STUDIES IN THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES
INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY COURSE
Welcome to our Studies in the Acts of the Apostles! The notes that are used here are actual sermon outlines that were first preached as early as 1994 and introduced to the WWW as “Weekly Outlines from LBC.” They have been slightly revised as we prepared them for use in Landmark Baptist Bible Institute-Canada on the Internet. Some other material that we have since found has been made available and added to our studies. The original title was “Preaching Thru Acts.” For the most part, these notes touch on every verse and phrase in the Acts of the Apostles with very few exceptions. We have not been afraid to tackle those verses that many commentators just skip over. In these cases we have as well resorted to the works of able men. The Bibliography at the end contains a list of the books we have read or resorted to in reference to our study. In short, this is not a study of “private interpretation.” There are forty-six lessons followed by an examination sheet.
INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF ACTS
Acts of the Apostles is a title given by the translators and is not in itself inspired. The Acts is really the Acts of the Holy Spirit through the New Testament churches. It is the only Church History book that is Holy Spirit inspired, given to us by God. The work of the Holy Spirit through the Church began on the Day of Pentecost, but the Church herself came into existence from the shores of Galilee. We do not hold to the Protestant view that the Church was born on the Day of Pentecost. That there was a church before Pentecost, that functioned as such under the Headship of Christ Himself is clearly seen and taught as we see the ministry of Christ before Pentecost.
Acts has no AMEN at the end of it, and in a certain sense is still being written by those churches and believers that have followed in doctrinal succession from the First Church instituted by Jesus Christ on the shores of Galilee. The church into which He first placed apostles (Cf 1 Corinthians 12:28 and Luke 6:13) functioned as a Church during this time.
While Acts is a book of Church history, there is therein to be found good sound practical doctrine. We therefore see here the practice of the teachings of Christ. The teaching of Christ, the practice of the New Testament churches, continued throughout history to our time, by those who were called Anabaptists and later just Baptists. These existed in every age, and their history began with the ministry of those who in the Acts laid down the pattern and wrote it for the most part in their own blood as martyrs for the cause of Christ.
Acts was written by Luke, who also wrote the gospel by his name. Luke was a physician who later became a preacher and companion of the apostles, especially of Paul. It covers the spread of Christianity through three decades immediately following the death-resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. It is the only book in the Bible that traces the expansion of the early church. Acts is volume two of a two-volume work of Luke. Written to a man by the name of Theophilus, the first volume tells of the things Jesus began to do and to teach. In volume two, he tells how Jesus continues His work through the agency of the Holy Spirit.
The key verse to Acts is probably chapter one, verse eight. The time covered by the Acts is from the crucifixion of Christ ca A.D. 29 to about A.D. 60 or perhaps a little longer. Peter and Paul were still active in ministry at the close of the Acts of the Apostles. The Acts does not cover the ministry of churches and their establishment in every area. The two major apostles whose ministries are followed are Peter and Paul.
Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
North York, Ontario, Canada
October 26th 2002.
PREACHING THRU ACTS
PREPARING THE CHURCH TO GO FORWARD
SCRIPTURE: Acts Chapter One
INTRODUCTION:
The author of the Acts of the Apostles is thought to be Luke the Physician. First of all, he wrote a former treatise, namely the Gospel of Luke. Secondly he was close to Paul whose ministry makes up the larger portion of this history of the early churches.
Luke wrote the Acts, probably about 62 AD. Jerusalem was not yet destroyed. Paul was still alive, or else Luke would have ended the Acts with a vindication of his ministry. Luke no doubt simply stopped writing where the current history ended.
The reason for the Acts is stated in verse 1-2- "that of which Jesus continued to do and to teach in giving commands unto the apostles through the Holy Ghost." The church was now going to locate permanently in Jerusalem, from which other churches would be planted in Judea, Samaria, and unto the ends of the earth. (1:8.)
The apostles were chosen by Christ himself at the beginning of his ministry. Paul says they were "placed first in the church" 1 Corinthians 12:28 Cf Luke 6:13. Which shows us that there was a church in existence before the day of Pentecost. Pentecost was not the birth of the church, as taught by Protestants and Pentecostals, and we have no reason to believe it was her birthday.
Let us look at this chapter and see how the apostles were prepared for the work which was ahead of them.
1. PERTAINING TO THE KINGDOM: Vs 3-4
A. Assembled Body: Vs 3-4
1. Christ showed Himself alive by many infallible proofs.
2. More than 500 brethren saw the resurrected Christ (1 Corinthians 15:6). If only one or two then we could say they were mistaken, or made up the story. 500 brethren cannot be wrong or mistaken. 500 brethren cannot be guilty of deception.
3. The purpose of this assembly (gathering) was to speak or teach Kingdom truth. Vs 3
4. The time element was 40 days. The total time from the cross to Pentecost was 50 days. Pentecost means 50th day after the Passover.
B.
Authoritative Act: Vs 4
1. While Christ was assembled with the Church he gave them a commandment, or direct order. Cf Luke 24:49.
2. This order from Christ, the Head of the Church comes in two related parts.
a) "do not depart from Jerusalem"....
b) "wait for the promise of the Father"....
3. The commandment was explained- "you have heard it said of me". This is reference to the ministry of John the Baptist. These disciples had been baptized by John the Baptist, and knew his doctrine.
Cf Matthew 3:11.
4. "John truly baptized (Gr. baptizo-immersed) with (Gr. en- in) water; but
you shall (not might or should) be baptized (immersed) with (in) the Holy Ghost (Spirit) not many days hence (from now).
5. Note here the two baptizers and the element into which one would be baptized.
a) John the Baptizer- in water.
b) Jesus the Baptizer- in the Holy Spirit.
The latter would take place once and for all on the Day of Pentecost.
(We will look at this more closely in our next lesson).
C.
Autocratic Restoration:- Vs 6-7
"Lord, wilt Thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel"?
This parenthesis in the events of this chapter is often misunderstood.
1. The question of the disciples was not a wrong one. They had long
been conditioned by Christ and the study of the prophets to expect a future restoration of their nation, Israel where the Messiah (Christ) would sit upon the throne of David.
2. Note that Jesus did not deny a future literal reign or restoration of the kingdom. vs 7.
3. He simply, said, "it is not for you to know the times or seasons". This is not even Jesus business, it is the Father's. They must be concerned with Jesus' business, that of the kingdom in its present spiritual or heavenly form. They were church apostles and must be concerned with church business.
4. How easy it is for any of us to forget our priorities. To get off base and strike out with questions and activities that are far from the order of the day.
2.
POWER OF THE KINGDOM: Vs 8-11
How quickly Jesus got the church back on target in setting straight their priorities for ministry.
A. Anointing of the Spirit:
1. Notice the use of the word power in vs 7 and again in vs 8.
a) The power or authority of knowing (knowledge).
b) The power or authority of witnessing (doing).
It was not for them to know the Father's schedule of future events. It was for them to know the power of preaching, of witnessing or making disciples.
cf Matthew 28:19-20.
2. They had the Holy Spirit in the sense of salvation. Cf John 20:22; Romans 8:9.
The emphasis of this verse is that the Holy Spirit would "come upon them" or anoint them for Christian service.
3. "Ye shall be witnesses unto me"-
Be aware of men who talk about everything and everybody but JESUS!
4. Notice that witnessing is automatic with the anointing of the Spirit. Spirit filled men do not have to be prompted to witness. Ye shall, not, ye should
or might be witnesses.
5. The scope of witness-
a) In Jerusalem- (start where you are, with your Jerusalem).
b) In all Judea- the immediate province.
c) In Samaria- The Samaritans were what we would call today half- breeds. Orthodox Jews would have no dealings with them.
d) Unto the uttermost part of the earth- this we often call "world
evangelism". A more correct and scriptural wording would be "world-wide witness".
B.
Ascension of Christ: Vs 9-11
The actual place of the ascension was at Bethany or near by, on the Mount of Olives. Cf Luke 24:50-51.
1. I believe the ascension of Christ at this point is significant.
a) He ascended following a final statement as to the duty of the Church, "to be witnesses."
b) The importance of his ascension is that He-
1. Would receive the promise of the Father to baptize the Church in the Holy Spirit. Luke 24:49; Acts 1:5; 2:33.
2. He would become mediator and intercessor for all those given Him by the Father (John 6:37), that is, for all born again believers. Cf 1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 8:6; 9:15; 12:24; Hebrews 7:25.
2. A cloud received Him out of sight. That is, from physical sight but not
from spiritual sight. The Christian sees Christ quite literally in
many spiritual ways. (Vs 10)
3. Two men stood by Him in white apparel. These were probably angels, but some think they may have been Moses and Elijah, since they are referred to as "men." The significance is that He was not alone, and if it was Moses and Elijah, then there is a connection between the Old and New Covenants represented in these two men.
4. Vs 11- this verse is rather humorous.
"Ye men of Galilee"- simple country folk.
"why stand ye gazing"- looking dumbfounded and stupid as if you were
not warned about this, or had not been given a task to do.
5. With the ascension is given a promise of a literal return of Christ.
a) This same Jesus- not another or a look alike.
b) the one whom you see ascending- no other.
c) taken up from you into heaven- leaving you here while He goes up to
heaven. Not the heavens but into the place of God, Heaven itself.
d) Shall so come in like manner- the same way as you see Him go up, He shall descend or come down again.
This implies a literal physical return of Christ to earth again.
(Daniel 7:13; Zechariah 14:4.)
3.
PURSUIT OF THE KINGDOM: Vs 12-26
The apostles returned from the Mount of Olives where Christ ascended, to Jerusalem. This is where the first Church would locate and begin her endeavour to carry out the command of her Head and Leader. They had been a Sabbath day's journey away from Jerusalem, which is a very short distance. Jewish tradition forbid travel on the Sabbath, to about three quarters of a mile. Now back in Jerusalem they went up into an upper room. Probably the same room, where they had received the Lord's Supper before the crucifixion.
Here they waited for the Promise of the Holy Spirit's coming upon them, and conducted the business of the church at hand.
A. Church Gathering:
1.
Here was the assembly of the Church. vs 13
2. This assembly included men and women. vs 14 about 120 believers. (there should probably have been at least 500- cf 1 Cor. 15:6.) Where were the other 380?
3. Was it that in that day like it is in ours, that only a minority obeyed the command of Christ thoroughly?
Only a small percentage of our Sunday morning service attend the evening service. Only a smaller percentage of this attend the Mid-week service of prayer and Bible Study.
B.
Continued Gathering:- vs 14
1. Church attendance is to be regular and continuous. (Hebrews 10:25)
2. These were in one accord, of one mind, spirit and purpose.
3. In prayer:- the spirit of prayer pervaded the early church. They were preparing for the promised infilling of the Holy Spirit.
4. Supplication- the word used here means "asking or to entreat- of making requests known to God."
5. Women were gathered with the men here, including Mary Jesus mother,
and the brothers of Jesus.
C.
Church Business Meeting:- vs 15-26
1. Peter took the floor, to conduct some church business. He was here the leader, but later James became the Pastor of the Church in Jerusalem, and Peter went away to serve in Babylon.
2. Notice that Peter was ready to relate to the Scriptures. The Bible not some man, is the Church's authority.
Vs 16.- Peter appealed to prophetic scriptures.
3. He saw the need to replace Judas Iscariot, who had betrayed Jesus.
4. Vs 17-20- Peter gives the story of Judas, a man who came up to the door of salvation only to end up in his own place in hell.
Judas had a Church office but was not saved. He fell from office, not from grace.
5. David wrote in Psalm 69:25 concerning he who would betray Christ.
6. Qualifications for an apostle:-
a) Accompany with the other apostles during the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ. vs 21
b)
Beginning with the baptism of John-vs 22
c) A witness of the living Christ at His ascension.
d) These requirements are necessary for one to be ordained (chosen and appointed) as witness with the apostles, of the resurrection of Christ.
7. They appointed or nominated two men, Joseph (Barsabas) Justus, and Matthias.
8. The casting of lots is a method of choosing, not heard of again in the New Testament. This should not be considered the same as democratic voting.
Note:- The preparation before they cast lots, was one of intense prayer for guidance.
9. The lot fell upon Matthias, and he is said to have been, numbered with the eleven apostles.
Note:- Matthias was no mistake. Some say that he was only the apostles or man's choice, but that God really chose Paul. That is not true and contrary to Scripture.
a)
Matthias was numbered with the eleven apostles Vs
26.
b)
Paul said he was one born out of due time, and an apostle to the
Gentiles. (1 Corinthians 15:8-9; Romans 11:13)
c) Paul no doubt considered Matthias as one of the 12 since he referred to the twelve after Judas was already dead. (1 Corinthians 15.5.)
Now the Church was organized and ready to go, just as soon as they received the promise of the Father. And this we will see accomplished in the next chapter.
CONCLUSION:
So we have our brief introduction to the New Testament Church, which Christ established and commissioned. Let us endeavour to make our church like that one. Remember, that this church was built upon Jesus Christ, with those who had accepted Him as their sin-bearer, and were immersed in water by authority of His name. You too must take this road called Jesus, to the Father, to Heaven and eternal life.
Sermon preached by
Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.
Sunday, September 11th 1994.and Sunday morning, February 4th 2001
LESSON TWO
PENTECOST
SCRIPTURE:- Acts Chapter
2
OUTLINE
1.
PURPOSE
2.
POWER
3.
PRODUCTION
1.PURPOSE:-
A. DAY: -
1. "When the day of Pentecost was fully come"-
2. Pentecost means..."50th day"
3. It took place 50 days after the Passover.
4. Pentecost is a Greek word for a Jewish feast Day...
Feast of the First-fruits...it was a harvest blessing.
Lev. 23:15-16...
"And ye shall count unto you from the morrow after the sabbath, from the day that ye brought the sheaf of the wave offering; seven sabbaths shall be complete; Even unto the morrow after the seventh sabbath shall ye number fifty days; and ye shall offer a new meat offering unto the Lord."
Pentecost is therefore connected with "harvest".
B. DIRECTION: -
1. Pentecost from the standpoint of the New Testament Church, relates to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
2. The Holy Spirit would be the administrator or true Vicar of Christ...Acts 1:1-2; John 16:13.
3. On this day, JESUS baptized the church in the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:5; Matt. 3:11; Joel 2:28.
4. Individual believers were also "filled with the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:4; cf Eph. 5:18.
5. Nowhere is Baptism in the Holy Spirit mentioned after Pentecost.
Paul told the Ephesian Church there is "One Lord, One faith, one baptism...Eph. 4:5.
Since water baptism continued to be practiced after Pentecost...the "one" baptism must be "water baptism".
6. There is one baptism in the Holy Spirit - this was given to the church as a corporate body on the Day of Pentecost.
However, there are many individual fillings.
See 2:4; 4:8, 31; 9:17; 13:9.
There is only one Calvary, it is a finished work. Likewise there is but one Pentecost. We can no more expect a repeat of Pentecost than we can expect a repeat of Calvary.
Those who do so, leave Scriptural ground for the doctrines of men.
C. DISCIPLESHIP: -
1. Discipleship is committed to the Church in what we call the Great Commission...Matthew 28:19-20.
2. Discipleship is carried out by Spirit filled men.
3. Those converted on the Day of Pentecost and after were discipled....
"...They continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine...." -Acts
2:41
4. Those who were discipled were first converted to Christ....
a/
Peter preached the gospel to them...2:14-36
b/ They came under conviction by the work of the Holy Spirit. vs 37
c/
They were brought to repentance- 2:38
d/
They were brought to faith in Christ-2:38
e/ They were baptized by immersion in water. Vs 38
f/ Those saved and baptized, were added unto the Church vs 41.
g/ These then continued in doctrine, fellowship, communion, etc. vs 42.
h/ These are called "saved" people...vs 47.
2. POWER: -
A. THE AUTHORITY: -
1. The word power refers to "authority". -Acts 1:8
2. The anointing of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost was one of power or authority. Not the authority of the commission (they already had that) but the authority of the leading of the Holy Spirit. This involves the administrative work of the Holy Spirit within New Testament Churches.
3. Authority is given to New Testament Churches to carry out the Great Commission. Scriptural authority is given to no other institution than that which was instituted by Christ on the shores of Galilee, and such churches as spring from her.
B. THE ABILITY: -
1. The apostles, especially Peter were just some backward fishermen until the day of Pentecost.
2. Note the difference between Peter's testimony of Christ outside of the Judgment Hall, and on the day of Pentecost.
3. Spirit fullness gives boldness.
4. Peter persuaded the crowd to the point of over three thousand saved, baptized Church members in one day.
5. The amazing thing at Pentecost was not the ability to speak in other languages (vs 6-11), but rather that so many were brought to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
C. THE ANSWER TO PROPHECY: -
1. Pentecost is the answer to Scripture-Acts 2:16 cf Joel 2:28-32.
2.
"This is the (beginning) of that...vs 16
3. Peter does not say that Pentecost is the complete fulfillment of Joel's prophecy concerning the last days (Rev. 6:12) Peter does not see a celestial cataclysm (vs 19,20). Yet it is that of which Joel speaks because it is the "beginning of that".
4. In Peter's Pentecostal sermon, he constantly related to Scripture, which pointed to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
3. PRODUCTION: -
A. THE PREACHING: -
1. In dealing mainly with Jews, Peter alluded to the Prophets of Israel. He talked about Moses, and David the King. All in relating to Christ.
2. He showed from Old Testament Scripture that Jesus, whom they had rejected and crucified, was Lord and Christ. He was their Messiah, the Son of God.
3.
Under the power of the Holy Spirit Peter put the blame for Jesus' death
where it belonged, on them. Vs 36
The Jews as a nation were to be blamed for
Jesus death, even though many individuals may not have personally consented to
it.
B. THE PROMISE: -
1. The promise (vs 39) is that of salvation in Jesus Christ, and the indwelling Holy Spirit to all believers. Cf Eph. 2:13; Rom. 8:9.
2. This is based upon the fact that Jesus had died to give "remission of sins" to all who believe.
3. In vs 37 there is a general call to all who would hear with their ears.
In vs 41 there is the result of the efficient call to all who heard in their hearts.
Note: - Conviction is not salvation.
See - Romans 10:9-13.
C. THE PEOPLE: -
1.
Those who merely asked questions- vs
12
Asking questions about God's sovereign grace does not make you a recipient of it. Asking about new automobiles does not constitute a sale or give you ownership of a new car.
2. Those religious folk who said the disciples were drunken- vs 13.
Some see only preachers, others see men of God with a message from heaven. Some see the negative while others see something positive.
3.
Those who were "convicted"- vs
37
This comes through the preaching of the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit. Without a Spirit of conviction all of the begging and pleading of men is useless.
4. Those who gladly received the Gospel Peter preached- vs 41.
Jesus said "many are called (outwardly) few are chosen (inwardly.)
They....
a/ believed/received the word.
b/ were baptized.
c/ Were added unto the Church-(membership).
d/ Continued.....(Perseverance).
1. Apostles doctrine (teaching).
2. Breaking of bread (communion of the body).
3. Fellowship- spiritual support
4. Prayers (times of prayer meeting).
Note: - Communion is given to saved, baptized members of the (local) Church. This is the New Testament order.
CONCLUSION: -
And YOU, where do you stand in relationship to all of this? Are you saved, scripturally baptized, and a member of a Scriptural New Testament Church? Are you continuing in doctrinal teaching, in communion, in fellowship, in prayer times?
(If you have any questions concerning your personal salvation, please write to me.)
Sermon preached by
Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church,
Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.
Sunday, September 25th 1994.
Sunday, February 11th 2001
LESSON THREE –
BECOMING A CHRISTIAN
A study from Peter's Pentecostal Sermon
SCRIPTURE: ACTS 2:16-47
INTRODUCTION:
While believers, or disciples, were not called Christians until Antioch (11:26) they had their beginning around the shores of the Sea of Galilee, where Christ organized His Church with material given Him by John the Baptist.
Following Christ's three year ministry, He was taken, condemned by sinful men, and crucified; He rose bodily from the dead according to the Scriptures (1 Cor. 15:6); taught His Church Kingdom truth for 40 days, He ascended up into Heaven to sit on the right hand of the Father as the mediator and intercessor for those whom He redeemed with His blood (Rom. 8:26; Heb. 7:25).
He instructed His Church to, "tarry in Jerusalem until they were endued with the power of the Holy Spirit" (Luke 24:49). This is what Peter is talking about here in his Pentecostal sermon. The reason for it, he explained, is that "whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved".
What does Peter teach here about becoming a Christian? -
1. THE PROMISE OF GOD:
A. Prophetic: Vs 16-20
1. Peter bases the events of Pentecost upon God's Word, the fulfillment of Prophetic Scripture.
2. This would involve a general invitation to all men and women- Vs 17-18.
3. While Peter quotes Joel 2:28-32, it is evident that not all of these events happened on the Day of Pentecost. Some of them are future as in
Vs 18-20- Peter does not see a celestial cataclysm.
A literal translation of Vs 16- "This is the beginning of that which was prophesied by the prophet Joel".
The rest of the fulfillment remains until the Great Tribulation period -(Rev. 6:12).
4. We see in Peter's sermon that salvation is God's initiative, not mans. It is an act of God's sovereign grace.
B. Practical Application:
The practical application of the prophetic scriptures is seen as follows:
1. Vs 21 - "whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved".
(Cf- John 3:16; 6:37; Rom. 10:9-13.)
2. Vs 41 - They received the Word gladly.
They proved this by being baptized, joining the Church, and continuing in the means of grace- Vs 42.
Truly regenerate men and women follow through with the Word of God. Those who merely seek to pick themselves up by their own boot straps as it were, fall away.
2.
THE PURPOSE OF GOD:
God's purpose is seen in His determinate counsel- Vs 23
A. Approved of God:-
The miracles He performed proved He was more than a man (John 3:2; Cf Mark 16:20). The purpose of miracles is not to bring healing but to glorify and declare Christ as the Divine Son of God.
1. The term "Jesus of Nazareth" refers to His humanity- Vs 22.
2. He was allowed, in God's plan, to be taken and crucified- Vs 23
cf Luke 22:22.
3.
God's approval of Christ is seen -Vs 23-24-
a) In His determinate counsel and foreknowledge.
Note that foreknowledge comes after determinate counsel. God foreknows because He has decreed it in the first place. Foreknowledge first looks back to God's decree before it looks ahead to who will be the recipients of His grace.
b) Allowing Him to die a cruel death. Christ died for His people, the elect.
c) In raising Him up from the dead. The resurrection of Christ is the first-fruits of the resurrection of the elect.
B. Anticipated by King David:
Peter here quotes from David (Vs 25-36 Cf Ps. 68; 110.
1.
David had seen Christ- Vs 25
2. David had hope in Him- Vs 26
3. David had confidence he would not remain in "Hades"(the place of the departed dead)-Vs 27.
Nor would this happen to Christ.
4. David (a prophet as well as a king) prophesied of the resurrection and Kingship of Christ- Vs 30-31.
C. Attested by the Church:- Vs 32-33
1. Those who were in the upper room were a part of 500 brethren who saw the resurrected Christ- 1 Corinthians 15:6.
I am still wondering where the others, the 380 out of the 500 brethren were? I am wondering where they are today?
2. Pentecost is evidence of the resurrection of Christ. How else could one explain such a turn about of enthusiasm? This bunch of dead-beat Christians are now filled with enthusiasm, and on fire for God. Peter, who could not testify to the little woman at the fire, was now preaching to the whole city about this man whom they had crucified. What a difference it makes when one is filled with the Spirit of God!
a) Christ is at the right hand of God.
b) Christ is exalted.
c) Christ received the promise of the Father.
d) Christ has shed forth this, which you now see and hear.
Peter related all of this to Jesus of Nazareth.
D. Assured Knowledge: Vs 34-36.
1. Christ, not David ascended- Vs 34.
2. Christ, not David is on the Father's right hand.
3. Christ, not David is awaiting victory over His foes- Cf Psalm 68:18; Psalm 110:1; Eph. 1:20; Rev. 3:21.
Christ, as mediator is limited until all His foes become His footstool-
Vs 35. (Cf Philippians 2:10-11)
4. Know for sure- Vs 36
a) God has made- This is the work of God not man.
b) Jesus whom you crucified- (made sin) God's plan will over-ride the
best man made plans.
c) "both Lord and Christ."- He is declared to be the son of God and
the Messiah Israel was looking for.
3.
THE PEOPLE OF GOD:
How can I become a Christian?
How can I join the people of God?
What must I do...? Vs 37.
Becoming a Christian Peter says involves four things:
A. Repentance
B. Remission of Sins
C. Responsive action
D. Reception of the Holy Spirit.
Remember that this is in response to the question "what must we do?"
A. Repentance: "to change one's mind"
1. Here, as throughout Scripture one aspect of conversion is used to represent all aspects.
2. Peter may have recognized, at least a measure of "conviction" in their question. "what must we do"?
3. No one can be saved without conviction, but conviction itself is not salvation.
Conviction is a work of the Holy Spirit- "they were pricked in their heart".
The first step on conversion or salvation is always that of God. Regeneration is necessary to the operation of man's will with regards to salvation. This of course all comes or happens together.
4. Conviction is produced as a result of knowledge of sin- Rom. 5:12-19.
5. Repentance involves a change in mind as to two things:-
a) our guilt as to sin- "ye have crucified-Vs 36 Cf 2 Cor. 5:21.
b) Our acceptance as to Christ- Romans 10:9-13.
B. Remission of Sins:-
1. This is based upon redemption.
a) In the O.T. we have atonement. Atonement basically means "a covering for sin".
b) In the N.T. we have remission, which means to "pay the price in full." Christ is the redeemer of the elect. He paid the penalty of our sins.- Eph. 1:7; Heb. 9:12,15; Rom. 5:8,10.
2. Christ died for the elect- This is Particular redemption.
It is sometimes theologically called "limited atonement".
Colossians 1:21-22.
