February 21, 2023 -- Acts 17:16 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Provoked by the Spirit

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

 Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him as he saw that the city was full of idols.
Acts 17:16 ESV

It would be easy to pass by this sentence and go on to the passage where Paul is powerfully, eloquently, arguing for the Christian faith. His address to the people of  Athens is much studied. The speech is stirring and powerful. But do not miss today's words. Paul, who was pursued by Jesus, held by the Spirit for the good works which God had prepared in advance for him to do, was provoked. That word provoked is an interesting one. It means to be excited, irritated, moved to action. What stirred up these emotions? The city of Athens was full of idols and Paul, set free from the power of all that is false, was moved by the slavery of the people who thought themselves free and wise.

Fellow believer, what a contrast to our usual way of behaving. In movies we can be brought to the point of cheering for the criminal. In books we read, the author can deftly sketch the character so well that the reader looks past all the wrongs and cheers for the man who remains unregenerate, that is, unchanged. It is the familiar song, the anthem and theme in the life of many people “I did it my way”. The people of the world around us are chained in deep sin and gloomy darkness even while they blindly celebrate their supposed freedom and enlightened way of living.

Paul was stirred up because he had been captivated by Jesus Christ. Once his soul was released from bondage to sin and the things he used to worship in his own life were exposed as false and worthless he could by the Spirit's discernment easily spot the chains that bind others. When a man or a woman has been freed from sin and brought into the grace of Jesus Christ, all other lesser things and objects that used to be worshiped are thrown into murky shadows because of the brilliance of Christ. Paul was compelled to speak because he knew the terrible stranglehold old sins have on those who chase after anything other than the One True, Living God, our Father. It is what moves you, believer, to speak to the people around you. It is for freedom that Jesus has set you free, so that by the power of His Spirit you will tell others this good news.

Father in heaven, great and beautiful is Your Name! May those chained in the darkness of false worship and worldly idolatry move us, provoke us, so that stirred by Your Spirit we will boldly declare the true freedom that can only be found in Jesus Christ! Thank You for the beauty and power of Scripture, which shines with brilliance in every age and goes with undiminished power to every generation. Captured as we are by Your love, help us to show, teach, and model for all those around us, the joy of living a life devoted to Jesus Christ which is fueled by the Spirit Who makes the Bible living and exciting for us, so that our lives are lived for the honour and glory of our Father in heaven. Help us, Triune God of Majesty, to make disciples for Jesus Christ who make disciples for Jesus Christ. Amen.

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The King in All His Beauty (Live from Sing 2022!) Getty Music

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February 18, 2023 -- Acts 17:10-12 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Seeking the Will of God

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived they went into the Jewish synagogue. 11 Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. 12 Many of them therefore believed, with not a few Greek women of high standing as well as men.
Acts 17:10-12 ESV

Dear brothers and sisters in our Lord Jesus Christ notice what the Bereans did not do and compare it to what they did. They did not seek signs. They did not seek spiritual insight without consulting the Old Testament. They did not demand healings and miracles before believing. By way of contrast: they did use their minds. They did open the Old Testament and prove the words of Paul and Silas and confirmed the truth of Jesus and His salvific work. The Old Testament points the believer to Jesus Christ and His sacrificial work.

Hebrews 1 reminds believers that in the Old Testament times the Father spoke through the prophets. However, in the New Testament, the final and best word is Jesus. Those who walked with Him and knew Him and saw His miracles recorded the New Testament. After that signs and miracles and prophetic utterances ceased. It is the word of God that directs believers. It is the prayerful examination of the Bible that directs the lives of believers.

One reads in Deuteronomy “The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever that we may do all the words of this Law” (Deuteronomy 29:29 ESV). God has taught us His will. It is found in the Law and in Jesus’ summary of the Law: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. You shall love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:34-39). As it was then for the Bereans, so it is today for us, if we want to know what God would have us do we prayerfully research the Bible, know it, learn it, delight in it. And by it the Lord will guide our path.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name.
Your Kingdom come, Your will be done,
   on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
   and forgive us our debts,
   as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, 
   but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the Kingdom and the power and glory,
   forever and ever. Amen.

https://youtu.be/lbKxsTimrbg
"Teach Me, O Lord, Thy way of Truth"
 

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February 17, 2023 -- Acts 17:1-5 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Suffering and the assurance of faith

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. 2 And Paul went in, as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, 3 explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus, whom I proclaim to you, is the Christ.” 4 And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a great many of the devout Greeks and not a few of the leading women. 5 But the Jews were jealous, and taking some wicked men of the rabble, they formed a mob, set the city in an uproar, and attacked the house of Jason, seeking to bring them out to the crowd.
Acts 17:1-5 ESV

Paul and Silas explained to the Jewish people in Thessalonica, and all non-Jewish people who would listen, that Jesus had to suffer. Contrary to what many people say, Jesus was not unexpectedly betrayed, falsely accused, and helplessly led to the cross. No, it was appointed by the Father that the Messiah, that is the anointed One Jesus, had to suffer, and rise from the dead. For many people that is surprising news. For others this challenges the comfortable myth that Jesus was merely a great teacher.

First, it means that the Old Testament is critical if a believer would understand the work of God. It is the only Scriptures that Paul and Silas had at the time. Jesus receives the punishment of God against sin. It is why He had to suffer.

Second, it is consistent with Jesus’ own view of His life and dead and ministry. After Jesus’ death and resurrection, He appeared to two men who were on the Road to Emmaus, and He explained why He had to suffer (Luke 24:25-27).

Third, it explains why the followers of Jesus are so prepared to suffer as well. Paul and Silas experience hardships and suffering for the sake of Jesus. Jesus informed His disciples and all who subsequently would follow Him, “Remember the word that I said to you: “‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my words, they will also keeps yours” (John 15:20).

