A Net in Time

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Devotional

Acts 3:17-26

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These next few verses are actually part of the previous passage, Peter continuing his conversation with the people amazed at the lame man’s healing.  Let us continuing learning from from the apostles in  Acts 3:17-26.

17 “And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. 18 But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer, he thus fulfilled. 19 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, 20 that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, 21 whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago. 

22 Moses said, ‘The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers. You shall listen to him in whatever he tells you. 23 And it shall be that every soul who does not listen to that prophet shall be destroyed from the people.’ 24 And all the prophets who have spoken, from Samuel and those who came after him, also proclaimed these days. 25 You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant that God made with your fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.’ 26 God, having raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you by turning every one of you from your wickedness.”

Acts 3:17-26

Follow the series

 If you are interested in the rest of the series you will find them here eh?   

Looking more closely at Acts 3:17-26

When we left Peter, he was telling the onlookers what they did.  It’s a damning statement, that they rejected the Holy One.  As Peter said “But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, 15 and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead.“

Acts 3:17

But then he goes on to say this “And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers.”  If I heard that, I would feel both ashamed and yet relieved.  He knew we were just being stupid!  Having a monumental brain fart. Can you imagine someone realizing our vast ignorance?  Granted, he first called us to account, but then said he realized we were just being ignoramuses.   But not just us, part of the generic masses, but also those in leadership over us.  All of us just being ignorant. 

Acts 3:18

I don’t know if this is meant to be a relief from the guilt of being ignorant or not, but Peter tells it straight up.  But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer, he thus fulfilled. 

God knew this would happen.  He foretold it.  And then fulfilled it.  So the ignorance we showed in allowing Christ to be sacrificed was all part of God’s plan. 

Why was this all part of God’s plan?  

Acts 3:18

19 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, 20 that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, 21 whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago. 

So that when we come in repentance our sins can be blotted out.  So they won’t be seen anymore.  Blotters are used to absorb ink, or to document investment trades.   But we aren’t talking about that sort of blotting, but of sin being blotted out.. wiped away, stains being removed, not just covered up or documented in some way, but completely wiped away. 

Acts 3:22-24

22 Moses said, ‘The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers. You shall listen to him in whatever he tells you. 23 And it shall be that every soul who does not listen to that prophet shall be destroyed from the people.’ 24 And all the prophets who have spoken, from Samuel and those who came after him, also proclaimed these days.

Do you see it?  Moses said what God was going to do.  God would raise up a prophet who should be listened to.  Not listening to him has grave consequences.  And every single prophet that followed Moses has spoken to that same truth.    

Acts 3:25

 25 You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant that God made with your fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.’ 

So just who are we (the audience) that sacrificed Christ?   We are the offspring of Abraham, people with whom God made a covenant so that the all families of the earth are blessed.  Do you understand that?   If you are loved of by God, you are blessed.  

Acts 3:26

26 God, having raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you by turning every one of you from your wickedness.”

Hmmm… this verse eh? We who sacrificed Christ, who allowed a really bad guy to go free, are the first to have this chance.  What chance?  To be blessed as we are turned away from our wickedness.  It’s not us doing that turning but God turning us.  We just can’t do it on our own you know? That internal wickedness is so built into us, but then God comes along with this fantastic plan whose end result it to turn us from our wickedness. 

I can’t wait to see what we’re going to learn about next.  What about you? 

To see that despite our ignorance in killing God’s most beloved son, which he knew we would do, God’s plan for us hasn’t changed.  He wants to turn us away from our wickedness.    It’s an amazing story of love isn’t it?    Isn’t it good to learn more of God’s love for us and his plan for our lives? 

Acts 3:11-16

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Technically the next section in Acts is Acts 3:11-26.  This is a rather large passage and rather than trying to tackle it all at once I’m going to divide it in half.   So this week we’ll do Acts 3:11-16, and then later we’ll do the rest. 

11 While he clung to Peter and John, all the people, utterly astounded, ran together to them in the portico called Solomon’s. 12 And when Peter saw it he addressed the people: “Men of Israel, why do you wonder at this, or why do you stare at us, as though by our own power or piety we have made him walk? 13 The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered over and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him. 

14 But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, 15 and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses. 16 And his name—by faith in his name—has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.

 If you are interested in the rest of the series you will find them here eh?   