3. Christ did not die for "all" men. If that were true then millions for whom
Christ died are in hell, including Judas Iscariot.
4. Christ is the redeemer of God's people. Those who are believers, and
chosen before the world began, and have and or will, come to Christ on
the basis of Calvary.
C. Responsive Action:-
1. Throughout Scripture there is always a responsive action to the gospel of Christ. Some reject the gospel; some accept the gospel and some merely postpone any decision until a future date. The latter is a dangerous position to be in for procrastination usually has a negative result.
2. Paul taught that the gospel is a sweet savor to the elect, but a savor of death to the non-elect.
2 Corinthians 2:14-16.
To the elect the gospel is good news; to the non-elect it is as an noose
around their neck.
3. We have seen the various responses to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost...
a) Some were simply amazed....Vs 12
b) Some mocked......Vs 13
c) Many were convicted....Vs 37
d) 3-thousand gladly received the word and were baptized ......Vs 41.
4. Theologically speaking then, we see two different calls here. There is the general call to all men, for all need to repent. There is the efficient call of the Holy Spirit to the elect who will respond unto salvation.
5. It is necessary to preach the gospel to all men in that the preacher does not know who the elect is, and that all men need to repent. However, it is wrong to offer saving grace to all men, since millions have and will never respond, since Christ came to redeem only the elect.
"All the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I
will in no wise cast out" John 6:37
6. Therefore we invite all who can believe, to come to Christ for salvation, and only believers can and will be saved.
D. Reception of the Holy Spirit:-
1. There is much false teaching today concerning the reception of the Holy
Spirit. Much of it is around the "tongues issue".
2. Concerning the reception of the Holy Spirit, we see:
a) The disciples were saved and had the Holy Spirit before the Day of
Pentecost....
(John 15:3; 13:10-11; 20:22; Cf Eph. 5:25-27; Eph. 1:13; Romans 8:9.)
b) The promise of the Holy Spirit is for all who are called by the Lord. - Acts 2:39.
c)
All who repent receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Vs
38-39.
d) Paul told the Philippian jailor in response to the question, "what must I do to be saved"...
"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ" - Acts 16:31.
This is clear in the majority of salvation references. John 3:16;
Romans 10:9-13; 1 John 5:10-13
etc.
Salvation therefore is all of grace and everything else such as baptism, good works, joining the church and serving Christ is the fruit of salvation. These do not save us, for only God can do that through His Son Jesus Christ.
CONCLUSION:-
And YOU? What have you done with the gospel of Jesus Christ? Have you received Jesus Christ as your personal Savior? Have you been obedient to follow Him in the waters of baptism? Are you a member of a Scriptural New Testament Church? Are you doing what the believers did in Acts 2:41-42?
Sermon preached by
Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr., Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday, October 2nd 1994.
Preached again on Sunday morning, February 18th 2001
LESSON FOUR –
AN EXPOSITION OF ACTS
2:38
Text:
"Then Peter said unto them. "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."
INTRODUCTION:
This text is one of those controversial ones, which for whatever reason most commentators like to just quote and move on to the next verse. I am not going to do that today. This is one of those verses that if we leave it isolated, some fool will pick it up and build a church around it, or a whole denomination. One might laugh, but this is actually the case. The so-called Church of Christ, the United Pentecostal Church and several lesser groups have built whole denominations around this one text alone.
The Roman Catholics and any other who would dare to oppose the doctrine of salvation by sovereign grace, with their baptismal regeneration, have plucked this great text of Peter's sermon out of context and ran with it a country mile.
Recently a preacher in the Philippines who was supposed to be trained as a missionary Baptist took this text and lured a Church away into error.
Let us look at this verse, and do so within the light of the whole council of God.
1.
THE VERSE WITHIN IT'S CONTEXT:
A. Peter's Sermon on the Day of Pentecost:
1. Peter's sermon was the result of a question as to what was taking place?
Acts
2:12
"And they were all amazed and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?
2. Peter in his sermon was availing himself of an opportunity to preach the gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. This included God's purpose in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
This is the general context in the next few verses
3. Peter's sermon was founded upon the prophetic Scriptures.
Acts
2:16
"But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel."
(Literally "this is the beginning of that.)
The beginning of a new harvest through the New Testament Church and Church authorized, Church sent missionaries.
4. Peter's sermon brought them to the point of conviction.
Vs
37
"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their hearts."
Note: Conviction is necessary for salvation, but it is not salvation. One should never confuse conviction with regeneration.
5. Peter's sermon brought them to the point of decision.
Vs
37-b
"Men and brethren, what shall we do?"
Here, those in whom the Lord was effectually working, were now quickened and able to exercise their will. How else could dead men talk?
B. Peter's Reply to the Question:
Here we come directly to our text. We have seen that the Holy Spirit had already begun a work of grace in the hearts of those who were asking this question.
I believe it is safe to say that not ALL that heard Peter's sermon were here being effectually called. Evidence of that is seen in that out of the masses that heard the sermon and the testimony of the other 's, only about three thousand were added to the Church (vs 41.) Now I know that would be a lot for our Church to handle, but still was only a small percentage of the populace of Jerusalem that special day. So we see -
1. Peter's remarks in verse 38, are to those in whom the Holy Spirit is effectually working.
2. The basis of Peter's remarks in vs 38 is seen in the word "repent."
3. Scripture teaches that "repentance" is absolutely essential to salvation. It is the first mark or evidence of regeneration.
4. Baptism however, is the outward symbol of an inward work of grace. Baptism is evidence that the cross has done its work. In Scripture, one must first be a repentant believer.
Vs 38 - Repent and be baptized……"
Mark 16:16
"He that believeth and is baptized….."
Luke
24:47
"That repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name….."
5. If one has truly repented of sins and accepted the Savior wanting to be baptized is almost automatic.
Vs
41
"Then they that gladly received the Word were baptized…."
2.
THE VERSE WITHIN BIBLICAL AND THEOLOGICAL
CONTEXT:
Acts 2:
38
A. Repentance brings salvation before baptism:
1. John the Baptist sought evidence of repentance before baptism:
Matthew
3:7-8
"But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:"
2. Repentance is more often mentioned with "faith" than with water.
Mark 1:15
"And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel."
3. Repentance is mentioned with conversion not water.
Acts
3:19
"Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;"
4. One is said to be washed by regeneration, not in water baptism.
Titus
3:5
"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;"
5. Salvation is all of grace, not works
Ephesians
2:8-9
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast."
6. The thief on the cross went to heaven without baptism.
Luke
23:43
"And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise."
B. Remission of sins is based upon blood, not Water.
Hebrews 9:22
"And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission."
Leviticus 17:11
"For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul."
1 Peter 1:2
"Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied."
1 John 1:7
"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin."
Ephesians 2:13
"But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ."
Hebrews 9:14
"How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?"
Remission of sins is by the blood of Jesus, not by water baptism.
Water would dilute the blood (in purpose) and add to it the works of men.
C. Receiving the Gift of the Holy Spirit is based upon Regeneration and faith, not water.
Acts
2:38
"…..and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."
Galatians 3:2
"This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?"
Romans 8:9
"But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his."
D. "For remission is not "unto" but because of salvation:
1. We are not baptized in order to receive remission of sins but because our sins are already remitted by faith in Christ.
2. If I say, "John went to prison for stealing" we would not think that the stealing took place in the prison. He did his stealing outside of prison, and did not go to prison in order to become a thief. He was a thief already, got caught and was then imprisoned.
3. Baptism follows remission of sins and is not that which brings it about. Only repentant believers are to be baptized according to the teaching of the New Testament.
4. Baptismal regeneration is not only un-Scriptural; it is against the Word of God and is therefore heresy.
3.
THE VERSE IN ACCORDANCE WITH
DIVINE AUTHORITY:
A. In the Name of Jesus Christ:
1. The term "in the name of" means by the authority of and is not a formula for baptism.
2. The Jews there knew what Peter meant as to the authority of Jesus Christ. Authority means very little to many today but in that day it did. In the New Testament it still is important today. The Jewish leaders continually sought to know by what authority Jesus ministered.
Matthew 21:23
"And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?"
Matthew 28:18
"And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power (all authority) is given unto me in heaven and in earth."
Luke 10:22
"All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he (God's elect) to whom the Son will reveal him."
God's sheep know the authority of the Shepherd.
Acts
1:8
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
The Biblical use of the term "in the name of Jesus is found then to mean, "by the authority of Jesus Christ."
This authority rightly belongs to the only Church that Jesus instituted, and those who have received authority from that same Church. There is a Church-link of authority from that Church unto today. Obviously all so-called Christian Churches are not true New Testament Churches.
B. The Triune Formula as given by Jesus Christ in Matthew 28:19
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:"
1. This is the traditional formula of Baptists in history.
2. This formula shows belief in the triune God.
3. This formula reveals God in three Persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
4. This formula shows the authority of the Godhead (deity.)
5. By the use of the word "name" as singular we see the unity of the Godhead.
6. Dr. John Gill _(Bible Expositor, ) says-
"In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; by the authority of these three divine persons, who all appeared, and testified their approbation of the administration of this ordinance, at the baptism of Christ: and as they are to be invocated in it, so the persons baptized not only profess faith in each divine person, but are devoted to their service, and worship, and are laid under obligation to obedience to them, Hence a confirmation of the doctrine of the Trinity, there are three persons, but one name, but one God, into which believers are baptized; and a proof of the true deity both of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; and that Christ, as the Son of God, is God; since baptism is administered equally in the name of all three, as a religious ordinance, a part of divine instituted worship, which would never be in the name of a creature."
7. Baptism therefore while not being the door to heaven, is certainly the door to the local, visible, New Testament Church. (Read on in the remaining verses of Acts Chapter two.) It must however be Scriptural in every aspect, especially as to its authority.
CONCLUSION:
Peter then calls them whose eyes are opened to divine truth, to show the proof of their acceptance of his message of Christ's gospel, by repentance and therefore to follow this by baptism by the authority of the one crucified. Their baptism would be an outward symbol of an inward work of grace, which God had wrought in their hearts by faith.
Be baptized because of the remission of their sins by the blood of Jesus Christ. Be baptized by the authority of the Church to whom Christ gave it.
Therefore we read in Vs 41-
"Then they that gladly received the Word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls."
And you? Have you repented of your sins and trusted in Jesus Christ as your Savior?
Have you been baptized in water and thereby added to the membership of the local New Testament Church?
I pray that the Lord will add to this Church today, such as should be saved. (Acts 2:47.)
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday morning, September 3rd 2000
LESSON FIVE –
RESPONSE TO THE
GOSPEL
Scripture: Acts 2:38-47
INTRODUCTION:
These verses are very controversial, but I have not been one to shun controversy. At least two denominations that I know of, have been built upon Acts 2:38. However, for the one who wants to know the truth, it is certainly there for the finding, for the most part without leaving the immediate context. In my last message I divided these verses into four parts, Repentance, remission, responsive action, and reception of the Holy Spirit. Today, I will endeavor to look a little closer at the context of these verses. Let us see............
1. CONVERSION
2. CONTINUANCE
3. COMMON PRACTICE
1.
CONVERSION: Vs 38-40
A. People of Conversion:
While many thousands of people were in Jerusalem on this special day, that heard Peter preach, they did not all come to a place of conversion. They were not all saved.
Jesus Himself answered this question in John
6:44
"No man can come to me, except the Father which has sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day."
Man's depravity keeps him from making any saving decision for Christ. Jesus said, "One must be born again."
Regeneration must take place before he can make any saving decision or show real repentance from sin.
Looking at our text then we see:
1.
Those converted were first confronted
with the Gospel. Vs
16-36
We see here the need to preach the gospel to every creature. Peter certainly was no "Hardshell" in that he preached to everyone who would listen.
2.
Those converted were first convicted of
their personal sin. Vs 37
They would have needed to have their hearts and minds opened by the work of the Holy Spirit (regeneration) before they could be converted.
While this happens in divine order it happens in what I refer to as rapid-fire. The time between regeneration, conversion, and human response is not long.
3. Those who heard the gospel, were convicted, and then reacted to their conviction...."what should we do?" vs 37.
4. Those who reacted to their conviction, then received the word or message of Peter. (They believed on Christ) vs 41
5. This is implied in the word Peter used here for "repent"...vs 38
The word repent as used here, implies all aspects of salvation, but basically means "a change of heart and mind".
B. The Power of Conversion:
1. Those who "gladly received the word" were baptized.
In this, they followed Christ who Himself was baptized in water by John
the Baptist. Matthew 3:13.
2. What is the meaning of baptism as used here?.....
a) Baptism (baptizo) means immersion or burial. Cf Romans 6:4.
Different words for sprinkling and pouring are used in the Greek Scriptures (rantizo for sprinkling and echeo for pouring.)
b) Baptism is in the name of, or, by the authority of Jesus Christ. Matthew 28:19.
c) Baptism is "for" the remission of sins. The word for is misused by many to make it say remission of sins comes by baptism.
If I say, "John went to jail for stealing". It does not mean that he went to jail in order to steal, but because he already did steal something. Baptism for remission of sins, is not "in order to receive" but because one has already received. Jail is the result of stealing and baptism is the result of salvation. It is a sign that the cross has done its work.
Acts 2:38- is better translated.....
"...be baptized because of remission of sins".
not- "be baptized in order to have your sins remitted".
If water remits sins, what is the blood for?
Hebrews 9:22.
If water remits sins, then salvation is by works and not by grace. Eph. 2:8-9; Titus 3:5.
d) Baptism is 'identification" with Christ and the Gospel. Rom. 6:3-5; Col. 2:12.
3. Those converted received the promise of the Holy Spirit. Vs 38-39.
Cf Eph. 1:13-14; 2 Cor. 1:22; Eph. 4:30; Jn 14:17.
4. What Peter refers to in vs 38 concerning the "gift of the Holy Spirit", is
"the benefit of" what took place on that day.
True repentance brings remission of sins, and is then to be followed by baptism and entrance into that which they had just seen and heard, the Spirit life or benefit of the Pentecostal outpouring.
The infilling of the Holy Spirit is personal to every Christian. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is corporate to the assembly of believers there. That baptism is never repeated. The infilling is to be repeated continually. (See Ephesians 5:18.)
5. Paul
taught that anyone who did not have the Spirit of Christ, did not belong to
Christ. Romans 8:9.
6. Conversion involves the new birth and is a personal experience.
John 1:11-12; John 3:3; 14:6; Acts 4:12.
2. CONTINUANCE: Vs 41-42
A. Adherence:
1. "They that gladly received his word"-
They adhered to the word or message that Peter preached.
How important it is to adhere to the word of God.
2. This means that they took the word to heart, or to themselves.
3. Adherence involves obedience. They gladly received the word and proved
it by being baptized.
4. One should never talk about being a follower of Jesus without obedience.
The word "follower" implies moving or traveling in the same direction. One cannot follow and stand still while the other keeps on going. Once one is born again, human responsibility kicks into gear and demands obedience.
B. Addition:
1. "There were added unto them".
Those who were baptized were added to the number or membership of the (local) church. The adding is a separate action of the Church following baptism. That is why when we vote to baptize a candidate, we also vote to add them to the Church. The two are not the same.
Baptism is seen then as the door to the local church. These had to be "adult" baptism since it is impossible for babies to repent, which requirement was necessary for baptism and church membership.
2. The requirement for church membership then is seen here as repentance and baptism.
3. Baptism was administered to believers by the authority of the (local)
Church. This authority was given to the Church in the Great Commission.
4. The only baptism which this church knew was that which the apostles and Christ Himself knew, that of John the Baptist. The first church therefore had "Baptist" baptism.
C. Assiduity:-(perseverance- done with constant and careful attention)
1. These saved, baptized, church members are said to -
"continue steadfastly in the apostles doctrine, and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers."
a) "apostles doctrine"- apostolic teaching.
b) "fellowship"- spiritual sharing and relationship within the church-body. True New Testament fellowship is more than Church dinners and coffee time.
c) "breaking of bread"- communion, the Lord's Supper.
d) "prayers"- times of prayer or prayer meeting time.
2. Note the Scriptural order here. That breaking of bread is restricted to
saved, baptized members of the (local) church. It must then refer to the Lord's table and not just dinner on the ground.
The Lord's Supper is always done in the assembly, not in little groups scattered everywhere or at the deathbed, hospital or nursing home.
Also note that there is no mention of a so-called "foot washing" ordinance or practice here. Certainly this must tell us something about this practice found in certain churches.
3.
COMMON PRACTICE:
The common practice of the New Testament Churches and Baptists of all ages until more recent times, is that of salvation, baptism, church membership, and then the other things mentioned in vs 42, including the Lord's Supper. It is wrong and unscriptural to partake of the Lord's Supper in any Church where you are not a member and therefore under its authority and discipline.
Note the further common practice of this church:
A. Reverence:
"and fear came upon every soul"- vs 43
Reverence is an attitude of the heart towards God, not a title for the preacher. It shows our respect for God, His Word, and the God ordained leadership in the churches.
B. Result:
This church got results in her ministry:-
1. "many wonders and signs were done by the apostles"-
Vs 43
2.
"there were added unto them about three thousand souls"- vs
41
God honored them who honored His Word.
C. Regulation:
"and all that believed were together, and had all things common".
1. These were "regular" Baptists. (Believe it or not!)
2. They were in unity of mind and purpose.
3. They counted nothing as their own but for and of each other.
4. This is not some kind of Christian communism.
D.
Relief: Vs
45
"And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need."
1. Their consecration and dedication to the church as a body is seen in their willingness to sell their possessions and share their wealth with their brethren.
2. It should be noted that this is only one of two times where this is mentioned in the New Testament. Such dedication to the cause of Christ is not only admirable; it is a sign of a true work of grace. Christians ought to be givers not getters!
E.
Refuge: Vs 46
What a refuge we have in Christ and His Church, which is His body! The assembly of believers is a place of refuge as well.
Eph. 3:21- "Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages"-
1.
They continued in worship. Vs 46
2. They continued breaking bread.
3. They visited each other's homes.
4. They were all a happy bunch.
5. They had singleness of heart.
6. They were filled with praise to God.
7. They had favor with all the people.
8. The Lord added to the church daily such as were chosen to salvation.
CONCLUSION:
Let us make this church our ideal. Let us determine to be New Testament in our practice of God's word.
If you have not already done so, will you accept this Jesus as your Savior, and this church as your church, your place of membership worship and ministry?
Sermon preached by
Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church
Richmond Hill, Ontario
Sunday, October 9th 1994.
Preached again on Sunday, March 4th 2001
LESSON SIX –
PREACHING
THRU ACTS
WHAT
HAPPENS WHEN YOU REALLY PRAY?
SCRIPTURE:
Acts 3:1-10
INTRODUCTION:
The
church had been baptized in the Holy Spirit; the disciples were all filled with
the Holy Spirit. Now we see them begin to function in the power of the Spirit.
Let us see here what happens when men get serious about going to the place of
prayer.
1.
PARTNERSHIP IN PRAYER:- vs 1-3
A.
People: vs 1
1.
Peter
and John went to pray together. How beautiful to find someone willing
to
join you in the place of prayer.
2.
Have you someone to join with in the place of
prayer?
3.
When is the last time you invited someone to join you in serious
prayer?
4.
Spirit filled people habitually pray, as did Peter and
John.
5.
"Men ought always to pray and not to faint"-Luke
18:1.
"Peter went on the housetop to pray"- Acts
10:9.
"Pray without ceasing"- 1 Thessalonians
5:17.
B.
Place: Vs 1-2
1.
"Into the Temple"-
As we have seen, this is not the only place to pray, but it was a place
for
collective
prayer.
2.
"At the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour"-
There
should always be a time set aside for definite prayer. Here we see a definite
time, and a definite place.
The
ninth hour according to Jewish time would be 3 P.M. The Jewish day began at 6 AM
and the ninth hour would be in conjunction with the evening sacrifices and
offering of incense.
(Cf Luke. 1:8-10; Rev.
8:3-4).
3.
That the place and time was a common practice for Peter and John is seen
in the use of the Greek imperfect tense which could be translated "used to go
up".
4.
We see the place of prayer described by the gate:
"The gate which is called beautiful"-
It
is nice to have a beautiful place to pray, whether a temple with a beautiful
gate, or a garden such as Gethsemane cf John 18:1; Matthew
26:36.
5.
The
real place of prayer is not so much physical as spiritual. The place where we
come face to
face
with vital issues of life and bring them into contact with God Himself. We do
not need crosses, candles and stained glass windows to pray or worship
God.
6.
As
we come to the place of prayer, we will be confronted with the issues of life,
with reality itself.
7.
Perhaps
this is one reason why many Christians do not attend prayer meeting time, or
pray so
little.
We need to face reality and it is safe to do so when we meet
reality
with
Christ.
8.
Peter and John on their way to pray were confronted with reality. Vs
2
"A certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they
laid
daily at the gate of the
Temple....."
How
many needs did you pass by on your way to Church today?
2.
PRACTICALITY OF PRAYER:
A.
Poverty:
1.
Prayer
can meet the needs of the poor and needy.
2.
This
man was poor, with a disability from birth. (This is a type of the
sinner.)
3.
Lame
from His mother's womb. (A type of total depravity.)
4.
He
was a beggar, brought daily to beg at the temple asked an alms". He knew about
religion but
needed
an encounter with Jesus Christ through the gospel.
5.
This is a picture of the spiritual need of all men.
That need is for spiritual life.
David said- "Behold I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my
mother
conceive
me" Psalm 51:5.
This shows our human depravity- Romans
5:12-19.
6.
Religion could not help this man, and religion won't help you either.
Religion
may make you look better and smell
better, but you
cannot
change a man's nature by way of outward polish. You may
paint
over black with white paint if you use enough, but sin can only
be
covered by the blood of Jesus Christ.
2
Peter 2:22-
"but it happened unto them according to the true proverb,
The
dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her
wallowing in the mire".
B.
Power:
1.
Notice
that this man would still be lame had not Peter took the initiative in the
case.
2.
No
man can ever be saved unless God takes the initiative in the case. Sovereign
grace comes to a dead, lost sinner so that as Paul said in Eph. 2:1 " and
you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and
sins....".
3.
Peter
approached this man with the power of God. Peter looked beyond the man's lame
feet, and saw a soul that needed life.
4.
This
man did not expect more than the usual coins that religious men throw
in
a tin cup. Vs 5.
5.
Peter
and John were like the average Baptist preacher-
"they
were broke". Vs 6 -"silver and gold have we none"-
6.
But
these were men of prayer and power. They knew the Word, the power
and
authority of God. - "such as I have give I
thee"-
7.
What Peter had was "authority"-
"in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk". Vs 6
8.
Peter again took the initiative, something you will never see a faith
healer
do
- "and he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up".
3.
PRODUCE OF PRAYER: vs 7-10
A.
Prayer Produces Praise:
1.
"Immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength"- Vs
7
God's work of grace is instant.
2.
This man as they say down south "got real
religion".
"And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into
the
temple, walking and leaping and praising
God." Vs 8
3.
This man went into the place of prayer too. It is a good sign of true
conversion when a man wants to go to the house of prayer.
All
the leaping and shouting means nothing without going to the right place. Notice
however that when he got things straightened out, he "joined the AMEN
corner!
B.
Prayer Produces People: Vs 9
1.
This
act of God was seen by all of the people. God's work is not done in
a
corner!
2.
The
world needs to see how Jesus can make depraved men come
alive
spiritually.
3.
"And they knew that it was He"- Vs 10
4.
They did not understand the theology of it, but they knew there was a
change
in
this man.
5.
Do people see the difference in us?
CONCLUSION:
What
does prayer have to do with all of this? Was it prayer that directly healed this
lame man? No, but it was the direct result of a prayer habit in the life of
Peter and John. Throughout the Acts we read of the prayer life of the early
church.
And
you here today, can come into contact with this same power, if you will come to
receive this same Savior and Healer of sinful souls.
Sermon
preached by
Dr.
D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark
Baptist Church
Richmond
Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday,
October 16th 1994.
And
Sunday morning, March 4th 2001
LESSON SEVEN –
PREACHING THRU
ACTS
WITNESSES
TO A MIRACLE
SCRIPTURE: Acts
3:11-26
Peter and John were enroute to a prayer meeting in the Temple when they
had an encounter with a poor man, a beggar lame from birth. Peter had reached
out for the man's hand and lifted him to his feet, in the process, healing him
by the authority of Jesus Christ. Now this man had gone running, leaping and
shouting for joy into the Temple. Nothing stirs up staid, dry old religionists
like a miracle of God's transforming grace.
Let us look at the results of this miracle and how different people
relate to the power of God's grace in a man's life.
1.
THE PEOPLE OF WITNESS: Vs 11-12
A.
Opportunity before them: vs 11
1.
The lame man held Peter and John.
This man was no doubt expressing his thanks to
Peter and John. Others had no doubt
blessed him as a beggar with their coins, but Peter and John brought him
life.
2.
As Christians, followers of Jesus
Christ we ought to bring spiritual healing to a sin-crippled
world.
3.
The commotion generated around this man's healing caused many people to
gather. This brought an opportunity for Peter and John to witness to the gospel
of the grace of God.
4.
It is interesting that the place where this took place was in the area of
the temple known as Solomon's Porch.
The Church met here in the early
days of her existence in Jerusalem.
B.
Oracular Response: Vs 12
1.
The response we see in verse twelve
is that of a Spirit filled preacher, a man
of God.
2.
He addressed the men or leaders of Israel. Israel is God's nation, to
whom was given the oracles of God, to whom also the prophets of old had given
witness concerning the Messiah (Christ).
3.
The question answered:
"Why look ye so earnestly on us, as
though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to
walk?"
4.
Why should they marvel when they had seen before this, the power of the
name of Jesus. He had done many miracles in their midst. Cf John
21:25.
2.
THE PRESENCE OF WITNESS: vs 13-15
A.