Fellow believers, be encouraged. People will be impacted by your faith in Jesus Christ. When others push back, or hate you, the suffering you experience will prove the words of Jesus, refine your faith, and increase your prayer life. Trust this too, the same Spirit given to Jesus without measure (John 3:34), has been give to all who believe so that we can live for Jesus.

Our prayer today is Psalm 27. Believers, through-out the centuries and generations have prayed this to bless God, because He has given us these words. The words are deep and profound reassurance also.

Of David.

27 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
    whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
    of whom shall I be afraid?

2 When evildoers assail me
    to eat up my flesh,
my adversaries and foes,
    it is they who stumble and fall.

3 Though an army encamp against me,
    my heart shall not fear;
though war arise against me,
    yet I will be confident.

4 One thing have I asked of the Lord,
    that will I seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
    all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord
    and to inquire in his temple.

5 For he will hide me in his shelter
    in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
    he will lift me high upon a rock.

Psalm 27:1-5 ESV

https://youtu.be/vBjM47zICos
"Holy, Holy, Holy!" Martijn de Groot

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February 15, 2023 -- Acts 16:25 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Suffering and Singing

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,
Acts 16:25 ESV

10 For
“Whoever desires to love life
    and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
    and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good;
    let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
    and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed.
I Peter 3:10-14 ESV

Suffering. We all go through it. Could be sickness. Could be the death of a loved one. Could be suffering under an unjust boss. Could be strains and stresses within your family. Could be any number of things. How do you endure suffering and the wrongs committed against you?

Paul and Silas were in prison, suffering for the sake of the Gospel, and they were praying and singing hymns to God. Now that is a powerful testimony. The other prisoners could hear them and must have wondered how they could be so confident in God in that place. In his letter to believers, Peter reminds them and us our lives will have suffering. How you endure this suffering points to whom you serve. Those who follow Christ Jesus will suffer all the suffering common to all people, and in addition will suffer for belonging to Jesus. The Scriptures today remind us to endure all suffering of any kind with the grace of the Spirit in such a way that the people around us will see Jesus Christ and His glory revealed in you.

Have you failed in your suffering? Been a complainer. Been a mutterer. Been angry and cursing? Written off the people around you because of their lack of compassion? Confess it to God. He has placed you where you are. He has given you the opportunity to shine for His glory in the times of trouble. He has provided His Holy Spirit so that you can endure all things and suffering for righteousness’ sake, be blessed. Trust God the Father in this and know His love and mercy are greater than your circumstances. Know that He is preparing for you a weight of glory that far outshines whatever it is you are going through.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. It seems almost too embarrassing and simplistic to confess it, to acknowledge all people will suffer and that I too have suffered and not carried it well. I have complained. Pointed a finger at others and discredited Christ the Captain of Salvation and the very One Who is praying for me to endure to Your glory, O God. Forgive me. Lead me to the cross where love and mercy are mingled and given to believers with such a great measure that we can, with renewed strength and confident hope in You, live as those who are suffering for righteousness' sake. Let our God-centred, and hope-fueled suffering, bring You honour and glory, King of kings and LORD of Lords, for we endure and vow to continue to endure it in the grace of Jesus and through the strength of the Spirit's work within us. Amen.

https://youtu.be/MxRnzJT5mvo

Jesus Keep Me Near the Cross — Ernie Haas

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February 13, 2023 -- Acts 16:6-10 -- The Acts of the Apostles: The Spirit-directed life

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. 7 And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. 8 So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. 9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
Acts 16:6-10 ESV

This passage is precious to many people at Mount Zion, the church I attend here in Moncton. At its starting a small gathering of believers met together and were seeking a denomination with which to affiliate. They asked the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church in the U.S. to send people to them. “Come over to Canada and help us” was their Macedonian call. Why mention this? Simply, there may be many opportunities for service in your life. So Paul’s example is helpful for us all.

Notice that Paul had opportunities in Phrygia and Galatia and Bithynia—no doubt all places that urgently needed the Gospel. However, the Spirit kept Paul from going there to preach. Instead, the Spirit brought Paul to the people who were prepared by the Spirit for the message. No doubt the A.R.P. in the US had many opportunities, but in God's grace, He gave the go ahead for the building of this ministry in Canada.

It is easy for us to think we know where the Gospel is most needed. It is tempting to go where we think we need to go and then afterwards ask for God’s blessing. It is harder, and most proper, for the people of God to seek the Lord. “I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken” (Psalm 16:8). Those who are in prayer, always setting the LORD before them in Bible reading and worship, will be prepared for the times God says “no” to a particular venture and open to going to the place where His Spirit says “yes, go”.

Consider this “If we do things for God without praying, he cannot afford the risk of allowing us to succeed. For we would get proud and would be hardened in our conviction that activism, not dependence on God, is the way for Christians to serve the Lord”. (Michael Green, I Believe in the Holy Spirit, page 22). Hm. I wonder how often I have tried to do things in my own strength or for my own glory rather than in humble service at the direction of God my King? Father, lead me in the way I should go

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. You know all things. You have directed all things for Your purpose, for Your glory, and in such a way that the Son's redeeming work will have its appointed effect. Forgive us for the misguided zeal we have, and the times we have rushed one way or another without first humbling our hearts and prayerfully consulting You. Faithful Father, direct our plans and our works by the Spirit's power so completely governing us that we will serve according to the grace of Jesus Christ, and so we shall serve You to the greatest effect and in fullness of joy. Amen.

https://youtu.be/8nbMfLQd2P4

Holy Spirit, Living Breath of God — Keith and Kristyn Getty

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February 12, 2023 -- Proverbs 4:20-23 -- The Father's words are life and healing

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

My son, be attentive to my words;
    incline your ear to my sayings.
21 Let them not escape from your sight;
    keep them within your heart.
22 For they are life to those who find them,
    and healing to all their flesh.
23 Keep your heart with all vigilance,
    for from it flow the springs of life.
Proverbs 4:20-23 ESV

Dear brothers and sisters in our Lord Jesus Christ, today is Sunday, and we have the great privilege of hearing the words of God, our Father. The Bible was written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, preserved by the Spirit through the ages and generations so that men and women would be drawn to the Father’s love through the grace of Jesus Christ. Every page of the Bible speaks of the Father's unstoppable love.

