2 Corinthians 10

Two key verses in this chapter are life-changing:

• 2 Cor. 10:4-5 -- We don't do battle according to the flesh. We fight spiritual battles with spiritual weapons. A spiritual stronghold is a way of thinking that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. It is an 'idea' or 'imagination' depending on your translation. It is not something that is distant and frightening. It is close and invisible, a way of thinking about life that is against God's will.
• 2 Cor. 10:12 -- Those who measure themselves by themselves lack understanding and wisdom. How much more clearly can it be said that it is not about me?! How someone goes about deriving their identity says a lot about how they understand the gospel.
  

Paul does spend a lot of time defending himself and his ministry. How do you know when to do that and when to be content to be wronged? I'm not sure.

2 Corinthians 9

This chapter contains unblushing promises about giving. You may want to try this at home!

1. You will reap according to how generously you sow (2 Cor. 9:6).
2. God loves a cheerful giver. So, don't be satisfied with mere obligation (2 Cor. 9:7).
3. God is able to make all grace abound to you (2 Cor. 9:8).
4. You will have all you need in every way for everything with a view to every good work (2 Cor. 9:8). Did he leave anything out?
5. When you give to the poor your righteousness will remain for eternity (2 Cor. 9:9).
6. God can multiply and increase your gifts (2 Cor. 9:10).
7. Generosity causes thanksgiving to overflow to God (2 Cor. 9:11-12).
8. Giving is a direct response to the gospel (2 Cor. 9:13-15).

2 Corinthians 8

This chapter oozes love and generosity. It is like Jesus to choose poverty when you are rich.

In severe affliction and deep poverty -- they gave. We don't think of that as a starting point for generosity. Generosity, for us, starts when I'm comfortable and have enough. To give out of poverty requires grace given to the church (2 Cor. 8:1-3). Would you rather have grace or money?

They took care to protect the offering, choosing trustworthy and proven companions for Titus.

They gave themselves first to the Lord, then to us, according to the will of God. That is the launching point for Christian generosity (2 Cor. 8:4-5). I must give myself to the Lord first. My finances are simply and indication of whether or not that has happened.

2 Corinthians 7

Verse one goes with chapter six. It creates a paradigm for Christian living. "Having these promises. . ." To be a Christian is to be a person of the promise. Christianity starts with a word from God that is either true or not; he is either good for the promise or he is lying. Responding to the promise by faith (that's what you do with promises -- you believe them), we purify ourselves inbody and spirit and take aim for holiness in the fear of God.

Paul's earlier letter started them grieving but the grief worked repentance, so it was not useless or without profit. Grief is not wasted if it humbles us and prompts response to God. In the end, their grief let to repentance which brought great joy! The apostle Paul had confidence in them because they traveled this road of grief, repentance, and joy. That pathway leads to spiritual confidence.

2 Corinthians 6

In chapter five he says he appeals on behalf of Christ. Chapter six begins with an appeal. Now is the acceptable day. Today is the day of salvation. If you know you are not at peace with God, why would you delay? Especially if you know Jesus completely satisfies all God's expectations for you (2 Cor. 5:21). Don't delay.

What follows is Paul's attempt to not put a stumbling block in front of people and the lengths to which he will go so people will see Jesus. He wants his life to commend his message.

I notice a continuity between plagues, hunger, prison, trouble and the like on the one hand and the word of truth, Holy Spirit, love and power on the other. This chapter does not have two separate lists. Christian service includes both parts of the list, not just the good parts.

He argues aggressively against believers being mismatched (Gk: heterozygote) with unbelievers. He doesn't say what kinds of partnerships these would be, but assumes that a large chasm exists between Christ-followers and non-Christ-followers. He bases this on the New Covenant promises from the Old Testament (Ezekiel 36:25-26).

2 Corinthians 5

My heart is full of rich and sweet spiritual nourishment from this text. Continuing the thought of looking to eternal things from the last chapter, he encourages us with the knowledge we have a heavenly home that means life not death. For this cause we walk by faith, not sight. We can take courage God will reward actions, good or bad.

It follows that if there is certainly judgment and if death is certain, then someone must plead with people -- be reconciled to God! There are all kinds of motivations mentioned here to plead with people. Why share Jesus?

• Knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade men (2 Cor. 5:11).
• The love of Christ compels us (2 Cor. 5:14).
• In Christ . . . New Creation (2 Cor. 5:17).
• God took initiative to reconcile the world to himself (2 Cor. 5:18-19).
• We are Christ's ambassadors (2 Cor. 5:20).
• Jesus is the perfect solution to the problem (2 Cor. 5:21).

2 Corinthians 4

I don't think it is possible to be discouraged after reading this chapter. That clearly is the point of it.

The god of this world blinds the eyes of the unbelieving. What don't they see? The light of the gospel of the glory of Christ (2 Cor. 4:4). How many professed Christians don't see that it is about the glory of God in the face of Christ (2 Cor. 4:6)? The gospel is about God's glory first and our salvation somewhere down the list.

The purpose of affliction and brokenness is so that the life of Jesus might be manifest in my circumstances (2 Cor. 4:11). To say it another way, I die with Christ so his resurrection life can be mine. No dying, no resurrection. Death brings life (2 Cor. 4:12). You don't get a resurrection life without a death.

The contrast between the treasure and the treasure container is so hope-giving. It's not about me, it's about the treasure.

2 Cor. 4:16-18 are the most sublime in all the Bible. Nothing pulls me through tough times better than these verses. The eternal vision of glory dwarfs the affliction of the present!

2 Corinthians 3

What a humble and empowered way to live life! I don't consider myself adequate for any of this, but my adequacy is from God. This is so freeing. I don't have to prove myself because anything that is good about me comes from God. I simply have to trust him!

The contrast between the old covenant of condemnation and the new covenant leads to the climax in 2 Corinthians 2:18. We all, with unveiled faces, beholding the glory of the Lord are being transformed from glory to glory by the Spirit of the Lord.

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. The freedom has to do with the veil being lifted as people turn to the Lord. The Spirit makes people free to turn to the Lord.

The new covenant is the glory of the Lord. Christ on the cross, God writing his law on hearts, taking out stony hearts, giving his Spirit, this is the glory of God (Jeremiah 31:31-33). Only a glorious God would do all that for his people.

2 Corinthians 2

Two things stand out that I needed to be reminded of:

• First, the necessity of forgiveness. 2 Corinthians 2:11 indicates that one of Satan's schemes for taking advantage of believers is in the area of bitterness. My ability to forgive is in direct proportion to my experience of the cross -- which is the very thing that defeats Satan. If he convinces me not to forgive, I do not apply the cross and he succeeds. How easily I fall for this!
• Second, Christ is the same fragrance, smelled two different ways by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. Who is sufficient for these things? Who can change the way someone else perceives Christ? Just present Christ.
  

2 Corinthians 1

The opening to this letter is tender and encouraging. God is the God of all comfort and a compassionate Father. Yet, He does not keep us from affliction. Rather, he comforts us as we go through it.

Comfort, like any grace, does not come to us as an end in itself, but comes to be passed along. Comfort is not the end of the journey, but something that happens along the road.

The promises of God are "yes" in Christ Jesus. The Holy Spirit verifies the "yes". It is sad, then, that so many people hear "no" when they hear Jesus. I imagine some of the "no" comes from the way Jesus is communicated and some comes from the way every human is naturally wired.

Paul doesn't Lord it over their faith but, I love this perspective, works together for their joy! We should all have someone working together with us for our joy. That's what I want to do for people.

1 Corinthians 16

1 Corinthians 16:1-4 is an introduction to Christian giving. Have a plan. The church plan is corporate and involves each person. Giving is proportional. It anticipates a need. It is handled in a trustworthy way.

I love 1 Corinthians 16:13-14. It reminds me of the last words of Hugh Latimer as he was burned at the stake. Surely, Paul's vision of Christianity is robust and masculine. True Christianity is not for sissies.

I struggle with each of the items in the paragraph. Sin sneaks up on me -- I need to watch. I shrink from what is right -- I need to be courageous. I don't love like I should.

The relationships of Paul are more beautiful to me on this read-through than ever before. He is not an apostle by himself. His influence was measured by his relationships. What do my relationships tell about me?

1 Corinthians 15:29-58

The arguments in this half of the chapter are explanation not motivation. It explains what kind of body we'll have. it explains the relation of the resurrection to the law and to sin. It will not be more-of-the-same only longer, when we are resurrected. Part of the hope is that things will be different.