Appeal to Faith: vs 13
1.
Peter appealed to their faith. Before you can take people any further you
must find some common ground, and go from there.
2.
Peter did not immediately tear into them or accuse them of false
religion.
"The God of Abraham- Isaac- Jacob- our forefathers"
He used their religious background
as a steppingstone to introduce them to
Christ.
B.
Accusation of Fact:
"Hath (present tense) glorified His
Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up"-
1.
Peter related not only to the resurrection but by the use of the word
"glorified", to the fact that Jesus had been exalted to the right hand of
God.
2.
The accusation "whom ye delivered up" implies not only their
responsibility for his death by crucifixion, but that they thought they had
gotten rid of Him for good.
You thought you had gotten rid of
Him but now God has raised him to a place of glory, to whom every man must give
answer. cf Philippians
2:5-11.
3.
Jesus had not just defied death; He defeated it for every believer.
"Because I live, ye shall live also." - John 14:19.
When even Pilate was determined to
let Jesus go, they denied Him."-
They chose Barabbas in place of Christ.
4. They
chose a murderer in place of "The Holy One" and the "Just"- Peter used terms of
reference to the Messiah which Israelites were taught to
expect.
5. "And
killed the Prince of life"-They had killed the source of eternal
life.
3.
THE PERFECTION OF WITNESS:- vs 16
A.
Powerful Name: vs 16
1.
His Name! This is reference to Jesus Christ-vs 13
2.
Through faith is literally "through and by"-
It was not the faith of the lame
man that brought healing, rather the faith
of Peter.
3.
There is power in the name of Jesus- Acts
4:12-
"Neither is there salvation in any
other; for there is none other name under Heaven given among men, whereby we
must be saved". cf John
14:6.
4.
In this we see sovereign grace for this man's healing was totally apart
from his own efforts. He was looking for alms, not
healing.
I remember the day I was converted,
I was not looking for salvation but I found and experienced the sovereign grace
of God.
B.
Perfect Healing: vs 16
1.
The healing that Jesus Christ brings is "perfect
soundness".
2.
The salvation that Jesus gives is eternal life-
See -John 10:27-28; John 20:31; 1 John 5:13.
4.
THE PROPHETIC PREACHING WITNESS: 17-26
A.
Response of a Depraved Heart: vs 17
1.
"I know you acted in ignorance"-
How many of us at first rejected
the claims of Christ for our life?
How many of you may still be
rejecting the sovereignty of God in your life
through ignorance?
2.
The Bible teaches us that the human heart is
deceitful.
"The heart is deceitful above all
things, and desperately wicked; who can
know it?"-
Jeremiah
17:9
3.
"As did also your rulers"- These men like most, followed other
men.
"Can the blind lead the blind?
Shall they not both fall into the ditch?"-
Luke
6:39
Churches sometimes get this way as
in Revelation 3:17
"Because thou sayest, I am rich,
and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou
art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and
naked;"
4.
Jesus warned his disciples, "Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk
in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the
synagogues, and chief rooms at feasts; which devour widows houses, and for a
show make long prayers: the same shall receive greater
damnation".
(Luke 20:46-47.)
B.
Revelation of God: vs 18
1.
"Those things which God had previously declared"-
2.
What Jesus taught and did, and what happened to Him is not unknown, for
the prophets told of it before.
3.
The suffering of Christ, His
vicarious death was prophesied before-
cf Psalm 22; Isaiah 50:6; 53:5; Daniel 9:26
cf 1 Peter 1:10
"Of which salvation the prophets
have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should
come unto you".
4.
The fulfillment of prophecy is one of many proofs of both the Divine
inspiration of Scripture, and the Deity of Jesus Christ.
5.
Peter laid these truths out to the crowd in Solomon's Porch that
day.
C.
Repentance of Sin: Vs
19-21
1.
Repentance means a change of mind
that brings about a change of heart, attitude and action.
2.
Repentance brings about conversion....
That is a Godly sorrow for sin
which brings about a change in one's life.
2 Corinthians 5:17
"If any man be in Christ, he is a
new creation: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become
new."
3.
Peter says that this conversion is so that-
a)
"your sins may be blotted out"
b)
"that a time of refreshing will come from the presence of the
Lord."
Amplified Bible-
"So repent- change your mind and
purpose; turn around and (return to God), that your sins may be erased (blotted
out, wiped clean), that times of refreshing- of recovering from the effects of
heat, of reviving with fresh air- may come from the presence of the
Lord".
c)
That you may personally receive Jesus- vs 20
who will come, but must stay in
heaven until the time arrives for the restoration of all that spoke by the mouth
of His prophets. vs 21.
D.
Restoration of all Things: vs 21-26
1.
All of the prophets spoke of Christ (the Messiah) and of what He would
do.
2.
This restoration is "of all things" - cf
Romans 8:18-23
3.
The absolute necessity of listening to "that prophet" Jesus, is seen in
vs 23.
cf John 14:6; Acts 4:12;
John 3:3.
4.
The main work of Christ is seen in vs 26-
"Unto you first God, having raised
up His Son Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from
his iniquities".
The main purpose of Christ coming
into the world is to "save His people
from their
sins."
5.
Have you experienced this conversion and the beginning of this
restoration in your
life?
CONCLUSION:
Peter therefore concludes that the
purpose of the healing of the lame man at the Gate called Beautiful, was to open
up an opportunity for them to make an eternal decision in their lives. Some
would turn to Christ and be saved, while others by the same gospel would reject
Christ and be cut off from eternal life.
And now, by this gospel, you too
can make that same decision. If you hear Him call, you can come to Him now just
as you are.
Sermon preached
by
Dr. D. Paul Tuck
Sr.
Landmark Baptist
Church
Richmond Hill, Ontario,
Canada
Sunday, October 23rd
1994.
And again on March 11
2001
LESSON EIGHT
–
PREACHING
THRU ACTS
GOD'S
PLAN OF ETERNAL SALVATION
SCRIPTURE:
Acts 4:1-12
Text:
Acts 4:12-
"Neither
is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given
among men, whereby we must be saved".
Every religion has its own ideas on how to achieve eternal life. Every
religion has its standards, laws, bylaws, rules and regulations, by which
mankind in adhering to them, is guaranteed salvation, a life in the hereafter.
It should be noted, that every religion is based upon some particular creed or
philosophy that has attached to it a system of good works. That mankind can and
will improve himself to the point of deliverance and thereby appease a Holy
God.
My message today is not concerned with religion, but I do wish to address
the subject of eternal salvation from the standpoint of the Word of God. You
see, Biblical Christianity is not based upon a creed, a set of rules and
regulations, or law upon which mankind in his keeping can inherit eternal life.
Christianity, as taught by the Scriptures is based upon a Person, Jesus
Christ.
1
John 5:11
- "And this is the record that God has given to us eternal life, and this life
is in His Son".
Colossians
2:9
- "For in Him dwells all of the fullness of the Godhead
bodily".
This
is the message of Peter's sermon in the temple and of his words to the leaders
of the Jews, in explaining the reason for the miracle to the lame man at the
Gate Beautiful.
1.
RESURRECTION THROUGH JESUS: Vs 2-4
Any
doctrine taught which is contrary to that of the established religion brings
persecution. vs 3
A. Some
Heard the Word: Vs 4
1.
It is necessary that men hear the Word of God preached. Cf -Romans
1:16.
2.
Preaching
of the cross is foolishness to un-regenerated men, especially to the non-elect.
Cf
- 1 Corinthians 1:18,21.
B.
Some Believed the Word: Vs 4
1.
This miracle of the lame man brought about a great harvest of 5000 men.
Who knows the actual total when you include the women.
2.
It only takes a spark to get a fire going. Who knows what can be
accomplished by your testimony?
3.
If we could only get as excited about the change in our lives as the lame
man was with his healing!
2.
REALITY OF THE RESURRECTED CHRIST:
Vs 5-10
A.
Interrogation
of Christians:
1.
"By what power or name did you do this?" Vs 7
2.
Note
that they did not deny that a miracle had taken place. Who or what can explain
the change in this man's life?
3.
Unbelievers
still ask this question or try to excuse themselves by so called reason.
Anything that will leave God out of the picture.
Ordinary
reasoning should have answered their question. Could anyone but Almighty God
have done this work?
4.
Note the relationship of those who interrogated them. Vs
6
B.
Interpretation of What Happened: Vs 8-10
1.
Peters
direct address to the rulers. Vs 8
False
teachers ought to be addressed directly and positively.
2.
Note
that Peter was "filled with the Holy Ghost".
It
takes Spirit filled men to do the work of God.
3.
"If we be examined of the "good deed" done to the "impotent man" by what
means he is "made whole".
a)
Good deed- not bad.
b)
Impotent man- emphasis upon his need.
c)
Made whole- he was soundly healed.
Peter
put the emphasis on the positive action in response to their obvious negative
questioning.
4.
Why is it that unbelievers laugh at a man who is drunken, but if he
becomes converted to Christ they will label him a fanatic?
5.
The spiritual point here is that the evidence of the resurrection and
deity of Jesus Christ is in the lives of those touched by
Him.
6.
The reality of the resurrection of Christ was seen in the power found in
His name through the healing of this lame man.
3.
RAMIFICATION OF REJECTING CHRIST: vs 10-12
A.
Indictment Against Israel: vs 10
1.
Peters indictment to these rulers and to all of the nation of Israel is
seen:- vs 10-11
a)
"whom ye crucified".
b)
"whom (your) God raised up from the dead".
c)
"by
Him does this man stand here before you whole".
The
Jews crucified Christ, the Romans helped them but in reality it was your sin and
mine that nailed Him to that cross. See- Isaiah
53:5-6.
2.
Peter uses their own Scriptures against them when he says- vs
11-
"This
is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head
of the corner."
cf Psalm 118:22-
"The
stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the
corner."
Isaiah 28:16-
"Therefore
thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried
stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation; he that believeth shall not
make haste."
Matthew 21:42-
"Jesus
saith unto them, Did ye never read in the Scriptures, The stone which the
builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's
doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes." cf 1 Peter
2:6-7.
3.
In rejecting and crucifying Christ, Israel rejected their own prophets
and their own Scriptures.
B.
Informative Direction: vs 12
1.
"Neither is there salvation in any other"
No
one can save you but the one who became the Head of the Corner.
cf
vs 11.
Peter places personal salvation in a Person, Jesus
Christ.
2.
"There is none other name"-
No religion but Christianity places salvation strictly in a
Person.
Matthew 1:21-
"And
she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall
save his people from their sins."
Acts 10:43-
"To
Him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in
him shall receive remission of sins".
1 Timothy 2:5-6-
"For
there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who
gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due
time."
In
all religions salvation is by man's effort, by good works. Christianity offers
salvation only in and through a Person, Jesus Christ.
3.
"Under heaven given amongst men"-
These
words emphasize God's dealing with humanity in His Son Jesus
Christ.
It declares God's blessing and authority in Jesus.
4.
"Whereby we must be saved"-
a)
By this name only.
b)
Must
is an absolute. It is necessary that men be saved.
cf
John 1:11-12;
3:3.
c)
"Be saved"- come to the knowledge of salvation -of remission or payment
of ones sins.
5.
Therefore to reject Christ is to reject your own salvation and doom your
own soul for eternity.
The
sin that damns, that sends men and woman to hell is unbelief that leads to
rejection of the Savior.
6.
The impotent man was a recipient of God's sovereign grace, the religious
leaders were recipients of the product of their own depravity. Unbelief, not
God, damns souls eternally.
"Jesus paid it all, all to him I owe.
Sin had left a crimson
stain;
Jesus washed me white as
snow."
CONCLUSION:
Since
Jesus Christ Himself is our salvation, how can we trust in any other person or
thing?
No
other god! No sacrament! No law! No good works can save us; Only Jesus Christ
Himself.
What
will you do with this testimony? What will you do with
Jesus?
Sermon
preached by
Dr.
D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark
Baptist Church
Richmond
Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday,
October 30th 1994.
And
again March 18th 2001.
LESSON NINE
–
PREACHING THRU ACTS
3 C'S IN THE FIRST
CHURCH
SCRIPTURE: Acts
4:23-37
OUTLINE-
1. THE PEOPLES CONSECRATION-
2. THE PEOPLES CO-OPERATION-
3. THE PEOPLES COMPASSION-
INTRODUCTION:
The disciples were persecuted, arrested, placed in jail and beaten for the great crime of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.
This of course is related to the healing of the impotent man in the preceding verses of this chapter and in chapter three.
They soon learned to pray together, they worked together, they witnessed together. They felt a deep love for each other, and unity was no doubt a large part of the secret of their success.
When there is unity in the church, it creates a great power. A power that destroys the power of sin and of Satan. The quickest of all ways to destroy the church, is disunity.
Disunity in the church leads to -three things-
A. Division-
B. Contention-
C. Confusion-
Let us look at our Scripture lesson:
1.
THE PEOPLES CONSECRATION:- vs 23-31
A. The People: vs 23
1. When let out of prison, the first place they went to, was back to their own
people.
2. Their first allegiance was to the Lord and His Church.
3. The church was central in their lives and in their thoughts.
(The church in the New Testament is not a building, but an assembly of saved, baptized believers covenanted together for the worship of God and the carrying out of the Great Commission.)
4. In times of persecution- God's people have always stuck together.
Perhaps we today could use some more persecution?
Materialism has replaced God, the church, and her mission. Hedonism is the religion of our day.
5. Consecrated- God's people ought to want to be together especially on the Lord's Day. Many of us never see another church member except on Sunday morning.
6. What would you have done had you been accosted as these were? They just hightailed it, right back to where their trouble all started!
As if to say, "devil, you do what you want to, we have decided to follow Jesus, and we don't aim to quit now".
B. The Praise of the People: Vs 24-25
The disciples, despite persecution, praised the Lord.
"We read of John Huss, who when ordered to recant of his teaching of salvation by grace alone- refused- and was tied to a stake and set on fire. He prayed for his persecutors
and died singing a hymn as the flames consumed his body."
1. Verse 25- is taken from Psalm 2:1-
"Why do the heathen rage and the people imagine vain things?"
2. Knowledge of God's Word will sustain you in times of trial and persecution.
3. It is important to attend the Bible study times of our church, and to study ourselves, and to
really feed upon the Word of God.
C. The Prophecy:- vs 26-28
1. This again is found in Psalm 2:1-3.
2. It places Christ as over all, highest of all, and the rightful ruler of the world.
3. They lifted Christ up as LORD!
4. They referred to the prophetic Scriptures which show that Jesus Christ is Lord!
5.Jesus Himself said, "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw
all men unto me." –
John 12:32.
D. Their Plea: Vs 29-30
1. Notice the attitude of this church, of these people.
They did not plead with God to take away all of their hardship, their trials and persecution.
They prayed somewhat like this-
"Lord give me strong shoulders to carry the burden".
"You be a lamp unto my feet, and a light to my pathway".
"Stretch forth your hand to heal".
2. See how positive they were, rather than negative.
Many of us, when times of hardship come, defeat ourselves by thinking negatively rather than positive.
These disciples were involved with "others", with the task at hand, the Great Commission.
I am reminded of the words of the hymn writer:-
"Lord help me live from day to day, in such a self forgetting way,
that even when I kneel to pray; My prayer will be for others".
3. Involve yourself with others- see their needs!
We become so self-centred,- "my headache, my arthritis, my unemployment, my! my! my! my!-
4. We forget how great God is-
5. Too many Christians today speak more about what the devil is doing than what Jesus is and
can do.
Isn't this a dark day? The devil did this to me!
Or, if I may quote Flip Wilson, "The devil made me do it"!
The devil keeps knocking on my door-- Send Jesus to answer it!!!
Then he looks in the window-- Pull down the shade!
Who are you looking for? The bogeyman? Satan cannot touch God's child without God's permission!
John said, "Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." - 1 John 4:4.
Paul said, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."- Philippians 4:13.
6. The disciples did not pray for freedom but -boldness as they preached God's Word.
7. They did not curse the enemy they prayed for their healing.
They prayed for the good of those who thought they were sissies, radical, fanatic, those who opposed them. (in actuality, these opposed themselves). Cf Acts 4:12.
E. Praying:- Vs 31
1. The place where they were assembled was shaken.
What if this happened to us today in answer to our prayer? We would run in fear of an earthquake! (especially if we lived in Los Angeles!)
2. We need this kind of praying today.
Not so much to shake buildings, but to shake people.
You and I need to be shaken!! Churches need to be shaken from their sleep and lethargy!!
We need to be shaken from our worldliness!!
Note here- 3 Steps of
Prayer:-
(a) The prayer itself-
The secret of success is prayer.
"The Lord turned again the captivity of Job when he prayed for his friends" Job 42:10.
A man was being shown around the great Metropolitan Tabernacle where Spurgeon preached. He was shown the pews which were filled to capacity every time the Prince of Preachers, preached. He was shown the pulpit from which great gospel and doctrinal sermons were preached. He was shown the baptistry where thousands obeyed the Lord in immersion.
Come said the guide, I will show you the heating apparatus of this great tabernacle. The man thought he was going to show him the furnace room. Instead he took him up into a large vestry where he saw about 500 men and women on their knees in prayer to God for the blessing upon the preaching of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, and the salvation of precious souls."
Oh how we need to see the need and value of prayer.
The church needs to look up not down!
When the outlook is dim, try the up-look!
Noah could not look anywhere but up- to the sky!
God had Noah walled in with the task at hand and nowhere to look but his family, the animals, and up to heaven.
If you feel walled in, surrounded by the enemy.
PRAY! And do not stop until the Lord answers you, one way or another.
(b) The Place:-
The place to pray is right where you are now.
The circumstances you are in right now.
He can send an angel to get Peter out of jail.
To shake down the prison doors so that Paul could come out with a gate on one arm and a new convert on the other.
"unto Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that you ask or think". -Ephesians 3:20.
God is able to do more than YOU THINK.
The place of prayer is right where you are; and in
gathering with God's people in united prayer.
(c) Power:-
"They spoke God's Word with boldness- a new authority."
The authority of the Scriptures had a new reality.
The power of the Spirit of God had an open channel.
They were all filled with the Holy Spirit!
This was not some unknown gibberish that made them feel good. This was holy boldness to win lost people to the Christ of Calvary.
We too often quench the Spirit.
We grieve the Holy Spirit of God.
We do not listen to Him, or allow Him to direct our lives.
2. THE PEOPLES CO-OPERATION:- vs 32-33
A. One People- Vs 32
1. These were unusual people. (maybe not so much then, as they would be today).
They were saved, baptized,
church members, who were obedient to the Great
Commission.
2. Only the Spirit of Christ can bring everybody together in this fashion. Each of us as individuals is so very different. Cf 1 Corinthians 12.
B. One Heart:-
They all had the same feelings toward each other.
Some were educated, most were not.
Some worked in a law office, others smelled of stinking fish.
You and I are all different, but the Spirit of God is able to bring us together, to work together.
C. One Soul:-
They had the same spiritual desires.
They sought the same spiritual things.
They had the same spiritual goals or priorities in life.
They were all headed for the same heavenly shore.
They were carrying out the same commission.
They all desired to exalt in their individual lives, the same Lord Jesus Christ.
D. One Desire:-
1. They shared what they had with others.
2. We say, "God give me this- God give me that"-
We have too many give-me Christians.
When I was a youngster, I was taught, "give-me, give-me, never gets".
If God would make you a millionaire, what would you do?
Probably never come to church again.
"I'm too busy! Have to spend my money, make sure I keep it! Must look after my investments".
3. The first Church had one desire, to give witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.
4. And we read, "and great grace was upon them all." Vs 33.
3. THE PEOPLES COMPASSION: Vs 34-37
A. The Sameness: Vs 34
1. This was in an age before they had welfare and social security.
2. They had to depend 100% upon the Lord, and couldn't blame the government for their problems.
3. Socialism does not bless as God does. (It makes everybody poor!)
They went out and in reliance upon God, did it themselves.
(Spirit-led free enterprise is always best).
B. The Sharing: Vs 35
1. They pooled all of their resources together.
Note:- This is not Christian Communism as some might teach. It is Christian living in response to a definite need.
2. They gave their money to the apostles.
I am not suggesting that everyone ought to give all their money to the pastor or deacons.
The apostles did not put the money in their own pocket.
They shared what was given with all who had need.
--I read of one church that collected millions to build houses for earthquake victims, but very little actually went for that purpose.
3. These verses teach the principle of storehouse giving.
If God's people would give through their local church, the TV evangelists who fleece God's people would have to quit and seek decent employment. The sincere ones are controlled by, and under the authority of a local New Testament Church.
C. The Surrender:- Vs 36
1. The question:- "Should Christians do this today"?
Should we sell our homes, empty our bank accounts, and give all our money to the church?
2. The answer:- First we should take care of our families.
"if any man provide not for his own, he is worse than an infidel"- 1 Timothy 5:8.
We should take care of our own.
"as we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith"- Galatians 6:10. See also- James 2:15-16.
Empty words do not meet needs-
"I am praying for you"- is sometimes just idle talk.
A man once told me when I was starting a new church, "You build the church and I will come and help you run it".
Too often that old saying, "let George do it", becomes, "let the pastor do it".
Brother, in the New Testament Church, every member is named "George".
We need to put our money where our mouth is!
3. We need to pay our tithes- Malachi 3:8-19.
Jesus said to the Pharisees-
"These ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone" - Matthew 23:23.
(This at least implies a tithe base).
Everybody can find money to do what they really want to do.
Many kids today live off of bribe money.
Here is $20.00 kid - go get lost!
4. But should we do exactly like the disciples did here in our lesson?
I do not think we can build a doctrine on this kind of giving. It is only mentioned twice, and the circumstances were such as they were under extreme trial and persecution.
God forbid, but it may be necessary for us to do this someday. One thing I do know, God expects us to be as surrendered to Him today as they were then.
We should have the same love and compassion for Christ.
Would you be willing to make this type of sacrifice for the cause of Jesus Christ?
Do we carry the marks of persecution for the cause of Christ and His Church?
CONCLUSION:
This church worked together; shared together; grew together; prospered together; moved ahead together; and together spread the gospel to the then known world.
Where do we fit in as concerning consecration, co-operation and compassion?
Perhaps you do not even know this same Jesus, and need to come to Him in repentance and faith. We need to acknowledge our sinful state, and receive Christ as Savior and Lord. You can do that, right where you are. I will be glad to discuss God's plan of salvation with you, if you will make yourself known to me at the close of the service. Jesus loves you and wants to be your Savior and Lord. AMEN!
(Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr. in many churches of the American Baptist Association in 1984. Also in Landmark Baptist Church, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada on Sunday, May 27th 1984. Revised and preached in Ennerdale Road Baptist Church, Toronto, Ontario - Sunday morning, August 22nd 1993. And in Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada, Sunday, November 6th 1994.)
LESSON TEN –
PREACHING THRU ACTS
CHURCH DISCIPLINE/ GOD'S
BLESSING
Scripture: Acts 5:1-14
Text: 1 Corinthians 5:12
"For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? Do ye not judge them that are within?"
The subject of church discipline is greatly misunderstood. It is used today mostly in extreme cases but more often misapplied.
Some argue that it was more necessary in the early Church, in her beginning. While that may be somewhat true, it nevertheless was carried out beyond the early years. The teaching of Christ as to Church discipline still applies to the churches of our day. However, it is always applied with the idea of restoration, and on a democratic basis of equality and fair play.
Let us look at this chapter and see how God worked in the first church to keep things right.
There are three things we see here:
1. PRACTICAL
2. PROCLAMATION
3. PUNITIVE ACTION
1.
PRACTICAL: Vs
1-2
The story told here in Chapter 5 is a carry over of what we read of in Chapter 4. People had sold their property and brought the money to the apostles for equal distribution among all of the members. This was a practice that was no doubt very practical at that time, but something that was not carried on indefinitely. So we see here-
A. Possessions Sold: Vs 1
1. A couple called Ananias and Sapphira had sold their property like the others had done.
2. The difference here was that they had kept back part of the price they had received.
3. This was an action that both husband and wife had conspired to do.
4. There was nothing basically wrong in only giving part of the price received to the Church. God expects us to give from our hearts.
5. It was their money to give in any amount they wanted to.
B. Pretence in Giving: Vs 2
1. What was the sin of this couple? What was it that was so bad that it brought about God's judgment, their death?
2. Remember that the others had sold all of their possessions, and brought all of the price to the Apostles. (4:34.)
3. In other words, the others had made a complete sacrificial gift to God's work.
4. Ananias and Sapphira had kept back part of the price of money received. They gave only a partial amount of what they actually received.
5. The problem here was not in the amount of the gift, but the pretence that they had given “their all”, when they had not.
2.
PROCLAMATION:- Vs
2b-4
A.
Proclaim Your Faith: Vs 2b
1. We need to proclaim our faith, to let others know we stand on the side of Christ.
2. We need to back up our faith with our giving.
3.
Husbands and wives need to work together in support of God's
work.
4. We need to stand together with fellow believers in times of trial and difficulty.
5.
We are to bear one another's burdens- Gal.
6:1-2.
6. The Spirit of Christ demands honesty -Rom. 12:17.
B.
Prevarication is a Sin: Vs 3
1. The opposite of living honest is to live a lie.
2. Ananias and Sapphira were guilty of pretence. They were pretending to be what they were not.
3.
In this they lived a lie. Their lie
was not so much to men as to the Holy Spirit. Vs
3-4
4. In their living a lie, they made it look like they had lived as the others, yet this was not true.
5. To be dishonest is to be hypocritical.
6. Too many today pretend to be spiritual when they are in Church, but not so out in the world. It is what we are when we are away from the assembly that really counts!
3.