Acts 3: 11-16

What Happened before Acts 3:11-16

Do you remember that just before this passage Peter, through the power of Christ within, had made a lame man whole again?  When we left them, the man was leaping around praising the Lord God for his healing.  The people surrounding them were so surprised and amazed.  Filled with wonder they were. 

Now moving forward. 

Acts 1:11

11 While he clung to Peter and John, all the people, utterly astounded, ran together to them in the portico called Solomon’s.

If like me you don’t know what a portico is, it is a structure consisting of a roof supported by columns at regular intervals, typically attached as a porch to a building.  

So  they must have been standing in the sheltered area at the temple.  A place where it would be easy for people to gather, a safe area for beggars to hang out in protected from the weather. Anyways, this portico is known as Solomon’s Porch.  If you want to know more about it, I found this helpful resource. 

So they are there, and he’s healed and the people are “utterly astounded”.  I don’t much blame them, they would have been coming to worship God, and expecting the same old same old, and then this man is healed.  And he wasn’t being quiet about it.  It was a miraculous gift from God! 

So everyone did what I would see as totally normal… they rushed over! 

roofed walkway with benches
Photo by Allen Boguslavsky on Pexels.com

Acts 3:12-16

12 And when Peter saw it he addressed the people: “Men of Israel, why do you wonder at this, or why do you stare at us, as though by our own power or piety we have made him walk? 13 The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered over and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him. 

14 But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, 15 and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses. 16 And his name—by faith in his name—has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.

Peter took the opportunity to present Christ to the people. He gave them a bit of a history lesson and put them on notice for what they did. What we all did. We took this man, the son of God, and put him on trial.  Released a really bad guy. And let Jesus die.  

There were witnesses

BUT witnesses saw it! Christ rose from the dead!  There were witnesses!   So it’s true!  Christ is risen.  AND therefore through his name by faith miracles can happen!   

Do you see that caveat… it’s not just by saying the name of Jesus.  It’s the whole “by faith” clause.  One need to have faith in the Lord.   

It reminds me of that verse in Matthew where it says “He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”” (17:20)

Faith is Pivotal

Without faith it’s just words you know?

Faith is what enables us as believers to do all the things that God calls us to do.  Even with a small, weak faith, it’s the faith that matters.  Not how big that faith is, just that we have faith.  

It was faith in God that enabled Peter to work a miracle.  It was faith in God that allowed Peter to talk to the crowd about why this miracle happened.  Faith in God is what allows missionaries to go out onto a foreign field.  Faith in God allows ministers to bring God’s word to us.  This faith that causes children to save up money to help other children. It is faith that helps Christian parents raise up their children to know the stories of God, the stories of faith.  Faith helps people do things that seem beyond them (like walking on water, forgiving enemies, apologizing to people wronged, loving the unlovable etc.). 

So the question is: what seemingly difficult thing can my faith let happen?  What can I ask for in the name of Jesus?  or will I let fear beat me?   

Right now, I don’t know.

Do you? 

Acts 3:1-10

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I know, I know, it’s been a while.  Sickness and holidays and just stuff…you know… stuff.  I’ve hardly looked at my blog lately.  Over Christmas and a couple of sick days I worked in all my reviews.  Writing many of them past the time they were due and just back-dating them.  🙂   Today we are in Acts 3:1-10.  

Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. 2 And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. 3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms. 4 And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, “Look at us.” 5 And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them.

6 But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” 7 And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. 8 And leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 and recognized him as the one who sat at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, asking for alms. And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

Acts 3:1-10

Acts 3:1

Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour.

So I went to understanding the bible to figure out what is meant by the ninth hour.   There I learned that the Jewish day starts at 6 a.m.  That would be their hour zero.  So the ninth hour would be around 3 p.m. 

That makes me wonder how the work day functions.   Do people start work at 6 a.m. and stop at 2 and therefore have the rest of the day to pray and do whatever?   Or do they start work later and just stop for a while at 3 p.m. to allow time for prayers?   I know, I know, that’s a total off the topic thought, but just a curiousity I have. 

I also have to question myself.  Is it a good thing to have an established “time of prayer”.  Would that give an order to the day and a routine that would keep people from forgetting the importance of connecting with God daily? Sometimes the busyness of the day truncates any concerns about spending time with the Lord, particularly in a time of prayer that sometimes feels like talking to the air.  I know God hears me.  I know this.  But sometimes it feels one-sided you know?   Anyways, this time of prayer that the Jewish folks had I’m going to ponder on a bit more.  About setting aside a regular time to just talk with God. 