Found myself longing for the resurrection. . . sown in weakness, raised in power. Yes!

Friends who do not share the perspective of the resurrection, the accountability and hope, will corrupt good morals. Be sure of it. (1 Cor. 15:33). Morality ultimately depends on the resurrection.

The conclusion is not to let circumstances dictate how you spend your life. Work for the Lord. The resurrection means that your labor is not in vain (1 Cor. 15:28)

1 Corinthians 15:1-28

This is of first importance! Not many things are first. The resurrection is the starting point. The end is that God might be all in all. The resurrection is primary because the victory it testifies places God in the Supreme place in the universe!

Was caught off-guard by the statement preceding the historical events of the gospel. He said, "Which I preached, which you believed and on which you have taken your stand and through which you are saved (I expected this much) -- if you hold fast! Didn't expect that. The resurrection power of God preserving a believer is necessary if someone is going to be saved.

The enemy language is very descriptive. God is placing His enemies under his footstool, both Satan and death! Hurray for the resurrection!

He uses two separate words for "worthless" -- empty and futile. Clearly the gospel is void of its significance if Christ is not raised.

I cannot escape Paul's reasoning that we are most miserable without a resurrection. The question is this: do you live life in such a way that only makes sense if there is a resurrection? That's how he thinks a Christian is supposed to live.

1 Corinthians 14:21-40

Tongues seems to invite bedlam in the church. 1 Cor. 14:22 follows a quote from Isaiah 28:11-12 and gives the purpose of tongues. If someone will recognize what he hears as a fulfillment of the prophecy -- tongues is appropriate. Someone who doesn't make that O.T. connection will think you a maniac (literal translation of the word).

Bottom line: God is a god of order, not of bedlam.

The focus of worship is not the outsider, but the outsider must understand what is going on. Religious slang and church jargon may be just like a foreign tongue to outsiders. How can worship be both more meaningful and more intelligible to the outsider?

I will not quickly get over 1 Cor. 14:25. What a result for someone visiting a church!

• His heart will be revealed.
• He'll fall on his face and worship.
• He'll say, "Surely, God is among them."

Oh, that such a thing would happen frequently in our worship services!

1 Corinthians 14:1-20

Why is this here? I think that there must have been unloving, disorderly, and divisive use of tongues in this church. That's all he seems to be addressing. . . so far.

Though "tongues" in Acts clearly describes real human language spoken somewhere in the world, he leaves the door open, at least, that he may be talking about something else here. He seems to be describing an ecstatic utterance that you will enjoy, but other people won't understand.

In the church he sees little or no place for tongues because they do not build others up. If other people don't understand our worship, what good is it to them. This has many applications. You must seek understanding if other people are involved.

If you do not engage the mind and the understanding, you will not be able to sustain the Christian faith. It requires knowledge and understanding.

On Vacation

I have a few posts made ahead, but won't be back to posting until near the end of this month. Don't stop reading. Even in small bites we are going to read through the New Testament this year. This might be a good time to review and highlight some of the things that God has spoken to you about as you have read. Please share them with the rest of us. Thanks.

1 Corinthians 13

Clearly, the context of this chapter is set in church life, not in marital life, even though it is read most often at weddings. The quality most people only dream of for their marriages is what should be normal in church.

The aspect of love described here that is most vulnerable in me today is this: love is not irritable. Why am I so irritable with the people I love? Lord, help me here!

It is not clear what "that which is perfect" refers to. So it is not clear when those things that are "in part" shall be finished. While I can supply multiple possibilities, I do not want to lose sight of the great hope of knowing as I am known and seeing clearly.

1 Corinthians 12

The Holy Spirit directs Christian worship. What Paul had just written in 1 Corinthians 11 about the Lord's Supper led him to point out you can't worship Jesus without the Holy Spirit. That took him to the way the Holy Spirit assembled the church. He put them together like a physical body is put together. Different people have different gifts.

I have known this, but have enjoyed it more recently than before. I've gained a higher appreciation for the gifts of others and have been more aware that some things come easier for me than they should. The only explanation is the gifting of the Holy Spirit.

What part has the Holy Spirit given you to play in the Body of Christ He has assembled?

1 Corinthians 11

The lead idea in this chapter is clearly stated in 1 Cor. 11:3 -- The head of the woman is man, the head of the man is Christ, the head of Christ is God. Everything else springs from this idea. This statement also has some clear implications:

• There is no difference in value between Christ and God, so there doesn't need to be inequality between a man and woman.
  
• The differences in roles implies a mutual dependence, not a superior or one-way relationship.
• God intends interdependence in worship. You might think of it as a dance of worship defined by relationships between persons with different roles.
• An attitude of submission supports worship. Apart from submission at any juncture, worship breaks down.
  

The Lord's supper is not a place to over-eat or over-drink. It is not a time for rivalry or schisms, but for unity. The warning about taking the Lord's Supper in an unworthy manner is about as stiff a warning as can possibly be imagined.

It is interesting that we should judge ourselves so we can avoid judgment with the world. I'm glad we program that kind of experience into church life regularly.

1 Corinthians 10

This chapter starts with a stiff warning about sin. Consider Israel; in spite of their advantages they still sinned terribly. Don't be like them. God provides a way out -- don't miss it. A bad example is part of the way to escape. We must always be on the look out for the way of escape and the strategies of grace to avoid sin.

Identification with Christ in communion is a powerful deterrent to compromise. I dare not identify myself with demonic activity or damage my brothers with whom I share a connection to Jesus.

Paule gives us his example of how he makes practical eating and drinking decisions so he can glorify God in everything.

1 Corinthians 9

As an example of limiting your rights for the sake of someone else, Paul expounds his rights as an apostle that he declines to exercise. He made very deliberate, costly and personal choices so he could be sure to make the gospel the issue. He didn't want his personal freedom to be the cause of someone dismissing the gospel.

To the Jew he became a Jews . . . to win more. He limited his freedom with certain people -- that's his argument. He did not add to his freedom to win them, I don't think. Many use this in the opposite direction, "to the cool, I became cool (doing things I've always wanted to do), to win more cool people." That is not his point at all.

I love the focus of 1 Cor. 9:24-27. It forces me, each time I read it, to re-examine my own focus.

1 Corinthians 8

The principle of love for those who are weaker is a beautiful thing. It trumps what we know. We know these things are OK, but we reject them on account of other people we love. What sweet relationships that would foster.

Several questions factor into decisions here:

• Are idols, in reality, anything real? Of course not.
• Does the participation in worship to something that is imaginary somehow taint or alter the quality of the meat? No.
• Is a person wrong for making connections that aren't there?
• Should knowledge of the truth or relationship the most important thing in these decisions?
• Do I always insist on what I know to be true, regardless of the impact of the truth on someone else?
  

1 Corinthians 7

If God lays claim to a person's body and forbids relations with a prostitute, what are they to do about their sexual desires? Marriage! According to this text sexual fulfillment and sexual fidelty are central reasons to marry. Don't short-sell sexual desire as a motivation for marriage and an intended outcome of marriage.

The purpose of life, however is to please the Lord. It is easier, simpler, to please the Lord when you don't have to also please a spouse. If times are difficult, this becomes even more obvious. Paul had in mind some kind of brewing storm on the horizon. So, whether you marry or not, you should marry or not marry with reference to the Lord.

It is very interesting that this is the only place where you hear the Apostle sound self-conscious about his opinions. "I think I have the Spirit of God. . ." "I say this, but I don't have a command. . ." This word to us is no less inspired by God. We are not free to dismiss this as less-than-a-word-from God. What interests me is that he treads softly when he gets to home life, sexuality, marriage and divorce.

1 Corinthians 6

Two very distinct ideas comprise this chapter. They connect by the understanding that the judgment of God falls on the sexually immoral. Judge among yourselves and don't go before a court. God will judge and he will exclude certain sinners (1 Cor. 6:9-11), you can be sure. So, don't be that kind of sinner.

His rationale for avoiding court and settling your own disputes is interesting, to say the least. Saints will judge the world and saints will judge the angels. Apparently, Paul knows more than he tells. I have no idea what this means exactly. If you take an offense against a brother to a human court you are appealing to an inferior court!

Like bread is for the stomach, so the Lord is for the body. God does not intend a spiritual relationship with us only. He wants us physically to be wholly his, too. Our bodies have been purchased to be his temples.