PUNITIVE ACTION: Vs 5,10,11
A. Disciplinary Action:
1. Note that in this case, the act of judgment was God's doing.
2. Peter was merely the spokesman. He brought the message of judgment.
3. Ananias fell down dead, without any action on the part of the apostles.
4. In the case of Sapphira, Peter merely stated that the "feet of them that have buried thy husband are at the door".
5. Note that before they died they were made aware of the charges against them.
I have known of charges being laid against church members who were not even invited to the meeting or given the opportunity to hear the charges and defend themselves. This was the case of a Pastor I know of and this is wrong, it is unchristian, and certainly not Biblical.
6. Discipline in a Church is not pleasant, but it is necessary for the advancement of the cause of Christ. Due care should always be made to be fair, honest, and in a Spirit of love.
7. The bottom line here is that no one can get away with sin.
Numbers 32:23- "...and you can be sure your sin will find you out".
B. Defiled Faith:
1. By their actions, this couple had brought blight upon the church and the name of Jesus.
2. They had implied that they were more, and doing more than they actually were.
3. Sin belittles the name of Christ and undermines His work. It hurts the testimony of the Church.
4. God Himself set the pattern for Church discipline and Christ Himself set its wheels in motion - Matthew 18:15-17.
CONCLUSION:-
Proper Church discipline results in most cases in restoration. A clean church roll keeps members on their toes spiritually. It causes reverence to God. Vs 11. The results of this are seen in the growth of the Church- Vs 12-14.
Let us then so live as to bring honour and glory to the Lord and not bring God's disciplinary action upon us.
Sermon preached by
Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church
Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday, December 4th 1994.
LESSON ELEVEN –
PREACHING CHRIST IN FACE OF
PERSECUTION
Scripture: Acts
5:14-42
Text: 2 Timothy 3:12
"Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ
Jesus shall suffer persecution."
INTRODUCTION:
Jesus had
promised that "if they persecute me, they will persecute you also." The early
church certainly followed in this train. On the other hand, as we will see, they
thrived in the face of trial.
The most
recent scenario is that of the discipline of Ananias and Sapphira. Church
discipline always brings the blessing of God. The farmer that prunes the dead
wood from his orchard will have a better harvest.
This
discipline brought the respect of the unsaved world about them. No one dared to
join them if they were not truly ready to be a true follower of Jesus Christ.
How unlike many churches today whose membership records are crowded with dead
wood, and whose leaders are far from the evangelistic men of New Testament
times.
Note that
new members are said to have been "added to the Lord" verse 14. There were
multitudes of both men and women. Here women are beginning to be counted with
the men, although in reality that was so from the beginning. Women are included
with the church in the upper room in Acts chapter one.
Discipline not only cleaned up the church
rolls, but it brought God's blessing and gave the outside world confidence in
looking to the Church for answers.
It does
not say that Peter's shadow actually brought healing to people. That was
something the outsiders thought might happen. There are always those to be found
who would look to the externals and make a religion out of something God never
intended. Nevertheless there were many miracles wrought which proved the
authenticity of the Gospel which they preached. Remember, there was as yet no
written New Testament Scriptures. So with God's blessing, came the opposition
from those who only had a pretense of religion.
1.
THE PROTEST:
Acts 5:17
"Then the high priest rose up, and all they
that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with
indignation,"
A.
Oppression:
1.
"Then the High Priest rose up…" It seems that
the only time you can stir religion is when they are threatened or think they
are.
2.
The
High Priest is representative of the state religion. This is the office that
opposed Jesus from the beginning and was largely responsible for His
crucifixion.
3.
This
is the one who was supposed to be responsible for the welfare of the people.
However, spiritually the common people were far ahead of their
leaders.
4.
Religion has nothing but form and ritual to
offer and therefore will be the first to offer opposition to any measure of
change and especially the truth.
5.
Listen to Jesus indictment of such
leaders:
Matthew 23:15
"Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees,
hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is
made, ye make him twofold more the
child of hell than yourselves."
B.
Opposition:
1.
Again it is the High Priest who opposes the
Church. His position is threatened.
2.
They
that were with him of the sect of the Sadducees.
The Sadducees were the liberal branch of
Judaism. Jesus often put them in their place because they did not believe in the
resurrection.
Matthew 22:23
"The same day came to him the Sadducees,
which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him…"
Acts 23:8
"For the Sadducees say that there is no
resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess
both."
Acts
4:1-2
"And as they spake unto the people, the
priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon
them,
2
Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the
resurrection from the dead."
3.
Why
were they "filled with indignation?"
Ought not they to rejoice in the healing of
so many people?
Was the blessing of God upon others not more
important than their religion?
We see how religion blinds men to the real
truth that is in Jesus Christ.
Our first loyalty ought to be to God and to
Jesus Christ, not to our denomination.
I wonder, how right am I, if being right
makes me angry?
2.
THE PERSECUTION:
Acts 5:18
"And laid
their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common
prison."
A.
The
Prison:
Religion would always seek to suppress the
truth of God's sovereign grace.
Down through the centuries our Baptist
forefathers have ever preached the gospel from the prison houses of religious
pretenders.
This was so of those who worshipped in the
catacombs of Rome.
This was so of the Waldensian believers who
became martyrs for Christ.
This was so of most of the Anabaptists, some
who were burned at the stake, or drowned in a river for their
faith.
This was so of Baptists in Europe, England,
and even in America who were persecuted by Protestants.
John Bunyan wrote many of his books from the
jail in Bedford, England.
B.
The
Providential Escape:
Vs 19- "But the angel of the Lord by night
opened the doors, and brought them forth."
This was so here and it was later true of
Paul as he came out of the Philippian jail with a gate on one arm, and a new
convert on the other.
Providence reigns and the religious
opposition continue its attempt to stay the power of the Gospel of Jesus
Christ.
No power on earth can withstand providence.
For every missionary that dies in the service of Christ, the Holy Spirit will
raise up two to replace him. Satan has never learned this
lesson.
To me this is very amusing! When they sent to
the prison to have the apostles brought before their council, they were already
back in the temple "teaching the people and preaching the faith of Jesus
Christ." (Vs 25.)
C.
The
Pursuit:
1.
The
religionists sought to put down this Christian revival.
2.
The
leaders thought they had stopped the revival with the imprisonment of the
apostles.
3.
God
had other plans for the apostles than the religious leaders
did.
4.
When
they found that the apostles were not in the locked jail, they wanted to keep it
quiet. However, that was not possible since they were back preaching in a public
place. Verse vs 24-25.
5.
They
now had good reason to fear the people, so they brought the apostles quietly
back to the council.
D.
The
Problem: vs 28
"Saying, Did not we straightly command you
that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem
with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon
us."
1.
The
religious leaders had commanded them not to preach in Jesus
name.
2.
They
not only had continued to do this, but also were very successful at it. "Ye have
filled Jerusalem with your doctrine."
3.
This
was not the intention of the apostles but the guilt of the leaders. "And intend
to bring this man's blood upon us."
The truth of the matter is that they were
already responsible for that.
4.
Peter's reply, "we ought to obey God rather
than men." (Vs 29.
3.
THE PREACHING: Vs 30-42
A.
Content of the
Preaching:
1.
The
resurrected Christ vs 30
2.
An
indictment against the religious leaders for the crucifixion of Christ. Vs 30
3.
God
hath exalted Jesus to a place of authority (which is the meaning of "to His own
right hand.") Vs 31
4.
Jesus was to be a Prince (Isaiah 9:6)
5.
Jesus is Savior to lead Israel to a place of
repentance and forgiveness of sins.
6.
We
His apostles are witnesses to these things.
7.
So
also is the Holy Spirit witness, whom God has given to those who obey him. (Acts
2:38-39)
B.
Concern for the
Preaching:
1.
"When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to
slay them." Vs
33
Obviously they knew they were not obedient to God, especially with
reference to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Conviction will either lead you to Jesus or cause you to oppose Him
further.
2.
The good counsel of Gamaliel. Vs
34-39
This doctor of law, was also the teacher of
Saul who later became the apostle Paul (Acts 22:3.) He was a leading member of
the Jewish Sanhedrin.
Vs
38-39
"And now I say unto you, Refrain from these
men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will
come to nought:
But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it;
lest haply ye be found even to fight against God."
C.
Continuation of Preaching: Vs
40-42
1.
The
council agreed with Gamaliel.
Nevertheless they had to show some of their so-called
authority.
"And when they had called the apostles, and
beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and
let them go."
2.
"And
they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted
worthy to suffer shame for His name."
What shame have we suffered for His
name?
John Huss went to heaven singing a hymn as
the flames engulfed his body.
3.
They
kept on preaching in the temple, and in house meetings.
"And daily in the temple, and in every house,
they ceased not to teach and to preach Jesus Christ."
The substance of their preaching was the
Person of Jesus Christ.
CONCLUSION:
Let the
religious leaders continue with their little councils, their confabs, their nit
picking.
Leave
them to their externals of religious pretense. Let us keep on preaching the
person of Jesus Christ. He is the Lord, the Savior of all who
believe.
The main
question now is this; where do you stand in relation to this wonderful name,
Jesus?
Sermon
preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark
Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.
Sunday
morning, April 8th 2001
LESSON TWELVE –
SEVEN GOOD
MEN
Scripture: Acts
6:1-7
Text: 1 Timothy
3:13
"For they that have used the office of a deacon well, purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus."
INTRODUCTION:
Some might disagree as to whether these men, chosen by the Church and ordained by the apostles were actually deacons. I will agree that they are not called deacons, but no one can argue the point that these men of whom we read in Acts chapter six did the work of a deacon.
It is certainly not necessary for the being of a Church to have deacons. It certainly aids in her well being to have not only deacons, but also a plurality of Elders who will aid in her ministry.
I will not say all that can be said of deacons in this lesson, but I believe we have a good introduction to this ministry.
1.
THE CAUSE: Vs 1-2
"And in those days when the number of the disciples was multiplied…"
Help must be warranted and a growing Church always warrants assistance.
It is never a good idea to create an office or fill one when there is no need for the
office in the first place.
Someone wisely said, "if the thing ain’t broke, don't fix it."
A. Complaint Number One: Vs 1
"And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration."
1. There was a large increase in Church membership.
2. This caused an ethnic problem between the Greek Speaking Jews and the Hebrew speaking, because of a neglect of the widows.
Notice that the Church from the beginning took care of her own, especially those who were widows.
B. Complaint Number Two: Vs 2
"Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, "It is not reason that we should leave the Word of God, and serve tables."
1. The twelve apostles called the multitude (very large crowd) of disciples (learners) unto them.
2. It is not a reasonable thing that we the apostles should leave the preaching and teaching of the Word of God to be waiter or servants of tables.
3. Those called to the ministry of the Word ought to use their time in that ministry and not doing the secular things of the Church. The Word "serve" means to wait upon or minister from which basic word we get the word "deacon." A deacon is a servant, waiter, or minister of material things.
2.
THE COUNCIL: Vs 3-4
"Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the Word."
A. The Problem Addressed:
1. The wise Spirit led decision of the apostles was for the Church to choose seven good men.
2. The ministry of the church is the responsibility of the Church (local). "Look ye out from among you."
3. "Seven men"- Just why the apostles asked for seven men is not stated and any statement with respect to this would merely be conjecture. The number seven is God's number, the number of perfection. Beyond that we can only say that it may have more to do with the increase or multitude of Church membership at this point and time.
Most certainly they were to be men and not women. It is doubtful that any woman would have the training for such a job. As well, while women certainly had some ministry within the New Testament Church, they did not have a place of leadership. Later qualifications that Paul gave for the deacons certainly implied that they were to be the "husband of one wife."
4. The simple basic qualifications here are often understated in choosing such men in our day.
a) They were to be members of the church, chosen out of the congregation.
b) They were to be men of honest report. Honesty is a basic precept in any ministry. The report would no doubt include those outside of the Church, as well as within.
c) "Full of the Holy Ghost." They are to be Spirit filled men. They are to be those controlled and led by the Holy Spirit.
d) Men of wisdom, or those wise enough and with ability to carry out such a ministry.
B. The Preaching of the Word of God:
1. Priority in the ministry of the apostles is to prayer, preaching and teaching the Word of God.
2. We then see two levels of ministry in the New Testament Church. That of the Elders who gave themselves to prayer and ministry of the word, and those with a more secular ministry, of servants or waiters upon tables.
3. The Greek word for deacon is found here and actually is used of both pastors and deacons. All are servants of the Lord and His Church. The distinction in the New Testament is as in Historic Baptist and Congregational Churches, between the preaching of the Word and the waiting on tables or taking care of the temporal needs of the Church.
Deacons certainly assist the Pastors, but they are not assistant Pastors.
3.
THE CHOICE OF THE CHURCH: Vs 5-6
"And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:
Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them."
A. Church Approached:
1. The Church was approached with an answer to their problem. The apostles did not act as a welfare office or dictatorship. They brought the decision for Church action.
2. Too much time in our churches is wasted by committees. We need to get the facts and let the church act!
3. Churches find harmony in working together to solve their problems.
B. Church Vote:
1. "And they chose" - The choice is clearly that of the Church. There is no sign of Popery here. It is clearly an action of the local Church.
2. The leading of the Holy Spirit is seen in the names of those whom they chose to this office. It was the Grecian widows that were being neglected, and it was Grecian men who were elected to look after not only the Hellenists, but the Hebrew Christians as well. The whole church chose the Greek speaking Jewish Christians to look after everyone.
Such wisdom could only come from the leadership of the Spirit of God.
C. Church Order:
1. The Church called forth seven men and set them before the apostles who then laid hands on them, ordaining them to the work or ministry to which the Church (and the Lord) had called them.
3. We cannot underestimate the need and place of prayer in the
ordination of any man to any ministry.
4. We see here clearly that God calls men through His New Testament Church. The Church sends them forth. Pastors, deacons, missionaries are all Church sent and controlled men who are in turn responsible to God and as well to the Church, the body of Christ.
4.
THE CONCLUSION: Vs
7
A. The Word of God increased:
1. It is always a good action that leads to an increase of the Word of God.
2. The preaching of the Word of God is fundamental to God's blessing in the Church.
3. The increase of God's word is necessary for Church growth, numerically and spiritually.
C. The Church in Jerusalem Grew larger:
1. Church growth was brought about by spiritual means and not man induced gimmicks.
2. The strong Jerusalem Church later led to the planting of churches in other cities and towns.
D. A great number of Jewish priests were converted:
1. The only place in the New Testament where the word "Priests" is used with reference to so called Clergy, is such as in this case where they converted from the Jewish faith.
2. The New Testament Church has many officers, but only two offices, that of Pastors and Deacons.
3. In the New Testament, every believer is a "king and priest unto the Lord." (Revelation 1:6). The New Testament teaches the Priesthood of all believers.
4. Where does all of this find you and me within the confines of Scripture and the structure of the New
Testament Church? May God help us to lift up the hands of those who preach the word, while not neglecting the widows and other temporal needs within the Church. The missionaries that we endorse come under this category as those who are committed to the preaching of the Word. Let us lift their hands high and assist them in doing the work whereunto God has called them.
There are too many Churches today that may still be New Testament, (as was the Corinth Church) but they are clearly out of order. Adherence to the Word of God will put us back on track with regard to New Testament ministry.
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.
Sunday morning, April 15th 2001
LESSON THIRTEEN
–
STEPHEN….THE BLOOD OF
MARTYRS
Scripture: Acts 6:8-15;
7:54-60
Text: Acts
7:59-60
"And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus receive my spirit.
And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.
And when he had said this, he fell asleep."
INTRODUCTION:
Stephen was one of the first deacons, and the first Christian martyr. It has often been the lot of religionists to think that they could help God out by executing those who tell them what they do not want to hear. However, like the seed sown by the farmer brings forth a good harvest, so the blood of martyrs becomes the seed of the Church. Church history is full of the testimonies of men and women whose blood once spilled was the seed of a mighty moving of the Spirit of God. As we will see, it was so in the time of Stephen, and has been so down through history, even to our day.
While Baptists do not place halos upon the heads of our martyrs we should however honor and respect those who have given their life-blood for the cause of Jesus Christ. Many are the wounds that have scarred the bodies of noble Christians down through the centuries. Far too often placed there by those who lay claim to the same Christ.
Now let us examine the life of this great man of God, the first Baptist martyr who lay down his life for Jesus while in the service of the Church that Christ alone instituted on the shores of Galilee.
1.
THE MINISTRY OF STEPHEN: 6:8; 7:1-56
"And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the
people."
A. His Work:
1. God given faith and Spirit filled power in more than the exercise of emotions. It leads to the exercise of God's work in and among His people.
2. The interesting thing about Stephen's work is that it was obviously more than that of a deacon.
"For they that
have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and
great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus." - 1 Timothy
3:13.
The word "deacon" (Greek-diakonos) is attendant, waiter, minister and servant. The deacon then is one who basically or menially acts as a servant.
"And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient." -
2 Timothy
2:24.
The word "servant" - (Greek-doulos) can be translated slave, used frequently in a qualified sense of subjection.
3. Stephen had the ability to teach as we see in his words before the Jewish council.
B. His Words:
In all that Stephen had to say, he confined Himself to the Word of God.
God has promised to bless His Word, and therefore Stephen was able to speak with authority.
Isaiah 55:11
"So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it."
C. His Wounds:
Stephen went to heaven bearing in his body the wounds or scars of his faith in Jesus Christ.
We used to say as children-
"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me."
Jesus put it this way-
Matthew
10:28
"And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell."
2.
THE MIND-SET OF THE OPPOSITION: 6:9-15
"And all that sat in the council, looking steadfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel."
-Vs 15
A.
Association:
6:9
This council does not appear to be of the Sanhedrin, the ruling council of all Judaism that convened in Jerusalem.
1. They were certain ones of the synagogue. (This is not the main temple in Jerusalem but a meeting place (Greek -sunagoge.)
2. This council was one of a particular group of Jews-
Dr. John Gill-
"Which is called the synagogue of the
libertines; or
free men: it is a Roman name, and signifies the sons of free men; and these were
either the sons of such Jews, who of servants, or slaves, had been made
Myrrxwvm, "free men"; or rather such
Jews whose parents were born free, or had obtained their freedom at Rome, or in
some free city under the Roman government, as Paul at Tarsus; since it is not so
easy to account for it, that there should be a peculiar synagogue for the
former, whereas there might be for the latter, seeing they could not speak the
language of the native Jews. The Arabic version reads, "of the Corinthians", as
if they were the Jews from Corinth: and some have thought the word "Libertines"
to be the name of a nation or people, as well as the names that follow; and some
think it designs the Lybians or Lybistines in Africa; but neither of these is
likely:
And Cyrenians: natives
of the city or country of Cyrene, from whence were many Jews; see #Ac 2:10
11:20 such as Simon the Cyrenian, the father of Alexander, and Rufus, who
carried the cross of Christ after him, #Mr 15:21 these, with those that
follow, either belonged to the same synagogue with the Libertines, or rather
they severally had distinct synagogues: and this will not seem strange, when it
is said {g}, that there were in Jerusalem four
hundred and eighty synagogues; though it is elsewhere said {h} four hundred and sixty:
And Alexandrians; for
that there were a peculiar synagogue of these at Jerusalem is certain; for there
is express mention made of it in Jewish writings {i}.
Disputing with Stephen;
about the doctrine he preached, and the miracles he wrought, and by what
authority he did these things.
"Free men"; or rather such Jews whose parents were born free, or had obtained their freedom at Rome, or in some free city under the Roman government, as Paul at Tarsus; since it is not so easy to account for it, that there should be a peculiar synagogue for the former, whereas there might be for the latter, seeing they could not speak the language of the native Jews. The Arabic version reads, "of the Corinthians", as if they were the Jews from Corinth: and some have thought the word "Libertines" to be the name of a nation or people, as well as the names that follow; and some think it designs the Lybians or Lybistines in Africa; but neither of these is likely:
(John Gill-Expository.)
B. Ability: 6:10
"They were not able to resist the wisdom and spirit by which he spake."
Like the apostles he spoke the word of God with boldness.
When one declares the Word of God, God gives him boldness.
The spirit (pneuma) when used with the word wisdom would denote the power or authority he showed when he spoke.
They suborned men (to get by bribery or other illegal methods.) They trumped up false charges against Stephen.
C. Amorality: 6:11-15
The religious leaders showed not only that they were immoral, but also that they were really amoral; they had no sense of morality at all.
It is amazing to see how far the enemies of the cross will go to destroy the
work of God.
This is seen in these leaders, in the Scribes and Pharisees, in those who opposed the apostles, and the ones today who oppose the Word of God. Religious leaders today are no different than these as they espouse their religious liberalism and deny the fundamentals of the Christian faith.
3.
THE MANNER OF DEFENSE: 7:1-60
"And he said, men, brethren, and fathers hearken; -" 7:1
A. Exegesis:
Stephen preached to them from their own Scriptures and prophetic teaching. By proper analysis, he showed them the their own Scripture pointed to Christ. That Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of that to which Moses and the prophets pointed. We to ought to use the Scriptures to point the way to the truth.
Jesus used the Scriptures against the temptation of Satan in His wilderness journey.
B. Experience:
Stephen held forth the experience of several of the Israelite fathers, who also pointed to Christ.
1. Abraham: God called him out of the land of the Chaldeans and led him to Canaan. He promised Abraham would become a great nation and made a covenant with him. This covenant was extended through Isaac, Jacob and the twelve Patriarchs. The selling of Joseph to the Egyptians. (Vs 8-9).
2. Jacob: The sojourn in Egypt (vs 12). Jacobs's death in Egypt (vs 15). Burial in Abraham's sepulcher (vs 16).
3. The Hebrew Nation in Egyptian bondage: (vs 17-19)
4. Moses: (vs 20) God's call of Moses as Israel's leader ((vs 30-34)
Moses was at first refused by the people. (Vs 35)
God used Moses to deliver your fathers from Egyptian bondage. (Vs 36)
Moses prophesy of Christ - (vs 37)
"This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear."
5. Israel's rejection of Moses and God's leadership over them. (Vs 38)
They were physically out of Egypt, but their hearts were still there- (vs 39)
They chose idolatry over worship of the true God (vs 40-43)
The experience of the Tabernacle in the wilderness (vs 44-45)
The Temple of David and Solomon- (vs 45b-47)
Where does God really dwell? (Vs 48-50)
6. Stephen's Indictment against Israel - (Vs 51-53)
7. Stephen's announcement of His vision of Jesus. The one whom the Jews had condemned was now seated at the right hand of authority, in heaven.
C. Execution:
Finally, in the manner of his own death, Stephen defended the cause of Jesus Christ.
1. "Convicted in their own hearts." (Vs 54)
"When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth."
Conviction ought to lead to repentance, but that is not always the case. One may be convicted by his own conscience or even by the Word of God preached. Yet still they may reject the ultimate solution to their problem. These people ultimately rejected Christ and killed Stephen.
2. "And cast him out of the city and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul." (Vs 58)
The lone exception appears to be Saul. For him it would take some further work by the Holy Spirit and direct intervention on behalf of Christ. Saul as you know, became the apostle Paul.
Paul never forgot this incident and it formed an integral part of his personal testimony to the grace of God in his life.
3. "And they stoned Stephen" (vs 59) - Literally they murdered him, as Stephen became the victim of mob action. Incited at least in part by Saul, the one who held their garments as they did the devious work of murder. All of this in thinking they were doing God a favor.
4. Stephen, like so many others since faced death for His faith and in doing so showed His faith.
a) His face shone- (6:15)
b) He was full of the Holy Ghost - vs 55
c) He saw the glory of God - vs 55
d) He saw Jesus standing on the right hand of God - vs 55
e) He prayed in face of difficulty and death - vs 59
f) He placed his spirit in the hands of the Lord Jesus - vs 59
g) He asked for forgiveness for his murderers - vs 60
h) He fell asleep - vs 60
i) His death was a testimony to others, especially to Saul.
CONCLUSION:
What significance has the death of Stephen in the life of Christians today?
Some questions we might well ask ourselves-
1. What would I do in similar circumstances?
2. How grounded am I in the faith of Jesus Christ?
3. Which group of people do we more easily identify with? Those who were disobedient and stoned Stephen, or with those who along with Stephen were persecuted?
4. Where is Jesus Christ in relation to my personal faith?
5. Have I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior, been obedient to Him in baptism, and am I a part of His body, the New Testament Church?
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday morning, April 22nd 2001.
LESSON FOURTEEN
–
THE FRUIT OF
PERSECUTION
Scripture: Acts Chapter 8
Text: Acts
8:1
"And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was great persecution against the church, which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles."
INTRODUCTION:
Someone has rightly said, "The blood of Martyrs is the fruit of the church." Church history most certainly attests to that. We see it here in the Acts of the Apostles, and most certainly in our immediate context, the eighth chapter of Acts.
Someone else has rightly penned the word, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going." Again, that is not Scripture but it certainly is Scriptural. When we remember that the church here is still very much in her infancy stage, it is marvelous to see her in Action when their very lives are being threatened.
Let us look at these verses and rejoice! Let us read the history of the early Church and be inspired to so give our lives for the cause that thousands of early Christians died for.
1. THE PERSECUTION: Vs 1-4
A. The Case of Stephen:
1. Stephen was a Spirit-filled deacon who was a strong witness for Jesus Christ. Cf 6:8-10; 7:2
2. Saul consented
to Stephen's death. In fact he held the cloaks of those who stoned him. 7:58
3. Persecution such as this was attempted against Christ and predicted for His followers. -
John
10:31
"Then the Jews took up stones again to stone
him."
John 15:20
"Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; -"
B.
The Commitment of Saul: Vs
3
"As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison."
1. Saul apparently was a ringleader in the general persecution against the Jerusalem Church. (8:3.)
2. This persecution drove members from the Jerusalem Church out of the city into the Province of Judaea, and Samaria. Vs 1
3. Saul's persecution led him almost to the city of Damascus as he sought to arrest Christian men and women and bring them bound to Jerusalem.
Acts 9:1-2
"And Saul, yet breathing out threatening and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,
And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem."
2.