Acts 3:2

2 And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple.

Can you imagine if poor people would gather in front of a church asking for donations? What would we say or do in that situation?  Would we reach out to them, or simply see them as the many homeless that sit or stand on the street corner?   Another question is… Why don’t the poor gather in front of churches on Sunday mornings, or Wednesday evenings asking for help?   Has the church collectively shown their unwillingness to meet those immediate needs? Should we encourage them to do so? I wonder what kind of difference that might make for us as believers? 

Acts 3:3

3 Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms.

I wonder what it was about Peter and John that stirred the lame man to direct his attention to them. Was it merely their presence, or was their something about them that set them apart?  Perhaps it was they were going in together and it’s harder to say no when you are with someone else.  ‘Cuz you know that NO ONE wants to look bad in front of friends, and helping others does make you look better. 🙂 

Acts 3:4-7

4 And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, “Look at us.” 5 And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. 6 But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” 7 And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong.

Needless to say, Peter helped him! (otherwise we wouldn’t be reading this story) Not in the way the man expected, but far beyond that. Can you imagine that man’s surprise.  To have a man say “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk” and then helps you to your feet.   Feet that you haven’t walked upon for ages and ages (speculatively).  Strength given to feet and ankles now strong enough to support your weight. Feet working so you are no longer beholden on family and/or friends to help you get to a spot so you can beg for help.  It’s just amazing isn’t it?  

Acts 3:8

8 And leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God.

Well, wouldn’t you? After not being able to walk and now suddenly you can?  I can totally see myself doing a short jive across the floor!  🙂  Then knowing the reason for it!?!?!?!?!   I would be joining him in praising God.   But note: he was praising God which means he KNOWS that Jesus Christ is of God. Otherwise, would he be praising God or would he be confused? 

Peter didn’t say by the power of God, or in the name of God, but rather “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth”.   So he had to somehow know that God was involved.  Ergo, he praised God for his healing. (not praising Peter and John, but God himself!). 

Again, I need to ask myself questions: Do I really take the time to praise God for the things he does in my life.  This man wasn’t asking for healing, he just wanted some coins so he could get some food, drink, lodging, or whatever.  But instead, God outdid his asking.  God healed him up.  How many times does God exceed my expectations?

an example

Today for instance, I’ve been meaning to bless a lady across the street with some ice cream.  She lives close to the pocket book and it’s a simple way to make her smile.  I couldn’t get ahold of her all week (lives in a locked building) and it’s been COLD and snowy this week.  BUT she has a little dog so I’ve been hopeful to catch her out.  Today I did.  And low and behold it was the perfect day to reach her.  Her brother died this morning, and this was just the thing she needed.  Having someone to care about her, talk for a little bit (not long as … bitterly cold out), and to pray with her.  God exceeded my little gift by more than expected. 

It’s so easy to ignore that you know?  Afterall, it’s not as big as say… not being lame anymore, but it was important in HER life right now. 

But today I feel convicted to say “God, thanks for that eh?  Your timing is perfect.”  He knows full well what’s needed eh? 

Acts 3:9-10

9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 and recognized him as the one who sat at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, asking for alms. And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

I know when I see God acting in the lives of people how amazing I find it, particularly when it’s a drastic change.   Like someone becomes a believer and alcohol addiction or bitterness just leave them. That just knocks my socks off.  So I emphasize with the people gathered around this happy, God-praising man.  They would have seen him, so they knew his lameness.  Seeing him leap about and his absolute joy in physical freedom would have been so amazing. 

I wonder if they saw God in action or if they were simply surprised at his healing?   Did this man’s words turn hearts?   We aren’t told. All we can do is hope eh? 

What have you learned of God? 

God has reminded me of my need for thankfulness in this passage. I’ve also been reminded of how often God exceeds my expectations of him.  What have you seen of God in these verses? 

Let me know eh? 

What to know more? 

 If you are interested in the rest of the series you will find them here eh?   

Acts 2:42-47

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Acts 2:42-47 is my next section in Acts to ponder over.   If you are interested in the rest of the series you will find them here eh?   

In the previous passage in Acts 2 we know that 3000 people turned their hearts to God as a result of Peter’s words.   What happened next is what we’ll discover today.  

Acts 2:42-47 reads as follows

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

Acts 2:42-47

Looking into Acts 2:42-47

Verse 42

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.