Gathering for worship and hearing the sermon preached is life for all who love Jesus. Your mind and body—your flesh—are healed by the words the Spirit preserved. Old strongholds of sin fall to the ground ruined. The Devil’s lies are exposed by the Word of God. The magnificence of Jesus Christ and His saving grace are highlighted so that Jesus is seen to be more than a mere prophet. Instead He is always revealed to be what He Is: the Captain of Salvation.

Get to church. Listen to your preacher. Let the beauty of the Gospel once again capture your heart and inspire your soul. What you put into your heart, that will flow out over your life. If you constantly stuff your life with evil, or even with subtle sins, these will overflow into every part of your life. If you guard your heart, filling it with the message of the Father’s instruction, your life will overflow with glory to God.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! Thank You for the beauty of Your Word. Thank You for the Spirit Who has preserved the Word through the generations so that it faithfully reflects Your instruction to Your people. Truly these are words of life. Forgive us for the times we have crowded our lives with all kinds of other things and sought substitutes, which were in fact crooked speech and devious talk. Renew in us a holy hunger to know You and receive all the grace and blessing You have in store for us through the grace of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Draw us to the places where Your people gather and praise You and are instructed in Your will. We pray for friends and family members who are not yet believers, and we pray for the many people in this world who still stubbornly refuse You. Father in heaven, give to Jesus the reward for which He died--rescue great multitudes from the kingdom of darkness and bring them into the Kingdom of Light, the Kingdom of the Son You love. Amen.

https://youtu.be/agROj9nTQP4
Chris Tomlin "Take My LIfe and Let It Be"

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February 11, 2023 -- Acts 15:36-41 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Real Conflicts and Reconciliation

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” 37 Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. 38 But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. 39 And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, 40 but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. 41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Acts 15:36-41 ESV

Luke, who under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit wrote the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, didn’t pull any punches. His record is honest. It is not good that Barnabas and Paul argued. This sharp disagreement is wrong. It is encouraging to my heart to know that. Let me explain. So often people today have a hazy, misinformed view of what the people of God are like. Why can’t we all love one another, like they did in the New Testament? To which the answer must always be: “Have you actually read the New Testament?!”

By the grace of Jesus Christ believers who have quarreled, even harshly, can find reconciliation and peace. Later in Scripture the careful reader will learn that Paul and John Mark are reconciled (Colossians 4:10). What a huge blessing. The Bible is practical. The Bible reveals what is in the human heart. Then the Bible also shows what happens when believers, led by the Spirit, repent and are reconciled. There the love of God, made real by the grace of Jesus Christ, allows believers to return to true fellowship in the power of the Holy Spirit. It is hard work. It is worthy work.

On another level, the Sovereignty of God is revealed as well. The men are responsible for their wrong-doing. Yet their divisive action is used by God so that more believers are raised up and encouraged by their going separate ways. The mentoring of Barnabas must, no doubt, have been used by the Spirit so that John Mark would be able to be reconciled to Paul when the opportunity arose. Let me warn you. Do not use disagreements as excuses not to work together for reconciliation. But also do not lose heart, God is working in and through every circumstance and through all His people in order to declare His glory and make all believers aware there is no god like the Most High God!

With whom do you need to be reconciled? Are you praying for this? Are you asking the Holy Spirit to build you up in our most holy faith so that you will be strengthened to do what is right? Dear family in Christ, where you see brothers or sisters at odds and in sharp disagreement, pray for their reconciliation so that the Name of God our Father and the glory of Jesus are kept pure. If you have influence, use it for the good of fellow believers and healing in the body of Christ.

Father in heaven, how great Your Name is! May Your Name be hallowed and praised through-out all generations! Forgive us the weakness of our faith and the fainthearted efforts we make at true unity and reconciliation. Such a precious gift and treasure is unity You have given us through Jesus Christ. It came at the cost of Jesus' reconciling blood. Forgive us for our prideful and stubborn hearts which would place our own self-indulgent egos above Your command to live together in unity. Thank You for the truthfulness of the Bible, where people, who were as ordinary as we are, experience the healing work of the Spirit. Triune God, lead us in all humility such that our eyes and imaginations are filled with the image of Christ, the Great Captain of Salvation, and our hearts are prepared, in view of His glory and the intercessions He makes for us at the throne of grace, to repent of all wrong-doing and forgive others their wrong-doing so that together we might rise and bless the God Who tears down every dividing wall of hostility. Amen.

https://youtu.be/R9aDwyS-1Jw
Psalm 133 (KJV) Dwell Together in Unity by Rebeka Mui

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February 9, 2023 -- Acts 15:1-5 -- The Acts of the Apostles: facing raging debates and spiritual questions

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” 2 And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question. 3 So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers. 4 When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them. 5 But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses.”
Acts 15:1-5 ESV

Should Christians be circumcised in order to keep the Old Testament law? The passage before us today describes this as the custom of Moses. It is a fairly easy question for us to answer. Verse 28 answers the question. No. Christians do not need to be circumcised. Their pastoral letter, sent at that time, to the various Christian gatherings who wondered about such things was simple: abstain from food sacrificed to idols and keep from sexual immorality (verse 29). Christians in every generation will experience debates and have to answer hard questions.