1 Corinthians 5

There is no such thing as a secret sin. This one could have been a private matter, but was somehow bragged about. A little leaven leavens the whole lump. The whole body/church is affected by the sin of one. Make no mistake, this is not about everyone keeping the rules, it is about the spiritual integrity at the heart of a congregation.

For the sake of the church, put away the sinner. He's injurious to the whole. And, for HIS sake, let Satan take him down so that he will ultimately be saved. The good of the individual and the whole are the same when it comes to hating sin.

The church should not be the most accepting place on earth if that means they lead the way in making sin acceptable.

1 Corinthians 4

Paul understands himself as a steward of the mysteries of the God. It is required of a steward that he be found faithful. To that end Paul preaches the same message in every church (1 Cor. 4:17). It's not his message, it belongs to someone else.

"God will judge, so I don't need to." This is such a key idea for maintaining a clear conscience.

His strategy is to make this church ashamed by recounting his struggle and pain (often at their hands, I'm sure). I'm fascinated that Paul is unwilling to let some things slide. Their treatment of him is not an OK think to let slide. He confronts their disrespect, but he does it in relationship -- I am your father in the Lord (1 Cor. 4:15). When should I defend myself and when should I let things slide?

Paul sees imitation, even over a distance, as his best means of discipling the church. He even sent Timothy to remind them to imitate him. We see it again in 1 Cor. 11:1.

1 Corinthians 3

"They walk according to man." (1 Cor. 3:3). That is his way of saying, "You live like everyone else. Your lives are merely human and are not supernatural. What an interesting rebuke to the way most Christians live.

The evidence of walking naturally is a party spirit where they pick their favorite teachers (This is the third time he's brought it up in as many chapters). They derive pride from who has won them to faith and who taught them.

From God's perspective, each of those planters, waterers and harvesters cooperate with God who is responsible for the increase. Each will receive a reward according to their own effort.

This chapter includes a stiff warning about messing with God's church. If you destroy God's temple, God will destroy you.

1 Corinthians 2

I love the goal that drives Paul's preaching method in 1 Cor. 2:5 -- So that your faith might not be in the wisdom of man but in the power of God. He made deliberate choices to insure their faith had a sure foundation.

After rehearsing the logic and the necessity of the Spirit, the writer, wanting to insure our dependence on the Spirit says, "The natural man doesn't receive the things of the Spirit of God; they are foolishness to him and he is not able to know them." We must develop a Spirit-dependence in evangelism. Well, this chapter would say we need Spirit-dependence in everything.

1 Corinthians 1

This church had everything. They had favorite radio preachers ("I am of. . ."), they had every spiritual gift and they were divided.

Pride was deeply entrenched. That seems to be the appeal of identifying with celebrity preachers. That is why the cross is such a great uniter. It is not a proud event.

God purposely went for the down-and-outers so that the cross could confound all reason for boasting. Not many wise or well-bred or powerful were included. How can what looks like successful ministry also be built on beautiful people? Seems to me the Jesus way is most likely opposite.

Romans 16

Two things impress me in this chapter. First, the warmth and the extent of the affection expressed in these greetings. Paul clearly goes out of his way to single out those important to him for special notice. If it were not important to mention these individuals by name he wouldn't have done it. He truly loved them. And, I'm sure that love flavors the church.

Second, the command to be wise to good and innocent toward evil (Romans 16:19-20) is the means to the God of peace crushing Satan under their feet. It deals Satan a crushing blow when Christians choose to be ignorant of evil. We can make choices that make it easier or more difficult for Satan. That should make us stop and think.

Romans 15:14-32

How I long to be similarly persuaded as Paul is that every church, that my church, would be full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, is powerful, and the people are warning one another! What a cool church that would be (Romans 15:14).

Paul's commission from God was to be a spiritual servant of Jesus Christ before God, a priest of the gospel of God so that the offering of the gentiles would be acceptable, set apart by the Holy Spirit. That seems very similar to my commission. I want my church to be acceptable, set apart by the Holy Spirit.

The Gentiles in Macedonia and Achaia were pleased and obligated to give. What a great combo! Why do people think it has to be one or the other? That is the best kind of giving.

Romans 15:1-13

I could have quit reading after 3 or 4 verses and had enough blessing for a week.

• I should not please myself because Christ did not please himself. The proof is that my reproach fell on Him. (Romans 15:2-3).
• Scriptures were written in order that by patience and encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:3 is a perfect example of this principle.
  
• God is the God of patience and encouragement -- that's why the Scriptures, which he breathed for us -- are designed to give patience and encouragement (Romans 15:5).
• So that, single-mindedly, with one voice we might glorify God (Romans 15:6). The goal of the Scriptures is ultimately the same as God's goal for the rest of creation -- His glory.
• Jews and Gentiles need to receive one another. This is a strong case from the Old Testament that God intended to accept Gentiles all along.
  

Romans 14

Paul is clearly developing an idea that we belong to one another and the love he spoke of in the last chapter applies to the mundane things of life, like what you eat or drink at a barbecue. The way to handle differences in these things is not to condemn, but to remember that we all answer to God. That principles governs everything.

Several things stand out:

• Faith is central. Romans 14:23 makes it clear in summary, but the chapter starts out that way, too.
• Our accountability before the Lord is the controlling principle (Romans 14:10).
• We must be able to let other people be accountable before God and not accountable before us (Romans 14:4).
• Love is more important than food -- more important than anything else (Romans 14:15).
• The kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Who wouldn't want to live under that kind of reign?
  

Romans 13

A Christian theory of government finds its foundation in this passage. There is no authority except from God. What authority is in place is appointed by God. Seems a lot of bad government is appointed by God! Authority should punish evil and praise what is good. It is not coincidental that this discussion of authority comes right after the discussion of vengeance and being overcome by evil.

Romans 13:8 is not about financial debt. Love is your primary obligation. Loving your neighbor fulfills every other law! So, a violation of any other command is also a violation of love -- two sins in one!

Because the day is near and the night is far gone, get rid of deeds of darkness and put on what fits light. Clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ and literally, 'don't think ahead' about how you would fulfill the desires of your flesh.

Romans 12

Christian living is sacrificial living. It is an act of worship to give yourself to God and his will, then, it is the determining factor in your life. This verse chapter gives me the impression that EVERY christian is in full-time christian service.

The Christian life is built on mercy and grace. Never lose sight of the fact that Christian commitment is on the basis of the mercy of God. We must relate to God properly before we express that grace in ministry to other people.Christians relate to one another in humility, knowing that we are recipients of grace and my grace looks different than your grace.

Paul gives a long list of ways to keep your love free from hypocrisy. The forms look like bullet points more than as sentence. If you were to list key attitudes of the Christian life, this would be a great place to start. Cling to what is good. . .

• to brother love. . .
• to honor. . .
• to diligence. . .
• to spirit. . .
• to the Lord. . .
• to hope. . .
• to affliction. . .
• to prayer. . .

How to treat an enemy:

• Think good.
  
• Live at peace.
  
• Don't take revenge.
  
• Give God room to work.
  
• Trust God's vengeance to be better than yours.
  
• Don't be overcome by evil.

Romans 11

I think it is remarkable that the kindness and severity of God in election is designed to prompt worship -- Romans 11:33-36! It clearly displaces human effort and pride, but God aims beyond that to lead to worship. When it does not displace pride, it does not lead to worship.

It might be easiest to say that the Church displaces Israel completely as God's people, but I don't think this chapter leaves that open. I think there is a future for Israel.

The mystery that erupts into praise at the end of this chapter has to do with how God will use disobedience to bring about his grace. How the humbling of Israel was necessary so His grace would be evident.

I expect to hear the crescendo of thunder when I read, "Behold the kindness and severity of God." It is impossible for us to adequately combine those two and it is popular not to try! God must either be a benevolent grandfather or a harsh taskmaster, who can be easily rejected by the natural man.

Romans 10

The most fascinating thing about Romans 10 is that it follows Romans 9! God elects/chooses for his purposes. . . AND whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. As Paul prays for the salvation of his countrymen, he details the free offer of salvation, all in the context of God's electing/choosing grace! Oh, that we would see the connection and get both!

The problem is that they have a zeal for God that is ignorant. They want something else, not the real deal. They are unsubmissieve because they don't know the righteousness of God and create a substitute. And. . . there is no substitute. Christ is righteousness.