Those 3000 new believers, they didn’t sit around going, oh, we have a relationship with the Lord and let that be it.  No way.  What they did was

  • devote themselves to the apostles teaching
  • to fellowship with each other
  • to the breaking of bread
  • and prayers.

Verse 43

43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 

So this is what I’m envisioning.  Peter finishes talking, and there’s this huge crowd around him of new believers.  People turning to the Lord everywhere he turns.   But these people are on fire for the Lord so they eat together, spend time with each other, praying for each other.  This becomes more than a one day event.  And as it goes on, people are filled with awe… seeing all that God has done and is doing through the apostles. 

Makes me ask this question: why don’t people sit in awe of what God is doing through his people now? What are we doing differently? 

Verse 44

44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 

Is it the lack of commonality we have with each other?  All these divisions within/between churches and there, what should be, spirit-filled, godly people?    Can you imagine being part of a community that shares freely with other and happily spent time with each other? 

Verse 45

45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 

I admittedly struggle with this one.  Mind the older I get the easier I am about giving things away that I no longer need or want to others.  But I struggle with the thought of selling things in order to help those in need.   Like I’ll give my money and time, but selling stuff I need?  Or just selling stuff and using all the proceeds for missions and stuff?   GAH as I write that I feel like a jerk….. like seriously. 

But at the same time it’s true though.  I’ll happily give my tithe, and use those dollars to help others.  But when it comes to going beyond that, I find it difficult.   Like even taking the time to cook a meal for a young family, or individuals who have lost a loved one, and stuff like that.  If it inconveniences me, then I tend to avoid it.  These folks, filled with the Spirit, no less than ANY believer today, chose to freely help each other in whatever why they could. 

What does that say about me? 

Verse 46

46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

Day by day…. adding to their numbers, this generous group of faithful, new believers.  Changing the world around them by their love for each other, their devotion to the Lord, and how they received food.  

So does my gratitude show who God is? Will it encourage people to see God favourably?   And perhaps heed a call on their lives they didn’t even know enough to recognize? 

What are your thoughts? 

Acts 2:14-41

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I am trying to decide if I should break up Acts 2:14-41 into smaller sections as it is a very long piece.  The fact that half of it is poetic seems to beg me to not do that.  But it just seems like a very long piece to work through in the course of one week.  In the ESV bible that I am using this section is entitled “Peter’s Sermon at Pentecost” which also begs me to leave it as one section.   I guess time will tell eh?  🙂   

I must apologize.  Through busyness with other things, the start of life group, and not making this a priority in my life, my progress stalled for a bit. 

In the meantime this section reads as such: 

14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. 15 For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. 16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel:

17 “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh,
and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams;
18 even on my male servants and female servants
in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.
19 And I will show wonders in the heavens above
and signs on the earth below,
blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke;
20 the sun shall be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood,
before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day.
21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

And the passage continues….

22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know— 23 this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. 24 God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. 25 For David says concerning him,

“‘I saw the Lord always before me,
for he is at my right hand that I may not be shaken;
26 therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced;
my flesh also will dwell in hope.
27 For you will not abandon my soul to Hades,
or let your Holy One see corruption.
28 You have made known to me the paths of life;
you will make me full of gladness with your presence.’

29 “Brothers, I may say to you with confidence about the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Being therefore a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would set one of his descendants on his throne, 31 he foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. 32 This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses. 33 Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing. 34 For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says,

“‘The Lord said to my Lord,
“Sit at my right hand,
35 until I make your enemies your footstool.”’

36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”

37 Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” 40 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.

Acts 2:14-42

My Initial Thoughts

We left last week with some people expressing skepticism at what was occurring with the apostles.  So Peter speaks up, giving explanation for what is going on.  They aren’t drunk!  He tend used the scriptures they were well familiar with to explain what was going on.  He also went on to speak about who Christ was, and again, used scripture to prove his points. 

A combination of busyness, the length of the passage feeling daunting,  and not putting this first in my life has led to a delay in posting this.  🙂 

Verses 14-21

14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. 15 For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. 16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel:

17 “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh,
and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
    your young men shall see visions,
    and your old men shall dream dreams;
18 even on my male servants and female servants
    in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.
19 And I will show wonders in the heavens above
    and signs on the earth below,
    blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke;
20 the sun shall be turned to darkness
    and the moon to blood,
    before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day.
21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

So Peter took the leadership role, standing with the eleven and speaking out.  He boldly addressed the scoffers saying listen up! The apostles were not drunkards (after all it was only the third hour of the day).  And rather gives them the words of Joel to heed. 