A number of years ago a big debate raged among a few friends who were noticing foods in grocery stores which were marked halal, or HTO which is a recognized halal certification. The designation of HTO, or halal means that it is acceptable for practicing Muslims to eat of it. In the same way that food marked kosher, or COR, or kosher OU, is used to certify foods that Jewish people can eat. (Kosher OU means food is accepter for Jewish people in common time, but not acceptable for the Passover Feast.) Some who were very upset said other Christians must not eat halal foods. Simply put, there is no other god but the LORD God Almighty. Such foods, however they have been prepared, are acceptable to Christians, unless it violates the conscience of others or makes such weaker brothers and sister stumble in their faith, see I Corinthians 8.

Every generation faces hard questions. Currently the government is promoting the nonsense of there being more than 2 genders. It was reported this week that a student in a Roman Catholic School in Renfrew Ontario was arrested for saying there are only two genders^. There are sincere Christians who debate whether or not various sexual preferences are in fact sinful. Believers in the Lord Jesus Christ must pray for one another. Examine the word together. Hold the line on what is Biblical and True. Know that the Devil, a.k.a., the father of lies (John 8:44), will always be seeking to subvert earnest Christians and infiltrate with subtle lies and half-truths which must be rooted out. Thankfully, Jesus also promised “Whoever is of God hears the words of God” (John 8:47). That word “hear” will immediately remind the devote believer of Deuteronomy 6:4, the Sh’ma, Hear (and obey).

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! Great and awesome are all Your works. You are honoured and adored by all whom You have claimed through the blood of Jesus Christ. Merciful Father in heaven, send out Your Spirit so that Your people will face the hard questions of our age and the raging questions of our day. We confess it is tempting to want to be liked. We admit we'd prefer to be at peace with the world around us rather than being indignant and angry at the very things which violate Your Holiness. Triune God, fill our hearts, minds and, imaginations with the picture of Your splendor so that we will rise up and praise You and serve You no matter the cost and do so wherever it is You place us. As Your people live for You with great boldness, draw many to Yourself through such witness. Amen.

https://youtu.be/h-T7UbxF85g
"A Mighty Fortress is Our God" Tommy Bailey, Keith and Kristyn Getty

LILLEY: High school student suspended, arrested for saying only 2 genders | Flipboard

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February 7, 2023 -- Acts 14:4-7 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Know the Opposition and Stand Strong in Jesus

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

But the people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews and some with the apostles. 5 When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them, 6 they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country, 7 and there they continued to preach the gospel.
Acts 14:4-7 ESV

The Gospel divides. It separates the people who belong to the Father of love, from those who serve the Devil, a.k.a. the father of lies. Those who follow wickedness are united in their hate. Look how people who normally are enemies are joined together. Jews and non-Jews, that is the Gentiles, do not get along. Jewish customs and religious practices forbid it. Yet the Gentiles and the Jews and their rulers all get together to mistreat and attempt to kill Paul and Barnabas. The most important work any Christian can engage in is to live the Gospel. Walking as a Christian is the most radical thing you can do in this world.

Notice that Paul and Barnabas, having escaped from the plans of the people to mistreat them and hurl stones at them until they died, continued to preach the Gospel. What a simple expression and what a weight of glory it contains. They were not deterred by the strength of the opposition. They cannot help but speak the Name of Jesus. Those Christians which were left behind in Iconium continued to live for Jesus as well, no matter how much opposition is rising up against them. This, fellow believers, gives you a sense of the great value and blessing of knowing Jesus.

Read the word. Study it. Come to know Jesus as fairer and more precious than all that the world can offer. Living in that glorious knowledge, make Him known.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. What a great price Jesus paid so that Christians could be taken from the kingdom of darkness and brought into the Kingdom of Light, where Your love shines Father through the grace of Jesus and the powerful, preserving work of the Spirit. Forgive us for the times we are too timid to speak the Name of Jesus. Forgive us for hoarding our faith and not speaking to family members and friends. Spirit of the Living God, embolden us so that wherever You send us and whomever we meet we will speak of Jesus as we live for Him. Amen.

https://youtu.be/BppKOFLig2w
Shane and Shane "Only There"
 

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February 6, 2023 -- Acts 14:1-2 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Preaching Jesus to a world poisoned against Him

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Now at Iconium they entered together into the Jewish synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers.
Acts 14:1-2 ESV

Paul and Barnabas faced tremendous opposition as they preached the Gospel. Those appointed to eternal life listened with joy and believed in Jesus Christ. Those confirmed in their hardness of heart against God and all His rich mercy, poison the minds of anyone who will listen to them.

To believe in Jesus Christ is to defy the world.

To live in the Father’s love, through the grace of Jesus Christ, by the power of the Spirit means people will hate you. They hate Christ and cannot touch Christ in heaven, so you are the target in their sights.

To teach Jesus to your children and family members is to provoke them. The world is also pressuring your family members and friends because the world is against the Gospel.

Faithful follower of Jesus, delight in His goodness whereby those who hear you are drawn to Jesus. Give thanks to God that He has chosen you in love from before the foundation of the world to be an ambassador for Christ. Give thanks to God for His Spirit, the very presence of God Who lives in you so that greater is He Who is in you, than all the forces of evil and the wickedness of the world.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Thank You for family members, friends, Christian teachers and evangelists whom the Spirit used to bring us to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Triune God, help us to read the word thereby feeding this precious faith and also by it hearing Your voice instructing us. Beautiful Savior, by Your Spirit may our hearts see Your terrible power and radiant splendor, so that the things of this world are proved silly and pointless next to the magnificence of knowing you. God of glory, pierce the darkness of this generation with the Light of Jesus Christ and bring a holy revival. Begin this revival with the hearts and minds of Your Own people, inciting in us a great hunger for Your Word and drawing us to prayer. Amen.

https://youtu.be/1GDph15KeII
Only a Holy God/Holy, Holy, Holy 

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February 5, 2023 -- Acts 13:48-52 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Those appointed to eternal life

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the devout women of high standing and the leading men of the city, stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 13:48-52 ESV

It is interesting that Paul and Barnabas began by preaching to the Jewish people in Antioch. They were having a great impact when non-Jews, the Gentiles, also were beginning to believe in Jesus. The Jewish people got offended at the fact that Gentiles were entering the Kingdom of Heaven and they stirred up persecution.

