The Book of Acts

By Charles Box, Walnut Street Church of Christ, P.O. Box 551, Greenville, Alabama 36037 USA

Waiting For Power From On High
– Acts One –

   Acts is the book that reveals the history of the New Testament church. If the book of Acts was taken out of our New Testament, we would never understand the rest of it. Luke is the author of the book Acts. He was also the author of the Gospel of Luke. Luke and Acts together make up about 28% of our New Testament. The book of Acts is God's divine book on the subject of church history.

   If we are ever to understand New Testament Christianity we must have knowledge of the beginning and growth of the church. The importance of the book of Acts is seen in the words of Acts 1:3. Luke spoke of those "To whom the Lord shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God."

   The common elements in all of the preaching throughout the book of Acts are: (1) Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of Old Testament, (2) Jesus is the Messiah, (3) He had a great miracle working ministry, (4) He was crucified as a sin sacrifice, (5) He was raised from the dead on the third day, (6) He now reigns as King of kings and Lord of lords, (7) He will come again, (8) The world will be judged by His word, (9) therefore,  all men everywhere  need to hear this message, repent of sins, be baptized for the remission of sins and serve God out of a heart of deep love.

   The events of the first chapter of Acts took place in the ten days that elapsed from the day of the ascension of Jesus Christ to the Jewish feast day of Pentecost. Luke begins with a brief review of the history of the life of Christ, His gospel and good works. The book of Acts, like the Gospel of Luke was written to Theophilus. The book starts with and stays with the theme of the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. During the forty days following His resurrection Jesus had given much instruction to His disciples.

    Acts One provides a brief, but powerful look at Christ's ascension into heaven. His disciples were witnesses to the ascension. The apostles were commanded to go to Jerusalem and wait for power from on high. It was during this time that the disciples prayed in the upper room. While they waited Matthias was selected to fill the office of Judas.

   Jesus was presented alive – Acts 1:1-3: The book of Acts is a letter addressed to one man, Theophilus. It is, however, a message for everyone. It is a continuation of where Luke had left off at the conclusion of his gospel. In his gospel Luke wrote of what Jesus began to do and to teach. Jesus chose twelve men to be His apostles.  Just before His ascension to heaven he gave them explicit commands as to where they should go and what they should preach. "And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." (Luke 24:46-47) Jesus' resurrection encourages our trust in Him and our salvation through Him.

   Jesus showed Himself alive after His sufferings and death. He was presented alive to speak things pertaining to the kingdom or church. During a forty day period following His resurrection Christ was not only seen of the disciples at certain times, but He was also heard by them. He spoke of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God, the Gospel dispensation, and concerning the doctrines of the Gospel they were to preach. Both the power and providence of God are seen in the resurrection, appearances and ascension of Jesus. Today Jesus still lives and because He lives Christians know that they shall live also.                               

    Jesus promised the Holy Ghost – Acts 1:4-8: The apostles were to wait in Jerusalem for the fulfillment of the promise of the father. The promise of the Father was that He would send the Holy Ghost upon the apostles. The apostles were to be baptized with the Holy Ghost in a few days! The apostles still had to learn that the preaching of the gospel produces the spiritual kingdom of Christ, the church. Jesus is not interested in some earthly kingdom.

   The apostles learned that they were responsible for preaching the gospel to every creature. Christians are responsible for the evangelism of the world in each generation. Every man on earth is lending his influence in behalf of either truth or falsehood. Faith in the risen Christ gave tremendous power to the apostles' preaching and it should likewise move us to evangelism.                                                         

   Jesus ascended to heaven – Acts 1:9-12: The apostles were allowed to witness the ascension of the Lord. The Lord Jesus was "taken up" because "up" is where God is. Heaven is where Jesus is now sitting at the right hand of God. The ascension of Jesus is in perfect harmony with the other parts of His history. Jesus' ascension was a fitting and natural termination of His earthly ministry.                                         

   This same Jesus who died to save us and that ascended back to heaven shall come again. He shall come in the same manner as He ascended. He will come in the clouds of heaven, and shall be attended with His mighty angels. He shall descend Himself in person, with a shout, and with the sound of a trumpet, to receive His own. They will meet Him in the air. (I Thessalonians 4:13-18)

    Jesus had said, "wait in Jerusalem” – Acts 1:13-26: Jesus had commanded the apostles to wait in Jerusalem. While they waited the disciples prayed, praised God and appointed an apostle. Matthias was selected to take the place of Judas that had fallen away from God. Let us never forget how wicked one can become who falls from his Creator. The work of Christ must go on even though some die and others desert the cause. Neither Judas nor any other who turns back to sin is suitable for heaven.                                       

   There can be no living apostles in the church today. Observe that specific requirements set forth for one to be an apostle. "Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection." (Acts 1:21-22) The choice for an apostle was to be from among the men, and not the women. Women did not bear any office, or exercise any authority in the church. An apostle had to be eyewitness of Jesus' resurrection; otherwise he could no be a witness at all.

      To become a Christian you must hear the gospel (Romans 10:17); believe in Jesus (John 8:24); repent of sins (Romans 10:9-10); confess Christ as Lord (Acts 8:37) and be baptized into Christ (I Peter 3:21). After baptism use your life to spread the gospel of Christ! “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:15-16)

The Kingdom Of God Came With Power
– Acts Two –

   The Lord Jesus had promised, "Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power." (Mark 9:1) Acts Chapter Two provides a record of the kingdom of God or the church coming with power.

