Sat, Jul 31st - 1:51AM

Bible Study 31 July

 Romans 14:1: Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.
   2: For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
   3: Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
   4: Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.
   5: One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
   6: He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day,to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
   7: For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.
   8: For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the lord's.
   9: For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.
   10: But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.
   11: For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord,every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
   12: So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
   13: Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
   14: I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.
   15: But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.
   16: Let not then your good be evil spoken of:
   17: For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
   18: For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.
   19: Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
   20: For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence.
   21: It is good neither to eat flesh,nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.
   22: Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.
   23: And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

We will all stand before the judgment seat of God let no one fool you in this matter.  Some people like to paint their own picture of what they believe God should be.  God is beyond our understanding but one thing you can be sure is that God is a God of love but he is also a God of justice and righteousness and he will have not part with unrighteousness.

Thu, Jul 29th - 11:52PM

Bible Study 30 July

Acts 19:13: Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.
   14: And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.
   15: And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?
   16: And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.

There is no true denying who Jesus is.  Mankind knows who Jesus is.  They just refuse to admit they know who he is.  If they admit they know who he is then they would have to admit they are unclean sinners worthy of death and where is the fun in that.  Literally.  Mankind has continued to live in rebellion to God because to submit to God would mean living a holy life without sin in submission to the will of God.  Mankind would rather live according to its own will.  Well that way only leads to hell.

Sun, Jul 25th - 11:26PM

Bible Study 26 July

Acts 16: 25: And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.
   26: And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.
   27: And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.
   28: But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.
   29: Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,
   30: And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?
   31: And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
   32: And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.
   33: And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.
   34: And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.
   35: And when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying, Let those men go.
   36: And the keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace.
   37: But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.
   38: And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.
   39: And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.
   40: And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

Acts 16:31 is one of those verses in the Bible that is straight to the point about salvation.  Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.  But believing is just the beginning.  You must act on your new found faith.  As Jesus said produce fruit.  In other words show you are a new creation in Christ by living the life of a Christian.  I can say I am a Christian but if I don’t live a life worthy of Christ I have not change and I am only deceiving myself about my true nature.

Sun, Jul 25th - 1:21AM

Bible Study 25 July

Acts 16: 1: Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek:
   2: Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.
   3: Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.
   4: And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.
   5: And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.
   6: Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,
   7: After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.
   8: And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.
   9: And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.
   10: And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.
   11: Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis;
   12: And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.
   13: And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.
   14: And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.
   15: And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.
   16: And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:
   17: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.
   18: And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
   19: And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,
   20: And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city,
   21: And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.
   22: And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.
   23: And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:
   24: Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

I will never declared to know the mind of God.  The way of God is beyond human understanding.  But although I might not always understand why some things happen I know God is in control and things happen for a reason.  The things that have happened in my life have got me to where I am today.  I believe I am where I am at today because God is preparing me for future plans.  God is and always will be in control.

Sat, Jul 24th - 1:23AM

Bible Study 24 July

Acts 15: 22: Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:
   23: And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia:
   24: Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:
   25: It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,
   26: Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
   27: We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.
   28: For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;
   29: That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.
   30: So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle:
   31: Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.
   32: And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.
   33: And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles.
   34: Notwithstanding it pleased Silas to abide there still.
   35: Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.
   36: And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.
   37: And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.
   38: But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.
   39: And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;
   40: And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.
   41: And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches

One thing that amazes me is that we have modern day Judaizers that still preach we must follow the Old Testament Laws.  Well these people truly have no Biblical knowledge.  Christ died on the cross so we might have salvation through him.  The Old Testament laws could never bring salvation because no man was perfect enough to follow them all, except on, Christ.  That is why he is our perfect sin sacrifice.

Thu, Jul 22nd - 11:58PM

Bible Study 23 July

Acts 15:  1: And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.
   2: When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.
   3: And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.
   4: And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.
   5: But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.
   6: And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.
   7: And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.
   8: And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;
   9: And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
   10: Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?
   11: But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.
   12: Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.
   13: And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me:
   14: Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.
   15: And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written,
   16: After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up:
   17: That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things.
   18: Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.
   19: Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God:
   20: But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.
   21: For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day.