This is an encapsulation of spiritual warfare. On the one hand the Good News about Jesus Christ goes forth with great power. On the other hand the opposition of the enemy increases and seems overwhelming. The great truth in the midst of all of this is that the Lord has appointed many for eternal life. The ones whom the Spirit has prepared will receive Jesus’ grace and understand the love of the Father. Do not stop speaking. Do not lose hope when you face troubles and hardship and suffering because of the Gospel.

Fellow believers, get to church today. Feed your faith. Meet with fellow Christians and grow in the grace and the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Your mouth speaks from the overflow of your heart. If all you have been feeding yourself is video games, or movies, or smut, or anger, or self-love then you will have nothing to share with others but worldliness and darkness. When you fill your heart with the Word of God, filling your mind with hymn and psalms and spiritual songs then your mouth will speak in praise of Jesus and many who are appointed for eternal life will hear and join you in blessing the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! It is a treasure worthy of great celebration and rejoicing to know You have appointed men and women and children for eternal life. What mercy mixed with love flows from Your great throne. Thank You for the gift of Jesus Christ, by Whom this powerful work of reconciliation is enacted. Thank You for the gift of God the Spirit, by Whom believers are gathered to Jesus and guarded for eternal life. Thank You for the blessing of Sunday. Draw Your people to worship You. Bless Your preachers and teachers and missionaries so that the Word will go out with power. Equip us all by Your Spirit so that we will carry the Good News of Your great love, revealed in Jesus, to all the world. Amen.

For Your Gift of God the Spirit—FPC Congregation
https://youtu.be/GLUxT9jFyBc
 

Copyright © 2023 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

February 3, 2023 -- Acts 13:1-3 -- The Acts of the Apostles: worship, prayer and fasting and the spread of the Gospel

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
Acts 13:1-3 ESV

This is one of those short little passages which are all together too easy to quickly read and then go on to something “bigger” or more interesting. Notice the beautiful things God is doing by His Spirit in the grace of Jesus’ reconciling work.

First, there is a church in Antioch. It a gathering of believers called out from the world and called according to the purposes of God the Father. In a relatively short time since the out-pouring of the Spirit at Pentecost, the powerful Good News about Jesus Christ has reached out from Jerusalem, flowed through Judea and is now going beyond the borderlands of the Jewish people.

Second, look at the names of those mentioned in the passage. See how the work of the Spirit affects people from many social strata, different lands and races. Manaen, who is in the court of Herod the Tetrarch as his friend, is a Christian.

Third, the worship of God included fasting. Something rarely mentioned in our Christian circles today. When believers fast they deny themselves food for a designated period, say 24 hours. The hunger pangs remind them to pray. Instead of eating, one reads and prays, and then carries on with regular duties and responsibilities.

Finally, the Spirit of God directs the people who are in Jesus’ Kingdom to go where He directs and the Spirit equips such servants with all they need. You can understand that those who had been called to worship, prayer and fasting, would, after Saul and Barnabas leave on their missionary journey, continue to pray for these men and the success of their mission.

What is hindering your communication with God? Are you binge watching shows? Are you busy with video games? Are you involved in sports or watching sports to the point it is blocking your relationship with God? What is God’s Spirit teaching you through these words today? Listen. Obey. Praise Him that God the Glorious continues to direct His people.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! Thank You for the work of Your Spirit, carrying the wonderful news of Jesus Christ and His salvation far and wide. Thank You, merciful Father, for those sent by Your Spirit who taught us the magnificence of Your love which shines through the radiance of and reconciling work of Jesus Christ. As you continue to feed Your people by the Word help us to be satisfied in You such that the baubles and distractions of this world fade from prominence and our devotion to You takes hold of us ever more fully and completely. Send us out as teachers and mentors of the reconciling grace of Jesus Christ. Amen.

https://youtu.be/t19ISSmBQ-Q
Keith & Kristyn Getty and Rend Collective "Rejoice"

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February 1, 2023 -- Acts 12:20-24 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Two perspectives on death

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Now Herod was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon, and they came to him with one accord, and having persuaded Blastus, the king's chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their country depended on the king's country for food. 21 On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat upon the throne, and delivered an oration to them. 22 And the people were shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a man!” 23 Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last.
24 But the word of God increased and multiplied.
Acts 12:20-24 ESV

In the context of Acts you learn King Herod was persecuting the Christian believers. This chapter starts with the fact he’d killed James the brother of John and was laying violent hands on those who belonged to the church. When Jesus called Saul who was later renamed Paul, His thunderous voice asked, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” (Acts 9:4). Notice that Jesus links Himself so closely to His people that to harm the people of God is to seek to harm Jesus Himself.

From a human perspective King Herod’s death could be explained as a stroke followed by an opportunistic and fatal parasitical infection. From the perspective of heaven, King Herod was struck down and judged by God for his hubris. Dear believers, the promise of God is sure, He sees a sparrow fall (Matthew 10:29) and Jesus has declared each human is far more valuable than a sparrow. When a leader acts against the people of God that person will face the judgment of God—both in the manner and timing of death and then at the Last Judgment.

Death ought to be a fearsome thing for those who do not believe! They will face the Judge of All the Earth and He will do right and His holiness will be avenged. Death for the Christian is the final punishment of God against sin, as was promised in Genesis 2:17. However, Jesus bore the curse of God against our sin so that at our death, sin no longer has any claim or any hold on the believer. Death is swallowed up in victory (I Corinthians 15:54).