   On the day of Pentecost following our Lord's resurrection the disciples were assembled and waiting in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father to be fulfilled. According to Isaiah the word of the Lord was to go forth from Jerusalem. "Many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem." (Isaiah 2:3) 

   On that Pentecost day the Holy Ghost came on the apostles with a sound as a mighty rushing wind. There appeared to them cloven tongues like as of fire. The apostles were given power to speak in languages that they had never studied. This was to make it possible for them to preach to Jews from every nation in their own language. The reactions were very different as to what happened  on Pentecost:  (1) some of the people said the apostles were drunk. (2) Some of the people were astonished to hear the apostles declare the wonderful works of God. (3) The apostles were sure that this was a fulfillment of what the prophets had spoken. 

   The apostles used the events of Pentecost to preach Jesus to these people. Peter's sermon had three points: (1) He spoke of how Jesus fulfilled prophecy, (2) He spoke of the great miracle working ministry of Jesus, and (3) He spoke of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. This sermon both alarmed and convinced many that heard it.

   The people inquired as to what they must do. They were told to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus, for the remission of sins. The gift of the Holy Ghost was promised to those that obey. About 3,000 people gladly received the word and were baptized. These saved people were added to the church. Those in the church enjoyed a wonderful fellowship.  

   The Holy Ghost descended – Acts 2:1-4: Jesus had promised that the kingdom of God would come with power. (Mark 9:1) The power came with the coming of the Holy Spirit on the apostles.  The events under consideration took place on the day of Pentecost. Pentecost was fifty days from Passover. (Leviticus 23:15-16) The Holy Ghost came on the apostles with power on the Pentecost following Jesus' resurrection.

   Acts two begins "they were all with one accord in one place." The "They" included Matthias, and the eleven with whom he was numbered. The Baptism of the Holy Ghost came on the apostles only, not on the hundred and twenty. There was a sound like a mighty rushing wind and tongues parting like fire. The apostles spoke the gospel with other tongues or languages. They were able to preach the gospel in languages they had never learned.

   The lost are gathered – Acts 2:5-15: The sound like a rushing mighty wind and the tongues parting asunder like fire resulted in the multitude coming together. "There were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven." The apostles spoke in the language of the people who had gathered. They taught these people the "wonderful works of God” in their own language.      

   The people were especially amazed because the men that spoke were all Galilaeans. At best they were unpolished and unlearned men. They had never attended any school of learning nor had they learned any language but their own. Some wondered what the events of Pentecost meant. Others accused the apostles of being drunk. Peter stood up with the other apostles and said they were not drunk. He said it was only the third hour of the day. No Jew would drink before the first hour of prayer -- nine in the morning.                 

        The sermon is preached – Acts 2:16-39: Peter said the events of Pentecost were predicted by the prophet Joel. This is what Joel had predicted. The "last days" refers to the Christian dispensation that was beginning that day. The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus was accompanied with great natural wonders spoken of in this chapter.                  

   In the midst of those amazing natural events often associated with God's judgment against nations the hope of salvation is presented. The concern of Peter's sermon was human salvation and the means of obtaining such salvation. Peter preached about the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins. Peter's sermon focused on, (1) the fact that Jesus fulfilled prophecy, (2) His great miracle working ministry, and (3) the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord.                            

   The apostles made it clear that salvation comes to believers that will repent and be baptized. On this beginning day of the church about three thousand souls were baptized for remission of sins. These baptized believers were added to the church.                 

   The result is salvation – Acts 2:40-47: Only those that gladly receive the word can be saved. The one that gladly receives the word will be baptized immediately. They did not eat, sleep nor drink first. Salvation was the most important thing in the world to them. Those that are added to the church must remain steadfast in service to God. "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42)

   All God's people must be together as one in Christ Jesus. "All that believed were together" could not refer to together in one place because the number was so large. They were of one mind and judgment as to Jesus, who He is, what He has done and what we must do to be washed in His blood. The disciples were of one heart and soul. That is why God added all the saved and only the saved to the church. Christians bless and encourage one another and also spread the salvation message to others.

    Are you a child of God? "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:36-38) 

  Now is the time to serve God faithfully. To become a Christian hear the gospel (Romans 10:17), believe in Jesus (John 8:24), repent of sins (Acts 17:30), confess Christ as Lord (Acts 8:37), and be baptized. (Acts 2:38) Those that become Christians are added by the Lord to His church. Are you a faithful member of Christ's church?

The Prophet Sent From God
– Acts Three  – 

  There are many sad situations in our word. As Peter and John entered the Beautiful Gate of the Temple a man that had been lame from his mother’s womb confronted them. The lame man was healed by the power of God. This miracle opened the door for Peter's second sermon. The man was healed with simply the speaking of a word. "Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." (Acts 3:6)

   The people were astonished at what had happened. "And all the people saw him walking and praising God: And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him." (Acts 3:9-10) The apostles were quick to let the people know that the lame man was not healed by their own power. He was healed through the power of Jesus of Nazareth, whom the people had crucified.

   The purpose of Peter's sermon was to bring these people to Christ. They were taught to repent of their sin and be converted. The motivation for such obedience was the fact that Jesus was that prophet spoken of by Moses. The Old Testament  worthies pointed  to Jesus and to the salvation that can only be obtained through Him. Christ came as fulfillment of the covenant God had made with Abraham. The purpose of His coming was to turn sinners from their iniquities.

   A lame man needed help – Acts 3:1-5: Peter and John were together often. Here they go together into the Temple. Their purpose was not to make sacrifice. The Jewish sacrifices were abolished by the sacrifice of Christ. They went into the temple: (1) to pray, and (2) that they might have the opportunity to preach the gospel there. The Temple was a gathering place for many people. They entered the Temple at about the ninth hour or about three o'clock in the afternoon.