How are you saved?  We are saved by the grace of God by faith in Jesus Christ.  It was the grace of God that he gave his only begotten Son to die on the cross for us that he might be the sin of sacrifice for the world.  It is by faith that we believe Christ is the only begotten Son of God and that he did die for our sins and that salvation is only through him.  Once we believe this we put our faith in action by becoming disciples of Christ and live a life pleasing to God.

Thu, Jul 22nd - 12:14AM

Bible Study 22 July

Acts 14: 8: And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:
   9: The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,
   10: Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked.
   11: And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.
   12: And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker.
   13: Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.
   14: Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,
   15: And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:
   16: Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.
   17: Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.
   18: And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.
   19: And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.
   20: Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.
   21: And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,
   22: Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
   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.
   24: And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.
   25: And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:
   26: And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.
   27: And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.
   28: And there they abode long time with the disciples.

I love reading about Paul.  What a true disciple of Christ.  Paul was stoned and left for dead but he wasn’t dead and after being stoned got up and walked back into the city because he still had work to do.  I need that kind of faith because honestly I often let myself get way to frustrated by things that happen at work. 

Tue, Jul 20th - 11:57PM

Bible Study 21 July

 ¹At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Gentiles believed. ²But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. ³So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders. ⁴The people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews, others with the apostles. ⁵There was a plot afoot among the Gentiles and Jews, together with their leaders, to mistreat them and stone them. ⁶But they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding country, ⁷where they continued to preach the good news. (NIV)

We are to preach the Word of God with boldness.  There always has been and always will be enemies of the Gospel.  Haters who blindly do the work of their master Satan.  But we are to continue to preach the Word of God.  If it is rejected we are not to stop.  We have done our part.  Those that reject the truth of God will answer to God for rejecting him.

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Mon, Jul 19th - 11:55PM

Bible Study 20 July

¹⁴ But Paul and Barnabas traveled inland to Antioch of Pisidia.^c]">[c]

   On the Sabbath they went to the synagogue for the services. ¹⁵ After the usual readings from the books of Moses^d]">[d] and the prophets, those in charge of the service sent them this message: “Brothers, if you have any word of encouragement for the people, come and give it.”

 ¹⁶ So Paul stood, lifted his hand to quiet them, and started speaking. “Men of Israel,” he said, “and you God-fearing Gentiles, listen to me.

 ¹⁷ “The God of this nation of Israel chose our ancestors and made them multiply and grow strong during their stay in Egypt. Then with a powerful arm he led them out of their slavery. ¹⁸ He put up with them^e]">[e] through forty years of wandering in the wilderness. ¹⁹ Then he destroyed seven nations in Canaan and gave their land to Israel as an inheritance. ²⁰ All this took about 450 years.

   “After that, God gave them judges to rule until the time of Samuel the prophet. ²¹ Then the people begged for a king, and God gave them Saul son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, who reigned for forty years. ²² But God removed Saul and replaced him with David, a man about whom God said, ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart. He will do everything I want him to do.’^f]">[f]

 ²³ “And it is one of King David’s descendants, Jesus, who is God’s promised Savior of Israel! ²⁴ Before he came, John the Baptist preached that all the people of Israel needed to repent of their sins and turn to God and be baptized. ²⁵ As John was finishing his ministry he asked, ‘Do you think I am the Messiah? No, I am not! But he is coming soon—and I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the sandals on his feet.’

 ²⁶ “Brothers—you sons of Abraham, and also you God-fearing Gentiles—this message of salvation has been sent to us! ²⁷ The people in Jerusalem and their leaders did not recognize Jesus as the one the prophets had spoken about. Instead, they condemned him, and in doing this they fulfilled the prophets’ words that are read every Sabbath. ²⁸ They found no legal reason to execute him, but they asked Pilate to have him killed anyway.

 ²⁹ “When they had done all that the prophecies said about him, they took him down from the cross^g]">[g] and placed him in a tomb. ³⁰ But God raised him from the dead! ³¹ And over a period of many days he appeared to those who had gone with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to the people of Israel.