PARTICIPATION IN PERSECUTION: Vs 1
"There was a great persecution against the
Church that was in Jerusalem."
A.
The
People:
"The Church at
Jerusalem…."
1.
There are at least two parties to any such
persecution.
a)
The Persecutors:
The religionists, primarily their leaders.
(I will deal with these later.)
b)
The
Persecuted:
1.
General members.
2.
The
(12) apostles.
2.
It is interesting that the main thrust of persecution was against the
general membership, rather than the leaders.
Those who would oppose the truth, seldom go to the leader first, but seek
to undermine the work he has done.
This has been my own experience where someone would seek to sow seeds of
doubt against my ministry. They will seek out the membership rather than direct
the question to me personally.
Acts
20:29
"For I know this, that after my departing
shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the
flock."
3. The leaders (apostles) were able to remain in Jerusalem. Vs 1
It is the sheep that give the wool and produce lambs, not the shepherds. The principle here is that the scattered membership though persecuted, driven from the city, preached the Word of God everywhere they went.
B. The Persons Responsible for the Persecution:
1. Religious leaders - This is a carry-over from the council that previously indicted Stephen.
2. Saul of Tarsus - Probable member of the Sanhedrin. A strict Pharisee who studied law under Gamaliel a leading professor.
3. His father was Greek, his mother a Jewess.
Anti-Christian sentiment amongst the Jewish leadership was strong. They no doubt felt threatened as masses of common people flocked to the Christian camp.
4. This continues to be the case with all religious persecution. Man finds it so difficult to deal with the idea that there may be more than what we now know or possess. It is easier for them to persecute than to deal with religious and doctrinal issues.
5. This is seen in religious bigotry today where each of us think we own a corner on truth, and no one dare tell us otherwise.
3.
THE PRODUCT OF PERSECUTION:
Vs 4-40
"Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the
Word."
A. Obedience to the Commission: Vs 5
Acts 1:8
"Ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem and in all Judaea and in Samaria……"
1. It took an act of sovereign grace in allowing persecution to get the Christians away from Jerusalem and out into the Provinces.
2. Philip in Samaria:
This Philip was the deacon who later became the evangelist.
Acts 6:5
"And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:"
Acts 21:8
" And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him."
3.
Notice Philip's message - Vs
5
"And preached Christ unto them."
4. Philip's message was backed up by miracles. Such things in apostolic times were not restricted just to the apostles -
Cf Acts 6:8 -(Stephen.)
5.
The message of Jesus Christ brought
great joy to the city - vs 8.
Do you not think that this same message can bring joy to our city?
6. The baptism of believers - Vs 12-13.
New Testament baptism is by immersion of believers in water.
NOTE:
Sometimes those who oppose Church authority, ask, "Where did Philip get authority to baptize?"
Answer - He was a member and ordained minister of the Jerusalem Church. The Samaritans, and later the Ethiopian would in the beginning be members of the Jerusalem Church until such time as a Church would be organized closer to where they lived. That was the practice in the New Testament times.
B.
Opposition: Vs 9;
18-24
1.
Sometimes opposition comes from those in our
midst.
Judas Iscariot is an example of that. See
Psalm
41:9
2.
Simon -
a)
His
background - sorcerer. He had a great following; he bewitched the
people.
b)
His
conversion (?) vs 13
Some think Simon was not a true
believer.
c)
He
believed - He was baptized. (Note the order)
d)
He
was mesmerized by the miracles he saw the apostles do.
e)
He
wanted the power to impart the Holy Spirit to others. Vs 18.
C.
Order of the Church:
Vs
14-17
1.
News
of Samaria receiving the Word of God reached the apostles in
Jerusalem.
2.
They
sent Peter and John to Samaria. Vs 14
3.
Peter and John's prayer - Vs
15
4.
They
had not entered into the blessing of Pentecost. The question is asked, "What is
meant by receiving the Holy Ghost?"
Dr. John Gill says-
"That they might receive the Holy Ghost; the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Ghost, as to be able to speak with tongues, to prophesy and work miracles: they might pray for them all, that they might have a larger measure of grace, and more spiritual light and knowledge; and that they might be established in the doctrines of the Gospel, and hold fast the profession of their faith unto the end; but it can hardly be thought that they should pray for them all, both men and women, that they might have the above extraordinary gifts, which were not necessary to them all: and that these are meant by the Holy Ghost is clear from what follows, since he was not yet fallen on any of them, which cannot be understood in any other sense; and seeing it was something visible, which Simon could discern, and therefore cannot mean internal grace, and an increase of that."
The Geneva Bible Footnote says -
"Those excellent gifts which are necessary, especially for those that were to be appointed rulers and governors of the Church."
Dr. Albert Barnes says
-
"(1.) It was not that gift of the Holy Ghost
by which the soul is converted, or renewed, for they had this when they
believed, #Ac 8:6. Everywhere the conversion of the sinner is traced to his
influence. Comp. #John 1:13.
(2.) It was not the ordinary influences of
the Spirit by which the soul is sanctified; for sanctification is a progressive
work, and this was sudden: sanctification is shown by the general tenor of the
life; this was sudden and striking.
(3.) It was something that was discernible by
external effects; for Simon saw #Ac 8:18 that this was done by the laying on of
hands.
(4.) The phrase, "the gift of the Holy Ghost,
" and "the descent of the Holy Ghost, " signified not merely his ordinary
influences in converting sinners, but those extraordinary influences that
attended the first preaching of the gospel--the power of speaking with new
tongues, #Ac 2, the power of working miracles, etc., #Ac 19:6.
(5.) This is further clear from the fact that
Simon wished to purchase this power, evidently to keep up his influence among
the people, and to retain his ascendancy as a juggler and sorcerer. But surely
Simon would not wish to purchase the converting and sanctifying influences of
the Holy Spirit; it was the power of working miracles. These things make it
clear that by the gift of the Holy Spirit here is meant the power of speaking
with new tongues, (comp. #1Co 14,) and the power of miracles. And it is further
clear that this passage should not be adduced in favor of "the rite of
confirmation" in the Christian church. For, besides the fact that there are now
no apostles, the thing spoken of here is entirely different from that of the
rite of confirmation. This was to confer the extraordinary power of working
miracles; that is for a different purpose.
If it be asked why this power was conferred
on the early Christians, it may be replied, that it was to furnish striking
proof of the truth of the Christian religion; to impress the people, and thus to
win them to embrace the gospel. The early church was thus armed with the power
of the Holy Spirit; and this extraordinary attestation of God to his message was
one cause of the rapid propagation and permanent establishment of the
gospel."
5.
They were already believers, already baptized
before Peter and John had arrived in Samaria. See Romans
8:9
6.
Impartation through the laying on of hands.
This was strictly apostolic. Such practice today (of laying on of hands) is
merely symbolic or giving the blessing of the Church and
brethren.
Vs 17.
7.
Simon asked for the power - Vs 18-19.
What did he see or hear to make this former
sorcerer want the same authority?
a) Hands were laid on the
believers.
b) Did they too
speak in other tongues (languages)? Most
likely: Why else did he want this
power if it did not produce some outward manifestation? John Gill, Albert Barnes
and other commentators suggest that this is the case.
8.
What
is the significance of this experience? Can it happen
today?
The significance appears to be more apostolic. They did not as yet possess the completed Scripture canon. We today have the Word of God (Bible) to relate to.
9. Peter's reply to Simon - Vs 20-23
These verses may suggest that Simon was an unsaved Church member. That is not an impossibility, in apostolic times or in our own. I think however that Simon was like some church members. As we say, "you can take the boy out of the country but it is hard to take the country out of the boy." A Biblical case is that of Israel. God led Israel out of Egypt, but it took more than 40 years to get Egypt out of the Israelites.
10. Simon's reply to Peter - Vs 24
Simon asked for prayer. I have known some church members who never did that.
11. Continued revival - vs 25
These are the things that bring the blessing of God upon a Church. Let us take note of them and do them.
CONCLUSION:
The fruit of persecution is that the gospel is preached to the masses. New Testament Churches were established throughout Samaria and Judaea by those scattered by the persecution in Jerusalem.
God's Spirit is not bound! Like a cork on the sea, push it down in one place and it will bob up in another.
Let us not concern ourselves with the opposition but with the Savior, Jesus Christ.
Do you know Him as your own personal Savior? Have you obeyed him in baptism, church membership? Are you telling others about Jesus and His salvation?
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday morning, April 29th 2001.
LESSON FIFTEEN
–
THE SALVATION OF AN
ETHIOPIAN
Acts 8:26-40
INTRODUCTION:
It is amazing how that the gospel of Jesus Christ spread throughout the then known world. Men of God, led by the Spirit and filled with the knowledge of God's Word spread the good news everywhere they went.
1.
THE PERSONS INVOLVED:
A. The preacher:
1. Philip- Fresh from revival in Samaria.
2. Obedient to the leading of the Lord. - Vs 26,29
3. His knowledge of Scripture.
B. The Prepared Man:
1. A man of Ethiopia.
2. A Eunuch of great authority
3. Treasurer to Candace the Queen of Ethiopia.
4. Already had a limited knowledge of God. - Vs 27
5. Had a personal copy of the Scriptures. Vs 28
2.
THE POWER OF SCRIPTURE:
A. Preparation for Witness: Vs 29-31
1. The Spirit bade him go and talk with this Scripture reading man.
2. We see the power of Scripture to bring the Holy Spirit into a place of leading us into the truth.
The Spirit and the Word agree-
1 John
5:8
"And there are three that bear witness in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one."
This is an excellent example of how the Holy Spirit uses both men and the Scriptures to bring a man to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
3. Philip's Question: "Do you understand what you are reading?"
4. The Ethiopian's reply: "How can I understand except some man guide me?"
The Ethiopian required a teacher:
Matthew 28:19 - "Go and teach all nations."
5. God's people ought to have a working knowledge of the Scriptures to better lead men to Christ.
B. Place of Scripture in Soul-winning: Vs 32-33
1. In leading a person to Christ, always meet them and begin where they are.
If you cannot meet a person where they are you will have difficulty in taking them to where you think they ought to be.
2. No doubt that God here used the Scripture, but it is amazing that the Spirit of God led the Ethiopian to one of the greatest gospel references in the Old Testament.
3. The reference given here in Acts 832-33 is to Isaiah 53:7-8
"He was oppressed and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth.
He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? For he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken."
4. The Ethiopians second question: "Of whom is the prophet speaking?"
This is a very fundamental question to the understanding of Scripture.
5. At this point and with the Ethiopians permission, Philip began to preach Jesus to him.
"Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at that same Scripture and preached unto him Jesus."
3.
THE PRODUCT OF SCRIPTURE AND SPIRIT LED WITNESS: Vs
36-40
A. Salvation It's basis:
1. They know doubt continued to talk about the scripture and about Jesus as they traveled along. We do not know the length of time spoken of here. Vs 36.
2. As they traveled along they came to a particular water. This may have been a river, but more than likely since it was desert enroute to Gaza, it was a pond of sorts at an oasis.
3. The Ethiopian directed Philip's attention to the water, and asked the question every preacher likes to hear of a new convert. "Look, there is water what hinders me from being baptized?
4. Philip's reply gives the basis of both salvation and baptism. This is an important point with regard to Scriptural order for baptism.
"If you believe with all of your heart, you may be baptized."
Faith is the basis of salvation and also of baptism.
Mark 16:16 "He that believeth and is baptized…."
Acts 2:38 "Repent and be baptized…"
Ephesians 2:8 "For by grace are ye saved, through faith…."
Salvation is based upon faith….one must believe in order to be saved. There are certain facts that one must believe.
a) These facts were explained by Philip in Isaiah chapter 53. They involve the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. One must receive Christ in order to become a child of God. (John 1:11.)
b) The necessity of faith was given as a prerequisite to baptism.
c) Philip did not command baptism, since it must be the choice of the Christian to follow Christ in this way. Repentance is a direct command in Scripture:
"Repent and
believe the gospel…." Mark 1:15
Repentance spoken of with baptism is an indirect command such as Acts 2:38.
One is a Christian by repentance and faith; one is an obedient Christian who follows Christ in baptism.
Scripture shows one who repents and places his/her faith in Jesus Christ as being saved. It does NOT teach a so-called baptismal regeneration.
Acts 16:30-31
"….Sirs,
what must I do to be saved?
And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be
saved, and thy house."
B. Salvation's Testimony: Vs 37-38
1. A close look at this passage shows that faith must precede baptism.
The idea of Pedo (infant) baptism is not only contrary to Scripture, it is anti-Scripture and it is silly.
2. Philip's reply to the Eunuch: "If you believe with all your heart?"
This is really a question given to the Eunuch. Philip associates the word "believe" with the word heart. In other words, there must first be, not an intellectual belief but a deep-rooted trust in Christ as Savior within the realm of Philip's heart. This is the seat of his deepest emotions.
3. The Eunuch's reply, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."
Is this sufficient evidence for baptism? Apparently so:
John
20:31
"But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and believing ye might have life through His name."
See also: John
3:15-16; 3:36; 5:24.
4. Vs 38 - "And he commanded the chariot to stand still:"
Upon hearing the verbal response of the Eunuch, Philip commanded the chariot to stop.
Notice the baptism:
They both went down into the water. (Rather silly if baptism is by sprinkling or pouring!)
Since the Greek word "baptizo" means to immerse, it makes good sense from the context that they both went down into the water.
a) Upon profession of the Eunuch's faith in Jesus Christ.
b) They both descended down into the water.
c) He baptized him - Romans 6:4
Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
Baptism is an outward symbol of an inward work of grace. The man had displayed his faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He then identified with Him in baptism, and in obedience to Christ's command. He also followed Christ's example.
5. Vs 39 - Immediately following the baptism, "they both came up out of the water".
Philip was carried away by the Holy Spirit to continue his ministry in the city, while the Eunuch continued his journey rejoicing in his newfound salvation.
One who comes to know Jesus Christ and follows Him in baptism
is a happy person.
"Oh happy day that fixed my choice, on Thee my Savior and
my God."
"Oh happy day, Oh happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away."
CONCLUSION:
And you too my friend can go rejoicing as the Eunuch did. All who place their faith and trust in Jesus Christ can be happy to know him as the one the Eunuch discovered in the 53rd chapter of Isaiah, and who was introduced to him, by Philip. May you come to know Him today, who to know aright is eternal life.
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday morning May 6th 2001.
LESSON SIXTEEN –
AN APOSTLE IS
BORN!
(The Conversion of Saul of
Tarsus)
Scripture:
Acts 9:1-30
Text: 1 timothy
1:15
"This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief."
INTRODUCTION:
We should never underestimate the power of God to save the chief of sinners. That is what Saul (who was later called, Paul) called himself in his first letter to the young Pastor, Timothy. And indeed he had been a ringleader in the persecution against the Church at this time. Saul had a most amazing conversion as he was arrested by the Lord Jesus Himself, on the Damascus Road.
As we look at this amazing account here in Acts chapter nine, we see:
1.
CONVERSION: Vs 1-18
A. Arrested By Jesus:
1.
We see first of all, Saul the sinner.
Vs 1-2
No one can be
converted if he does not first know in his heart the need for
conversion.
2. Then we see instant conversion. Vs 3-4
Saul's conversion was not instant in the light of God's sovereign plan of grace from eternity. But, from the time Jesus spoke to him on the Damascus Road, there appears to be a quick turn around. Such turn around can only be accounted for by a personal encounter with Jesus Christ.
3. Saul meets the Lord! Saul, the chief of sinners, the ringleader in persecution against the Body of Christ in Jerusalem, now meets the Lord. We may think we are right and that we are our own person, but we all must give an account to someone, especially to the LORD.
Saul no doubt thought that his "religion" was right. That he was actually working for God in persecuting the Church.
Saul thought he was persecuting heretics, a bunch of radicals who were turning God's people away from Him, towards a false God.
Idols cannot speak, but Jesus whom Saul no doubt thought was dead, now appeared to him and was speaking.
"I am Jesus whom you have been persecuting."
4. Here I believe is the pivotal point of Saul's conversion:
"Vs 6 -"And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?"
Then came the marching orders:
"Arise and go into the city, (Damascus) and it shall be told thee what thou must do."
5. New Testament preaching was aimed at the need for personal conversion.
Acts 3:19
"Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord."
Matthew 18:3
"Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter the kingdom of heaven."
B. Ananias The Soul Winner: Vs 10-18
1. The first thing we see here is that although salvation is of the Lord, it pleases God to use men.
Throughout the ministry of Christ, He schooled His disciples to do His work. Man cannot save, that is the business of the Lord. However, God uses men to witness to, and to lead sinners to a personal knowledge of Jesus Christ and life within the New Testament Church.
Paul would later write to the Church in Rome:
Romans 10:14
"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?
God uses men, and Jesus commissioned the Church to preach the gospel to every creature. To make disciples of all nations.
Ananias is perhaps the only one who knew that this chief of sinners was actually a sheep, one of God's elect. The rest of us do not have that luxury, we just preach the gospel to everyone and the Lord adds to the Church such as should be saved.
Hyper-Calvinistic Hardshells err when they refuse to preach the gospel to everyone. How can we tell a sheep from a goat when "all are equally sinners," until the cross has done it's work personally in the heart and life of the one who is redeemed by the blood of the Lamb?
2. The second thing we see here is that Ananias was led by the Lord:
(Excuse me if I smile a little here. How many times have I had someone come to tell me they were led of the Lord? Then they proceeded to tell me some outrageous thing that they thought I needed to know.)
Please take note that God spoke to both Saul and Ananias. When Ananias met Saul, he knew God's leading. When Saul met Ananias, he knew what God has already told him. This was confirmation, not leadership by man. Be ware when someone tells you, "God told me to tell you." Such people usually just need a good dose of Alka-Seltzer.
God always works from both ends of the street, to the middle of the road. See verses 6, 10-12 -
3. Ordered to action! The Lord gave Ananias direction, even while Saul was still praying. It is amazing that Saul was now living on Straight Street! I believe he was converted, but needed some counseling, some direction.
Ananias would visit Saul to give him physical sight, but also spiritual vision.
4. The hesitation of men: Vs 13-14
Don't fault Ananias for his hesitation in
going to do some visitation. When is the last time you did any personal
visitation to talk to someone about the Lord? Remember that Saul was not just
anyone. He had authority to bind Christians in chains and haul them off to
Jerusalem where they may be killed. I think all of us would ask the same
question that Ananias did.
The main thing here is that with a brief
explanation, Ananias went to call on Saul!
5.
God's chosen vessel: Vs
15-16
God's reasons are stronger and supercede our
fears.
a)
"He is a chosen vessel unto me"
b)
"To
bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings and Israel"
c)
"For
I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name's
sake,"
God would remake this broken vessel and use
it for His glory. How would you react to this Word from
Jesus?
The truth is, we do not know what plan God
has for the man across the street, the one working next to you at the shop, or
the one you meet regularly in the elevator. That is really not our business. Our
business is to preach the word!
6.
Ananias message to Saul: Vs
17
"And Ananias went his way, and entered into
the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even
Jesus, that appeared unto you in the way as you came, has sent me, that you
might receive your sight, and be filled with the Holy
Spirit."
a)
Ananias went directly into the house and laid his hands upon
Saul.
Remember that Saul was still blind, but
Ananias shows no hesitation here.
b)
"And
said, Brother Saul" - Saul is already considered a brother even before he is
baptized.
c)
Confirmation: "Jesus has sent me." Saul was
not caught off guard as Jesus had also told him about Ananias (Vs 12.)
d)
To
receive his sight and to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
First he would be healed of his blindness.
Then he would be anointed with the power of the Holy
Spirit.
The term "filled with the Spirit" is
acquainted with Christian service in the New Testament.
7. Saul is healed and baptized: Vs 18
a) "Immediately there fell as it were scales from his eyes and he received his sight."
b) "And was baptized." Saul was then taken out and immersed. Nothing is said here about the place of baptism. The word baptizo means to immerse, so could not have been done in the house. Perhaps it was in the Barada River that runs through Damascus? The ancient city of Damascus was built upon its banks and Straight Street was the only straight street in the city and was close to the river. (Funk and Wagnall's New Encyclopedia-Volume 7.)
c) We see here that healing came before baptism. Spiritual healing also comes before baptism. One is not baptized in order to be saved, but because they are already a recipient of salvation.
2.
CONTINUED SERVICE:
Vs 19-25
Someone has well said that the Christian is "saved to serve." This we can certainly see in the life and testimony of the Apostle Paul.
A.
Preaching: Vs
20-23
1. Saul began preaching after only brief rest.
"And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples, which were at Damascus.
And
straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God."
(Vs 20).
2. Remember, that Saul was already a well-educated man and would know the Scriptures.
Acts 22:3
"I verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye are all are this day."
3.
He now saw and was able to make the
connection between the prophecies of Messiah, and Jesus Christ. He knew Jesus to
be the Son of God.
4.
Saul's theme was "Jesus as the Son
of God." He preached the deity of Jesus Christ. This term implies as well that
Jesus is the Savior.
Isaiah 7:14
"Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."
Cf Matthew 1:23.
Isaiah
9:6
"For unto us a child is born, unto
us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name
shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The everlasting Father,
The Prince of Peace."
5.
Luke, here records the amazement of those who
heard him preach. Saul the persecutor of Christians was now a preacher of the
Gospel of Jesus Christ. The persecutor had joined the
persecuted!
6.
The
Jews in Damascus were now very confused by Saul's ability to persuade them
concerning Jesus Christ. He was able to prove his point concerning Jesus being
the Messiah. Vs 21-22
7.
The Chief Priests in Jerusalem would
receive no more Christians by the hands of Saul. They would indeed soon hear the
same gospel message as the Jews of Damascus were hearing. Saul increased
spiritually as he further connected the Scriptures concerning Christ with Jesus.
He declared that Jesus was indeed the Messiah.
B. Persecution: Vs 23-25
1. After some time had passed, the Jewish leaders worked out a plan to assassinate Saul.
2. News that the Jewish leaders planned to kill him reached Saul. God does not keep his ministers in the dark.
3. The Jewish leaders had guarded the gates of the city day and night. In order to kill him.
4. In the dark, the other disciples lowered Saul down from the city wall in a basket. In this way he Providentially escaped death.
5. God still had a work for Saul to do.
Vs 25 - "Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket."
6.
1 Corinthians
10:13
"There has no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye might be able to bear it."
God takes care of His own people, and not always in the way we might expect. Sometimes, he uses a basket.
3. COUNCIL IN JERUSALEM: vs 26-30
A. Testimony to the Apostles:
1. In leaving Damascus, Saul went directly down to Jerusalem. Providence is often seen in closed doors of persecution. It was necessary for Saul to spend some time with his local church. The Damascus Church was where he was baptized.
We do not read of a special blessing on Saul by the Church, and most certainly this sending Church used a unique method of laying on of hands. I am certain they prayed for him and wished him well as they had to sneak him out of the city of Damascus.
2. In his attempt to join with the Church in Jerusalem, he found fear and uncertainty as to his true conversion. (Vs 26.)
This certainly is to be expected in the light of all of the persecution that Saul was responsible for in previous days.
3. Barnabus became the reference person and took charge of Saul and introduced him to the twelve (12) apostles.
4. It is good to have others who will testify to your faith.
Acts 26:26
Paul later told King Agrippa, "….for this thing was not done in a corner."
Barnabus explained how Saul had met with Jesus, been converted on the Damascus Road, was baptized and preached the gospel to the Jews in the city of Damascus.
5. Saul had preached "boldly" or fearlessly, without fear of death, and with real conviction, in the name of Jesus.
Saul's old record has been wiped clean by Jesus Christ. His new record was now laid out before the twelve apostles.
B. Testimony in Jerusalem: Vs 28-30
1. Saul was with the twelve apostles coming and going from the city of Jerusalem. This literally means throughout Jerusalem coming and going he was seen with the apostles. (Vs 28).
2. He preached in Jerusalem, the seat of Judaism.
3. He spoke boldly in the name of the Lord (reference is to Jesus)
4. He debated with the Hellenists (Greek speaking Jews) concerning Jesus being the Messiah
5. Here we see another attempt to kill Saul.
6. When "the brethren heard this" accompanied him to Caesarea, from where he then left for his home city of Tarsus in Cilicia.
Dr. John Gill has this to say about this verse:
Verse. 30. Which when the brethren knew, &c.] When the members of the church heard of it, by some means or another:
They brought him down to Caesarea; not that which was before called Strato's tower, the same as in #Ac 8:40 but Caesarea Philippi, mentioned in #Mt 16:13 the Syriac version adds, "by night", and some copies, "and sent him forth to Tarsus"; a city of Cilicia, his own native place, where he might be more safe, and also useful among his friends and acquaintance; #Galatians 1:21." -(John Gill Expositor)
CONCLUSION:
Verse 31 -Then had the Churches rest throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, were multiplied."
There was now peace among the churches. They were able to concentrate on building themselves up spiritually in the fear of the Lord and were filled with the consolation of the Holy Spirit. In this way, the churches grew in number as souls were saved and added to the Church by baptism.
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.
Sunday morning, May 13th 2001.
LESSON SEVENTEEN –
PREACHING THRU ACTS
THE EARLY MINISTRY OF THE
APOSTLE PETER
Scripture: Acts
10:1-48
Text: 2 Peter
1:1
"Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Savior Jesus Christ."
INTRODUCTION:
Peter the fisherman, now a fisher of men! Peter who previously could not testify to the young woman at the fire, now a stalwart preacher of the gospel of Jesus Christ! Peter, who at one time had a tendency to talk much without thinking, was now able to reason about Christ, and work miracles by the power of His name.
As we look at this chapter we get a good insight into the early ministry of this beloved apostle. We will look at it under three headings:
1. Rising from Death.
2. Revealing Christ to a Gentile.
3. Reasoning with Cornelius.
1. RISING FROM DEATH: 9:32-43
Here we see some of the miracles wrought by the hands of the apostle as predicted by Jesus Christ. These give evidence of the resurrected Christ who now sits on the right hand of authority in heaven. That is the purpose of apostolic miracles that took place until the completion of New Testament Scripture, except for Revelation, by the time of the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D.