   As the apostles entered the Temple they come face to face with a lame man. This poor fellow had been lame from his mother's womb. He was carried by others and laid at the gate of the Temple that is called Beautiful. His affliction had caused him to be dependent on others. He was there to ask alms or beg from the ones that entered the Temple. He asked alms of Peter and John. Peter and John looked carefully at the man and ask him to look at them. He looked at them expecting to receive something from them. What he expected was a little money, not a cure for his lameness.

   A notable miracle was performed – Acts 3:6-10: How disappointed the poor man must have been when the apostles told him that they had no money. His disappointment quickly turned to joy when they said, "such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." (Acts 3:6) Just as Peter had seen Jesus do, he took the man by the right hand and lifted him up. Where there had been weakness, immediately there was strength.

   The reaction of the man was beautiful. He leaped up, stood and walked. His cure was perfect and complete. The man joined the apostles as they went into the Temple to pray and acknowledge the goodness of God. The words of Isaiah 35:6 "Then shall the lame man leap as an hart..." were fulfilled in this man. The healed man also praised God. He did not praise the apostles. He realized that his healing came from God. The people saw the man that had been lame for those many years walking into the Temple to praise God. It was clear to them that this was the beggar that they had seen so often at the Beautiful Gate of the Temple. The people were filled with amazement at what had transpired.

   An opportunity to preach the gospel – Acts 3:11-18: The man that was healed to Peter and John. He knew that they were instruments through whom God had worked. The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob had made this man whole. Peter was alert to the opportunity that the miracle brought to preach the gospel. The apostles were careful to show that the miracle was performed by the power of God, not by their power. The man was made whole through the name of Jesus and faith in His name.

   The apostles charged these people with delivering up Jesus and killing the Prince of Life. Peter explained that God had glorified Jesus by raising Him from the dead, setting him at His own right hand, and by this notable miracle that had been done on the lame man. He gave the people hope by showing that God had raised Jesus from the dead. Peter said that it was through ignorance that these people had denied the Son of God. It was no surprise that Christ suffered. The prophets had predicted that He would.

   Recognizing their duty to God – Acts 3:19-26: The people were told to repent and be converted, so that their sins might be blotted out. Refreshment, joy, and peace come with the blotting out of sins. God sent Jesus to give them hope. He is that prophet like Moses. The one that does not hear Jesus will be destroyed from among the people. The work of Jesus Christ is redemption by His blood. 

   The primary and immediate thing in view here is the accomplishment of all those things that had been prophesied by the Old Testament prophets. They are now being completed in and by Jesus Christ. The message was, "For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people." (Acts 3:22-23)

   All of His doctrines are to be believed, and all His commands are to be obeyed. The person that will not believe what He says, nor do what He commands will be destroyed. God will hold us responsible for what we do with His message. Let us learn that Jesus, the seed of Abraham, will gladly bless people through the forgiveness of sins.

   Have you been converted? Faith in the Christ is the beginning point of an acceptable relationship with God. (Romans 10:17) None can have salvation without hearing and believing the salvation message. (Mark 16:15-16) Repentance is necessary for salvation. (Luke 13:3) Repentance is a change of mind that leads to a change of action or a change in life. A simple confession of faith in Jesus made by one's mouth is a necessary step in conversion. (Romans 10:9-10) Those that put on Christ must be baptized into Him. "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ." (Galatians 3:27) At baptism one stops being out of Christ. If you are saved praise God for what He has done for you.

Preaching Leads To Prison
– Acts Four – 

   The Apostles had healed a man at the Beautiful gate of the Temple. This provided a wonderful opportunity to preach Jesus and His resurrection. The priests and Sadducees were sad that "they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead." The result was that Peter and John were put in prison. "The inherent hatred of truth and righteousness on the part of the powers of darkness was quickly manifested in the bitter opposition encountered by the apostolic preachers of the gospel."

   The growth of Christianity was well underway by this time. "Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand." (Acts 4:4) The Apostles were called to answer for their authority to preach and to heal. They were asked, "By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?" (Acts 4:7) Peter and John saw this as simply another opportunity to preach Jesus.

   Their accusers could not deny that a notable miracle had been done on the lame man. Yet, they charged the Apostles "not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus." "Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right  in the  sight of  God to  hearken  unto  you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." Their time in prison ended with being threatened and dismissed.

   Peter and John return to the other Apostles for a period of prayer and praise to God for His goodness. "And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness." (Acts 4:31) The result of this early persecution was that the believers were joined together in even stronger love. They cared for the poor by selling their property and goods and sharing with those that had need.

   The Apostles were arrested – Acts 4:1-4: Peter and John were interrupted as they spoke about Jesus. The priests, captain of the temple and Sadducees caused the trouble. They were grieved because of the preaching about the resurrection of Jesus. The doctrine of the resurrection from the dead was a special grief to the Sadducees. The Apostles not only preached the resurrection of the dead in general, but they said that this man Jesus was raised from the dead.                               