Dear family in our Lord Jesus Christ—preach the power of Jesus Christ and the fear of the LORD. Go to unbelievers and speak the hope that is yours through the love of God the grace of Christ in the fellowship of the Spirit. Some will reject you, but are in fact rejecting Jesus. Others will embrace Jesus because of your bold witness. Thanks be to God for this.

Father in heaven, to You alone belongs all the praise and honour and glory~hallowed be Your Name! We pray for our leaders, elected and self-appointed, who act as if they had achieved any victory or wealth or position in their own strength. While there is yet time, let our leaders learn the greatest blessing that is available, which is humble obedience to Jesus. Raise up advisors and counselors, believing family members and friends so that the Gospel will penetrate the inner circles of worldly power. Faithful Father, renew in Your people, all of us, a holy zeal to live for Jesus, to speak of Him far and wide and this by the powerful Spirit Whom You have so generously given as a seal of Your faithful love and the guarantee of the inheritance that is ours in Jesus. Amen.

https://youtu.be/BppKOFLig2w

Shane and Shane “Only There”

Copyright © 2023 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

January 30, 2023 -- Acts 11:19-24 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Persecution and Gospel Growth

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.
Acts 11:19-24 ESV

When confronted with unbelievers in your workplace, or neighbours who are far from God, have you ever said to yourself, “It is hopeless?” The Jewish people who became Christians still had blinders on. They focused on their own people. The echo of Acts 1:8 reverberates through-out the book of Acts. When the Spirit’s power falls on the believers, they will be witnesses for Jesus unto the glory of God. This witness will spread outwards from Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth. As Luke, inspired by the Spirit, records the story of the Apostles and the other followers of Jesus, the evidence of this outward and forward moving spread of the Gospel is made clear.

What Acts records and proves is still true for you and me today. The hand of the Lord is with you. Living for Jesus will result in the people around you either becoming curious about Who He is and why you are devoted to Him or will result in anything from ridicule to harsh treatment and many worse things. The fact is, Stephen’s martyrdom, recorded in Acts 7 resulted in believers being dispersed through all different regions. Wherever they went, the Gospel was carried with them. “And a great many people were added to the Lord” what a glorious result. What the devil and God-haters intend for evil, God used for good. When life is good, praise God. When life is tough, trust God is accomplishing His purposes and still causing the Good News about Jesus to be scattered far and wide. When troubles push you into new places and circumstances, trust that like seeds you are being sown into areas where hearts are fertile ground, longing to know Him.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Thank You for those who You scattered so that our lives were blessed with the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Thank You for faithful family members, neighbours, Sunday School teachers and evangelists who declared Your loved. Father of love forgive us for the times we complain about the circumstances of our lives. By the powerful presence of Your Spirit in our lives, help us to grow in confident faith that wherever You have placed us, whatever joys or trials have been providentially placed in our lives, we are Your workmanship given the made-just-for-our-skills opportunities to declare the grace of Jesus Christ to all and any we meet. Amen.

https://youtu.be/LgybEBy3rlM
Chet Valley Churches "Onward Christian Soldiers"

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January 29, 2023 -- Acts 10:34-43 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Peter experiences the truth of Jesus' words

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

34 So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all), 37 you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree, 40 but God raised him on the third day and made him to appear, 41 not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. 43 To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
Acts 10:34-43 ESV

Look at verse 34, read it again. I’ll wait. Peter and the disciples had been told they’d receive power when the Spirit fell on them and they’d be Jesus’ witnesses in Jerusalem. Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). It seems as if Peter is surprised and filled with wonder that these words of Jesus are actually coming true in his own ministry. He is preaching outside of the Jewish community and when he sees how others believe, his soul soars in thankfulness to God

Now look at the content of his sermon to Cornelius, his household and his friends who’d gathered to hear Peter. The sermon is all about Jesus. All our hope is anchored on Him. Make sure the church you attend (or the one you are choosing now and considering attending) focuses all on Jesus! In Him and because of Him all of Scripture makes sense. The Bible is not about making you feel better (though in Jesus Christ you will); nor is it seven steps to happiness (because in Christ you are called to suffering for His Name’s sake). Rather, the Good News of Scripture is that the Father in His great love sent Jesus in Whom and through Whom believers receive grace upon grace so that we are called sons and daughters of God, and the Spirit brings believers into fellowship with God and with other believers so that as we lift Jesus Christ high in our worship, prayers and Bible reading, and living, many others will begin to believe in Him. God shows no favoritism or partiality, all who believe in Him will be saved. Now that is Good News indeed.

Father in heaven, hallowed and blessed be Your Name. Thank You Jesus and the grace upon overflowing grace believers received in His Name! Faithful Father, thank You for the Spirit through Whom believers have access to this throne of God and understand Your great love. Triune God, thank You that Your saving work is being made known to the ends of the earth. Bless missionaries and teachers, preachers and evangelists who speak the Name of Jesus. Build Your Church, Jesus! Let the powerful work of the Spirit destroy strongholds of sin and shine the Light of Christ into the dens of iniquitousness which still lurk in our hearts so that our hearts are wholly Christ’s and others, far and near, will be drawn to Jesus, captivated by Him, and all together join in heart-felt, life-altering, obedience to You, the Triune God. Amen.

https://youtu.be/6VBBpZrPixw
The Zoe Group "At the Name of Jesus"

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January 27, 2023 -- Acts 10:23b-29 -- The Acts of the Apostles: The joy of obedience

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. 26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I too am a man.” 27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. 28 And he said to them, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. 29 So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me.”
Acts 10:23b-29 ESV

Yesterday’s reading recounted Peter’s vision of a mix of clean and unclean animals and the thrice repeated invitation of God to eat. It was a sign that the Jewish ceremonial laws were ended. Peter then understood he had the mission to go and see this Gentile (non-Jewish man) Cornelius. When Peter was obedient, his obedience was rewarded with joy in the Lord and opportunity to fulfil the promise of Jesus: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to end of the earth” (Acts 1:8 ESV).