A. A Paralytic Healed:
1. Peter was preaching in several towns and cities and came to Lydda, close to Joppa near the Mediterranean Sea.
2. There Peter found a man who was a paralytic who had been bedridden for eight years. His name was Aeneas.
3. Peter's charge to the paralytic:
"Aeneas Jesus Christ makes you whole arise and fold up your bed roll."
a) We see here the authority of the name of Jesus.
b) The instant healing. God's work of grace is instant, we do not have to struggle through life and hope we can endure to the end and finally be saved.
Like the spiritual healing of Saul of Tarsus we see the instant healing of this paralytic.
4. The result of this miracle and the preaching of Jesus was that many turned to Christ and were converted.
This is the reason or purpose for the miracles of Jesus and the apostles.
B. A Pious Woman Raised From Death:
1. At Joppa there was a woman named Dorcas, who was a disciple of Jesus.
2. She was a servant in the Church there, who never tired of doing a good work and giving in charity.
3. The time came when she became ill and died. They washed her body according to custom and laid her out in an upstairs room.
4. Lydda is close to Joppa, and so when the disciples heard that Peter was there they sent two men with an urgent message for him to come and visit them as soon as possible.
The urgency appears to be due to the death of Dorcas.
5. Upon arrival in Lydda, Peter went straightway up to the room where Dorcas lay. The widows stood around her in tears. (The official mourning according to custom.) They showed Peter the things Dorcas had made when she was with them.
6. Peter sent everyone from the room and prayed.
Notice the order here:
a) Peter knelt in prayer. (Kneeling is a sign of humility.)
He needed the quiet of prayer away from the noise of the mourners and the unbelief of others.
b) He then turned to the dead woman and said, "Tabitha, stand up."
(Tabitha is her proper name, which interpreted means Dorcas or perhaps Doe.)
c) She opened her eyes, looked at Peter and sat up. Peter helped her to her feet.
d) He called in the saints and widows and showed that she was alive.
Notice that all of the disciples here are called "saints".
7. The result of this miracle was that all of Joppa heard about it, and many placed their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus. This of again is the purpose of apostolic miracles.
2.
REVEALING CHRIST TO A GENTILE: Vs 1-23
While this may be regarded as the first taking of the gospel to the Gentiles, it literally is not. The Ethiopian Eunuch was certainly a Gentile as most Africans are, but it is believed that he was a proselyte to Judaism, as he already had a copy of the Scriptures. This may be regarded as the official beginning of a New Testament Church among the African Gentiles. Here it involved the ministry of the apostle Peter.
A. Confirmed in a Vision: 10:1-8
1. The place was Caesarea; the man's name was Cornelius.
2. Cornelius was a centurion in the Roman army. A centurion is a noncommissioned military officer commanding between 50 and 100 men. (Vine). "A member of the Italian band," or regiment of soldiers from Rome.
3. Cornelius was a
devout man who led his household to fear (respect and honor) God. He gave money
to the poor and was a man who spent much time in prayer. Vs
2.
4.
No doubt during a time of prayer, Cornelius saw a vision of an angel that
spoke to him. Vs
3
5. The angel's message
to Cornelius was first one of commendation for his prayer life and gifts to
charity.
Vs
4. He was to send
men to Joppa and call for Simon Peter who was staying in the home of Simon the
Tanner. Peter would give him further direction as to what he needed to do.
Vs
5-6.
6.
Cornelius obeyed the words of the angel and sent two of his servants to
Joppa. Vs 7-8.
Cornelius quickness to follow through on his vision and conversation with the angel shows the level of his faith at this point in his life. God was already working in his life by his sovereign grace.
We see here that God was at work in the heart and life of Cornelius to bring him closer to Himself.
C.
Confirmation to the Apostle Peter:
Vs 9-23
1. Peter too was a man of prayer, Vs 9. It is in prayer and in the Word that God speaks to the heart of His elect and we receive power with God.
2. Peter's time of prayer was the sixth hour or noon. The Jewish days were divided into twelve hours of day and twelve hours of night.
3. We ought to look
a little closer at the situation as Peter received this unusual vision: Vs
10
a) Cornelius although a very pious man was not a Jew, nor was he a Christian. Up to this point, no actual non-Jewish people were added to the Church. Some who were proselytes to Judaism were added but none that were actual Gentiles. (Unless we consider the Ethiopian Eunuch as such.)
b) The house where Peter was lodging, that of Simon the Tanner. Of this man, Dr. G. Campbell Morgan says, "Prior to his coming to Christ, and his baptism of the Spirit, Peter, the Hebrew, would not have lodged in the house of Simon the tanner. The trade of the tanner was held in such supreme contempt that if a girl was betrothed to a tanner without knowing that he followed that calling, the betrothal was void. A tanner had to build his house fifty cubits outside of the city. But this man Peter's prejudices were so far broken down that he was content to lodge in the house of Simon a tanner; assuredly in the house of one who loved Christ, a fellow disciple. The first outworking of prejudice was gone, yet it was still in his heart." (The Acts of the Apostles-Dr. G. Campbell Morgan- Page 268.)
c) Peter was very hungry and would have eaten but while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance (as he prayed.) This shows the extent to which Peter would not go if even to satisfy a deep hunger for food, as we look at the vision he was about to see.
4. In this trance Peter
too had a vision. He saw a great sheet with four corners descending towards the
earth. Vs 11-13.
a) Peter saw on this sheet all manner of things that to a devout Jew would be ceremonially unclean.
b) Peter heard a voice, "Rise, Peter; kill and eat."
What he saw and what he heard was contrary to what he believed at this point in his life and ministry.
The extent of what Peter saw and heard was no doubt shocking to this Jewish Christian.
5. Peter's reply: "Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean." Vs 14
The word "common" means unhallowed. The words "unclean" refer to the Mosaic ceremonial law.
The things that Peter saw on the sheet, even though he was very hungry, were not to be eaten by a Jew.
6. Vs 15- The voice came to him the second time, "What God has cleansed, that call thou not common."
God was indeed trying to get through to Peter and lead not only him, but also Cornelius household to a deeper truth. This is not something new because the Jews were taught by the prophets to expect the "covenant and light to go to the Gentiles" (Isaiah 42:6-7.)
7. This happened to Peter three times. Was this an allusion to the roosters crow that Peter had heard earlier? I wonder how many times does God have to speak to us to teach us obedience to Him? Oh the measure of His patience and grace to us-ward!
8. We note that God backed up the vision with a bit of reality. We do not live in trances and visions, or by them alone.
"While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee." Vs 19.
a.
Direct orders: "Arise therefore, and
get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them." Vs 20.
b.
Peter introduced himself to Cornelius
servants and asked them the reason for their visit. Vs 21.
God does not always tell us everything at
once.
c.
Vs
22-23 -The two visions and two groups are here united and in response to his
vision, Peter apparently had no quirks about housing the visiting Gentiles in
this Jewish home.
"So here in one house slept a
tanner, the apostle of Christianity, two household servants who are Gentiles,
and a Roman soldier. They all stayed together that night, the unifying Spirit,
breaking down the barriers and sweeping out prejudices, was at work more
powerfully than those men knew." -
(Morgan-ibid).
The next day he took some men of
Joppa with him and they departed for the journey some thirty miles north to
Caesarea.
3.
REASONING WITH CORNELIUS: Vs 24-48
Here we deal with Peter's
preaching or teaching in the house of Cornelius in Caesarea. Here we see the
fulfillment of Bible prophecy regarding the light to the Gentiles and the coming
together of two visions thirty miles apart that will establish a New Testament
Church in this city on the Mediterranean coast.
Let us now look at Peter's message
to Cornelius household.
A.
Prelude to the Message: Vs
24-33
1. Cornelius was waiting for Peter's
arrival having gathered together all of his household, kindred, and close
friends. Vs
24.
Oh that we today could be as anxious as Cornelius to bring our friends
and relatives under the sound of the gospel! This of course underlines Cornelius
sphere of influence. All of us too influence others for good or for bad. I
wonder which it is?
2. Upon Peter's
entrance into his house this centurion leader of Roman soldiers fell at Peter's
feet and worshipped him. Peter's response ought to be noted by those who would
claim him to be the first Pope.
"But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man."
Vs
25-26.
3. As Peter talked with
Cornelius he came on into the house and found many that were gathered there. The
fact that this is mentioned twice here, underscores the importance of inviting
others to come under the sound of the gospel. If Cornelius had of been taught by
a Primitive Baptist, he would be all alone unless he could determine who the
elect were. Vs
27.
4. Peter's Jewish
response (vs
28) is overlaid
by his revelation from God.
"God has shown me that I should not call any man common our
unclean."
Peter got the connection and knew that the vision of unclean things had
nothing to do with food, but rather with people of other nationalities. No man
is therefore ceremonially unclean.
5. "Therefore I came
unto you without gainsaying (objection or misgiving) as soon as I was sent
for."
It appears from here that Peter still did not know the intent of
Cornelius summons for him to come to his house. ""I ask therefore for what
intent ye have sent for me?" Vs
29.
6.
Vs 30-32 - Cornelius reply to Peter gives him an open
door. This is the response that every preacher dreams about!
"Four days ago I was fasting and praying.
About three o'clock in the afternoon I had a vision of a man in bright clothing.
He said, Cornelius your prayer is heard and your alms are had in remembrance in
the sight of God. Send to Joppa for a man named Simon whose surname is Peter. He
is lodging with a man named Simon, a tanner who lives by the sea. When he is
come here he will speak to you.
7.
I sent for you immediately and you have done
well to come. All of my household and friends are here waiting to hear you tell
us all that you know of God and what the Lord has told you to do. Vs
33.
"We want to hear all the things that are
commanded thee of God."
B.
Perception: Vs 34-41
"Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a
truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
But in every nation he that feareth Him, and
worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him.
The word, which God sent unto the children of
Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (He is Lord of
all:"
1.
Peter's perception concerns the Word of God,
which he is about to declare to these people. Vs
37.
2.
The
word is the good news, the gospel that was preached throughout all Judaea. (The
reference here is to all of Israel or the Jews.
3.
The
beginning of the gospel was from Galilee after the baptism that John preached.
We must note the place of John the Baptist and his baptism in the history of the
gospel. John was the "man sent from God" (John 1:6.) This is the only baptism
that Jesus and the apostles knew. This is the authority that Jesus would give to
the Church and by which all New Testament Churches must operate. Vs 37
4.
The
basis of the gospel preached: Vs
38
"How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the
Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were
oppressed of the devil; for God was with him."
This Peter declared was the ministry of
Jesus, the prophet who came from Nazareth. He received authority from God and
preached under that authority.
5.
We
are his witnesses: Witnesses of Jesus Christ, who did the same signs and wonders
as he had done. He preached throughout the land of the Jews, and they slew him
hanging him upon a tree. (Roman cross.) Vs
39
Peter would later write: 1 Peter
2:24
"Who his own self bare our sins in his own
body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness:
by whose stripes ye were healed."
6.
"Him
God raised up the third day, and showed him openly." Vs
40
He said he would rise (Matthew 12:40)
"For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth."
See Matthew 20:17-19 and Peter's sermon on Pentecost Acts
2:24.
7.
Further to Peter's perception here is
that of the doctrine of election. Vs 41
"Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead."
Jesus Christ never appeared to any unsaved, non-elect, person after he rose from the dead. Unsaved men can never see the resurrected Christ. Repentance and faith are the prerequisites to this. Only those chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world can and will come to Christ.
This does not mean that the resurrection was a thing done in a corner. Over 500 brethren saw the resurrected Christ (1 Corinthians 15:6.)
"even to us" is a reference to the apostles who had seen him and ate with Christ after he was risen from the dead.
"Jesus has a table spread where the saints of God are fed,
He invites His chosen people, Come and dine."
We today who have been regenerated by the power of the Spirit of God are witnesses of the resurrected Christ. We have seen Him by faith and experienced the change in our heart and life through the new birth.
C. Preaching and Response: Vs 42-48
"And he commanded us to preach unto the people and to testify that it is
he which was ordained of God to be the judge of the quick and the
dead."
1.
Preach to the people: The meaning here is as
in the Great commission. The gospel is to be preached to all people everywhere.
That is the command of Christ! The gospel is for all people, not just for the
elect. It is true that only the elect will respond and be saved, but we do not
know who the elect are. However, there is a further reason why everyone should
hear the gospel. Paul alludes to this in his letter to the Corinth
Church.
2 Corinthians
2:14-16
"14
Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and
maketh manifest the savor of his knowledge by us in every
place.
15
For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and
in them that perish:
16
To the one we are the savor of death unto death; and to the other the
savor of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these
things?"
The Gospel that saves the elect believer,
judges the one who rejects Christ. To the elect it is unto life, to the non
elect it is to "them that perish."
Jesus brings this out clearly in John
10:26-28
"But ye believe not, because ye are not of
my sheep, as I said unto you.
27
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow
me:
28
And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither
shall any man pluck them out of my hand."
2.
"And
to testify"- The meaning of the word "testify" is to give or act as a witness.
See Acts
1:8.
3.
Notice that of which they were to preach.
a)
Jesus was ordained of God.
b) To be the Judge of the quick and dead.
Jesus Christ is the God-ordained Judge of the living and of the dead.
Death is not the
end of living. It is only the end of living in this world.
Hebrews
9:27
"And as it is appointed unto men
once to die, but after this the
judgment:"
Acts 17:31
"Because he hath appointed a day,
in the which he will judge the world
in righteousness by that man whom he hath
ordained; whereof he hath
given assurance unto all men, in that he
hath raised him from the
dead."
4.
The
witness of the prophets: Not just one prophet, but several give witness to
Christ that "whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission (the payment in
full) of sins." Vs 43.
The remission of sins (Old Testament
atonement merely covered sin for a year) is a New Testament term, which refers
to the particular redemption of God's elect. Remission is here clearly limited
to the believer.
Dr. J.R. Graves
says-
"We must admit that not all of Adam's race
were given by the Father to the Son to be saved, as the Universal redemptionists
falsely teach." (Sermon on Particular Redemption-Seven Dispensations chapter
seven.)
References to the prophets can be found in
Isaiah 53:11; Jeremiah 31:34; Daniel 9:24; Micah 7:18; Zechariah 13:1; Malachi
4:2, etc.)
5. The witness of the Holy Spirit: Vs 44-46
"While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word."
Apparently the Holy Spirit thought that Peter had said enough, for before he was finished or while he was still speaking, the Holy Spirit interrupted the message with a repeat of the Pentecostal phenomenal.
a) This was necessary because of the fact that these were Gentiles and God's Spirit had hitherto been poured out only on Jews. That is the reason for the astonishment of those who accompanied Peter.
"because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost."
Dr. John Gill says-
"because that on the Gentiles also was poured out of the gift of the Holy Ghost; which they before thought was peculiar to the Jews; and this was according to their former notions, and the sentiments of the whole nation, that the Shekinah does not dwell without the land, and only in the land of Israel {o}; yea, they sometimes say, only upon the families in Israel, whose genealogies are clear {p}: the same they say of prophecy {q}, which is one of the gifts of the Holy Ghost, and was one of those which were now bestowed. They own, that before the giving of the law, the Holy Ghost was among the Gentiles, but from that time ceased to be among them {r}: hence even these believing Jews wonder at the pouring it forth upon them; which they needed not, had they known that the legal dispensation was now at an end, and the Gospel dispensation had taken place; in which it had been foretold the Spirit should be poured forth on the dry ground of the Gentiles."
b) The physical evidence that this was an act of God is seen in the words "for they heard them speak with tongues (languages) and magnify God."
In order for them to know that this was an act of God, it was necessary that the same outward phenomenon be seen.
Dr. John Gill says-
"For they heard them speak with tongues, &c.] With divers tongues, which they had never learned, and before did not understand: and magnify God; they spoke of the wonderful works of God in these languages, as the apostles did at Pentecost, #Ac 2:11 they spoke greatly in the praise of God, and gave thanks for his rich grace and mercy bestowed on them:"
6. Peter's response to what was taking place:
"Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?"
a) It was not just Peter's decision to baptize, but agreement was asked of the others. Baptism is a Church ordinance.
b) Baptism demands evidence of the moving of the Spirit upon the soul of the recipient. One must first be a believer before baptism can be authorized.
They had received the Holy Spirit in the same way as the apostles.
7. Peter then commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. They were baptized in and by the authority of Jesus Christ.
This is not the baptismal formula, for that we must go to Matthew 28:19.
And so, with the baptism of this man and all of his friends a new Church began in Caesarea.
CONCLUSION:
Has the Holy Spirit been at work in your heart and life? Have you responded to the Gospel, the call of God as these did?
If so, what hinders you from the same waters of baptism that Peter offered to the household of Cornelius?
Your obedience to the command of Christ is evidence of your true faith in Him as Lord and Savior.
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday morning, May 16th 2001
LESSON EIGHTEEN –
PETER DEFENDS PREACHING THE
GOSPEL
TO THE
GENTILES
Scripture: Acts
11:1-18
Text: 1 Corinthians
1:21
"For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe."
INTRODUCTION:
As we have made our journey thus far through the Acts of the Apostles, we have observed some amazing facts of history. We have seen how that God used simple men and brought them through much persecution to bring the Gospel to multitudes of people. We have observed the use of the Word of God and how God uses preaching to reach the hearts of sinful men with the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Here in this eleventh chapter of Acts we see Peter, back in Jerusalem with the other apostles, defending the preaching of the gospel to the Gentiles which led to their conversion, baptism and the establishing of a New Testament Church in the City of Caesarea.
There are some interesting things we can learn here and apply to our churches today.
1. The Story Rehearsed: Vs 1-11
2. The Spirit Bade Me Go: Vs 12-17
3. The Support of the Jerusalem Church: Vs 18
1.
THE STORY REHEARSED: Vs 1-11
These verses find Peter coming back to Jerusalem where he rehearsed the
happening of his travels from Joppa to Caesarea.
A. Church Authority:
1. "The apostles and brethren" - It is important to note that the request for Peter to explain himself was not just that of the apostles. The apostleship was a special order set in place by Jesus Christ in the church before the Day of Pentecost.
1 Corinthians
12:28
"And God hath set some in the church, first apostles…."
That this was done before the Day of Pentecost is one of many proofs of the existence of the Church before that day.
Luke
6:13
"And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom he also named apostles."
2. The brethren would be the church brethren in Jerusalem, especially those in place of leadership.
3. Peter appears to be held accountable to the Jerusalem Church for his actions in his mission to Caesarea. New Testament ministry is always accountable to the church that sends or authorizes their ministry. Not even Peter was above the authority of the local Jerusalem Church. This action certainly downplays any idea of Peter being the first Pope as erroneously taught by Catholicism.
B.
Church Contending: Vs
3
"And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him."
1. It was not the whole Church that contended with Peter as to his actions in Caesarea. Rather it was a particular group within the Church, called here the "circumcision."
2.
From the earliest times, there were
some who had a difficult time in sorting out the Old Covenant from that which
was fulfilled by the new. That this was not all of the Church is seen by the use
here of the words "they of the circumcision." While all of the membership would
be Jewish, not all were contending for circumcision being a part of the New
Covenant. This issue later came to a head under the ministry of the apostle Paul
and was strong in the Galatian Churches.
3. It appears that the issue being brought up was as much one of association as of doctrinal difference.
a) You had fellowship in the house of those who were not circumcised.
b) You actually ate with them, but there is no accusation that they ate anything ceremonially unclean such as pork.
4. In all fairness to these men at this point, all of this was rather new. It is hard to shed tradition which most of this was. We today as Baptists, still hold to much religious tradition brought over from other denominations and out of another age or culture, rather than clear Biblical teaching.
5. Today's contention runs the gauntlet from dress codes, to food and drink restrictions, to what we call secondary association. That is, that we cannot fellowship with those who fellowship with false doctrines, even though the one we fellowship with may be orthodox or conservative. For the most part this is often not over fundamental or orthodox doctrine.
6. I cannot help but notice that these of the "circumcision" were more concerned with the more minor things than the fact that a whole household had embraced the Doctrines of Grace. Was the fact that the "Gentiles had also received the Word of God" not the most important and overriding factor? It certainly was in this case.
C.
Classified Rehearsal: Vs
4-11
"Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them…."
1. In other words Peter went into detail as to the Spirit's leading and in a very positive manner defended his actions.
2. Peter told them:
a) Where he was- Joppa.
b) What he was doing - praying.
c) The outcome of his prayer- a trance and vision.
d)
The details of his vision - Vs
6
e) The command - "Arise Peter slay and eat" Vs 7. (The shortest grace on record.)
f) Peter's refusal on religious grounds. Vs 8.
g) The voice from heaven that came three times Vs 9-10.
The reason for the voice coming three times
is perhaps two-fold.
1.
Peter needed this because of his religious
background.
2. 2 Corinthians 13:1 "This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established."
3. Here we see God's order of things; Grace before works. "What God has cleansed, that call not thou common." We may not understand things we see, but we need to take heed as to what we call them.
4. Confirmation - "And immediately there were three men already come into the house from Caesarea."
The fact that it was an immediate thing, and not something that took place the next day enabled Peter to connect the three Gentiles with what he saw in the vision.
5. So we see, first the vision, secondly the three me, and now we will see thirdly, the command of the Holy Spirit in verse twelve.
2.
THE SPIRIT BADE ME GO: Vs 12-17
"And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting…."
A.
Witness of the Men: Vs
12-14
1. "These six brethren accompanied me." I did not go alone; there were witnesses to the fact.
In Acts 10:23 the number of men (certain brethren) was not important, but here in establishing a fact, Peter says "these six brethren." There were six witnesses, not three.
2. "The man's house" - Peter did not name him at this point. Why? Perhaps if he did name him and show him to be a Roman officer, it would detract from the fact Peter was trying to establish.
Our status in life or society means nothing when it comes to our personal salvation. The Bible places all men on equal ground as "lost." Our depravity is not lessened by our social status. A dead man is just as dead, whether he is rich or poor, educated or not.
3. The term "man's house" refers to the one who called for Peter. It also shows God's order of authority in the home.
4. The man's call for Simon Peter and to the place in Joppa where he was praying underscored the fact of witness. God knows where we are and only God could tell Cornelius where Peter was.
5.
Finally, we see the need and call
for salvation. "Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall
be saved." Vs 14
"Words" not works lead to our salvation. (See Titus 3:5)
B.
Witness of God: Vs
15-17
"….the Holy Ghost fell on them"
1. Literally, during the conversation or in the midst of my preaching. See Acts 10:44.
2. The Holy Ghost fell on them: They were overcome, covered and filled with the Holy Spirit.
3. The manner of this action is related to "as on us at the beginning." Peter relates this happening to that which took place on the Day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:4.)
In other words, they were all
filled with the Spirit and spoke in other languages by the Spirit's
power.
4.
Peter's remembrance: Vs 16 - "Then remembered I the word of
the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be
baptized with the Holy Ghost."
Here we have proof that Peter associated the
outpouring of the Spirit upon the Gentiles as an extension of that which
happened at Pentecost. The Holy Spirit was extending to the Gentiles that which
He began in the Jerusalem Church among the Jewish
believers.
Vs 17 - "Forasmuch then as God gave to
them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ;
what was I, that I could withstand God?"
Let us look at this
closely:
a) Peter associated this with the
"baptism with (in) the Holy Spirit." He did not say that this was another
baptism of the Spirit. There is only one Pentecost as there is only one
Calvary.
b)
Peter called this, "the like gift" which he
associated with what happened to them earlier.
c)
He
associates what happened to "those who believed on the Lord Jesus
Christ."
d)
Finally, "what was I, that I could withstand
God?" - This was an act of God's sovereign grace of which man can be but the
recipient and not the author. (See Ephesians
2:8-9.)
3.
THE SUPPORT OF THE JERUSALEM CHURCH: Vs 18
"When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life."
A. Realization:
"When they heard these things they held their peace…."
1. A sign of a good church is when we can accept the Word of God without further argument.
So we sing:
"I need no other argument, I need no other plea;
It is enough that Jesus died, and rose again for me."
2. Can we today hold our peace at the witness of others?
3. The basis of their acceptance was the moving of the Holy Spirit in the heart and life of the Gentiles.
Can or should we demand more than the Jerusalem Church accepted? It is evident that acceptance with God and with the New Testament Church ought not include a spiritual university degree.
They took them where the Lord had placed them and Caesarea became a good Church.
It is connected in Acts with several evangelistic efforts. Philip the evangelist lived here. Paul connected with this Church several times in his evangelistic travels. Paul spent two years here as a prisoner under Felix (Acts 23:23-26-32.)
B. Rejoicing: Vs 18b
"….and glorified God, saying, then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life."
1. They worshipped and gave honor to God upon the realization of what God was doing.
How excited do we today get about what God is doing on the mission fields of the world?
Many today, instead of rejoicing, make excuse as to why it is not happening in their church or in their town.
2. We see here the necessity of rejoicing in what God is doing, even though it may appear to be new to us, or that it is not taking place where we now live.
Jesus told his disciples to "lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest." (John 4:35.)
3. We see here that God does the drawing, not we ourselves.
Romans 10:12-13
"For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek; for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
Romans 15:9,16
"And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles and sing unto thy name."
Vs 16 - "And that I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost."
See - John 6:37,44,63.
4. God grants repentance unto life:
a) The Holy Spirit at work in the sinner enables one to repent. -See Ephesians 2:1
b) Repentance is unto life: One cannot be saved (vs 14) without first repenting of his/her sin.