   Peter and John were arrested late in the day. They were kept in prison to be dealt with on the morrow. Even though Peter and John were put in prison many of those that had heard the word believed. The number of Christian men grew to be about five thousand. The apostles had literally become fishers of men.                                                   

   The Apostles in court – Acts 4:5-12: The apostles were examined by the rulers, the chief priests, the Scribes, and elders of the people. They were examined with the question, "By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?" The Holy Ghost directed the Apostles in answering for the faith. They explained that the man had been made whole in the name of Jesus. "Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole." (Acts 4:10)

   Jesus was shown to be a rejected stone which became the chief corner stone. Jesus is strong, durable, dependable and fit for a foundation for both time and eternity. Salvation can be found only in the name of Jesus. God resolved in His purpose that salvation would be made possible. He appointed his Son to be the salvation of the world. God saves by Him and by no other. Sadly, many reject all that Jesus, in His mercy offers.                                                                                   

   The Apostles were threatened – Acts 4:13-22: Their persecutors were perplexed by the boldness of Peter and John. They had perceived of Peter and John as being unlearned, ignorant men. However, that is not the way they spoke before their accusers. Those that accused the apostles were unable to deny that a notable miracle had been done. After taking council together they decided that they would forbid the apostles to preach in the name of Jesus.                               

   The Apostles asked their accusers whether they should obey their commands or the will of God. Their conclusion was that they had to speak what they had seen and heard about the resurrection. The apostles knew that souls were perishing without Jesus. They looked to Jesus Christ as the only escape from eternal ruin. They knew that there is no peace of mind or proper life conduct aside from Jesus and His truth. The court released the apostles because they were fearful of the people. They did not care if they offended God, but they were afraid of the people.         

   The apostles in their own company – Acts 4:23-37: When the apostles came back to their own company they: (1) reported what commands and injunctions their accusers had lain upon them, (2) reported what threatenings they had given them, (3) prayed together with the brethren, and (4) praised God. They looked upon God as their heavenly Father in Christ. He was the one to whom they looked for help, and in whom they expected safety, strength and grace. Their request was for boldness that they not be intimidated concerning preaching the Christ.                                                            

   The result of their prayers was: (1) the place was shaken where they were assembled together, (2) they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and (3) they spoke the word of God with all boldness. The shaking of the house assured them that God was still with them. This was also a time of great unity in the church "One heart and one soul" described the beautiful unity of the early church. They were in total agreement in matters of doctrine. There was a perfect harmony in their practice. Their souls were knit to one another in this large body of Christians.

   The liberality of fellow Christians helped meet the needs of poor brethren. Many, like Barnabas, the son of exhortation sold land or other possessions to help those that were in need. "It is quite probable that the land sold by Barnabas constituted his whole estate. Having no family dependent on him, he consecrated his life to unrequited missionary labor. "

   They brought this money and laid it at the feet of the Apostles. This giving was done out of gratitude to God and sympathy for man. Others glorify God when they see the good deeds done by Christians.                                                    

   If you have not started the Christian life "Today is the day of salvation." (II Corinthians 6:2.) To become a Christian hear the gospel (Romans 10:17), believe in Jesus (John 8:24), repent of sins (Acts 17:30) and be baptized to wash away sins. (Acts 22:16) Your attitudes and actions should be molded after the example of the early Christians as they were willing both to live and to die for Jesus. .

The Deceit Of Ananias And Sapphira
– Acts Five –

   Pictured in Acts chapter five is the deceitful action and death of Ananias and Sapphira. They were killed because of a premeditated sin. Their death had nothing to do with not giving the whole price of their property. They lost their lives because they lied. They lied about the amount they were giving. Their desire was to receive praise of the brethren. Their focus should have been on pleasing God. Sincere love for God should have motivated truthfulness and acceptable service to God.

   The Spirit of God made Peter aware of the sins of this couple. This sin, like all sin, had its beginning in the heart. Ananias had conceived this thing in his heart. The crime of Ananias was not keeping part of the money. He could have kept any or all of it. Sadly, both this man and his wife were part of this sinful act. The punishment for their sin was a speedy death. 

   This practice of discipline caused fear among the Christians and others as well. "Great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things." (Acts 5:11) The thing that some think will hinder the growth of the church only helped. "Believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women." (Acts 5:14)

   Nothing could stop the apostles from preaching the gospel. Threatings and beatings could not stop them. They preached Christ, and Him crucified. They preached the resurrection from the dead. This was the preaching that most offended the priests. Whatever our position in life, we should seek to make Christ known, and to glorify His name. "And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ." (Acts 5:42)

   The danger of willful sin – Acts 5:1-11: Ananias and Sapphira were guilt of a serious, willful sin. A willful sin is a grave, spiritual error for those that want to go to heaven. They agreed to lie about the price that they received for some land. Their desire was to have the praise of men. Ananias' sin was not in keeping the part but in pretending to give the whole.

   Ananias was just making a show of charity. None but Satan could have put this lie in Ananias' heart. However, Peter knew of his lies by divine revelation. It was a terrible, premeditated sin. A premeditated sin aggravates the guilt of that sin and the severity of punishment.          

     People need to know how God feels about sin and how sever punishment will be. Sin was so repulsive to God that it cost Ananias and Sapphira their lives. They agreed together in this fraud. To agree together in a fraud and a lie is very dreadful. Ananias and Sapphira were united in marriage, religion, sin, death and eternity.                                            

   The power of a purified church – Acts 5:12-25: During this period of progress for the church miracles were worked by the apostles. The people were fearful of the apostles. Amazingly, the result was great growth for the church. "And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women." (Acts 5:14) Those that were added to the Lord were likewise added to the church. (Acts 2:47) They were added to the only church over which Christ is Lord and head.

   These events led to a second Jewish persecution. The motive for the second Jewish persecution was the jealousy of the leaders. The Jewish leaders told the apostles not to speak at all in the name of Jesus. God told them to, "Go, Stand and Speak the words of life." The apostles were certainly in a place of danger. However, this place of danger became a place of opportunity for the preaching of the gospel.