 ³² “And now we are here to bring you this Good News. The promise was made to our ancestors, ³³ and God has now fulfilled it for us, their descendants, by raising Jesus. This is what the second psalm says about Jesus:

   ‘You are my Son.
      Today I have become your Father.^h]">[h]’

 ³⁴ For God had promised to raise him from the dead, not leaving him to rot in the grave. He said, ‘I will give you the sacred blessings I promised to David.’^i]">[i] ³⁵ Another psalm explains it more fully: ‘You will not allow your Holy One to rot in the grave.’^j]">[j] ³⁶ This is not a reference to David, for after David had done the will of God in his own generation, he died and was buried with his ancestors, and his body decayed. ³⁷ No, it was a reference to someone else—someone whom God raised and whose body did not decay.

 ³⁸ ^k]">[k]“Brothers, listen! We are here to proclaim that through this man Jesus there is forgiveness for your sins. ³⁹ Everyone who believes in him is declared right with God—something the law of Moses could never do. ⁴⁰ Be careful! Don’t let the prophets’ words apply to you. For they said,

 ⁴¹ ‘Look, you mockers,
      be amazed and die!
   For I am doing something in your own day,
      something you wouldn’t believe
      even if someone told you about it.’^l]">[l]” (NLT)

One thing you will notice about Paul and the other Apostles they preached the word of God boldly.  They weren’t concerned about being politically correct they were very direct in their message.  Accept Christ and live, reject Christ and you die a sinner and your fate is hell.  Where is the boldness today?  Where are the true church leaders that preach the truth of the Gospel without concern about being accepted by society?   It was society that put Christ to death and it was society that is leading people to hell today.

Sun, Jul 18th - 11:21PM

Bible Study 19 July

 Acts 13:1: Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
   2: As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
   3: And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
   4: So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
   5: And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.
   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:
   7: Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.
   8: But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.
   9: Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,
   10: And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?
   11: And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.
   12: Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.
   13: Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.

Many throughout history have tried to stop the Gospel and they all have failed and they will continue to fail as long as there are dedicated Christians willing to risk their lives and sacrifice their personal comfort to spread the Gospel throughout the world.  Let’s always keep these brave faithful people in our prayers as they live their lives to fulfill the Great Commission.

Sun, Jul 18th - 1:12AM

Bible Study 18 July

Acts 12:1: Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church.
   2: And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.
   3: And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)
   4: And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.
   5: Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.
   6: And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.
   7: And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.
   8: And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.
   9: And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.
   10: When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.
   11: And when Peter was come to himself, he said, 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.
   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.
   13: And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda.
   14: And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.
   15: And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel.
   16: But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.
   17: But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.
   18: Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.
   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 Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode

We don’t know the mind of God or always understand the will of God.  Why did James die but Peter was rescued?  We don’t know.  The Bible doesn’t give a direct answer to that question.  But we know Peter went on to be the leader of the early Church.  Maybe the simple answer is that God wasn’t done with Peter.  He still had plenty in store for Peter.  But one thing we can be certain of is that God is always in control.  Man often thinks he is in control but this is really nothing more than the arrogance of man.  All things happen according to the will of God. 

Sat, Jul 17th - 1:11AM

Bible Study 17 July

Acts 11:1: And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.
   2: And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him,
   3: Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.
   4: But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,
   5: I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:
   6: Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.
   7: And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.
   8: But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.
   9: But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.
   10: And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.
   11: And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.
   12: And the spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:
   13: And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;
   14: Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.
   15: And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.
   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.
   17: Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?
   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.
   19: Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
   20: And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.
   21: And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.
   22: Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.
   23: Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.
   24: For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.
   25: Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:
   26: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

The Gospel is an international message.  It is for all races and people because Jesus died on the cross for all races and people.  He died for the whole world that through his blood which was shed on the cross for us we might have the forgiveness of our sins and eternal life through him.  The Gospel is a message of good news for a world that is living in the darkness of sin. 