The Gospel continues to reach the most unexpected people all around you. The mercy of God is such that ruined sinners who call out to Him, know His rich salvation and healing. There are many seated in the pews of churches who have grown so accustomed to this message that it seems boring. Let me remind you, the steadfast love of our Father in heaven is never boring. It cannot be boring. It has raised you up from the dung-heap of sin and death. The covenant love of God has brought you to life and given you the great title: son, or daughter, of the Most High God. Then there is the great treasure of knowing that those in the grip of His grace cannot be kept silent. They must proclaim Him.

What is your faith-life like? Is it on life-support? Is it weak and wavering? Is it non-existent? Then today, call out to Jesus. Confess you sins and all the reasons you think He would never accept you. Then in the power of His Spirit, deny your sins the use of your mind or body. Every time temptations to sins haunt you, bite you, incite you, tell those temptation to take it up with Jesus, He is now the Ruler of your life. Then as Jesus commanded take up your cross (by which you are joined to Jesus, He was punished in your place and you are given His righteousness). Now follow Jesus. Read the Bible. Share your faith with others. Tell them what God has done for you—and see how the joy of the Lord revives you and affects others so that they too will walk in the joy of being brought from death in sin to life in Christ. Their newfound joy will reflect back to you so that your joy in God’s goodness will increase and reverberate through the family of Jesus.

Father in heaven may Your Name be blessed, honoured and adored. Thank You for Your extravagant love which sent Jesus to raise ruined sinners from death to life. Thank You for the powerful Spirit Who takes dry bones and brings those formerly dead sinners to life and active obedience with fullness of joy into Jesus’ service. Triune God, forgive us for our praise-less praise and our lackluster obedience. In view of the glorious salvation and rich treasures You pour out, direct us to obedience so that we will deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Jesus. In these acts of obedience may the Good News roll out from our lips and our lives touching and blessing many others. Jesus, we ask these things of our Father, in Your Name. Amen.

Copyright © 2023 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

MercyMe: “The Christ Came”

January 26, 2023 -- Acts 10:9-16 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Clean and Unclean

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. 10 And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance 11 and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” 15 And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” 16 This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven.
Acts 10:9-16 ESV

If you know the Old Testament well, you know that Jewish men and women had to abstain from eating many kinds of animals and birds and reptiles and aquatic creatures. There were unclean and clean animals. For example, cows were considered clean and could be eaten but pork was considered unclean and could not be eaten. Such dietary laws also reminded the people to live making a distinction between what is clean and what is unclean. Clean activities are those keeping the law of God and walking in His ways; and example of an unclean activity would be to date or marry a non-Jewish person. It is unclean to sacrifice to false gods.

Peter is now being shown all animals, including those formerly considered unclean, are now clean. All animals and reptiles and birds can be eaten. Three times the voice of heaven spoke to Peter while he had the vision to rise, kill and eat from the unclean animals. This repetition is emphatic. What does it all mean?

1. The Spirit of the Living God has taken up residence in believers. So believes are holy and they are the agents through whom the Father in heaven brings others to Jesus the Lamb of God.

2. The distinction between clean and unclean is rendered moot in this way as well: there will be Jewish men and women who believe and who do not believe. Those who do not believe are now lumped together with non-Jewish people who do not believe. All are people who need the word of God.

3. Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners because in Him was the Light of Life and the darkness could not overcome it (John 1:5). Those who are in Christ have through Him overcome the world. Therefore believers go out and preach and teach, serve and help, using whatever gifts and talents they’ve been given so that the love of the Father, shown by the grace of Jesus will result in fellowship with God and other Christians by the power of the Spirit.

4. All of this was foreshadowed in the Old Testament. The Law commanded that Moabites and their children were not allowed in the temple for 10 generations. Yet Ruth is the great-grandmother of King David. He and his father and his grandfather all were worshippers of the One True God and allowed to participate in the religious life of the Jewish nation. Why? Because Ruth left her pagan heritage, dying to it, and living for God in the manner and way of the Jewish people. In Jesus Christ, people from all nations die to themselves, their culture and their traditions and are made to be a new creation in Jesus Christ.

Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! Great and excellent are Your ways. Thank You for reconciling men and women to Yourself through the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ. Thank You for the grace of Jesus Christ which affects every part of who we are so that in His Name we are Your sons and daughters. Spirit of all Comfort, thank You, that Your powerful presence in us transforms us from our past as children of the father of lies to now being children of the Father in heaven. Mighty God of Justice and Truth, by the working of Your Word in our lives, help us to shine brightly for Jesus in the world, in our churches and in our homes. Perhaps, especially in our homes, even when no one else is looking at what we are or are not doing. Remind us, glorious LORD, with You darkness is as bright as day, nothing escapes Your watchful eye. Let our days and nights, private and public times, thoughts and actions be a steady stream of worship and devoted obedience to You. Amen.

https://youtu.be/6nJ0PZt05H4
Nathan Pacheco "Forever"

Copyright © 2023 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

January 25, 2023 -- Acts 9:1-9 -- The Acts of the Apostles: The Light overcomes darkness

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. 4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” 5 And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” 7 The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. 8 Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
Acts 9:1-9 ESV

Interestingly, the believers are those belonging to “the Way”. Jesus is The Way (John 14:6). Those who follow Him are following the Way to the Father in the power of the Spirit. It is light that stops Saul. Jesus is the Light of the World (John 8:12). The darkness cannot overcome the light (John 1:5). Any activity which is against Great Name of Jesus is a work of darkness.