   The true purpose of every Christian is to "Go, Stand and Speak the words of life." It is the design of the gospel to restore men to a productive life in Christ Jesus. Let us never forget that the will of God is the salvation of men and women. We must do our part to bring salvation to everyone.

   When truth is opposed – Acts 5:26-32: In spite of opposition, Christians must uphold and defend the truth. Even after being put in prison and threatened the apostles continued to preach. They taught openly and publicly, and without fear. They taught the people in the name of Jesus. The name of Jesus is a strong tower to which the believer can run for safety.

   The persecutors gave the apostles an up side down compliment and what a compliment it was -- "you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine." The Sanhedrim had forbid them to speak and teach in the name of Christ. In answer to them the apostles said, "We ought to obey God rather than men." The foundation of true liberty is that "We must obey God rather than men." Obedience to God must be constant, unconditional, immediate and unquestioning.    

   God raised up Jesus as an exalted Prince. He is declared to be both Lord and Christ. Full forgiveness of all sins can be obtained by the precious blood off Jesus. God gives the Holy Ghost to all that obey Him as a witness of Jesus’ incarnation, His crucifixion and death, His resurrection, His exaltation to the right hand of God, and of His offices as Prince and Savior.

      Truth cuts to the heart – Acts 5:33-42: Even those that will not receive truth may be cut to the heart by truth. When the accusers of the apostles heard the resurrection message they wanted to kill the messengers. They did not want to hear that Jesus had been raised from the dead, exalted to God's right hand in heaven, and that He is the Savior of mankind.                                                              

   Gamaliel advised the council to act wisely in what the intended to do with the apostles. He reminded them of Theudas and Judas of Galilee. They had led away followers and their work had come to nothing because it was not of God. He said, "if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God." (Acts 5:38-39)

   They beat the apostles and "commanded they should not speak in the name of Jesus." The apostles had suffering bodies, happy hearts and obedient spirits. Every day, with great constancy, both publicly and privately, "they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ." Not a day should pass without some effort on our part to spread the gospel. The church grew through daily preaching done publicly and house to house. Christianity has not been overthrown, but has gone on conquering and to conquer.                       

   Jesus died for your sins and was resurrected. To become a Christian you must hear the gospel (Romans 10:17); believe in Jesus (John 8:24); repent of sins (Romans 10:9-10); confess Christ as Lord (Acts 8:37) and be baptized to wash away sins. (I Peter 3:21). After baptism use your life to spread the gospel!

Some Widows Were Neglected
– Acts Six –

   "Perfect unity" is the term that best described the early days of the church. "And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul..." (Acts 4:32) As the church grew into a multitude some began to murmur. They felt that their widows were being neglected. The task of caring for everyone was just to great for the apostles. They needed help in seeing that the widows were properly cared for. They also needed much time for prayer and preaching.

   Seven qualified men were selected to assist in caring for the widows. These were "seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom." When the seven men were selected the apostles prayed for them and laid their hands on them. The apostles wanted the widows cared for properly. The neglect had not been intentional. A mistake had occurred and the apostles wanted it rectified.

   Even during this time the church continued to grow. "And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith." (Acts 6:7)

   Stephen not only helped to care for the widows, but he was also a powerful preacher. The Bible says that, "Stephen, full of faith and power,  did great  wonders and  miracles  among the people." He was the first named, other than the apostles that performed miracles. Some disputed with Stephen but they "were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spoke." When they could not answer his arguments as a disputant they brought false wit-nesses against him. The false witnesses said, "We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God." (Acts 6:11)

   When the council looked upon Stephen they "saw his face as it had been the face of an angel." (Acts 6:15) Stephen spoke with meek-ness. He was calm, clear, collected and fearless. His shinning face proved that he had not spoken blasphemous words against Moses or God. How would the splendor of heaven rest upon one that spoke in such a horrible way?

   The first dissension in the church – Acts 6:1-4: Until this time, the growth of the church had been great and the harmony of the church had been undisturbed. The number of disciples continued to grow rapidly. There were twelve, then a hundred and twenty, three thousand more, then five thousand more, and after that a multitude of men and women and now the number continued to multiply. In the midst of this time, "there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration." (Acts 6:1)

   The apostles found themselves unable to minister to every demand. When the Gospel is preached and there is an increase Satan does his best to get a footing. Have you ever noticed how often Satan is able to stir up trouble with the cry of "partiality?"

   The Apostles did not feel that God would be pleased if they left the word of God to serve tables. They felt that they should commit themselves to the study of God's word, meditation upon it, and the preaching of it. It takes a great deal of time to collect for the poor, check out each case, and circumstances, and distribute to those needs. The apostles felt that they should reserve themselves for spiritual services.              

   The church selecting seven good men to be appointed over this work resolved the problem. These were to be men full of the Holy Ghost and of wisdom. Wisdom would allow these brethren to handle the benevolent needs in a most prudent manner. The apostles were then able to give themselves to prayer and preaching.                        

   The complaint was heard no more – Acts 6:5-7: The wisdom of the decision to appoint these seven men was obvious as it was accepted by the church. Seven Grecian men were selected and the apostles sanctioned the selection. "They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch." (Acts 6:5)

   The Apostles prayed for these seven men and laid their hands upon them. The laying on of hand was for the purpose of conferring of spiritual gifts and it likewise showed the confidence of the apostles in these men to do the work that needed to be done. The work of the seven brought satisfaction and no more complaints were heard. The result was the "word of God increased" and the disciples multiplied in number. "A great company of the priests were obedient to the faith." The faith is that system brought about by Jesus. Jesus Christ is the great object of faith. Faith is of no profit unless it is mixed with obedience. Those that are obedient to the faith cheerfully submit to New Testament teaching.          