See these words from Joel 2

“And it shall come to pass afterward,
    that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
    your old men shall dream dreams,
    and your young men shall see visions.
29 Even on the male and female servants
    in those days I will pour out my Spirit.

30 “And I will show wonders in the heavens and on the earth, blood and fire and columns of smoke. 31 The sun shall be turned to darkness, and the moon to blood, before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes. 32 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. For in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there shall be those who escape, as the Lord has said, and among the survivors shall be those whom the Lord calls.

There are some differences, but overall they are the same.   

The prophetic

I have to admit to feeling a bit uncomfortable with this passage.  Paul brings the past directly into the future saying these things will still happen.  Young women and men prophesying, older men having dreams and young men seeing visions.  It’s like… what do I DO with this?  

I know from reading that sometimes Arab people come to faith because God talks to them and gives them visions and dreams.  He shows them who he is in ways they can’t deny.  Is that part of this? Is that part of how the Spirit moves in people?  

I struggled in a church I previously attended when people claimed they had a prophetic vision and it just didn’t make sense to me when honestly it’s just God being God calling his people to faith and repentance and action.   Does it take a dream to be prophetic to know that’s God’s call upon our lives? It’s just plain scriptural!  So these words make me wonder if there is something I’m missing. 

Physical Signs

The whole smoke, fire, clouds and natural wonders….. that to me is more tangible than prophetic words and easier to grasp. I can see God so clearly in nature and that things that happen around us. Through nature and the unexplained actions of people I can see God at work and his saving power upon us. It’s like it calls to my very soul.   

But the whole prophetic… I don’t get it.  I just don’t know and I don’t really know where to go with it from here. 

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verses 22-28

22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know— 23 this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. 24 God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. 25 For David says concerning him,

“‘I saw the Lord always before me,
    for he is at my right hand that I may not be shaken;
26 therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced;
    my flesh also will dwell in hope.
27 For you will not abandon my soul to Hades,
    or let your Holy One see corruption.
28 You have made known to me the paths of life;
    you will make me full of gladness with your presence.’

Peter speaks to who Jesus is.  A man that God provided clear evidence of was raised up by him.  How did God provide clear evidence of who Jesus was?   

  • mighty works
  • wonders
  • signs

God does all these things! 

All these things God did through Christ.  And this Jesus who them crucified and killed.  GOD raised him up.  God loosed the hold that death had on him. BECAUSE… get this…. God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. Jesus could NOT be held by death. This is the Jesus that David testified to. 

So now we have hope we can dwell in, and live with glad hearts, and are able to speak with joy. You need to think about what the means deep down.  Jesus couldn’t be contained by death and so was raised up.   God did this for us. And now we have a way of living that no one truly had before.  Can you imagine the difference hope has on a person? 

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Verses 29-35

29 “Brothers, I may say to you with confidence about the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Being therefore a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would set one of his descendants on his throne, 31 he foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. 32 This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses. 33 Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing. 34 For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says,

“‘The Lord said to my Lord,
“Sit at my right hand,
35     until I make your enemies your footstool.”’

Peter keeps reminding their listeners what God did and what they KNOW God did. They know that David was a prophet.  David died, and was buried and is STILL buried.  BUT HE talked about Jesus and how he wouldn’t be left in the grave. 

I love how Peter walks his audience through their own history and promised future. King David was much beloved and well-known so his words would be heeded. David knew that one of his offspring would sit on the throne and that his descendent would be greater than he was.  He also foreknew that Jesus would not be stuck in the ground. He would sit on the right hand of God! 

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Verses 36-42

36 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”

37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

Paul’s words were convicting. 

Jesus was crucified and buried, by the very people listening to him. Jesus their Lord and Messiah. 

Wanting to know what to do about this feeling of conviction, the listeners turned to Peter with questions of “Brothers, what shall we do?“

Peter doesn’t leave them hanging.  He tells them plainly what they are to do.  “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

Do you see it?   This promise wasn’t just for the believers of the day, but for future generations as well.  Repentance and baptism, it’s what we are told to do.  But not just any type of baptism, but one done in the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness.   Do this: receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 

Peter continued to talk with them, pleading with them, warning them.  The end result was 3000 people coming to faith.  Can you imagine it?  