The Old Testament Scriptures saturate this chapter and form the foundation of the offer of salvation. This is not new that salvation comes through faith. Don't think for a moment that Old Testament believers were saved another way. It is not new, either, that God will give salvation to the Gentiles.

Romans 9:19-33

I'd always envisioned the questioned to be this: "Does the lump have the right to ask the potter, 'why'?" I think that's the wrong question.

Lumps of clay are just that, lumps. The question in the text is can God blame us? If he shows mercy to some who are undeserving can he still blame others who are undeserving? It is not, why didn't I get in because I really want in? Why did you reject me when I didn't reject you? That isn't the question asked by a lump.

Some think there are a lot of lost people who want into heaven and are bent out of shape God won't let them in. That isn't the case. I think many people do not want the God of heaven, they don't want to be his fine china. They just don't want other people to be, unless they earn it.

In total, I think this is an argument for the inclusion of the Gentiles and the exclusion of unregenerate Israel. It is God's prerogative to save whoever He wants.

Romans 9:1-18

This chapter is remarkable for its clarity about a most challenging topic. Apparently, Paul did not want there to be any question about what he thought about God's freedom to choose whomever He wants.

First, I notice Paul is in significant pain about this doctrine and particularly the lostness of his countrymen. This is not a smug theological treatise, "I've got God all figured out." He's grieved because not all Israel belonged to true Israel. And, this is his explanation for how that happens.

His singular justification is that God has willed it to be this way, so that salvation might be by mercy alone. He hardened Pharoah so that his name might be told throughout the whole earth. God wants his reputation and mercy to be spoken of throughout the world.

The choice of Rebecka's children was specifically made before they'd done good or bad so no one could construe they'd done anything to merit their salvation. That's the point. God didn't choose them because. . . of anything!

Romans 8:18-39

Am impressed with all the groaning. Creation groans. Those with the Spirit groan. The Spirit himself groans without words. All this expresses unfulfilled desires and hopes. . . and the Spirit takes those to God.

If there is any better verse than Romans 8:28, it would have to be Romans 8:32. God will not withhold anything from us, but will give us everything we need.

Nothing will separate us from his love. Not only does He work for our good, not only will He give us all things, nothing can undo it! Wow! Words cannot do justice to this love of God!

Romans 8:1-17

There is a new law: The law of the Spirit. The reason God's law doesn't work to control sin is that our flesh, our sinful nature, reacts to it in weakness. We are built to disobey it. Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the law and in so doing broke/condemned sin in his flesh. Jesus did what I couldn't do because of my inherent weakness.

What we "mind" or think about practically controls whether we walk according to the flesh or Spirit, whether we lose to sin or enjoy spiritual victory. I don't have the control I want over my sinful nature, but I can control what I spend time thinking about.

Two straight-up statements about human ability say volumes about our need for grace and demolish pride (Romans 8:7-8). If people object to humans being dead in trespasses and sin (Ephesians 2:1) as THE statement of inability, these verses seem plenty convincing.

The Spirit dwells in us giving us power to overcome and as a promise of our inheritance. Thank you, God, for your Spirit!

Romans 7:7-25

If sin receives opportunity through the law, the way to fight sin is NOT by bringing in more law! Why do we do that? Becoming more uptight about my coveting will only increase coveting.

This chapter explains the ongoing struggle with sin. It is agonizing and elegant the way he exposes the treachery of the human heart. The use of the word "law" is key to making sense of the struggle:

• First, the law means God's law. This is how he used it earlier, too, and it is good.
• Then he begins to us it differently, "another law" (Rom. 7:23). This other law represents the tyranny of sinful desires still present in him (Rom. 7:21). His desire to submit to God's law is compromised by the rule of this other law that makes him do what he doesn't want to do.

How is the second law overcome? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ (Rom. 7:25).

Romans 7:1-6

I stopped short this morning because I am so struck by the centrality of my union with Christ. I cannot escape the tyranny of the law, or the power of sin apart from Him.

For instance, "You died to the law through the body of Christ (Rom. 7:4)," to be married to another. How does that happen? I didn't feel the dying. I didn't see it nor do I understand it, but it is true of me. In Christ, because I died with Him, my relationship to the law has changed. I'm now free!

This is not antinomianism. I'm not throwing off the law for no reason. I'm free to live for Christ. Would I be less godly for Christ's sake? I don't think so. It isn't anti-law, it is pro-Christ. This will have radical, but not wild results.

Romans 6 comes from this same idea. I'm united with Christ. The first few verses about baptism establish that union with Christ changes my relationship with sin, too. My relationship with sin and with the law are different because of Christ.

Romans 6

Jesus Christ has given so much freedom. The point of this chapter is for us to stop sinning. While more work can be done to distill a strategy to fight sin, here are a few key elements to winning over sin:

• Be united with Christ and know it. (Rom. 6:1-10, especially 3,6,9).
• Consider (reason, this is the word we get logic from) yourself dead to sin (Rom. 6:11).
• Refuse to let sin reign (Rom. 6:12).
• Present yourself and your members to God to obey (Rom. 6:13, 15-17, 19).
• Remind yourself of grace (Rom. 6:14-15).
• Consider the nature of your slavery to sin. You do not need to reenlist (Rom. 6:16-20).
• Consider the end or final outcome of sin (Rom. 6:21-23). Romans 6:23 for all its use in gospel presentations, is written so we will be motivated not to sin and to appropriate God's gift.
  

Romans 5

Never in all my years as a Christian have I had a reaction to the beauty of a text like this one this morning. My heart could hardly be contained in my chest. I wanted to shout, "Yes. Yes." The precious central truths of Christianity are so clearly stated and are so distinct from inferior systems of belief. Grace is NOT like the trespass.

Romans 5:1-5 remind me I can trust God through every circumstance because he is working a process to bring hope. I can also be assured that I have peace with him regardless of circumstances. Circumstances do NOT determine the presence or absence of peace with God.

The "not only this" statements in Romans 5:3 & Romans 5:11 bracket some of the best news in all the world. I was weak, Christ died for the ungodly. I was a sinner, God displayed his love. I was an enemy of God, Christ died for me.

Several interesting things are happening here:

• It is important to realize that Adam is a real person, not just a myth, because he is a type of Christ. If he were a myth this chapter would be nonsense.
• My relationship to sin is established by my relationship to Adam.
• In the same way, only more glorious, my relationship with grace is established by my relationship with Christ.
  

Mid-Year Checkup

Are any of you still reading through the New Testament with me? How is it going? What has been on of the best things so far about it?

We are comfortably on pace to finish the New Testament in the year. I would suggest that its not to late to start or catch up if you've fallen behind. Don't give up! Even if you don't make it, it is a noble goal to fail at.

Romans 4

What a beautiful passage! It is among the most helpful in all the Bible explaining God's reasons for designing faith not works as his prerequisite for salvation. One key is in Romans 4:4, God doesn't like to be someone's debtor or to be obligated to us.

Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness. He did not need prerequisites like circumcision. He did not conform to the Law as a basis for his standing before God. It was given by grace, not obligation because he believed the one who promised was able to keep his promise (Romans 4:13). He could call things that are not as though they are. He gives life to the dead. I want that kind of faith. Lord, I believe, help my unbelief!

Romans 3:21-31

God put forth Christ to display his righteousness. This statement is all about God -- not us. Wow! God was actually justifying himself. . . at the same time he was justifying me!

The heart of the gospel is here. God put forth Jesus as the one who satisfies his wrath so that I might be made right. I can be justified and God can be just at the same time because he exercises his wrath on and has it satisfied in Christ. His holiness is not compromised. Beautiful!

The Christian's relationship with the law is brought up and addressed at length. Apart from the law someone is justified, but the law witnesses to the justice of God (Romans 3:21). Apart from works of the law God justifies both Jew and Gentile (Romans 3:29-30). Grace levels the playing field so God cannot be accused of favoritism.

Romans 3:1-20

This portion wraps up the first part of Romans that establishes the guilt of the whole world. Openly rebellious, good people guided by their consciences and the religious all stand justly condemned.

This seems to be a very modern concern, "How can God be right to condemn people?" This is a central, yet man-centered question. Paul shows the purpose of God's standard is to show sin, and then, it should be obvious to all, everyone is guilty. To establish the fact, he quotes the Old Testament.

In the first nine verses he defends God twice. This requires an assumption that God permits sin and then judges it as a revelation of his holy character (Romans 3:5 & Romans 3:7). This is, I believe, why God permits/ordains sin and hell. He does it to display his justice and holiness in ways that a 'non-sinful world' would never display.