Salvation is all of grace and the dead sinner cannot exercise his will towards salvation until he is first regenerated by the work of the Holy Spirit. This happens in the one action of the Spirit, not over a process of several days or weeks. Seed may be sown but until it springs forth in repentance and faith, death is still present. Man's best effort to avail himself of salvation comes to nought, until he is quickened by the Holy Spirit. Dead men do not talk! They can only corrupt more.
c) There is definitely something wrong with a person who does not rejoice in the salvation of a lost hell-bound sinner.
d) The "life" that this council talked about was the eternal life given to those who trust in Jesus Christ as personal Savior and Lord.
John 6:68-69
"Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.
And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God."
CONCLUSION:
What an exciting time in the history of the Church! However, it can be just as exciting for us today as we see God's Spirit moving in the lives of others. Perhaps if we like Peter spend more time in praying, we too can be used of God to bring the good news of Jesus to others. We spend too much time at the shrine of materialism and are too easily led astray from the central theme of Christianity. Oh to be like Paul who gloried in the cross! Oh to be open like Peter to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. To this end, Peter and the others gave their lives. Can we offer less to our Savior?
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.
Sunday morning, May 27th 2001.
LESSON NINETEEN
–
A CHURCH ESTABLISHED AT
ANTIOCH
Scripture: Acts
11:19-30
Text: Acts
11:22
"Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabus, that he should go as far as Antioch."
INTRODUCTION:
Following the persecution at the time when Stephen was martyred, believers in Jesus Christ were scattered abroad. Many traveled as far as Phenice (Phoenicia) and Cyprus and Antioch preaching the Word of God to Jews only. The idea that the gospel was for all nations had not taken hold among strictly Jewish believers, even though Jesus had instructed them to the contrary. How true it is, that unless the Holy Spirit intervenes, we preach "all notions" rather than to all nations. Change was underway and the Jerusalem Church had now realized the magnitude of the evangel. The Gospel was for people of all nations, Jews and Gentiles.
We now go to the city of Antioch in Syria where a church is being planted that would become a great missionary church that would be responsible for sending the apostle Paul on his great missionary journeys.
1. THE PREACHING: Vs 19-21
2. THE PREPARATION: Vs 22-26
3. THE PROCLAMATION: Vs 27-30
1.
THE PREACHING: Vs 19-21
The result of the persecution in Jerusalem was that the gospel was preached in other places and new churches were established. A close look at the New Testament shows us that the Biblical method of evangelism resulted in the planting of new churches. These were churches, not missions that hung onto the apron strings of their mother church for five to ten years or more, as is too often the case today.
Here we notice two things about the preaching of these early believers in Jesus Christ.
A. Scripture:
1. They preached the Word. As we look at the history of the church it is evident that they put a strong emphasis upon the preaching of the Word of God.
2. The fact that they preached only to the Jews is the result of their lack of revelation at this point as to the scope of gospel witness. This we will see is about to change.
3. Vs 20 - "Preaching unto them Jesus." They did not try to denominationalize believers, but simply preached the "person" of the Lord Jesus Christ.
4. Men and women today need to know this same person, Jesus Christ. It is the work of the church to introduce the world to this person, wherein is eternal life. It is the Biblical person who is alive and seated on the right hand of authority in heaven that needs to be introduced to lost sinners.
The main thrust of Biblical evangelism is the preaching of the Word of God.
B. Scope:
1. If you look at your map in the back of your Bible (or a good Bible Atlas) you will notice that those who were responsible for establishing the work in Antioch came from Cyprus and Cyrene. Cyprus is an island in the northeastern part of the Mediterranean Sea. Cyrene is a city that was located in North Africa between Alexander and Carthage and was a Greek colony.
Phenice is a harbor on the south coast of the island of Crete in the Mediterranean Sea. Some translations give this word as Phoenicia, which while probably included Crete, was generally in the area of Lebanon. There was a strong Christian influence near to Tyre and Sidon, which the apostle Paul would later visit on his missionary journey. The Greek word used here is "Phenicia", which it seems to me would exclude the island of Crete as the place mentioned here in Acts 11:19.
2. These would be Greek speaking Jews (Hellenists) since at this point the gospel was only being presented to Jews.
3. The significance of this is that the gospel was now being strongly presented in the Greek language which the majority of people in the then known world understood. Today the main thrust of gospel presentation is through the English language, but of course is reaching to all languages and people.
The main thrust of Bible language is Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek.
4. Some of the believers who came to Antioch preached Christ to the Greeks as well. A great number of these people believed on the Lord Jesus Christ. (Vs 21) The meaning of the word "believe" here is that they learned to adhere to, trust in and rely upon the Lord Jesus Christ. They turned and surrendered themselves to Him.
2.
THE PREPARATION: Vs 22-26
Evangelism is always a good preparation for the establishment of a New Testament Church. Another basic need is seen here in that of a sending church or authority for establishing another Church body.
A. The
Missionary Arm: Vs 22-24
1. News of the Greeks in Antioch hearing and responding to the Gospel reached the Church (Assembly- Greek, ecclesia) in Jerusalem.
2. They (the Church not just the apostles) sent Barnabas to Antioch. Barnabas was the missionary or one sent with authority. He was more than a delegate, as churches do not (or should not) delegate their authority. The idea of delegating means that the church gives over or gives up some authority to the one delegated. The authority here came directly from the Church. This among many other reasons is why Baptists believe in (local) Church authority.
3. We note that Barnabas was sent forth by the Jerusalem Church, and limited in his commission, to go to (or as far as) Antioch. The concern of the Jerusalem Church was with the report of Greeks coming to know the Lord in Antioch. Please note the words "in Jerusalem" refer to the local Church. It does not just say "when the Church heard." This is not a universal church operation, but rather one of the sovereign local church in Jerusalem. (Vs 22)
4.
What Barnabas found in Antioch:
Vs 23
a) That the grace of God had been at work in Antioch.
b) That they should be further exhorted to "cleave unto the Lord with purpose of heart."
5. Barnabas is said to have been a good man and full of the Holy Spirit, which should be said of any missionary. (Vs 24.)
6. The result of his ministry was "much people was added unto the Lord."
The meaning of "added unto the Lord" is more than just coming to the knowledge of salvation, but brought into a New Testament Church order. They became a body of Christ in Antioch.
7. Barnabas had then fulfilled enough of the commission of his sending (sponsoring) Church. He was then free to go on to Cilicia, to the city of Tarsus to solicit the help of Saul.
C.
The Mission Advance: Vs
25-26
1. With the establishment of the Church in Antioch, Barnabas was able to leave long enough to go to Tarsus for Saul.
2. Barnabus brought Saul with him back to Antioch and they tarried there for a whole year.
Three things happened here during this year in Antioch.
a) They assembled themselves (joined the Church) with the church.
b) They taught many people here in the Church and in the city of Antioch.
c) The disciples (followers or learning believers in Christ) were first called Christians in Antioch. We note here that they were called, not that they called themselves. When others see Christ in you, you will not have to identify yourself by any label. It was those outside of the Church that called them Christians. Many people today use this term, who know nothing of the Nazarene. It takes more than a few drops of water on one's head, or a cross around one's neck to make one a Christian. Jesus told the religious, moral rabbi, "Ye must be born again." (John 3:3.)
3.
THE PROCLAMATION: Vs 27-30
It is noteworthy that from the place where the gospel would spread into Asia Minor, Europe and to the entire world, that the believers in Jesus Christ were called Christians. We might well ask, is anyone who does not obey the Great Commission worthy of this name? It is sickening to see the abuse of the name Christian today. It is sickening to see the abuse of the name "Baptist" today in the light of the great ministry of John.
However, let us look at the proclamation of this great missionary "Baptist" Church.
A.
Prophetic Voice: Vs
27-28
1. "And in those days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch."
While New Testament prophets were foretelling, their ministry was more forth telling. This is a ministry that along with that of apostles was limited to the apostolic age and was to disappear with the completion of the Bible, the Word of God. (Cf Acts 2:17; Acts 13:1; 15:32; 21:9; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11.)
1 Corinthians 13:10
"But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away."
James 1:25
"But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed." (See- vs 21-22)
Isaiah 8:20
"To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to my word, it is because there is no light in them."
2. The ministry of the New Testament prophet was one of vision. To give light or point the way of direction. Please note that the prophets came from the Jerusalem Church. They came from one Church to another, and did not operate apart from the Churches. Those today who claim this ministry usually operate apart from any Church authority. Such visions and so-called prophetic word could well be cured by a good dose of alkazeltser.
3. "There stood up one of them (a prophet) by the name of Agabus, and signified (made it known) by the Spirit (of God) that there would be great dearth or famine throughout all of the world." The use of the word "world" here probably is reference to the Roman world. Josephus seems to restrict this to Palestine in AD 44-46. There were no known famines that covered the whole known world at this time, but there was one in Palestine, which began in August of 44 AD and lasted almost four years. (See American Commentary on the New Testament- Page 142.)
"which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar" - Claudius Caesar reined from AD 41-54 which give credence to the Palestine famine theory.
4. Agabus: Little is known of this man but according to the translation of some manuscripts, which reads, "one of us" rather than "one of them", he may have originally come from Antioch. He is spoken of again in Acts 21:10-11, and would probably be included with the prophets mentioned in Acts 13:1.
B.
Purpose Driven: Vs
29-30
A sign of a good church is when they are purpose driven. Some churches seem to exist just for worship and never involve themselves in any outreach. The purpose of a New Testament Church is two-fold, first we gather to worship, and secondly, we go forth to serve. A church, which is not doing both, is not fulfilling her mandate (Matthew 28:19-20.)
1. "Then the disciples" - This is reference to the Church and not just to the 12 apostles. A disciple is one who follows with respect to learning. Are you a disciple of our Lord Jesus Christ?
2. "according to his ability"- God never asks us to do more than we are able or gifted to do. That is why I never sing solos in Church! Every member within the body is gifted in some way as Paul explained to the Corinthian Church (1 Corinthians 12.) God has a purpose in His church, and that includes every member. When you came to Church today, you did not leave part of your body at home. Every member did its part in getting you out of bed, into your car and to this place of worship.
All of us differ in our gifts and circumstances of life, but everyone can do something. Please, don't do nothing simply because you are not able to do everything! In other words, "don't pass the buck to someone else."
3. "Determined" - That is the problem that most of us have. We lack determination when it comes to serving God. There are just too many priorities that push Jesus Christ and His Church down the list.
Matthew 6:33 means too little to most North American Christians.
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
It is always good, and right to do what is good and right!
It was the disciples (plural) the whole Church that determined to send relief unto the brethren in Judea. This was a Church action, but remember that churches are made up of many members, like you and me. When it comes to the Church, we can say as President Truman said, "the buck stops here." As members of a local Church, we need to work together as one body in Christ.
What is our determination? What is your determination, when it comes to serving the Lord?
4. Not only did members work together within each church, but also churches worked together to bring relief and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. Churches can work together, and we do not need a formal association or denomination to do it. We appreciate the help of sister churches in supporting our missionary work in the Philippines. This is how missionary work was accomplished in Bible times and is the Baptist way of doing mission work, then and now.
Romans 15:26
"For it pleased them (the churches) of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem."
1
Corinthians 16:1
Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye."
See also - 2 Corinthians 9:1ff
The problem in Judea, and especially in Jerusalem was that many members had left due to the persecution. Such severe loss of membership resulted in a loss of church revenue. This was more likely the case here, and later the need was enhanced by the famine.
Churches ought to help one another out in such situations of life. This strengthens the brethren and the church to carry on their mandate from Christ in their area.
Churches that fail to do mission work will become a mission field themselves. Relief of the poor among our churches is also God's work.
1
Corinthians 12:25-26
"That there should be no schism in the body;
but that the members should have the same care one for
another.
And whether one member suffer, all the
members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with
it."
5.
"Which also they did" - They carried out the
task they determined to do together.
"And sent it to the elders by the hands of
Barnabus and Saul." - The elders of the churches in Judea received the
assistance sent from Antioch. This (assistance) was delivered to them by
Barnabus and Saul.
So we see here the work of one sovereign,
independent, local Church. It should be noted that this was still a new and very
young church. In starting new Churches, we ought to teach them to be missionary
minded from the beginning. The need is here and now and the lessons of mission
work help to build strong churches. Building big and fancy buildings is not near
as important as building up the local body of Christ.
Let us have this same determination for our
church.
CONCLUSION:
Let me ask you, what is a body without hands,
legs, and feet? What is our body without you? If you are a Christian, you ought
to be a functioning one, within the framework of a local Church. It is sin to do
otherwise.
Are you a Christian? Are you obedient to our
Lord Jesus Christ? Have you been Scripturally baptized and joined a New
Testament Church? This then is the body wherein you ought to function. Within
the local Church, we ought to work together and as an independent church, work
with our sister churches (those of like-faith and practice) to carry out the
mandate that Jesus our Lord has given to us.
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Sunday morning, June 3rd 2001.
LESSON TWENTY
–
CHRISTIAN LIVING IN
DIFFICULT TIMES
(James is Killed-Peter Imprisoned)
Scripture: Acts
12:1-25
Text: Acts 12:24
"But the word of God grew and multiplied."
INTRODUCTION:
About the same time when Barnabus and Saul went up to Jerusalem with the relief money for the church, there began a persecution by Herod Agrippa the first, son of Aristobulus, and grandson of Herod the Great. Herod ruled under Caligula Caesar, and from AD 41 under Claudius over all of Palestine (AD 37-44.) Herod Agrippa worshipped regularly in the Temple in Jerusalem and lived in accord with the strict Jewish law. He suppressed all attempts to bring pagan ceremonies or images into the synagogues. Agrippa's devotion to Judaism made him one of the first persecutors of Christianity, as we see here in this chapter. His death occurred suddenly in AD 44 as pointed out by Luke and also Josephus (Antiquities 18, 6, 7.) When the growing sect of the Nazarene began to grow and threaten Judaism, Agrippa intervened with the power of the state.
1.
THE SWORD OF THE STATE: Vs
1-5
Persecution and opposition to the Gospel of Jesus Christ comes in many forms. Satan knows his work and sometimes it comes from within the Church. Other times it is found in either political or religious persecution from without the camp. Evidence of this is found throughout the Bible in both the Old and New Testaments. The end purpose of all opposition to the gospel is to hinder the cause of Jesus Christ. Many times such opposition is subtle, and then history also speaks to us of outright persecution by the Sword of the State, including State Religion. So here we see:
A.
Persecution of Leadership: Vs
1-4
1. For various reasons, Satan's tactics come from different directions. Sometimes he works in the grass roots membership of the Church. In this instance he went directly to the leadership.
2. Herod is said to have been part Jewish, and had strong Jewish religious leanings. (G. Campbell Morgan calls him an Edomite and a Greek.) Unfortunately these leanings were more political and denominational than they were spiritual. This has been an underlining factor in all religious persecution against those who sought a pure New Testament Church of Jesus Christ down through the ages. Catholic Crusaders enroute back from the crusades in Palestine, slaughtered hundreds of Waldensians as they worshipped in their services in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy. Protestant fanatics, thinking they were doing God a favor imprisoned and slaughtered Anabaptists in Switzerland and Germany. Often drowning them in the baptismal waters of a local river. Protestants imprisoned beat and murdered Baptists in New England (USA) only because they sought to obey the scriptures as to immersion and refused to sprinkle their babies with so-called holy water.
3. James, the apostle and brother of John (the apostle) sons of Zebedee, (Matthew 4:21; 20:23) was a leader with the apostles in Jerusalem. There are at least four men known as James in the New Testament. James was put to death by the sword.
4. This one verse (2) appears to be the answer of an earlier question of James and John:
"Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and one on Thy left hand in Thy glory."
Jesus answer: "Ye
know not what ye ask, Are ye able to drink the cup that I drink? Or to be
baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" Their answer was that they
could. (Mark 10:35-40.)
John of course had a different "baptism" as he lived probably close to a hundred years of age and spent much time in exile on the Island of Patmos.
5. Because the murder of James pleased the Jewish leaders, Herod also had Peter arrested and imprisoned (Vs 3). One sin almost always leads to others, as was the case here.
6. This was during the days of unleavened bread or the festival of the Passover, which continued seven days, and was so named because during that time no leaven was allowed in the houses of the Jews.
7. Peter was therefore apprehended, imprisoned and kept under guard by "four quaternions of soldiers." That is four companies of four, which would relieve each other in guarding the prison. In other words it took sixteen soldiers to guard this one preacher! (I find that quite humorous, especially in light of the outcome.)
8. The intension was that after Easter, he would bring him before the common people, no doubt to instigate false charges against him as had earlier been done to Jesus. The word "Easter," is better read "after the passover." The word Easter appears only once in the KJV It is used here as a translation of the Greek word "pascha" which is translated as "Passover" in 28 other places where it occurs in the New Testament. (See also Exodus 12) The English word "Easter" is thought to be derived from the name of a Teutonic goddess of spring, Eastre, and to have been adopted by the Roman Catholic Church to its present usage about the 8th century. (Wycliffe Bible Encyclopedia.)
Herod Agrippa did not want to have problems with the stricter Jews who would not want an execution during their holy days. However, history attests that Herod's end was much nearer than was Peter's.
9. The answer as to why God permitted James to be killed, and Peter imprisoned humanly speaking may not add up or make sense. However, God's ways are not our ways, and we have to believe that he knows what is best, for us, for the Church and for His work in our midst. The outcome, to say the least was a victory for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and for the Lord's Church. The rest we leave to God's sovereign will and grace. (See Psalm 2:1-6.)
B.
Prayerful Defence: Vs
5
1. "Peter was kept in prison: but…."
Let me ask you; is the Church prayer meeting important? Not to too many Christians today.
However, it is wrong to underestimate the power of prayer.
James 5:13-16
"Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he has committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
2. There are two types of prayer, one is personal or private prayer, the other is communal (gathered) or group prayer. Both are necessary and important in the life of the Church and to Christian growth and spirituality.
3. Prayer was made "without ceasing" or continuously until some form of answer was given. God always answers the believer's prayer. Sometimes he says "yes" and sometimes he says "no." There are other times when he says, "wait." And still there are other times when he says, "come home to be with me, which is far better."
4. Samuel said that failure to pray for others is sin against God:
1 Samuel 12:23
"Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: …."
5. God uses people in His work, and especially the members of the New Testament Church. Let us think about this and maybe the attendance of our mid-week prayer and Bible study will increase. So will our spiritual health and the welfare of our Church, not to forget evangelism in our community.
We are the winners when we pray; and we are the losers when we neglect our prayer life.
2.
SPIRITUAL POWER AGAINST THE ENEMY: Vs 6-19
Psalm 2:1
Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?"
Opposition to God, His work, and His people is not a new thing. We find it in the heart of man from the beginning of time. Behind it all is the Prince of demons, Satan himself.
Acts 5:3
"….why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost…."
Zechariah 3:1
"And he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him."
Satan stands behind all opposition to the Churches of Jesus Christ and the preaching of the gospel of sovereign grace.
A.
The Powerful Chains: Vs
6
1. Then the time finally came (after the passover) that Herod wanted to bring him before the people. Herod never lost sight of his goal, and much more, neither should we.
2. Peter was sleeping without a worry even though the immediate circumstances were not good. We are not to live under the circumstances, but above them. This we can do if our trust and confidence is in the Lord.
Psalm 37:1
"Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity."
I heard an old missionary when I was in Bible school say, "if you worry you don't trust, if you trust you don't worry."
One of the seven steps to victory given in Psalm 37 is
"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him…" (Vs 7)
Previously Peter was not a patient man, but this is the Spirit filled Peter.
3. They must have thought they had a rather dangerous criminal, this former fisherman, a preacher from Galilee. Bound with two chains, between two soldiers, behind the bars of a double locked jailhouse and other guards outside! There is no end to which those who oppose the truth will go in their opposition to God.
4. Peter was at rest, sleeping between the two soldiers, the guards were most likely awake. So was God awake and doing his work. Like Jesus who appeared to be sleeping during the tempos on the sea. Only that time the disciples were not resting, nor trusting in their Master.
5. When we can do something, do it. When we can do nothing, pray and just relax.
Ephesians 3:20
"Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us…."
B. The Powerful Prayer Meeting: Vs 7-12
1.
Behind the scenes, unknown to us is the
mighty hand of God. God takes care of His elect, and most of the time we do not
at least immediately see it. Then to our discredit, we often take the credit for
a good outcome. (Or what we think is a good outcome.)
2. In this instance, the angel of the Lord came upon Peter, and a light shone in the prison.
Notice that only Peter saw the light.
Unregenerate people cannot see the light unless God works in their heart to do
so. The rest just kept on in their sleep like most do
today.
3.
The
angel smote Peter on the side. This I also find rather humorous. The Greek word
here translated "smote" is "patasso" which means to strike as with a weapon; or
to quote W.E. Vine, "literally, of giving a blow with the hand, or fist or
weapon."
Was Peter that hard to arouse or was this
more like a Sergeant waking up a private who should be working? What does God
have to do to get our attention, to wake us up to do His
work?
Psalm
6:1
"Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before Him."
Isaiah 60:1
"Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee."
4. "And raised him up" It was the work of the angel that raised Peter up. It was the work of Jesus that raised Lazarus from the dead. It is the work of God's grace that raises us up and only His enabling power can bring us to response, "saying arise up quickly." It was then, that the chains, which bound him, fell off. This is a beautiful picture of God's Sovereign grace. We cannot respond to God in a saving way apart from His work within us. Mans will can only lead him to sin more until enabled by the power of God. Then, in that moment we can say "yes" and the chains of sin will fall off.
5. When one is awakened, as Peter was, then he is to follow God. Then he is able to "gird" himself by putting on the whole armor of God. (Ephesians 6:11.)
Peter was to dress himself to leave the place where he was imprisoned. He was told to put on his sandals and put his garment (cloak) around him.
Paul told the Ephesian Church to let their "feet be shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace." (Ephesians 6:15.)
6. "and follow me" - going our own way gets us into trouble. We must follow the one who frees us from the prison house of sin. We must follow Him who alone is able to free us from the shackles of sin and give us the freedom of life eternal.
Jesus in calling His disciples said, "Leave your nets, take up your cross and follow me."
Are
you still doing your own thing, going your own way? Why not consider the way of
the cross? Try God's way, the JESUS way. (John
14:6.)
7. Remember, that all of this is happening to Peter while the Church is on her knees.
Peter went out and followed the angel (vs 9) not realizing the reality of what was happening. He thought he was having another vision or in a trance. Isn't that quite the human thing to do?
We are so at home in this old body of ours that we cannot quite fathom the richness of walking in the Spirit.
2
Corinthians 5:6-7
"Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:
(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
8. Vs 10 - The angel stayed with Peter leading him right past the first and second wards, out through the gate (the first automatic remote gate in history) and for one block outside, after which Peter could make it on his own.
9. Vs 11 - "When Peter was come to himself" - When he woke up to the fact that this was not a vision but a very real deliverance from the jailhouse.
Do we realize what God has delivered us from? Do we too realize the pit from whence we have been dug?
"Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews."
10 Vs 12 - "And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying."
Peter was here the result of the power of prayer, as well as a direct answer to it.
Whenever we will come to ourselves, we too will become an answer to the prayers of others.
This happened to me, as I was converted following the faithful praying of my father and a missionary (Bruce Brillinger) whose health would not allow him to return to Africa.
Open the door and look, the answer to your prayers may be just outside the door, knocking.
The Church in Laodicea was so backslidden that she did not realize that her head, Jesus Christ was outside of his own church, knocking and asking to be let in.
I am also reminded of the reason for the shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept." This was because of the unbelief of those who gathered at the tomb of Lazarus.
Compare this with his words concerning Jerusalem:
Luke 13:34
"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killeth the prophets, and stonest that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen gathereth her brood under her wings, and ye would not!"
Again, Jesus is left outside the door, but waiting patiently for those who would bid Him enter.
11. John Mark was later to play an important part in evangelism with Paul and Barnabus. He is the author of the gospel of Mark.
C.
The Peoples Response: Vs 13-19
1.
Vs 13
- "And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named
Rhoda."
Peter is knocking
at the entrance to the house and a young lady by the name of Rhoda,
answered..
2. Vs 14 - Rhoda recognized Peter's voice,
but in her excitement, she did not unlock the gate, but ran to tell the others
that Peter was at the door.
There are some,
even today who over emphasize the emotional, and forget about the job they
should be doing. We ought to be excited about the answers to prayer, but please,
take time to open the gate for Peter, or your Pastor, or for some lost person,
or person in need.
3.
Vs 15
- "And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was
even so. Then they said, it is his angel."
Notice the steps of unbelief in this verse-
a) You are mad or
insane. You are crazy!
b) "It is his angel" -
It is worse than we thought, he has been executed and his angel is at the
door.
Isn't it amazing how we pray so hard for
something, and then we are surprised when God answers our prayer? We can believe
anything and everything but the truth.
Oh the unbelief that all of us possess! What
is unbelief, but faith in reverse gear? Unbelief is faith going backwards. We
are really saying, "I believe that I don't believe that it will really
happen."
This is humorous, but sad to say it is a very
real result to most of our prayers.
4. This young lady is a
good example. She is no quitter! She has something to share and she just kept
repeating it until they listened. Don't give up too easily in testifying to your
friends and relatives about Jesus Christ. Keep on telling the good news! Not
just Peter, but JESUS is at the door!
5. Vs 16 - "But Peter continued
knocking-"
Peter had been to Jesus College, and he was a
fisherman with some measure of patience. This he did not originally possess, but
since learned.
I am here reminded of the story of the
spider, "if at first you don't succeed, try, and try
again."
Your loved ones are inside, and they are
ignoring you, keep knocking. You are praying for their salvation, keep knocking.
You may feel slighted but keep knocking.
6.
"And
when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were
astonished."
Closed doors reveal nothing! You need to open
the door to see whom it is knocking. To some it is Peter, but he is
representative of Jesus. Has Jesus been knocking on your door? Perhaps he wants
to come in and live within you? Perhaps you have not obeyed him in baptism and
need to follow him more closely. Perhaps he wants you to be a part of His body,
the church? Please, open the door!