Recently I read a powerful quotation, “drag queens are to womanhood what blackface is to people of colour”. Think about it, a godless activity of men masquerading as women is a huge insult to womanhood. It is a denigration of their dignity. In the very same way blackface is an insult to those men and women of colour who are fearfully and wonderfully made so by our Creator. Paul has been masquerading as one devoted to God, but he is denigrating the very notion of devotion. He is false. One’s devotion is not what matters, one’s devotion to Him Who is Holy and True is what matters. Jesus is the fountainhead of all new life, which by the love of the Father, flows through Him. All Who call on the Name of the LORD will be saved (Joel 2:32). This is why it is hugely significant that through-out the New Testament Jesus is called “Lord”. He is linking Himself with the Father in Heaven.

Lead us, blessed Jesus, from the darkness of our sins and waywardness, to the glorious Light of Your grace. Faithful Father, blessed be Your Name! Great are You, Father, Source of every good gift. Thank You, Triune God, for the powerful presence of Your Spirit Who overcomes the power of darkness that so easily takes a stranglehold on us. Thank You Glorious God, for the fact that Jesus has overcome the darkness and the power of grave. In Your victory Jesus, let us walk in victory, and in joy-filled obedience, until finally we see You face to face. Amen.

https://youtu.be/4oGuGzCFEWI
Chet Valley Churches “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise”

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January 23, 2023 -- Acts 8:4-8 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Scattered to witness

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. 5 Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. 6 And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was much joy in that city.
Acts 8:4-8 ESV

The fact that Saul and the Jewish leadership were persecuting the church meant that many of the believers were chased out of Jerusalem and Judea. They went to Samaria and beyond. Samaritans hated people of Jewish descent. This was a mutual hatred. It made the Parable of the Good Samaritan so much more powerful that the “good neighbour” who helped the robbed and beaten Jewish man was a hated Samaritan, while all the “good Jews” who you’d have expected to help him passed him by (Luke 10:25ff).

Jesus’ words are being fulfilled: “You will be My witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). What an unexpected way it is happening. Men and women are being thrust into new areas and into places of hiding from the ravages of persecution, and by this, the number of believers swells and increases. See, how the love of God the Father conquers ancient hatred so that former enemies are now brothers and sisters in Christ and the people who see this are compelled to cry out, "See how they love one another". Look at John 13:33-34.

Isn’t it interesting how this recalls Genesis 50:20—what man intended for evil, God intended for good, which is the saving of many lives. The splendor and marvel of eternity will be the opportunity believers have to see, from God’s glorious perspective, how the afflictions and troubles of our lives served His purposes. We will shout and sing to God, “Just and true are all Your ways!” Those who came to know Jesus Christ and through Him the Father’s love, will, strengthened by the Spirit join in shouting, “Blessed are You, King of kings and LORD of lords”. When you suffer, ask, Faithful Father, through this trial, what can I learn? Through these circumstances, who are You drawing to Yourself as I endure this in the strength of Your Spirit and by the grace of Jesus.

Faithful Father, hallowed and blessed be Your Name. Thank You for the rich and great salvation which You have and do continually pour out into my life through the grace of Jesus Christ. Thank You for the precious Spirit, Who holds me under the spout where the grace of Jesus pours out and the love of God is brought to fruitfulness there. I confess it is hard to suffer. In this trial, Heavenly Father, what would You have me learn? In these circumstances I face, who are You drawing close to me, so that by these refining fires You have ignited in my life, I can be a greater, purer witness of Your love. Amen.

https://youtu.be/ndZsEDuCVAQ

Shane and Shane: Psalm 27

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January 20, 2023 -- Acts 8:1-3 -- The Acts of the Apostles: Persecution and Church Growth

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

And Saul approved of his execution.
And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2 Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. 3 But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison.
Acts 8:1-3 ESV

Bloodlust. That is what is being described here. Once Elders and the Scribes and the High Priest heard Stephen out, and his condemnation of their involvement in the crucifixion of Jesus, they turned on Stephen and threw him out of the city and threw rocks and stones on him till he was pummeled to death. Chillingly, the henchman of the Jewish leadership, Saul, is said to have approved this killing.

After this Saul ravaged the church. To ravage is to lay waste to, or to cause as much harm and damage as possible. His fury against the Living God was expressed in the only way available to him. Since Saul could not ascend to heaven and give God a black eye, he tried to hurt the Father by trampling on His children. Worse, Saul thought he was doing something good for God and the protection of His Name. This shows the depths of his self-deception.

What happened? Believers went to different regions of Judea and Samaria. Tertullian, one of the early church fathers coined the phrase: “the blood of martyrs is the seed for the church”. Think of it. Because of Stephen’s martyrdom, other believers (like blood spatter) went to different regions. Their arrival into new territories meant new churches would be planted. Saul’s hateful acts against God were about to be judged as well.

Do not lose heart, Christian, if you are persecuted for the sake of righteousness. The Father in heaven knows your need, your pain and brokenness. True participation in the church grows when believers suffer. Suffering is a sign of the veracity of what is proclaimed. Those who do the persecuting will see how you endure and by this will either increase their own condemnation at the Day of Judgment or will by the Spirit’s work in them turn from their sin and see the power of Jesus Christ. The glory of God triumphs.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Great is Your splendour, beautiful Your majesty and glorious Your purposes. As Your people stand firm on the foundation of Jesus Christ, help them to endure the great suffering and persecution that will inevitably come. Such suffering may be the rebellion of their own sinful flesh, or the attacks of the Devil and his demons, or the people of the world and powers all around, or it might be any combination of these. Faithful God, Source of all Good, as those bound up in Jesus Christ and His reconciling blood, enable us to stay true to You--God the Triune. Give us such tender and humble hearts that we will encourage the saints around us, especially those who stumble and face hardships and become discouraged along the way. Your word declares “^the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity”. We rise because of Your love Father, and this by the grace of Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit and His work among the fellowship of believers. Great are You LORD! Amen.

^Proverbs 24:16

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