Fri, Jul 16th - 1:06AM

Bible Study 16 July

Acts 10: 34: Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
   35: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
   36: The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)
   37: That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;
   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.
   39: And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
   40: Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
   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.
   42: 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 quick and dead.
   43: To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
   44: While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
   45: And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
   46: For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
   47: Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
   48: And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

God has appointed all believers to proclaim his name to the lost.  We are all instructed to fulfill the Great Commission of proclaiming the Gospel to the world.  You might not be a preacher or a teacher but you can be witness to those around you.  We all can be a witness to those around you.  And this world really, really need witnesses of Jesus Christ right now.  This world is really slipping away from God.  How long can it be before he says enough?  One thing is for sure, with every passing day we are one day closer to the return of Christ. 

Thu, Jul 15th - 1:04AM

Bible Study 15 July

Acts 10: 9: On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:
   10: And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,
   11: And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:
   12: Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.
   13: And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.
   14: But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.
   15: And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.
   16: This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.
   17: Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate,
   18: And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there.
   19: While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee.
   20: Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.
   21: Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come?
   22: And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.
   23: Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.
   24: And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.
   25: And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.
   26: But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.
   27: And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together.
   28: And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.
   29: Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?
   30: And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,
   31: And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.
   32: Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.
   33: Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.

We are all unclean before God at all time but is through the blood of Jesus Christ that we are made clean before God.  Give your life to Christ and the blood of Christ will make you clean before God.  It is the only way to be made clean again.

Tue, Jul 13th - 11:34PM

Bible Study 14 July

32: And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda.
   33: And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy.
   34: And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately.
   35: And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.
   36: Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.
   37: And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.
   38: And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.
   39: Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.
   40: But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.
   41: And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.
   42: And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.
   43: And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.

We worship an almighty God.  Nothing is impossible for God.  He created the universe, created life, he heals the sick, heals the blind and deaf, and raises the dead.  So why do we doubt that God can handle our insignificant daily issues?  He said it, cast all your cares upon him.

Tue, Jul 13th - 12:03AM

Bible Study 13 July

 Acts 9:10: And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord.
   11: And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,
   12: And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.
   13: Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:
   14: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.
   15: But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
   16: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.
   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 thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
   18: And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.
   19: And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.
   20: And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.
   21: But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?
   22: But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.
   23: And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him:
   24: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.
   25: Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.
   26: And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.
   27: But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.
   28: And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.
   29: And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him.
   30: Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.
   31: Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.

We worship an amazing God.  While man looks on the outside of others God looks at the heart.  He knew the heart of Saul.  He knew he was a man full of zeal for God it was just misguided.  Saul truly thought he was doing the work of God by going after the Christians who he saw as heretics.  God knew once Saul was put on the right track that he would use the same zeal he had used to crush the Gospel to preach the Gospel and he did.  Paul suffered many years in prison and eventually gave his life for the Gospel.  Only if we could all have the faith and devotion of Paul what a difference it would make in the world. 

Mon, Jul 12th - 1:10AM

Bible Study 12 July

Acts 8:26: And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.
   27: And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,
   28: Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.
   29: Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.
   30: And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?
   31: And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.
   32: The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:
   33: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.
   34: And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?
   35: Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.
   36: And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
   37: And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
   38: And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
   39: And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
   40: But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.

Even though the Gospel has been around for two thousand years millions of people still have not heard the good news of the Gospel.  Everyday thousands of people are born into areas where they will not hear the Gospel.  Who is responsible to make sure they have a chance to hear the good news of the Gospel?  All Christians.  We are all called to fulfill the Great Commission in ensuring the Gospel goes out unto the ends of the earth.  Are you fulfilling this commandment?

Sun, Jul 11th - 12:45AM

Bible Study 11 July

Acts 8: 4: Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.
   5: Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.
   6: And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.
   7: For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.
   8: And there was great joy in that city.
   9: But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:
   10: To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God.
   11: And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.
   12: But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
   13: Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
   14: Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
   15: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
   16: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
   17: Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.
   18: And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,
   19: Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.
   20: But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.
   21: Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.
   22: Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.
   23: For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.
   24: Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.
   25: And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

I heard someone the other day mention prostitutes in the pulpit.  What he was talking about is preachers getting rich from the pulpit.  Getting rich from their ministry.  There is nothing wrong in my eyes with fulltime preachers receiving a salary.  They have families to feed and bills to pay like the rest of us and the Bible says a workman is worthy of his pay.  What we are talking about is these mega church pastors and tele-evangilists getting rich off of their congregations.  There is a lot of heresy in the Christian church today but one of the biggest is prosperity preaching.  Their idea of prosperity is getting rich off of their congregations.  The Gospel is not for sale and neither are the blessings of God.