The prospect of non-guilt is at its heart, a nonsensical problem. Sin and a deceitful heart function best with nonsense. Reality bites.

Romans 2

It seems to me Paul is justifying God's condemnation of good people and religious people. More and more it seems to be God-focused. Condemnation and judgment demand that we lift our eyes from ourselves to God.

This chapter ties a noose for those who posture themselves as teachers without being obey-ers. The law is of no benefit if it is not kept. External things (circumcision and law keeping) don't matter if your heart is not right before God.

The best sentence is Romans 2:4, the kindness of God leads to repentance. This comes on the heals of his statement about presuming on God's kindness. God is kind so that we repent not so that we can take advantage of it.

Romans 1

Romans: So many treasures here.

While I've known and loved Romans 1:16-17 for a long time, I hadn't noticed that Paul considered himself obligated to Barbarians and ignorant people (Romans 1:14 -- toned down in most translations). That couldn't be a very pleasant obligation. Made me look at my life to see who I am obligated to.

Key Point: Everyone is accountable before God because general revelation is sufficient to know enough about God to honor Him. Failure to do that brings judgment. Honoring Him because of general revelation brings the gospel by which one can be saved.

I am struck, too, by the plight of the natural man. Not just that God gave them over to their desires, but that based on natural revelation, they are without defense. It is important to see their offenses are against God. Sin and guilt have to do with God.

The process of exchanging the truth for a lie, the creation for the creator, is tragic and rampant around us. God's delivering people to their own desires is tragic, too.

Acts 28

I love the incident by the fire. The serpent provides great insight into human opinions of justice. First, Paul's a murderer who escaped the sea, but justice prevailed as he was bitten by a poisonous snake. Then, when he didn't die, they thought he was a god. The speed of their condemnation is equaled by the speed of their deification! They cannot figure him out!

Without email, I wonder how they sent word to the saints. Seems they were very well networked. And it proved to be encouraging, literally they took courage from one another.

Even in Rome there is disagreement and conflict which results in rejection by the Jews and life for the Gentiles -- just like the epistle to the Romans (Romans 1:15-16). He preached the kingdom of God and taught concerning Jesus. Interesting that the summary of his message is so much like the message of Jesus!

The end of this book seems, to some degree, unfinished. Yet the end is highly significant. The Isaiah quotation represents a Spirit-empowered model of ministry that will mark the church's future. And the last word is unhindered! After all this the message of the kingdom went out unhindered. Yeah!

Acts 27

I read this chapter sitting in an airport thinking I was inconvenienced by travel! God used it to put me at peace.

The decision maker was more persuaded by the captain/owner than by Paul. Paul had a series of accurate predictions that earned him credibility with the captain and crew, even though some of them gave up hope of ever being saved.

The storm went on for over 14 days. Did Paul pray for it to be over? It doesn't say he did.

He received a vision, shared it and comforted the sailors. Some circumstances actually cause professional sailors to listen to a preacher.

None of the prisoners were killed because the captain wanted to save Paul -- Interesting influence. Just as he predicted, everyone made it safely to the beach.

Acts 26

Paul gave his testimony to the king. I suspect if he was a free preacher, not a prisoner, he wouldn't have had the opportunity. As Paul spoke he wove a story that combined narrative about what happened and the claims of Jesus!

The line in his vision, "It is hard to kick against the goads!" is recorded only here. That is to say, it is a hard life to actively oppose Christ.

The way Paul concludes his testimony is interesting. He was sent to open the eyes of the Gentiles, to turn them from darkness to light, from the authority of Satan to the authority of God and to offer forgiveness of sin. What a calling! What a job description!

Paul pressed Agrippa to believe. Even kings need to believe.

I wonder about God's sovereignty again. Paul could have gone free except he appealed to Caesar. Why? Why not let him go anyway, God?

Acts 25

The Jews wanted Paul back to Jerusalem for another ambush, but he didn't go. When Festus couldn't figure out the charges against Paul, he suggested Paul go back to Jerusalem. That's when Paul appealed to Caesar.

While he was held, Agrippa came to town. One thing led to another and the king asked to hear from a prisoner. How weird is that? I guess if you don't have TV you have to find something to do for entertainment. All this took place in the context of great pomp and circumstance.

Acts 24

The chief priests brought a lawyer to accuse Paul before the governor. Paul defended himself adequately enough that Felix wanted a second opinion and left Paul in prison with liberty. . . for two years.

Two years! I imagine Paul and God had some substantial conversations about that. Two years of his life he'll never get back. Surely there are better uses of your best apostle than leaving him languishing in prison, even if he does have some liberty. I think God must have been doing exactly what he meant to be doing. This delay, and no delay for that matter, is an accident with God.

During that time, Felix and his wife wanted to talk with Paul about faith in Jesus Christ. Paul spoke about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment. The perfect choice of topics for a Gentile ruler. It was enough to make the governor afraid! Still, he brought Paul in often and spoke with him. I want to speak straight like that and do it in such a way people who don't like what I've got to say, want to speak with me frequently.

Acts 23

This is one of those chapters where little seems to happen.

• Paul starts a riot between Pharisees and Sadducees that must be broken up by security!
• Under the cover of night, with intrigue and a spy, to boot, Paul is transported horseback to Caesarea. I wonder if those who took the vow not to eat until Paul was killed actually starved to death.
  
• The vision of the Lord is comforting. He'll witness in Rome and Jerusalem. He wasn't going to die in Jerusalem. I imagine under the circumstances having at least two destinations on the itinerary would have been encouraging.
• Paul is kept under guard at Herod's Palace. God must be interested in having Herod hear the gospel, so He put Paul, the prisoner there. The Good News of Jesus is climbing out of the prison and running in significant places.
  

Acts 22 B

At the beginning of this account the Lord came to Paul and told him to take courage, he would have to testify in Rome. While that takes some of the fear away it makes some of the present inconveniences seem like a charade or mere formalities. Very interesting to think how it might change our lives and our endurance to know specific points in the future with certainty. I'm not sure I would like it.

Paul is given special pretection. I am uncertain whether this was due to his Roman citizenship, the bogus charges against him, or political maneuvering, or all three. Either way the final sentence is significant -- he commanded the Praetorian guard to watch Paul. Caesar's household/palace is not within earshot of the gospel.

Acts 22 A

Paul gives his credentials apart from Christ. He recounts his conversion and call and makes claims that some of them would recognize.

His true defense is his testimony. God chose him to know his will, to see his righteousness and to hear his voice. He would be a witness of all he's seen and heard.

Paul recounts a vision in Jerusalem that amounted to his commissioning. We'd heard his conversion, but not this vision. This is news to us. He argues, apparently, that he should stay in Jerusalem because everyone would see the change -- God says go. Twice he speaks of being appointed or chosen.

He is shouted down and beaten by authorities then he appeals to his Roman citizenship which strikes fear in the heart of his captors.

Acts 21:17-40

The sovereignty of God is everywhere. Consider this sequence.

1. The Spirit leads Paul to Jerusalem.
2. The Spirit warns about the arrest.
3. Paul sees James (chief elder in Jerusalem and brother of Jesus).
4. James says, "Take these men to be cleansed."
5. Zealous Jews mistakenly seize Paul for having Gentiles in the temple.

That means Paul's obedience to the Spirit and submission to spiritual leadership landed him in the trial of his life. This could not have been a coincidence.

At the very end there are two references to language. Paul's mastery of Greek and Hebrew proved useful in ministry and set him apart.

It must have been weird to be a believer in Christ and still have to go to the temple and make offerings.

Acts 21:1-16

This is fascinating. Twice Luke tells us "through the Holy Spirit," or, "The Holy Spirit says." What they prophecied came true and so I believe the Holy Spirit did tell them. Should he not have gone? Was God saying don't go? What good did it do to know what would happen and not do anything about it? How does the Holy Spirit direct Paul to go and his friends to beg him not to go?

A literal translation of verse 5 is beautiful: "And placing their knees in the sand, they prayed."

It was old home week. They stayed with Phillip (Acts 6:5) and Mnason one of the early disciples. What sweet fellowship they would have had with saints like that!

Acts 20:17-38

While this passage is used to commend small groups (house to house), and doctrinal preaching (all the will of God) and shepherding (watch out for wolves), the most striking feature is the warmth of the relationships between him and the elders. All of these are components of eldering, but the last is the most neglected.