You see I have this picture in my mind of the disciples suddenly speaking in tongues and a crowd of about one to two hundred is gathered round.  But 3000!?!?!?   Where did these 3000 come from?  How did Peter get them all to hear him?  This folks, this is God at work! 

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Thoughts raised for me

What does it mean to me that because of what God did, I can dwell in hope, have a glad heart and a tongue that rejoices?   Does it truly change anything in my life?  (at least in a tangible way that others can see?).   Do I truly understand what God did in providing his people hope? 

How do I explain the 3000 people being able to hear what Peter said amidst the noise and confusion of that day?  The apostles speaking in tongues, folks questioning why, and yet 3000 souls turned to the Lord.   3000 people who originally scoffed, or questioned what was going on, and Peter used scripture and the Lord’s prompting to let them be convicted and change the course of their life.   God can just make it happen you know?  City streets and homes are not the same as hilltops that can be natural amphitheaters (like when Jesus taught 1000’s on the hilltops).  People heard and lives where changed.   Do I let my life be changed by what God teaches and shows me? 

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Acts 2:1-13

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We’ve seen Luke bring us a brief history of his previous work, and then to walk us through what happened post-resurrection.   The need to replace Judas as a living witness.  And the need to wait for the power of the Spirit (the promised helper to come).   Today in Acts 2:1-13 we see the result of that waiting around, that trusting Jesus’ words to come true. 

Acts 2:1-13

Initial Thoughts

I think that it would have been SO amazing AND So very confusing to have been there.  A huge wind, and then flames of fire floating as people began speaking in different languages.  So …. just so.. WOW.    It’s not wonder to me that people were amazing and perplexed, OR that some would turn their confusion into a scathing skepticism. 

Acts 2:1-13 Paragraph One vv 1-4

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

It’s the day of Pentecost.  The very first day. No one really knew what to expect.  Suddenly a sound like a blowing wind came.   Not it’s not a blowing wind, just the sound of it.  Have you ever experienced that?   I’ve heard the sound of blowing wind before and gone out to see where it is and been surprised not to see or feel any evidence of such.  It left me feeling bewildered.  🙂  

So I’m imagining the disciples sitting around, hearing this wind, without their being one.  I’m thinking they’d be a bit startled eh?  Having this sound all around them in the house, but no wind blowing around them.  And then flames of fire!   

Think about it.  How startling and amazing and wonderful it would all be at the same time.  Flames of fire lighting on each person present.  Resting on them.  Being filled with the Holy Spirit and speaking in languages new to them. 

Now the disciples didn’t just willy-nilly start speaking in tongues.  They spoke in the languages as the Holy Spirit enabled them.   Makes me ask myself the question: What does the Holy Spirit enable me to do?   Has he given me a special gift?  

Paragraph two vv 5-12

5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. 7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? 9 Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia,10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”

So, the disciples/apostles were gathered in a room, in Jerusalem.  Jerusalem was a bustling city, lots of people around, a city that drew in people from a variety of places. Biblical Archaeology tells us that “Jerusalem was a diverse city and pilgrimage center in the first century“. 

People Came From All Over

We know that in Jerusalem there were God-fearing Jews from all over the place. “staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven“.   Wouldn’t it be astonishing to hear Galileans talking in your own language?  I certainly don’t fault them for being completely amazed… would you?   

I also don’t blame them for trying to figure out what was going on.  Like it’s not everyday that you hear folks talking about the wonders of God in our own tongues!.  Look at all the places these folks hailed from including the Parthians, Medes, and Elamites.  Folks came from Pontus, Asia, Cappadocia, Rome, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, Crete, Arabia, Libya and Egypt. 

It would seem that Jerusalem was a bit of a melting pot of nationalities back in the day.   You’d almost think that God’s planning was what it needed to be.  A wide variety of Jews and converts to Judaism all gathered in one spot where the Holy Spirit was doing a working.

Paragraph three v 13

13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.”

And of course, you’re always going to have the scoffers and mockers.  People have no idea about what is going on but would never believe that a supernatural event was going on.  They’ll blame it on whatever seems the handiest.  And saying that people were drinking too much might make the most sense to such folk don’t you think? 

Final Thoughts

So would I have been a scoffer back in the day or one who was perplexed, trying to figure out the meaning behind all these languages?   Honestly, there are times I think it could go either way.  But I have to say that over the years I’ve become more prone to simply seeing God at work.  God is amazing at how he orchestrates what needs doing. 