Sat, Jul 10th - 2:21AM

Bible Study 10 July

Acts 8: ¹And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. ²Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. ³But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison. ⁴Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. (NIV)

We must understand that God is always in control even when we don’t understand what is going on.  This look like a difficult time for the early Christians but what they didn’t understand was that God had a plan for them.  Most of the early Christians were Jewish converts who lived around Jerusalem and Judea.  If God didn’t scattered them then Christianity might not have ever left the area around Israel.  But God wanted the Gospel to go out into the world.  After they were scattered they went throughout the Roman Empire taking the beliefs with them and became witnesses of the Gospel throughout the Empire.

Look at Saul would you believe God had a plan for him?  God did have a plan for him.  After his conversion Paul more than anybody did more than anybody else to spread the Gospel, he even wrote a vast majority of the New Testament.

God has a plan for all of his children.  He has a plan for each and everyone of you.  And it is more than just going to church every Sunday for a few hours.  We live in a dark and sinful world that needs to hear the Gospel.  We all have a part in spreading the Gospel into the world.  We might not all be preachers or teachers but we all can be witnesses. 

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Fri, Jul 9th - 1:41AM

Bible Study 09 July

 Acts 7:17: But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,
   18: Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph.
   19: The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live.
   20: In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three months:
   21: And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son.
   22: And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.
   23: And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel.
   24: And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian:
   25: For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.
   26: And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another?
   27: But he that did his neighbour wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us?
   28: Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday?
   29: Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons.
   30: And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush.
   31: When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the Lord came unto him,
   32: Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold.
   33: Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground.
   34: I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send thee into Egypt.
   35: This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush.
   36: He brought them out, after that he had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years.
   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.
   38: This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:
   39: To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt,
   40: Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.
   41: And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands

One of the things I find amazing about God is the people he chooses to use.  Moses committed murder, and God in no way condones murder but he is a God of forgiveness and mercy.  God had a purpose for Moses and choose to use him to rescue the Hebrews out of Egypt.  He used David who had committed murder and adultery.  The Apostles were not important people; they were fisherman, a tax collector and other common men.  Paul had persecuted the early Christians.  God is a God that knows the true heart of man and he has a purpose for all of his children.  If you are a child of God, God has a purpose for you.  It might be something as simple as helping to clean the church after services but there are no bench warmers in the Army of God.  We all have a part to play in fulfilling the Great Commission.

Thu, Jul 8th - 1:03AM

Bible Study 08 July

Acts 6:8: And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
   9: Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.
   10: And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.
   11: Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God.
   12: And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,
   13: And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:
   14: For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.
   15: And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

Compare Stephen to his accusers.  Stephen spoke the word of God boldly and truthfully.  His accusers accused him a blasphemy when in fact it was they who was committing blasphemy.  Stephen was a true child of God while his accusers made the claim of being children of God when in fact there hearts were far from God and were actually doing the will of Satan by trying to stop the word of God from being preached.  The Word of God is powerful and can’t be stopped.  The Word of God will be preached and can’t be stopped because Satan will never beat the Word of God.  The only thing to ask is will you be a Stephen and risk all for Jesus, the one who gave all for you or will you be the unknowing servant of Satan, and hindrance to the Word of God?

Wed, Jul 7th - 1:10AM

Bible Study 07 July

 Acts 5:26: Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.
   27: And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,
   28: Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.
   29: Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
   30: The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.
   31: Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.
   32: And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
   33: When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.
   34: Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;
   35: And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.
   36: For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.
   37: After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.
   38: And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:
   39: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.
   40: And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
   41: And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
   42: And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

Before I start checking out blogs on the internet I was pretty naïve about different beliefs in the Christian world.  Then once I was exposed to different beliefs I used to get all fired and took upon myself to set these people straight only to find out these people are pretty entrenched in their beliefs and I was accomplishing was stirring up arguments and hard feelings and hatred toward one another.  Don’t get me wrong I am in no way talking about compromising my beliefs.  I believe my beliefs are Biblical based and therefore right and I am in no way an apologist.  I preach salvation in Christ only and I believe Universalism is a belief that is leading people straight to hell.  All I am saying is that being combative with people does not change hearts.  The Word of God is true and powerful.  All we need to do is have the faith to preach the word of God boldly and let the power of God work through us as a true witness of God’s love to the world.  In other words be ambassadors of Christ.