This is a tender passage. It is cleansing and sober at the same time. His review of his own activity and motives reminds them that he brought them grace. He was not mercenary. His affection, their mutual grief, as they part ways shows the tenderness of their relationship. This tender love is indispensable to Christian leadership.

Proclaiming the whole will of God frees him from guilt. Do preachers who slant their message bear the responsibility for those who listen to them? Apparently.

They must watch the flock. The Holy Spirit made you an overseer. Jesus bought it. Wolves will destroy it.

Acts 20:1-16

Once the riot was over they made a quick trip to revisit several places. It reads as though this is a whirlwind tour.

The people in the first part of this chapter seems like a line-up in the sport's page before a ball game. These are the players God has assembled at this time for this game. It must be an all-star game.

The Eutychus episode is both hopeful and and hilarious! The length of the meeting as well as the depth of the tragedy are both comic in proportion. I think this is an encouragement to long winded preachers. Twice Luke records how long Paul talked.

They must have been gone from Ephesus for a considerable time because the trip back was a deliberate decision, even though they were just there only 15 verses ago!

Acts 19:21-40

This is, I believe, at least the third problem encountered by the church because their faith brought economic stress on non-believers! They altered the financial stability of an entire city. Wow! Not just book makers, but idol-makers were suffering on account of these radical Jesus-followers.

In the end, this riot proved to be an empty shouting match. Like a Blazer game . . . two hours of cheering. . . but without any baskets. They believed Artemis had fallen from heaven. The riot ended with, "Make your complaints legally. Now shut up and go home." And they did.

Acts 19:1-20

There were disciples who had not heard of the Holy Spirit. Nor had they been baptized except for repentance. On both accounts Paul took immediate action to make sure the disciples were not ignorant or handicapped. I cannot imagine trying to be a disciple of Jesus without the Holy Spirit! Speaking in tongues was good authentication, not for them, but for those traveling with Paul, that they had received the real thing.

The sons of Sceva make me laugh! We know Jesus and Paul, but who are you? Ha! Then the demon beat them up and sent them away without any clothes. As a result of their folly, fear fell on everyone and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified, a good result from a bad event.

After the book burning (5,000 pieces of silver worth!), the word increased and grew stronger according to the power of the Lord. Three different Greek words in this sentence for strength.

Acts 18:11-28

You've got to like Apollos! He was powerful in the Scriptures and eloquent. He "boiled in spirit." He had heat, but not quite enough light. He taught accurately. . . but needed help to teach more accurately. How great that those two mature saints cared enough for God's church to help him. In the end, he refuted Jews in public debate, showing from the Old Testament why Jesus was the Messiah! Yeah!

What grace to one church -- Paul stopped on his way through, Apollos spoke clearly, Priscilla and Aquila moved there, and then Paul ended up staying three years! God had particular interest in this church (Revelation 2:1-7).

Acts 18:1-10

Paul got a violent reaction, so he moved next door! I'd have gone farther. He only had to move next door to get to the Gentiles. And. . . the synagogue leader came to Christ.

We cannot miss the providential relationship with some other tent makers who, haveing been with Paul are able to explain more clearly the gospel to Apollos. I'm amazed at the Sovereign Hand behind the scenes in building this web of relationships, to take care of His church. A decree form Claudius put Priscilla and Aquila in Corinth. And, they have just the right career to land next to the Apostle. Apollos happened into town when they were ready to talk with him. God gets the right people where He wants them.

"There are many people to me in this city. I am with you." It would make a huge difference in your ability to persever if you hade that direct word!

Acts 17:16-34

This speech is held up as a great example of contextualizing the message of Christ. Many who make much of adapting the message to fit the listeners miss Acts 17:16, "He was greatly upset in his spirit." That is the starting point for pluralistic engagement. Anything else is self-indulgent.

He spoke at their invitation and started the best place he could discern, the unknown God. He talked about a God they didn't know and called them to repentance. He contrasted the Living God with idols and ascribed breathtaking sovereignty to Him, down' to the very places and times in which we live. He spoke of judgment and the resurrection, but not explicitly about Jesus.

That must be why the response was joining Paul, not believing. He had not yet given them enough information. They had to hang around to get to Jesus.

The crowd had each of three possible responses: Some mocked him. Some needed to hear more. Some joined him and believed.

Acts 17:1-15

Paul was only three weeks in Thessalonian. A church started and an uproar drove him out of town. I must never lose sight of what can be accomplished in three weeks. His message was the same as before, Jesus is the Messiah, He died, and rose from the dead.

The frenzied crowd drug Jason into court for hosting Paul. This was beautiful example of Christian hospitality. He did what Jesus commanded and received the earthly reward Jesus promised.

Both good and bad people followed from Thessalonica. The Bereans were more noble because they listened eagerly and read the scripture to see of these things were true. I want to be noble like that.

Acts 16:26-40

Luke points out that, not just were Paul and Silas praying and singing, the prisoners were listening to them. They connected the dots between the prayers and singing and the earthquake. They were quick to follow their lead in staying when their chains fell off.

The jailer was essentially saved twice. After he was spared falling on his sword, the jailer asked, "What must I do to be saved?" I want people to ask me that question. I'm sure his was prompted not just by the earthquake, but by the fact they stayed in the jail. What do I need to do to prompt that question? What if it means staying in jail?

Paul refused to be let go quietly. Was he just belligerent or was he following the Spirit's leading? Should I follow him in this kind of self-defense, or should I let it go?

Acts 16:1-25

Lots happens here. We meet Timothy. He has witnesses to his character and ministry in two cities. Even though the council in chapter 15 said it was unnecessary, Paul has him circumcised. I understand that it was not a theological reason (to participate in the covenant, or earn God's approval), it was because the questions it would raise wouldn't be worth it and would distract from the message.

The Holy Spirit prevented them from going to Asia and did not permit them to go to Bithinia. What is the difference between those two and the level of His involvement? What did it look like to Paul? I'll bet he didn't like it at all! But, He did it so they would end up in a prayer place with a bunch of God-fearing women, so that Lydia would get saved. Interesting the Holy Spirit would have to sovereignly direct this band of apostles to a privileged Roman colony for all this to take place.

I didn't realize that Philippi was in Macedonia and that is where Paul went because of his vision.

Again, economics drove the presecution. The afflicted girl could make not profit for her pimps after she was delivered. Interesting.

Acts 15:22-41

Silas had laid down his life for the name of Christ (Acts 15:26).

The decision brought joy to the churches. They encouraged and strengthened churches as they took and read the letter.

The completeness of the resolution to this conflict is remarkable. There is no hint from either side that the decision was in any way inadequate! Wow!

As a result of this conflict and the one at the end of the chapter between Barnabas and Paul, the Holy Spirit directed the church into ways new places and new leaders were raised up. It is so easy to see conflict as always bad, but God uses it in great ways. Silas gained invaluable experience carrying the letter, watching the debates and having responsibility with Paul.

Acts 15:1-21

The bad news is there's a dispute in the church. The good news is that some Pharisees got saved. Throughout most of the New Testament that seemed impossible! The bad news is the church was unsure how to relate to the Old Testament law. The good news is that Gentiles got saved. The bad news does always come with good news. . . and the other way around.

Three different Greek words are used for dispute, debate, and faction. It must be like rain in Oregon. You need a lot of words for it because it happens a lot.

How does the church make decision here about a difficult question?

1. They heard from those with the concern.
2. They heard from the apostle with the longest tenure in working with the problem (Peter).
3. They heard from the most active apostle with the problem (Paul).
4. They asked what the scriptures said (James).
5. They rendered a principled opinion.

The guiding principle: Don't add additional obstacles for people to overcome in order to turn to God.

Acts 14

This chapter is one of the two great perils of Christian ministry -- overestimating the servant of God and undervaluing the servant of God -- and of the two, this is the worst. Imagine preaching the living God and people make you out to be the incarnation of their pagan deity! Yikes! We have a breakdown in communication here, for sure.

Paul spent much of the letters to the Corinthians addressing their undervaluing of him. But, of the two problems the one in this chapter is by far the most catastrophic.

A few other things stand out here. God used persecution to move Barnabas and Paul where He wanted them next. It must have felt crummy to be stoned, but good to move to the next fruitful place.

This sermon is interesting. It is the only one so far that does not get to the cross. He refers only to common grace -- rain, bread and joy.