I think though, that I would have been one to stand and listen.  To be amazed at hearing about the wonders of God spoken in a way that I could understand clearly. It would have been so life changing don’t you think?   

And yet, here today, we have the word of God clearly written for us.  In different translations that work for the different ways people think.  And do we take advantage of it?  Too often we don’t take the time to simply listen to what God would say to us. Spending time in his word, letting the Holy Spirit impact our lives, seeing Jesus doing what he does best, and just everything.  

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Acts 1:12-26

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So, I’m taking about a week with each of these sections.  I’m rather enjoying the time to think, to research, to read articles about ideas raised, to check out different translations, and so forth.   Hopefully, anyone who is following along doesn’t mind the once a week posting format.   This week I am working on Acts 1:12-26 which will finish off the chapter.   Part one and part two are linked for you.

Acts 1:12-26

Acts 1:12-26 ESV Translation

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey away. 13 And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.

15 In those days Peter stood up among the brothers (the company of persons was in all about 120) and said, 16 “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. 17 For he was numbered among us and was allotted his share in this ministry.” 18 (Now this man acquired a field with the reward of his wickedness, and falling headlong he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it became known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the field was called in their own language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) 20 “For it is written in the Book of Psalms,

“‘May his camp become desolate,
    and let there be no one to dwell in it’;

and

“‘Let another take his office.’

21 So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” 23 And they put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also called Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen 25 to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

Initial Thoughts, questions about contenders

Well, that was a rather gruesome story about the ending of Judas.  But it did give the backstory for the need to have a new member of the disciples.   I like how they gave the criteria they required to fill the position.    Of course I had the question of just who was Joseph Barsabbas/Justus and Matthias. 

Who was Joseph Barsabbas/Justus?

Joseph Barsabbas/Justus was one of the many followers of Jesus right from the beginning.  We know this because it was one of the requirements to be considered in the running. Justus means “Just one” and was a title probably given due to his integrity.  Barsabbas was probably a patrynomic meaning Son of Sabbas (which can mean a variety of things such as son of oath, son of old man.  Christian tradition has him as one of the numbered 70, and some guy named Papias says he drank a cup of poison with no harm coming to him.  He was Jewish. 

The whole cup of poison being drank led me down a bunny trail to Mark 16

17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.

That would have been rather cool eh?   To know it was poison, and then see God at work saving him?  Huh, the things you see when you give some thought to it all eh?

Who was Matthias? 

Elected by Lot as one of the apostles replace Judas. Also a Jewish person who had been part of Jesus’ ministry from the beginning.  The Apocrypha has him doing ministry in Jerusalem, and possibly having to deal with cannibals at one point.  

Acts 1:12-14

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey away. 13 And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.

So, Jesus has ascended.  With great joy the disciples went to Jerusalem where they sat around waiting.  Jesus had promised to send a helper of great power.   So they were all there along with the women and Jesus’ mom and brothers.  11 apostles: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Phillip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James bar Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas bar James along with the ladies and brothers. 

What they were doing was praying together in the upper room where they were staying.  Would this be the upper room where they had the Lord’s supper I wonder? I suppose that doesn’t really matter though.   The important thing is they were in a safe place that they knew well. 

But don’t miss this part they were “with one accord”.   How often do a group of believers get together and be of one accord.  They weren’t arguing  

Acts 1:15-20

15 In those days Peter stood up among the brothers (the company of persons was in all about 120) and said, 16 “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. 17 For he was numbered among us and was allotted his share in this ministry.” 18 (Now this man acquired a field with the reward of his wickedness, and falling headlong he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it became known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the field was called in their own language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) 20 “For it is written in the Book of Psalms,

“‘May his camp become desolate,
    and let there be no one to dwell in it’;

and

“‘Let another take his office.’

Judas’ Result Foretold?

Other than the fact this passage is a bit gruesome with the whole manner of death for Judas I was stunned to read that all of this was foretold.    The passages Peter quoted come from the book of Psalms.  Sometimes I forget how prophecy’s can be layered with more than one future foretold.  There is so much depth in scripture that it’s easy to forget to keep looking for more.  Like I’ve read the book of Acts more than once, but somehow in all that time I glossed over this whole passage. 

Psalm 69:25

May their camp be a desolation;
    let no one dwell in their tents.

Psalm 109:8

May his days be few;
    may another take his office!