   Stephen was accused of blasphemy – Acts 6:8-11: The rapid growth of the church led to the third Jewish persecution. During this persecution, Stephen, one of the seven, became the victim. Stephen, a man full of grace and power, spoke for God with irresistible eloquence. He preached with power and performed great wonders and signs. Until this time we only read that the apostles had performed New Testament miracles.                      

   Many of the people hated the doctrine that Stephen taught, and they envied his miracles. "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." (Acts 6:9) They disputed with Stephen concerning his doctrine, miracles and his authority for doing these things. They could not answer Stephen so they hired false witnesses to say Stephen had spoken "blasphemous words against Moses, and against God."                                                         

   The face of an angel – Acts 6:12-15: The Jews were unable to answer the things that Stephen taught about Jesus. They accused him of blasphemy against Moses and the customs he had delivered. They charged Stephen with blasphemy for saying Jesus would destroy the Temple. They stirred up the people against him and seized him with violence.                            

   They said Stephen spoke "blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law" because they heard him say, "that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us." Though there was some truth in the testimony of the false witnesses, yet they put a wrong and malicious construction upon what Stephen had said. It is true that Jesus changed many things religiously. The wonderful sacrifice of Jesus caused all Jewish sacrifices to cease.

   Joy in heavenly hope caused Stephen's face to shine as the face of an angel. This man of God displayed total calmness and serenity. Whenever character is under the influence of Jesus Christ it shines.    

   To become a Christian you must hear the gospel (Rom 10:17); believe in Jesus (Jn 8:24); repent of sins (Rom 10:9-10); confess Christ as Lord (Acts 8:37) and be baptized to be saved (I Pet 3:21). After baptism use your life to spread the gospel of Christ!

Stephen, The First Christian Martyr
– Acts Seven –

   In Acts chapter seven Stephen is asked to defend himself against the charges that he had "spoken blasphemous words against Moses, and against God." This good man was charged as one that was a blasphemer of God. That would have made him an apostate from the truth. In his defense Stephen proved that the promises made to Abraham had spiritual meaning. He wanted the people to know that the land that God intended for His people was a heavenly land.

   Stephen described how that God used Joseph's faithfulness and the wicked of the other patriarchs in leading to the glorious nation through which Jesus would be born into the world. He showed how God used Moses to deliver Israel out of Egyptian bondage. God also gave the Law through Moses. He led them through the wilderness yet they rebelled against Moses and against God.  God was working in many events of history to make atonement possible. The faith of the patriarchs caused them to look toward that heavenly country.

   Stephen showed the role of the tabernacle and of the temple of Solomon. However he proved that God does not dwell in temples made with hands. He charged the council with resisting the Holy Ghost like their ancestors had done. Their forefathers had persecuted and killed the prophets who foretold the coming of the Just One. They had now become the betrayers and murderers of the Christ. The council heard these charges and gnashed on Stephen with their teeth. They cast Stephen out of the city and stoned him. They laid their garments at the feet of Saul that became Paul the Apostle. Stephen became the first martyr for Christ.

   The call of Abraham – Acts 7:1-8: The High Priest wanted to know if the things said about Stephen were true. Stephen's faith in Hebrew history was strong because he knew it was God at work.  Stephen began his defense by showing that God called Abraham to leave Mesopotamia. He said, "Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee." Abraham came out of the land of the Chaldeans to sojourn in Canaan.

   God did not give the land to Abraham but He promised it to his descendants. His descendants included Isaac, Jacob, and the twelve patriarchs. God made a covenant of circumcision with Abraham’s descendants.

   Stephen was a powerful preacher. He was a man well versed in what was taught in Old Testament Scripture. In Stephen's speech there are quotations of scripture following quotation. He was a man who was forced into action because of strong convictions. He was separated from the evil world of his day. A distinguishing mark of Christianity is separation from the world.                   

   The Jewish nation and the land of Egypt – Acts 7:9-43: The patriarchs sold Joseph into Egypt. Envy caused Joseph's brothers to sell him into Egypt as a slave. God was with Joseph and gave him favor with the Pharaoh of Egypt. He became governor over that land. A dearth or famine over all the land caused Jacob and his sons move to Egypt. Jacob's family went into Egypt, seventy-five in number, and came out a great nation.                                                                                

   The patriarchs died in Egypt but were buried in Canaan. God had promised to build of Abraham a great nation and to give them the land of Canaan and He did. The God of the Bible is always faithful to fulfill every promise that He has made.            

   While in Egypt the children Israel became slaves. God raised up Moses to deliver them from this slavery and He also used Him to give the Law through him to the children of Israel. Most of us remember from those childhood lessons how that Pharaoh’s daughter raised Moses. Moses thought his people would understand that God would deliver them trough him. They did not, and so when he had killed the Egyptian he had to flee to Midian where he lived for forty years. The Lord appeared to Moses in a burning bush at Mount Sinai. He returned to Egypt to deliver Israel out of slavery. Moses lived in the palace of Pharaoh forty years. He lived forty years in Midian. He spent the last forty years of his life with Israel in the wilderness. Moses was a great leader because he was a man of God and a man of the people. 

   Moses predicted that God would raise up a prophet like unto Himself. This very Moses, so highly esteemed and honored by God, announced that prophet that they have lately put to death. His name is Jesus!

   The true tabernacle of God – Acts 7:44-50: Israel had the tabernacle of witness. The tabernacle was built according to the pattern shown Moses. The Tabernacle was a perpetual witness between God and the people. Later the people had the temple. Yet "the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet, Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord..."

