seek GOD’S will in crisis situations. Also, Peter did not want to draw attention to himself. He wanted all glory to go to the LORD.

Peter prayed and the LORD restored Tabitha to life. Some may think that she was restored because of her good works, so she could continue doing needlework. She was restored to glorify GOD and to show GOD’S presence.

We notice in the early verses that she was a believer and she was a very giving person. Had those for whom she did work make the connection between her giving nature and her relationship to CHRIST? Did GOD restore her so they could connect the dots and get a clear understanding that what she had done was an outgrowth of her relationship to CHRIST?

Notice that Tabitha did the work for widows. Could it be that GOD confirmed in their hearts that CHRIST is the giver of eternal life and HIS resurrection is the assurance of the future resurrection of the dead for these widow ladies?

GOD wanted to show HIS presence and the power HE has over death.

Tabitha had a ministry through her needlework. The same is true for us. We can all minister through our work, hobbies, and in any number of ways. Seize the moment when opportunity presents itself. We should do all of our work as unto the LORD.

The key is that as a result of resurrection Tabitha, many became believers.

We can serve through giving.

Let’s read Acts 11:27-30:

27 In those days some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and predicted by the Spirit that there would be a severe famine throughout the Roman world.[10] Or the whole world This took place during the time of Claudius.[11] Emperor a.d. 41–54; there was a famine a.d. 47–48. 29 So each of the disciples, according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brothers who lived in Judea. 30 This they did, sending it to the elders by means of Barnabas and Saul.

We need to listen to those who have a message from the LORD. A prophet named Agabus had given prophesy that a famine would come throughout the Roman world. History confirms that a famine occurred. It appears that Agabus gave the prophesy during his visit to Antioch. We do know that the believers in Jerusalem were struggling because the Jews were withholding the distribution from them even before the famine. Add a famine and bad matters would only become worse for the believers in Judea.
So each believer in Antioch, according to their ability, gave a donation for the relief of their fellow believers in Judea/Jerusalem. The elders in Antioch chose Barnabas and Saul/Paul to take the relief money to the believers in Judea.

(We know Antioch is where believers in CHRIST were first called “CHRIST-ONES” or “Christians.”)

Need produces an opportunity to serve GOD through doing or giving. Many of us cannot go to the mission field but GOD has blessed us with resources which we can use to send others or to meet a need of fellow believers.

Our church is planning a mission trip to Poland. The believers in Szczecin and Chelm need our prayers, support and our money. They have many opportunities but lack resources. The church in Szczecin has a congregation of 110 people and need our prayers, encouragement, and support money. In both the Szczecin and Chelm churches the people are intelligent, well educated, hard working people, gracious, loving, kind and more than there is space for me write. Unemployment is high and opportunities are few. LORD willing this will be my fourth year to go to Poland. I have seen their affluence improve each year but with the improving affluence I have also observed a decline in the interest of many in the matters of the SPIRIT. Pray for our brothers and sisters in Poland as well as around the world.

There are many ways to serve our LORD.

Every need presents an opportunity for believers to serve the LORD by doing, praying and/or giving.

To deny believers the opportunity to give is robbing them of the blessings to serve our LORD. GOD blesses many so they can give to meet needs. This is their calling and their ministry.

Often this is hard for some Pastors and church leadership to comprehend. There is often a fear of asking the congregation for money. Why?

I agree that asking for money too often is not good. Each person should give according to their ability to give. To give is a blessing and ministry. Many want to share in the bounty that the LORD has allowed them to accumulate.