When they were returning they strengthened the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to remain in the faith because it was necessary through many afflictions to enter the kingdom of God." I need that encouragement and want to be that kind of encourager. This brought joy to the brothers.

Acts 13:26-52

Paul finishes with the life of Jesus and in this sermon introduces the idea of Justification, which is very characteristic of his letters. He highlights the inability to be righteous through the law. Whoever believes is made righteous.

The persecution came when Paul became too popular. This happens with both Jews and Gentiles. The opposition was led by prominent religious women.

All who were appointed to eternal life believed (Acts 13:48)! God makes sure people believe. How encouraging to evangelism!

The theme of 'decay' is interesting. The resurrection means no decay. Yeah!

Acts 13:1-25

The prayer meeting in Antioch was world-changing. It is hard to escape the effectiveness of the prayers of this young church. When they fasted and prayed, the Holy Spirit told them what to do. It doesn't record that they asked, or that they were fasting for direction in this missionary venture. It was God's agenda and He delivered it during their prayer meeting. . . and they followed it.

The proconsul in Cypress believed and was amazed. The magician received some serious consequences for opposing Paul and Barnabas. Twice it records they spoke, "the word of God."

Paul's sermon rehearsed God's promises and faithfulness in order to get the Jesus. This is a key characteristic of apostolic preaching. He started with Moses, not Abraham. The synagogue leader had asked him to speak. He probably got more than he bargained for.

Acts 12

What a fun account of God's answering prayer. They prayed for Peter, God freed him and they thought the servant girl who told them about it was crazy. Peter probably thought that, too, when she left him knocking at the door.

Peter was miraculously delivered from prison --- James wasn't. God could have sent an angel for James, too, but He didn't. Am I okay with God being sovereign and making those kinds decisions?

Herod was planning to kill Peter, then Luke records, "But the church was earnestly praying. . ." That made a ton of difference! May history record for our church. . . "But the church was earnestly praying!"

Herod is eaten by worms! Yeah! And, a little on the gross side. It's interesting there is a Greek word for 'being eaten by worms.'

Acts 11

The summary statement of Peter's report is rich in doctrinal meaning, "God granted to the gentiles repentance unto life." On the one hand it looked like a unique gift of the Holy Spirit, but it established the lowest common denominator -- they came to faith the same way anyone does. This was sufficient authentication to make all Jerusalem be quiet and praise God.

Barnabas played another significant role. He encouraged then to purpose to remain in the Lord. He did that because he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith. That's what faithful, Spirit-filled, good men do! That's what I want to be and do.

This is the first step in the decentralization of the church. The Antioch church sent a gift back to Jerusalem! Wow! God made sure it happened with supernatural prophecy. Interesting!

Acts 10: 24-48

Peter and company were surprised by how many people had gathered to hear. Cornelius had invited his relatives and close friends. This is beautiful. It is what god-fearing people do! He had God's word that he would discover life and he wanted it for his friends and family, too.

Peter's response to the explanation behind his invitation and his own vision was to say, "Now I now there is not favoritism with God!" The he points out that Jesus was not revealed to just anybody, but to those who had been selected beforehand! Those two go together, God's selection and no favoritism. The pouring out of the Holy Spirit sealed the deal and assured them of that truth.

The sermon here is a summary of the gospel being in the Old Testament, through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. This is the content Cornelius must have to be saved!

Acts 10:1-23

The description of Cornelius are extremely complimentary. He is godly, god-fearing, righteous, he prays and gives alms. His house follows him in this. Which, BTW, is how it is supposed to work. His prayers came to God as a reminder to God to act on his behalf!

There is a natural explanation for Peter's vision. It was right before dinner and he was hungry. It was much more, however, than hunger pangs. He was puzzled by God's insistence that he eat unclean animals.

Then, the Holy Spirit sent him downstairs, not understanding the vision, to meet strangers at the door. He obeyed first and understood second.

One interesting thing here is that God uses Peter. Why bother with him at all? The angel had already come to Cornelius. Why not just circumvent Peter, he didn't understand anyway? I think the answer is the same as it is every time. When God wants someone to get saved, he always uses another person -- always!

Acts 9:24-43

Paul makes his way to Jerusalem and they're afraid of him. In a narrative like this, I always wonder, "what if?" What if Barnabbas hadn't mediated for Paul? That one move was probably high risk, but made a difference in all human history! I wonder if he thought about it that way when he did it?

Peter goes outside Jerusalem with great success. The church in Jerusalem had peace and still he went. No one had gone out before without being pushed by persecution. Paul disappears from the stage for a short time.

Layne's favorite story to act out during our family "Bible Story Charades" is the story of the resurrection of Dorcas. You should see her distribute clothing then die then get raised. It's probably much cuter than the original story!

Acts 9:1-23

As easy as it seemed in chapter eight for Phillip to introduce the chariot rider to Jesus, it is at least that hard here. Saul had to be knocked off his donkey.

From a human perspective, this was an event behind only the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus (and maybe Pentecost) in importance for the church. The whole thing could have been undone if Ananias had not obeyed. He was a poor and a blessed man. No one wanted his job. Ananias was to touch Paul and Jesus was to show him what he would have to suffer! Welcome to being a Christian.

The statement, "Jesus, whom you are persecuting," is a strong and beautiful statement of the identification of Jesus with his church. To persecute her is to persecute him. To serve her is to serve him.

Acts 8:27-40

I cannot but notice how easy this whole encounter seems. Phillip listens to the Holy Spirit and takes a trip not knowing what he will encounter. The Spirit directs him to join the chariot. As he obeys, he hears the Eunuch reading the best Messianic text (Isaiah 53) in the Old Testament. The man asks a question that is a lay up. Phillip tells him about Jesus then baptizes him. No fear, no struggle -- just make the next divinely orchestrated move. I long to be that Spirit-led.

Clearly this text teaches the priority of baptism.

Acts 8:1-26

The power of the preaching and the signs of Phillip would have been very impressive. I can see why Simon was attracted -- both for the right and the wrong reasons.

This is the first real preaching, action and church establishment outside Jerusalem. The Holy Spirit did not even come until the Apostles came. The experiences were so subject to misunderstanding and counterfeit that the authentication from the leadership was necessary. This Acts 1:8 expansion of the gospel was forced by persecution, but received very warmly when it came.

What did Peter see in Simon's offer to buy the ability to give the Holy Spirit? Paul accused him of being bound in the gall of bitterness. How doe those two things go together? This should be a warning to all who ask for or offer money for the gospel.

Acts 7:30-60

Stephen's message was NOT received well at all. I guess the people did not fall asleep on him. What was it that provoked the violent reaction? He accused them of being like their fathers who killed the prophets and rejected the law. They perceived themselves to be on the other side, the good side, of the fence with Father Abraham. He skillfully moved from Abraham to rebellion. That's what gave it a punch. It didn't help that he told them he saw the exalted Jesus. They hated Jesus telling them he'd be there, too.

This is a very sad chapter. And, the ending is even more forboding and ominous introducing Saul. . .

Acts 7:1-29

The false witnesses against Stephen said the same thing they said against Jesus, that the temple would be destroyed. Hmm.

His sermon began with Abram, recounted God's promise, the covenant of circumcision, and the move to Caanan. The rest of the speech is about Egypt. Joseph was delivered to Egypt, "But God was with him." That makes everything alright.

Then Moses grew in word and deed. He WAS a good speaker, contrary to his claim. He'd been trained in Egyptian rhetoric.

When God appeared to Moses in the burning bush and asked him to deliver Israel, Moses repeated the words, the 40-year-old words, of the Israelite that had caused him to flee. He had been playing this over and over in his mind for 40 long years, "Who made you a ruler or judge?"
Then Stephen said, "God made him a ruler and redeemer." Fascinating!

Acts 6

The growth of the church brought problems and complaints. Is anyone surprised? People borrowed trouble from other people. The widows themselves did not fuss to the apostles. This problem represents quite a distance from having everything in common a couple chapters ago.

The restructuring is genius. It maintained the primary apostolic values -- prayer and ministry of the word. It met the needs of the moment. And, it was loved by the crowd.

Stephen was full of the Holy Spirit and faith (Acts 6:5) and grace and power (Acts 6:8). The opposition couldn't withstand his wisdom and spirit. Wow! That's what I want to be.