   Solomon built God a house, but God's presence cannot be confined to a house. Stephen and the apostles rejected the Temple as the one exclusive place of worship. God's throne is in Heaven, the earth is His footstool and to Him all places are alike. The constant presence of God restrains us from sin and stimulates us to virtue.

   Stephen, the first Christian martyr – Acts 7:51-60: Stephen charged the people with: (1) being stiff necked, (2) uncircumcised in heart, (3) resisting the Holy Ghost, and (4) failing to keep the word of God. "When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth." (Acts 7:54) 

   Stephen looked up into Heaven where his heart and his treasure had long been. The Jews will see Jesus sitting as judge, Stephen saw Him standing as Advocate. They cast Stephen "out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit."  They stoned Stephen as he was calling on God. As Stephen died he was voluntary kneeling. He had placed himself in this position of prayer. He chose to die praying.

     The saved soul, redeemed by the blood of Christ, can thoroughly forgive. Stephen "kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge." Those that stoned Stephen "laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul."      

   The Jews that rejected God's messengers are now rejecting the love and Spirit of God. The Jew's repeated defiance of God has kindled His righteousness indignation.                                                      

   Now is the time to serve God faithfully. To become a Christian hear the gospel (Romans 10:17), believe in Jesus (John 8:24), repent of sins (Acts 17:30), confess Christ as Lord (Acts 8:37), and be baptized. (Acts 2:38) The Lord adds those that become Christians to His church. Are you a faithful member of Christ's church, willing to live or die for Him?

Biblical Examples Of Conversion
– Acts Eight –

    In Acts chapter eight we begin to observe the spread of the gospel into Judea and Samaria. Jesus had said, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." (Acts 1:8) As this chapter begins we learn that Saul was present giving his approval to Stephen's death. The death of Stephen was the beginning of the third Jewish persecution. Saul was prominent in this persecution. He drug Christians from their homes and put them into prison. (Acts 8:3)

   This persecution led to the church being scattered. "They that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word." (Acts 8:4) The apostles remained at Jerusalem and other Christians went every where preaching the word. Persecution must never keep us from our work, but it can possibly cause us to work somewhere else.

   Those that know the gospel and have Christ in their lives cannot be put to silence. "Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them." (Acts 8:5) Many Samaritans believed and were baptized. Simon was among that number. Peter and John went to Samaria and  passed  on  spiritual  gifts  by  laying  on of hands. Simon tried to buy the power to be able to do the same. Peter told him that his heart was not right in the sight of God. He encouraged Simon to repent and pray to God for forgiveness. 

   Following the great events in Samaria Philip was told to go down on the road from Jerusalem and Gaza. There he met the treasurer of Queen Candace of Ethiopia. The man was reading a passage from Isaiah 53 but he did not understand what he read. He invited Philip to teach him concerning this Scripture. Philip proceeded to preach Jesus to him. (Acts 8:35) When they came to a certain water, the eunuch desired to be baptized. Upon a simple confession of faith in Jesus he was baptized into Christ. The eunuch came up out of the water rejoicing as a saved man. Philip came up to continue to preach Jesus to others. (Acts 8:39-40)  

   The third Jewish persecution – Acts 8:1-4: Saul consented to Stephen's death. He led a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem. The persecution that followed the death of Stephen caused the church to scatter to Samaria and Africa. The church is now forced to do what it had been reluctant to do. The church is now forced to get the gospel out to the surrounding areas. During the persecution the apostles remained in Jerusalem.

   It is amazing to observe the difference in what people do. Observe: (1) Devout men buried Stephen and lamented his death, while (2) Saul made havoc of the church, putting men and women in prison, and (3) The scattered disciples went everywhere preaching the word. Christian men and women were persecuted to prison and to death. No Christian is exempt from persecution and sometimes it is wise to flee.               

   The conversion of the Samaritans – Acts 8:5-25: Philip went to Samaria and preached Christ and the gospel of His kingdom. (Acts 8:12) Signs and wonders confirmed the message Philip preached. As the gospel was preached many obeyed the gospel and the Lord’s church grew rapidly. Jesus had sown in Samaria and now Philip reaps a harvest there. (John 4)                                  

   The preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ centered in the message of His death, burial, resurrection, ascension, and His eventual return to receive the obedient! Salvation from sin comes through obedience to the word of God. The result of preaching Jesus is always (1) Faith in Jesus as Lord and Christ (Acts 8:36), (2) repentance from sin (Acts 3:19), and (3) baptism for the remission of sins. (Acts 8:38-39) People that obey the gospel become the most joyful people on earth.        

   Philip preached things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ. Those that believed were baptized both men and women. A man named Simon believed and he was baptized. "He continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done." Upon hearing of the conversion of the Samaritans the apostles sent Peter and John to impart to them spiritual gifts. Simon tried to buy this power with money. His heart was not right with God!

   Was Simon converted? The Bible says, "Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done." (Acts 8:13) He did exactly what the other Samaritans did. Simon is an example of how fallen Christians can be restored. He was told to “repent” and “pray.” (Acts 8:22) Christians that sin will be lost unless they repent and pray to God for forgiveness.

   Christ is preached to an Ethiopian – Acts 8:27-35: This account is the story of a preacher (Philip) and a sinner (the Ethiopian). When God said “go,” Philip went to do the will of the Heavenly Father. Philip was ready to teach and the eunuch was anxious to learn. He preached Christ to the man from Ethiopia. Conversion is produced by conviction that comes from hearing the word of God.                                         

   “Jesus” was the message that Philip preached to the Ethiopian.  We must also open our mouth with boldness and speak clearly and the message of Jesus. We must preach to people that Jesus of Nazareth is the true Messiah, and that He is the only person through whom we must be saved.