Tue, Jul 6th - 1:23AM

Bible Study 06 July

Acts 5: 12: And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.
   13: And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.
   14: And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.)
   15: Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.
   16: There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.
   17: Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,
   18: And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.
   19: But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,
   20: Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.
   21: And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel and sent to the prison to have them brought.
   22: But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,
   23: Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.
   24: Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.
   25: Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.

I hear people say they want a New Testament style church.  Do they really understand that phrase.  The New Testament church was a church were believers were totally dedicated to the Gospel.  They sold their possessions to give to the poor, their leaders spent day and night in service to God, and they openly and bravely faced real persecution for the Gospel.  Others in other parts of the world truly serve God in this manner but it is something you don’t see much of in the U.S.  Thank God we have the right to worship without fear but at the same time a lot of American Christians take worshipping God for vain.  Getting up Sunday mornings to go to church is a burden not a privilege, our leaders serve to gain something out of it, we take charity for granted, we think harsh words is persecution.  This of course doesn’t apply to everyone but it does to a vast majority.  The New Testament Church I believe should be the type of church we strive to be because it was the church established by Jesus and the Apostles but do we truly have that type of faith today to be that kind of church and not a church of power point presentations and social gatherings.

Sun, Jul 4th - 5:59AM

Bible Study 04 July

⁵ The next day the council of all the rulers and elders and teachers of religious law met in Jerusalem. ⁶ Annas the high priest was there, along with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and other relatives of the high priest. ⁷ They brought in the two disciples and demanded, “By what power, or in whose name, have you done this?”

 ⁸ Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers and elders of our people, ⁹ are we being questioned today because we’ve done a good deed for a crippled man? Do you want to know how he was healed? ¹⁰ Let me clearly state to all of you and to all the people of Israel that he was healed by the powerful name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene,^b]">[b] the man you crucified but whom God raised from the dead. ¹¹ For Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says,

   ‘The stone that you builders rejected
      has now become the cornerstone.’^c]">[c]

 ¹² There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.”

 ¹³ The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus. ¹⁴ But since they could see the man who had been healed standing right there among them, there was nothing the council could say. ¹⁵ So they ordered Peter and John out of the council chamber^d]">[d] and conferred among themselves.

 ¹⁶ “What should we do with these men?” they asked each other. “We can’t deny that they have performed a miraculous sign, and everybody in Jerusalem knows about it. ¹⁷ But to keep them from spreading their propaganda any further, we must warn them not to speak to anyone in Jesus’ name again.” ¹⁸ So they called the apostles back in and commanded them never again to speak or teach in the name of Jesus.

 ¹⁹ But Peter and John replied, “Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? ²⁰ We cannot stop telling about everything we have seen and heard.”

 ²¹ The council then threatened them further, but they finally let them go because they didn’t know how to punish them without starting a riot. For everyone was praising God ²² for this miraculous sign—the healing of a man who had been lame for more than forty years.

Say it again.  There is no other name given among men whereby we must be saved.  Say it again, there is no other name given among men whereby we must be saved.  It is only through the name of Jesus we have salvation.  With this verse and John 14:6 the debate is over.  Salvation is only in the name of Jesus.  Now look at verse 19.  Absolutely God wants us to obey him instead of man.  Today’s society says to be politically correct we can’t preach salvation in the name of Jesus only but God wants us to obey him and preach the truth, salvation is only in the name of Jesus.  Today’s society doesn’t want to hear about hell and sin but say again the soul that sinneth shall die.  If you are living in sin you are dead spiritual and shall die physically and your soul will go to hell instead of heaven.