Suicide or Accident?

I was also surprised by the “falling head long he burst open in the middle” as my understanding was that Judas committed suicide.   But as I researched this a bit, I was reminded that one needs to consider the authors perspective and the timeline they might be using.  For instance Matthew, who tells us about Judas’ suicide speaks of the first action, whereas Luke speaks to the result of the suicide.  Imagine what would happened if You killed yourself and where cut down (or had the rope you used break).   You just might fall head down and burst open as well… bodies do interesting things once they are dead.  (as gruesome as that might be to contemplate.    I found Answering Islam  helpful in working through this passage.    

Be a Detective

I guess what I need to remember sometimes is that every time someone tells a story, particularly if more than one person tells the story, each person will bring something different out.  And tell it from their own perspective and if one listens to ALL the stories, you’ll discover the truth. So we can’t expect Matthew to tell the story in the same way that Luke does.  Means that we need to read the bible like a detective solves a case. Sifting through the details until you see the whole story, until you see God at work. 

I was thinking about this at work this morning, having a bit of a difficult day, and I got to thinking about how even when we think we know the scriptures we don’t always.  When Jesus rose from the dead he met with some of his followers.  He took time to explain the Old Testament scriptures to them.  As he did so, he pointed out all the scriptures that pointed to him and explained who he was.   They were amazed at what he taught them. 

So we shouldn’t be surprised when we too are amazed at what God teaches us in his word.  Or even that we sometimes struggle with understanding it. 

Bad Choices

So we know the Judas died.  And it was the result of his own bad choices.  He did something he shouldn’t have, felt bad about it, and died as a result.  18 (Now this man acquired a field with the reward of his wickedness, and falling headlong he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it became known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the field was called in their own language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.)  

It was Judas’ choice to betray his Lord and Master.  And it was because of his action, his remorse, that he died and that the Field of Blood came into being.  And everyone knew about it.  Therefore he forfeited his place among the 12 so a new member needed to be chosen. 

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Acts 1:21-26

21 So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” 23 And they put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also called Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen 25 to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

The Criteria

Judas. No longer one of the 12.  They are down to 11. And Peter, with the 120 peoples gathered around sets out the criteria needed for a replacement.   This person needs to be a follower of Jesus from baptism through resurrection.  This person will join them as a witness to Jesus’ resurrection. 

Two people were chosen.   Barsabbas Justus and Matthias. .

You know what I notice here? They did all their deliberations but before they moved forward they prayed about it.  Their prayer wasn’t all elaborate with flowery words, but simple.  You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.”  

Casting of Lots

The process after was simple enough.  They drew lots and Matthias became the replacement apostle.  Drawing lots is an age old method for determining the will of the gods (or God in the early Christian church).  

Casting of Lots hasn’t really died out though I think.  In many places, faith based or not, people often vote on who should be in a leadership position.  Our voting system is more or less based on the casting of lots don’t you think?  And who leads our land is in fact God’s choice.  Do most people vote in a prayerful manner?   In the non-faith based environment, I don’t think so.  But I would hope people of faith would take the time to pray before making their “cast lot”. 

It’s indeed a good reminder to me that I don’t need to be all fancy in my prayers, that simplicity works.  And that I need to be more mindful of talking to God about decisions that need making.  OH… and that I make them in light of the scriptures.   After all, the apostles didn’t willy-nilly decide to vote in a new apostle.  They followed the mandates of scripture. 

Closing Thoughts

It’s good to know who people in the bible are.  Not because it will change my life, but it helps to know who the players are you know?   It’s good to know that Matthias had a ministry as an apostle.  But Barabbas Justus, he didn’t just disappear.  Can you imagine proving scripture true and drinking poison and living to tell about it?  

A reminder to think through what I am doing.  Do I want to do such wickedness that I’d be led to kill myself?   I am not, what I would call, the most fervent believer out there.  God, in his mercy, continually draws me back to him. God, always minds me and his Spirit checks me from being more wicked than I already am. 

A call to be more faithful in prayer, particularly when I’m in a decision making mode.  I’m not saying I have to talk with God about what to plant in my garden!  But don’t you think it would be good to say “hey God, I have this day before me, help me make wise decisions?”  Or when I have hard decisions to make, to draw him into the conversation as well?  It’s too easy to think I have to do it all on my own. That’s not the case at all. 

How about you?  What thoughts does God place on your heart with this passage? 

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