Acts 5:17-42

They had just prayed for boldness in Chapter Four and now they were persecuted. Peters response is short and hit all the right buttons that would make them angry -- you killed him, God raised him, he sits exalted, and repent and be forgiven. That message to that audience is a "0" on a scale of 1-10 in terms of popularity. The Apostles stand fearlessly before the same crowd that crucified Jesus and say, "If it is right to obey men rather than God, you decide. We'll obey God."

Gamaliel's speech was persuasive. He cited two historical figures to say that if it is not from God, then it won't last. If it is from God and you oppose it, you'll be opposing God. So, leave them alone. News for them. . . we're still here!

Acts 5:1-16

Two or three times Luke records, "Great fear fell on them. . ." Do you think? What would the church be like if every person who made a pretense of tithing (just 10% not everything like these two) dropped dead? Yikes. I am certain God was more opposed to the pretense than he was the percentage. If they'd said, "This is all, except for what we needed for braces for Jr.," I'm sure they'd have survived the day.

When the church was of one mind, "no one dared to associate with them." You'd have to be pretty sold-out to associate with people who sold everything and then dropped dead when they lie!

Acts 4:23-37

The prayer, "Lord, concern yourself with your servants," is an interesting appeal. They ascribe magnificent sovereignty to God in their prayer. This (Acts 4:28) and Acts 2:22-24 are overwhelming -- that God would purpose to and then deliver Jesus to death. They trusted him because they knew the Scriptures. Both Acts 2 and Acts 4 are saturated with key O.T. promises.

The result of being in the hand of a God like that is deliverance, faith and community, a community full of faith and of one mind. Of course, the earthquake is cool, too.

The "everything in common" part of the church seems to good to be true. And, in chapter 5 we find that it is. There must be a governing by the Holy Spirit, not just on the leaders, but on everyone, if the congregation is to function that way.

Acts 4:1-22

Peter spoke, full of the Holy Spirit. The audience took note they had been with Jesus! Cool! I hope people can notice that about me by the way I talk. I think it was because of the way they used the Scriptures. While Peter and John were heading to the slammer, 5000 people responded to the message!

Peter spoke to the same crowd with the same prominent names that crucified Jesus. They are not friends. Their interrogation began with the question, "How did you do this?" Peter told them, by the name of Jesus who is the only way of salvation.

Acts 3

This was not a quiet miracle! The man was jumping around, praising God. He was active and noisy -- the perfect attraction for a large crowd. And Peter exploited it for eternity's sake.

The sermon was amazing. His citations of the Old Testament are masterful. He hits the high points. I'm sure they were points Jesus had hit just days before when he opened their eyes to understand the scriptures (Luke 24:45). He referred to God's covenant with Abraham, he spoke of Moses' promise of a prophet like him. He brought in Samuel. He referenced God's self-revelation in Exodus 3.

His conclusion was the elephant in the room -- or the temple as the case may be -- these people killed the man in whose name the lame man was healed!

Acts 2:22-47

The first thing I notice in this sermon is that Peter is saying the same things to the same crowd that Jesus said. But, the Holy Spirit is doing a new thing.

The preaching was rooted in the scripture, fixed on a sovereign God who does whatever he determines, aimed at repentance, and fruitful beyond imagination. That's how I want to preach.

My vision for a church comes from here -- for preaching, for life together, and for relationships with outsiders. It is hard to imagine a more peaceful, simple, joyful church experience than this very first one. What church would not want to emulate this group?

I wonder, though, is it possible for a church to continue in doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayer like this and expect similar results? Is this designed to be normal or is it a special work of grace? God, no doubt, intended his church to be this kind of focal point and source of joy.

Acts 2:1-21

I've never really thought much about the timing of Pentecost. It would have been an entirely different start to the church if it had not been during a feast in Jerusalem. The exquisite providence of God brought people who spoke other languages, who would notice and appreciate the tongues spoken that day. The festival collected the seeds of the church throughout the whole region. It selected devout people, who would be most interested in the message, not just some random passerby! God was completely sovereign in the timetable of the birth of his church.

Peter lifted his voice and spoke. It is the same verb, an unusual one, in Acts 2:4 and Acts 2:14. Clearly, we are to understand the connection between being filled with the Spirit and speaking boldly.

Young men will prophesy and old men will dream dreams. Interesting. Isn't it the other way around naturally?

Acts 1

The introduction makes it clear that this book will chronicle what happens after the disciples are baptized with the Holy Spirit according to the initial promise of Jesus. Perhaps it should be called the Acts of the Holy Spirit.

The final question the disciples ever asked to Jesus was a misguided one, "When will you restore the kingdom to Israel?" Jesus blew by it, "It's not for you to know. . . but you will be my witnesses."

The first prayer in the book of Acts starts, "You, Lord, know the hearts of all!" It changes everything when you realize God is looking into your heart the very moment you pray! They prayed to an omniscient God.

I'm still not sure if the choosing of the 12th person was necessary or not. Why did they feel the need to replace Judas? He was not, after all, a superstar. It would have been very weird to be Matthias!

John 21

I love the way this wraps up the experience of the disciples. It is the same experience they had when they were called (Luke 5:3-8). I love that Nathaniel is mentioned again. I love that they count the fish! I love that at least two of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances involved food!

Peter dove into the water at John's recognition of Jesus, presumably to be near him. He wasn't grieved until Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" I think it finally dawned on him what Jesus was doing. "Do you love me more than these?" Was he talking about the fish? Immediately he went back to his old self, comparing himself with John.

Feeding his sheep is THE way to express love to Jesus. Lord, help me!

A great capstone to the book: The world could not contain the books.

John 20

I so quickly forget the wonder of the resurrection. The shock of Mary, the wonder of the others, the doubt of Thomas all would be part of my reaction, no doubt, if I were there.

The order of things here seems different than in the other gospels. Mary sees the empty tomb, then she runs to get the others, the Peter and John come, then she sees the angel.

I love the footrace between John and Peter, and that John makes sure we know he wins! The detail about the displacement of the cloths is also an interesting one.

The summary statement for the book is great. Jesus did more than this. I wrote so you would believe and believing you would have life. This is book is a presentation of the gospel.

John 19

Like Peter, Pilate had violent swings of emotion and resolve during the trial of Jesus. He was ready to let him go; he was mad at Him, he was afraid, and he was fickle! He was impressed with his own authority and wanted Jesus to know it. When Jesus challenge his authority with God's, he snapped, and was ready to destroy Jesus.

John points out the language issues, twice giving the Hebrew translations of things. The sign was written in three languages. Jesus was crucified close to town in a multi-cultural environment. He also records "as was the custom" for those of us who don't know or wouldn't remember.

Joseph and Nicodemus were both secret disciples because of fear. This was quite a sad coming out party for them. Why come out of the closet now? What does a secret follower do when the one he follows dies? I imagine they would give up most likely.

John 18

What wild swings Peter experiences in these final days of Jesus' life. He pledges his undying devotion, then he falls asleep in prayer (other gospels). He chops of the ear of a servant, flailing in Jesus' defense, then he denies Jesus. The spiritual flailing itself is an indicator of Jesus' words, "Satan has desired to sift you. . ." Spiritual flailing around is characteristic of Satanic influence, I think.

Peter's denial sends chills down my spine. It was causeless. It made no sense for him to deny Jesus.

When Jesus said, "I am." (cf. Exodus 3:14)The cohort of 600 men dropped to the ground! Wow! That's the coolest thing!

John doesn't even mention the kiss, like the other writer's do.

Pilate must have thought Jesus was out of his mind when he said, "My kingdom is not of this world." Who would say that? An alien?

Pilate's response to Jesus is classic, "What is truth?" That has been the question forever! Jesus had just said that those who are are of the truth listen to him. Obviously Pilate wasn't listening to Jesus. . . He condemned himself.

John 17

I am enjoying this part of John so much. Reading it is its own reward. Every moment spent meditating on it meets with some golden vein that is more than worth the effort.

Here is Jesus' outreach strategy: Love between his followers "That the world might know that you sent me." The relationship between the Father and Jesus is essential. You must know that. It is indispensable.

Unity between God and Jesus and between Jesus and us is an end or goal of Jesus ministry. He has given us the word from the Father to the end that He might be one with us like the Father and He are one.

Several other things stand out:

• The eternal glory of Jesus is about to be restored!
• The disciples belong to Jesus.
• Both glory and followers are gifts to Jesus from the Father.
• That we might reflect a trinitarian love is a priority to God.
• Our set-apartness is a function of the Word of God.