Churches sometimes get too social and become
bless-me-clubs rather than a medium of evangelism.
Open the door, there is a missionary outside
in need. It really is Peter!
"Astonished" - They were surprised, but why?
Were they not praying for this to happen?
7. Vs 17- Peter beckoned them to hold their peace. In plain English, keep quiet!
Someone has said that we have only one mouth, but two ears, which means we should listen twice as much as we talk. If they wanted to hear of the blessing of God, they needed to shut their mouth and open their ears.
Did Jesus not say to the seven churches of Revelation, "he that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches?" (Revelation 2-3.)
Peter told them to go and tell James and the other brethren of their spiritual victory against the enemy. Then Peter went elsewhere, to continue his ministry. He did not wait around to see the reaction of Herod, and neither should we. We are to concentrate on the ministry God gave to us.
8.
Vs 18 - "Now as soon as it was day, there was no
small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter."
Can you imagine the commotion in the prison
when the soldiers wiped the sleep from their eyes to find that Peter was not
there? Unsaved people have such a hard time dealing with the miraculous. How do
we explain the power of God to deliver His people? We see this in so many ways,
such as the healing of the impotent man, the raising of Lazarus, and the
resurrection of Jesus.
And most of all is the answer to the major
question. What in the world do we tell Herod Agrippa?
9.
Vs 19
- "And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the
keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from
Judea to Caesarea, and there abode."
Such is the hatred of such men for the
preachers of righteousness. The penalty for letting Peter escape (and they were
innocent) was death. Such wickedness in the hearts of those who know not God and
oppose His Son! This is the story of often repeated in history, as millions of
Baptists have been put to death for the cause of Christ.
God's people are the winners; he who opposed
Him is the loser, along with all who would follow in that
train.
Herod was not only wicked, he was weak kneed
and yellow. While his innocent soldiers were being put to death, he could not
even stay to watch. He just left town. Oh the wickedness in the hearts of them
that will not own Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Oh the wickedness in the hearts of them who
would build their own kingdoms! Now let us learn of their
end.
3.
SUBSTITUTE FOR GOD: Vs 20-23
A.
Voice of
Blasphemy: Vs
20-23
1.
Here
we see the action of a tyrant! Here we see a picture of one who has no concern
for others except they help him achieve his ungodly goal.
2.
"Herod was highly displeased with Tyre and
Sidon." Here Luke takes us away from Jerusalem to the Phoenician cities of Tyre
and Sidon. He is about to give us a glimpse of God's retribution on a wicked
king. Don't ever think that such wickedness will go
unpunished.
Psalm
37:9
"For evil doers shall be cut off: but those
that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth."
3.
In
verse 20 we see the playing of politics where what you know is not nearly as
important as who you know. This sort of thing is sin and certainly should never
be found in the Lord's churches. However, unfortunately that is too often far
from the case.
4.
Blastus was a chamberlain or the one in
charge of the king's bedchamber. The deputies of Tyre and Sidon befriended him,
because their country was nourished by that of Agrippa's. They depended upon him
for food.
5.
Vs 21
- On an appointed day Herod arrayed himself in his royal robes, took his seat
upon his throne, and addressed an oration unto them.
Oh but hearken to the warning of Jesus to
"beware of false scribes wearing long robes!"
(Luke 20:46; Matthew
7:15.)
6.
Vs 22 - All of the assembled people shouted, "It is
the voice of a god, and not of a man!"
Man in his depravity will call anything god
but the one true God and accept anyone as Savior except Jesus Christ the Son of
God.
7.
Vs 23 - At once an angel of the Lord smote him and
cut him down, because he did not give God the glory. He did not give God the
preeminence and kingly majesty that belongs to him as the supreme ruler; and he
was eaten by worms and died.
This is the end of all ungodly men. The heads
of all the great empires went to the same end. History attests to this as fact.
Nebuchadnezzar, Alexander, Caesar; Hitler, and Mussolini.
Historians declare that Herod Agrippa
came to a bitterly painful and sudden death.
B.
Victory Over Evil: Vs 24-25
1. The angel of the Lord took care of this persecutor of Christians, this enemy of the New Testament Church.
2.
"But
the Word of God grew and multiplied."
Who or what can withstand the
decree of Providence?
God is able to turn the bad around for good.
To turn the wrath of men about to praise him and declare His sovereign
grace.
Genesis 50:20
"But as for you, ye thought evil against me;
but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much
people alive."
Psalms 76:10
"Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee:
the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain."
Psalms 119:71
"It is good for me that I have been
afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes."
3.
Vs -25 - Barnabus and Saul returned from Jerusalem
when they had fulfilled their mission of delivering the relief offering of the
Church. They brought with them John Mark (the writer of Mark's
gospel.
4.
The
hindrance and substitute being removed, the Churches were then free to preach
the gospel to every creature as they had been
commissioned.
CONCLUSION:
There is no hindrance to which God will not
make us overcomers, or remove it for His own glory. Let us be sure that we are
not in the way of God's work, but on the way to bring Him glory who is the Lord
and Master, the Head of His true churches. Do you know this God and His Son
Jesus Christ?
Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck
Sr.
Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill,
Ontario, Canada
Sunday morning, June 10th
2001.
We interrupt
our lessons here to insert some material that has recently (2002) been released.
The following articles relate to the death of James, the Lord’s brother. The
student will find the recent archaeological findings interesting to say the
least. We insert these here for your information and further study, only.
-DPTSr.
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Pilgrims who travel to Israel to walk where Jesus walked may soon have something new to connect them with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Scholars have recently examined a box carved out of soft limestone, made to hold the bones of a first-century Jew. On its side is carved an Aramaic inscription, "James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus." The bone box, known as an ossuary, is in the hands of a private collector in Jerusalem. But its existence, revealed in a news conference today in Washington, D.C., has already generated a buzz among archaeologists and biblical scholars. The news conference was convened by Biblical Archaeological Review, which reports "an archaeological landmark" in its November-December issue. The ossuary was not uncovered in an archaeological excavation, but apparently surfaced on the antiquities market. This means that potentially important evidence for evaluating the box is missing. But experts consulted by BAR and Christianity Today seem satisfied that it really is a 2,000-year old artifact. BAR editor Hershel Shanks asked for an analysis by the Geological Survey of Israel. Retired Wheaton College professor John McRay, author of Archaelogy and the New Testament, says the survey's lab report was convincing. "Six different pieces of the patina of the stone were looked at through that laboratory," he said. "It was verified, by people who are not Christians, that the date on this is first century and there is no evidence of recent disturbances of the box." "I have no question it is an ancient artifact from the first century," said Eric Meyers, the Bernice and Morton Lerner Professor of Judaic Studies and Director of the Graduate Program in Religion at Duke University. "It appears to be the oldest extra-biblical, non-literary mention of Jesus in the context of the nascent Christian church, and that's pretty significant." Archaeological looting But could this ossuary really belong to the brother of Jesus of Nazareth? "You have to remember that the three names mentioned are equivalent to Tom, Dick, and Harry," says Meyers. "They're everyday sort of names in the first century. What is most compelling to me is the use of 'brother of.' We don't have the designation of siblings common in the epigraphy of the Second Temple or early Roman period. That's kind of a clincher for me." Meyers is an archaeologist who has excavated a number of sites in Israel. And even while marveling at this development, he cannot hide his repugnance at having to comment on a discovery of unknown provenance. "There was a whole tomb that was looted and this has been sold on the black market," he charges. "We're missing all of the rest of the stuff that could have filled in the blanks. That's very sad and that's why we don't want to encourage archaeological looting and this sort of activity." Implications for Catholic
doctrines Witherington is intrigued as much by the beautiful Aramaic lettering of the inscription as by what it says. Handwriting analysis also helps date the ossuary to around A.D. 62, the traditional date of James' death. "It certainly supports the view that Aramaic was still very much a living language amongst early Jews, including some of the followers of Jesus," he adds. He also sees implications for some Catholic doctrines in this discovery, especially the perpetual virginity of Mary. "The dominant Catholic tradition is that the brothers of Jesus are actually cousins because Mary didn't have any more children, or they were step brothers in that they were Joseph's sons by a previous marriage," he said. "This inscription could call into question that doctrine." Most Protestant scholars believe James was a younger brother of Jesus (one of four mentioned in Matthew 13:55) and not to be confused with the apostles, James the brother of John, or James the son of Alphaeus. James doesn't appear to have followed Jesus while he was alive, but Paul, in 1 Corinthians 15:7, mentions that Jesus appeared to James after the resurrection. James then became the leader of the Jerusalem church. Acts 15 records that James rendered judgment at a church council that met to adjudicate issues raised by Paul and Barnabas. He was also probably the author of the New Testament book that bears his name. The first-century Jewish historian Josephus says that around A.D. 62 the high priest Ananus arranged for the death of "one James, the brother of Jesus who was called the Christ/Messiah." An important discovery Shanks became aware of its existence in June after the owner contacted French epigrapher Andre LeMaire to evaluate it for him. The owner "got it from an Arab antiquities dealer," he said. "He only paid a few hundred dollars for it. The antiquities dealer told him it was found in the section of Jerusalem called Silwan, just south of the Mount of Olives. It's an area that's pockmarked with burial caves. Some people have their basements in ancient burial caves." McRay said he had anticipated a discovery like this when he wrote his book a few years ago. "Two thousand years have passed and you would expect something like this to be there. It could be, probably, the most significant archaeological discovery of this generation." Shanks calls it "the most important find in the history of New Testament archaeology." "We're making arrangements right now to have it exhibited in North America," Shanks adds. "Next month there are 8,000 biblical scholars meeting in Toronto at their annual meeting. We'd like it to be there." After that, he's not sure what will happen with the ossuary.
End of Inserts on the Apostle James - LESSON
TWENTY-ONE: THE
ANTIOCH CHURCH AND MISSIONS (The Story of a
Missionary Baptist Church) Scripture: Acts 13 Text:
Acts 13:23 "And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed." Thus far in our studies thru the Book of Acts, we have seen the results of Spirit filled men led of the Lord, in bringing the gospel from the First Church in Jerusalem to the Gentiles in Caesarea and then on to Antioch in Syria. The Antioch Church in that day became a great missionary Church. Here we see how the Holy Spirit operated in leading the Church and Spirit filled missionaries in establishing New Testament Churches in many places. Here we see what we today call Baptist distinctives at work. These principles are a vital part of the backbone of Independent, Landmark, Sovereign Grace, Missionary, Baptist Churches down through the centuries, remaining unto our time. 1.
THE MINISTRY: Vs 1-4 The ministry among the Churches of our Lord Jesus Christ was somewhat different in apostolic times than it is today. The basic reason was that the Word of God, what we today call the New Testament was not as yet complete. By the time of the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., all of the New Testament canon was complete with the exception perhaps of the Book of Revelation. Some seem to think that the last book of the Bible was complete about 62 A.D. but most conservative scholars hold out for a much later date, towards the end of John's life. John lived to somewhere close to one hundred years of age. A.
Church
Ministry: Vs 1-3 1. These ministries were in the local Church, and no minister should ever function apart from a Scriptural New Testament Church. This is in clear evidence throughout the New Testament. This is a guard against error and moral corruption within the churches of Jesus Christ. There would be very few televangelists today if God's people would adhere to this principle. 2.
The ministry
of the prophet was more of a forth-teller than a fore-teller but the
latter is certainly not ruled out. Again, the ministry of apostles and
prophets was apostolic as to time and later we find only the ministry of
pastors and deacons. There were no ministries over several churches in the
Episcopal sense, and the bishop (pastor) was that of the local church
only. 3. The Holy Spirit was, and
still is the Divine administrator of the churches. He spoke then through
the ministry of prophets and teachers. It appears that the Holy Spirit worked through them collectively, the teachers as well as the prophets. 4. Saul is here included in this group, with the prophets and teachers. 5. The ministry here is strictly spiritual and they ministered or waited upon the Lord for direction. Their time of waiting no doubt involved prayer, but also included fasting. No coffee breaks as we know them today. (Coffee is sometimes referred to in the south as "Baptist gasoline.) We today spend too much time in the supper room, and avoid the upper room. 6. Here we see a call to separation for a specific task. 7. "Separate unto me." The separation is first and foremost unto God the Holy Spirit. 8. "For the work whereunto I have called them." This call was not something out of the blue, unknown to anyone. They were already called, and in fact ministering within the churches. This call then is more of confirmation or specialty call to a specific task. Note that it is through the ministry, the men of the church that this call is made.
9. Following this
call three things were done: a) Fasted - It was not done in a hurry. b) Prayed - For blessing, further guidance and spiritual support. c) They laid their hands on them - This is not an ordinance, but a simple blessing of what God had already done. They were agreeing with God. So the laying on of hands was simply a confirmation of God's leading, and adding their blessing to God's word. Anything else would be "laying empty hands upon empty heads." 10. "They sent them away, on their journey." The meaning here is perhaps like a parent who says goodbye to their child going off to college. They know that things would be different now. The little one had grown up and was going out, very much on their own. Their parental relationship would now be different. The Antioch Church would not have these good men to minister strictly to them as they had over the past year or more. Yes, the Church would sponsor them; stand behind them, and even support or help support them. Barnabus and Saul would return to report to their sending church (Acts 14:26-27) but they are now entering a broader ministry of mission work. Note that Barnabus being the senior ministry here is referred to first. God respects calling and we ought to as well. We ought to respect the older ministries that have gone before us and paved the road. Pastors that start new churches should be respected for their labors by succeeding pastors. This is honorable and shows respect to our elders. B. Christian Mission: 1. "So they being sent forth by
the Holy Ghost" - Vs 4 Who was it that sent them, the Holy Ghost or the Church? The truth of the matter is that it was first and foremost, the Holy Spirit, and then the Church confirmed the leading of the Spirit. The Church sent them under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. That is how it ought to be today. 2. There are three necessary things that we see happened here, and need to be in place within our churches today. a) The Word of God: (The Holy Spirit said…) b) The Church: (In this case it was the Antioch Church.) Missionaries need to be local church sent and sponsored. c) The missionary call: (The Church does not need to be called to mission. Jesus already said, "GO" in the Great Commission.) Churches do need spiritual direction as to specific call to a particular field. 2.
THE MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Vs 5- Vs 4- "….departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus." They left Antioch and went to the nearby seaport of Seleucia from where they sailed to Cyprus, an island in the Mediterranean Sea. (Look these places up on the map in the back of your Bible.) A.
Message to
Salamis: Vs 5 1. Salamas is a large city on the eastern side of Cyprus. 2. They preached the Word of God. That is what people needed then and still do today. There is a dearth in many churches of a preaching of the Word of God. Too many sermons on Sunday morning are simply devotionals or homilies that are empty of Biblical exegesis. The end result is that there is to say the least, a watered down gospel, and no real Bible teaching. There is a need for Biblical expository preaching of the Bible. 3. In the synagogues of the Jews. This was where they could get a hearing. It is a simple fact that in order to preach the gospel we need to go where the people are. They went to the synagogues, which came under the commission to "GO". Jesus said, "Go" but many churches today are content to ring Church bells that they hope will attract people to come to Church. That is not the commission, the mandate given us by Jesus Christ. 4. John Mark (writer of the gospel of Mark) was also with them and assisting in this ministry. B. Man at Paphos: Vs 6 "And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-Jesus." 1. They went overland through the island of Cyprus to Paphos, which was located on the western end of the island. 2. They came across a man who was a sorcerer, one who was caught up in witchcraft. The Bible rejects the work of sorcery and Christians are taught to stay away from it. Sorcery is witchcraft that comes in various forms. Astrology is a form of sorcery or witchcraft. Satanism is the extreme of this practice. Forms of it are found in the works of Spiritualist mediums, some at least of the so-called faith healers, Christian Science which is neither Christian nor science. The Greek word translated sorcerer is "magos" one of a Median caste, a magician. Paul lists "witchcraft" as one of the
works of the flesh in Galatians 5:20. 3. This man was a Jew, named Bar-Jesus also called Elymas, which is an Arabic word meaning wise. (See Vine.) 4. A man named Sergius Paulus, a prudent man and deputy of the country was with this sorcerer, but desired to hear more from Barnabus and Saul. He called them aside for this purpose. However, the sorcerer sought to dissuade him and turn the deputy away from the faith. The meaning here, is to hinder him from accepting the Christian faith by becoming a believer in and follower of Jesus Christ. (Vs 7-8) C.
Meeting with
the Enemy: Vs 9-12 1. Paul faced this sorcerer who was hindering his presentation of the gospel to the deputy. 2. Notice Paul's accusation
against this man: Vs 10 a) He was subtle as was also said of the serpent in the Garden of Eden. b) He was full of mischief, a troublemaker. c) He was a child of the devil. f) He was an enemy of righteousness (God's standard of right living.) g) A perverter of the right ways of the Lord. 3. Gods hand was on him, not in blessing but in judgment (Vs 11) 4. He was smitten blind for a season and needed someone to lead him by the hand in order to get around. 5. This act accomplished at least two things: Vs 12 a) God was in this way speaking to the sorcerer, that Paul's power of God was stronger than his Satanic power. b) It caused the deputy to look towards Jesus Christ and salvation. 3. MISSIONARY JOURNEY CONTINUES: Vs 13-15 "Now when Paul and his company loosed from
Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them
returned to Jerusalem." Vs 13 At this point John Mark left the company and returned to Jerusalem. It does not state the reason, but apparently from what we read in Acts 15:38, it was not a reason of which Paul approved, Here we have the first mention of Saul being called Paul. Hitherto, it has been Barnabus and Saul, but from now on the principle person is Paul. There is apparently a difference in the meaning of these two names. Saul was the destroyer, the one who sought to wreck havoc in the Church. Now he is Paul, the builder for God. Now he would lead men to Christ and establish New Testament Churches in two continents, Asia, and Europe. A. Asia Minor to Hear the Gospel: Vs 14 1. Traveling from Cyprus, they arrived on the mainland of Asia Minor in what is now part of modern Turkey. They came to Perga in the Province of Pamphylia. 2. Perga: The capitol of the Roman Province of Pamphylia. Located on the Cestrus River on the southeast coast of Asia Minor. It was actually 12 miles inland from its port city of Attalia. Paul just passed through Perga at this time perhaps to get to the higher inland away from the Malaria conditions that were prevalent at that time of year, in this lowland area. He would stop and preach in Perga later on his return to his home Church in Antioch, Syria. Perga was never much influenced by the Greeks but remained oriental in character with worship centered in the Artemis of Perga. 3. It appears that they did not stay long in Perga but moved on into the mountains to Antioch in Pisidia. C. Antioch in Pisidia to hear the gospel: 1. The Holy Spirit does not always lead one to stop in a certain place at any given time. Providence knows conditions most often unseen by our limited vision. Paul would come back to Perga, but for now the leading of the Spirit would take them to Antioch in Pisidia. 2. Antioch is a city in the Roman Province of Pisidia, located on the central tableland of Asia Minor. This city was built by the founder of the Syrian Antioch. Under Augustus it rose to the rank of a colony. Now as Paul visited it, it was an important city, with a mixed population of Greeks, Romans, Jews and natives. 3. This is a choice place to preach the gospel, and to plant a New Testament Church. We cannot help but notice as we read through these chapters that Paul went to central areas, chiefly to large cities and Metropolitan areas. From these places, the Churches planted there, would reach out in their own areas with the gospel. The missionary cannot go everywhere, but churches placed in strategic areas would do what one man could not. 4. Arriving in Antioch, they went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down. This would be the most favorable place and opportunity to meet people, get a hearing, and preach the gospel. It is noteworthy that both Jesus and the apostles always went out where the people are. If you go fishing, you need to know where the fish are. Some people can only go fishing in the fish market. We need to get out into the deep, let the shoreline go and cast our nets on the right side of the ship, to quote our Lord Jesus Christ. 5. "And sat sown." Sometimes our mouth gets us in big trouble. The apostles sat down and waited their opportunity to speak. Someone has rightly said, we have two ears and only one mouth, therefore, we should listen twice as much as we speak. Sometimes our mouth is running a mile down the road before our brain even gets in gear. God wants to bring that big fish in as much as you do, so give him a chance. Please be patient, the bigger the fish, the longer it takes to land him. Modern day Arminian evangelism has a lot to learn about soul winning by the Spirit. Arminian soul winning leaves fish rotting on the shore and the smell of flesh leaves much to be desired. CONCLUSION: The Antioch Church sent out missionaries and later we will see where they heard their mission reports. Their mission program was simple and local church authorized. God has not changed his way of reaching people, and modern evangelism ought to work the same way. There is a need today for churches who will become missionary. The question is, can a church be Baptist and not be missionary? Personally, I doubt it very much. Remember that churches are made up of individual members who need to be obedient to the Head of the Church, our Lord Jesus Christ. Sermon preached by Dr. D. Paul Tuck Sr. Landmark Baptist Church, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada. Sunday morning, June 17th 2001 LESSON TWENTY-TWO: PAUL'S SERMON AT
ANTIOCH, PISIDIA (An Apologetic for the Christian
Gospel) Scripture: Acts 13:16-52 Text:
Acts 13:26 "Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent." INTRODUCTION: One who reads through the Acts of the Apostles cannot help but notice the simplicity of the sermons, which the apostles preached. It goes to prove a point I have been making for 43 years now. It is not how complex and deep we make the simple truth, but rather how simple we make the deep truths of God. Truth is not built upon complexity, but upon the facts as given by God in his inerrant, infallible Word, and it rests upon faith, not our ability to understand it. Faith opens the door to the wells of salvation that God provides by His sovereign grace and not upon our religious achievements. In laying the groundwork for the Christian gospel, Paul does not close the door to the Jews, nor do away with Mosaic Law. To the contrary, he shows that the Christian gospel is the fulfillment of that which came by Moses. Salvation in Jesus Christ is the answer to the demands of the law. John
1:17 "For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." Let us listen to Paul as he stands before the great crowd in the synagogue in Antioch. 1.
HISTORIC BACKGROUND TO THE GOSPEL: Vs
16-26 Paul met the Jewish people where they were, in order to bring them to where he wanted them to be. A. People of Israel Addressed: Vs 16 1. Men of Israel, or Israelite leaders there in the synagogue. It was important to address the men, and particularly to recognize them as "men of Israel." Women did not worship with the men in the synagogue or temple. 2. "Ye that fear God, give audience" - Secondly Paul was addressing those who feared or showed respect for God. The meaning here is two-fold a) To get the attention of those to whom he spoke, as probably all of them regarded themselves under this phrase as "God-fearing." b) The truth of the matter is that the Holy Spirit would address a particular number, those who are the elect, and would come to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. We today have displaced the Holy Spirit in evangelism with hoping, hollering, begging and pleading. Acts
10:35 "But in every nation, he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." 3. Therefore Paul begins his address in a positive, rather than negative approach. B.
People of Israel, Their
History: Vs 17-22 1. Paul begins with God, the God of the people Israel. Hebrews 11:6 "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." 2. "chose" - God does the choosing. No man, no nation ever chose God before He chose them. Arminianism puts a great emphasis upon "man's choosing." However, the fact of the matter is that no man ever came to God without God first taking the initiative and coming to him first. Adam and Eve in their nakedness did not come looking for God. On the contrary they hid themselves behind some foolish leaves. John
15:16 "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you." Ephesians
1:4 "According as he hath chosen
us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and
without blame before him in love." 3.
Israel was chosen as God's nation of
people and declared to Abraham before the birth of Isaac. (See Genesis 17;
Deuteronomy 7:6-7) 4.
Vs 17 - Paul refers to the deliverance of the
Hebrew people out of Egyptian bondage. 5.
God was patient with Israel and
suffered their stiff-necked rebellion for forty years as they wandered in
the wilderness. 6.
God destroyed seven nations in the land
of Canaan, making room for Israel to have their own land and be a nation
unto him. (Vs 19). 7.
God divided the land of Canaan
amongst the twelve tribes of Israel. 8.
He allowed them to have judges to
rule over them for 450 years until the time of Samuel the prophet. (Vs 20.) 9.
During the time of Samuel, Israel
desired a king. They wanted to be like the other nations around them. God
permitted them to have this king and gave them Saul the son of Kish, of
the tribe of Benjamin. Saul reigned for 40 years. (Vs
21.) 10.
God removed Saul and gave them David to
replace him. Of David God said, "I have found David the son of Jesse, a
man after mine own heart, which shall fulfill all my will." (Vs
22.) 11.
David would be the one to fulfill God's
will as to the prophetic promise given to Abraham, which promise was
two-fold, first of grace, and then also of race. (Genesis chapters
12,17,18.) C.
Prophetic Promise to Israel:
Vs 23 Isaiah
11:1 "And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots." 1. From the seed of David, according to His promise, God raised unto Israel, a Savior, by the name of Jesus. The implication of Israel does not mean that the Savior was only for Israel, but that the first offer of deliverance would come to that nation. John
1:11-12 "He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." 2. The angel declared that Jesus was indeed the Savior who would be born of Mary. Matthew 1:21 "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins." 3. Among many other things this Branch of David, named Jesus, would save his people from their sins. D.
Place of John the Baptist in
God's Plan: Vs 24-26 1. The ministry of John the Baptist pointed to Jesus Christ. 2.
The baptism of repentance.
Literally, baptism based upon repentance. Note that repentance comes before baptism and is not a product of it. Repentance is a step in the gospel process unto life, but in some places it represents the whole picture of faith. See for example, Acts 2:38-39. John's baptism, is New Testament Baptism, it is Christian Baptism. John's baptism is the only baptism that Jesus and His disciples knew. Those who make John's baptism as different from a so-called Christian baptism, err, in making the ministry of John dispensationally different from that of Paul. This is done for the most part upon a wrong understanding of the re-baptism of the "certain disciples" at Ephesus (Acts 19. |