     The Ethiopian obeys the gospel – Acts 8:36-40: God is concerned about the redemption of one lost soul. The Lord uses people like Philip to convert other people like the Ethiopian. A part of conversion includes baptism into Christ. You cannot preach Jesus without preaching baptism "into Christ." 

   The manner of baptizing in the early church was to bury the whole body in the water. The Book of Acts contains several cases of conversion. When all the case are studied we learn that those that were saved: (1) heard the word of God, (2) believed the salvation message about Jesus, (3) repented of sins, (4) confessed Jesus as Lord and Christ, (5) were baptized (immersed) into Christ, (6) received forgiveness of sins, and (7) received the ordinary gift of the Holy Spirit. The gospel of Christ, promptly and cheerfully obeyed, leads to rejoicing. The Ethiopia man rejoiced because his name was written in Heaven.       

    Are you willing to do whatever is necessary to go to heaven? Jesus said, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned." (Mark 16:16) Truth must be heard, understood and obeyed in order to bring salvation.  After man obeys the gospel he must remain steadfast in his service to God. "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." (I Corinthians 15:58) Once you learn the truth of God's word hold it with all your strength and heart. 

The Conversion Of A Persecutor
– Acts Nine –

    Those that stoned Stephen "laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul." Saul "made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison." Not being content with persecuting Christians in Jerusalem Saul pursued Christians to Damascus. (Acts 9:1-3)

   As Saul was approaching Damascus a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" He was told to go into Damascus and there he would be told what he must do. Saul was led blind into the city where he prayed for three days, neither eating nor drinking.

   Jesus sent Ananias to restore Saul's sight and to tell him what he must do to be saved. He also told Saul that he was a chosen vessel with a great mission to the Gentiles. Saul's sight was restored and he was baptized to wash away his sins. He began immediately preaching that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God. The Greek speaking Jews plotted to kill Saul. The disciples helped him escape from Damascus by letting him down by the wall in a basket.

   Saul later  went to  Jerusalem  where Barnabas spoke on his behalf. After that he was accepted by the brethren. But again the Jews sought to kill him. "When the brothers learned this, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus." Acts chapter nine closed with the accounts of two great miracles.  First in Lydda, Peter healed Aeneas, a man that had been paralyzed for eight years. The second miracle took place in Joppa. A sister named Dorcas was raised from the dead. This "became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord."

    The conversion of Saul – Acts 9:1-18: Saul's early training helped him to be a very sincere man. However, as important as sincerity is we must remember that sincerity may be just as real in the heart of a lost man as a saved man. Saul sincerely felt that he was doing right while persecuting Christians. Saul was doing his best to destroy the church. Some build the church and some try to destroy it. Which do you do.                                                                                               

    Saul was granted authority by the High Priest to pursue Christians in Damascus. The Lord appeared to Saul as he traveled to Damascus. There was a light from heaven and there was a voice that asked, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" Saul responded, "Who are you, Lord?" Jesus said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do."

   God sent Ananias to Saul (1) to tell him about the work God had for him to do, (2) to restore his sight, (3) that he might be filled with the Holy Spirit, and (4) to tell him what to do to be saved. At first Ananias was frightened by Saul, but he loved God enough to obey. Ananias was told to go to house of Judas on the street called Straight for there Saul had been praying and fasting. Saul became a Christian when he believed, repented of sins and was baptized.              

   Saul's early ministry – Acts 9:19-31: After his conversion Saul began to build up what he had tried to destroy. Saul went to the Jewish meeting places and immediately started telling people that Jesus is the Son of God. Saul increased in strength so much so that he was able to confound the Jews that dwelt in Damascus as he showed them that Jesus is the Messiah.

   After Saul's conversion he was hated by the Jews and suspect by the brethren. It was not long until the persecutor became the persecuted. Saul's preaching of the risen Christ aroused opposition and persecution. Some of the Jews made plans to kill him. Saul found out about their plans and one night his brethren let him down over the city wall in a large basket. Saul was driven out by the Jews, led by the Lord and assisted by his brethren.                                           

    Saul then made a brief visit to the disciples at Jerusalem. The Christians were afraid of him. Barnabas helped Saul by taking him to the apostles. He explained how Saul had seen the Lord on the road and how the Lord had spoken to him. Barnabas also said that Saul had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus. Saul was accepted by the brethren and moved about freely among the Christians in Jerusalem and told everyone about the Lord. He had many discussions with the Jews that spoke the Greek language. (the Hellenists) They also attempt to kill Saul. The brethren took Saul to Caesarea. From there he was sent him to the city of Tarsus. This was followed by a time of peace and growth for the church.

    The miracle at Lydda – Acts 9:32-35:  While Peter was traveling from place to place preaching the gospel he came to Lydda. There he met Aeneas, a man that had been paralyzed and bedridden for eight years. "Peter said to Aeneas, "Jesus Christ has healed you! Get up and make up your bed." This miracle took place during a time of peace and prosperity in the church.

    The man that was healed had a disease of long standing, incurable by human means. The man was healed by divine power -- "Jesus Christ heals you." The man was healed instantaneously -- "He arose immediately." The man was healed completely -- "Arise and make your bed."  Peter made it clear that Jesus Christ had healed this man. Many people in Lydda and Sharon saw Aeneas and turned to the Lord.

   The raising of Dorcas – Acts 9:36-42: In Joppa there was a Christian lady named Tabitha. Her Greek name was Dorcas. As a follower of Christ she was helpful and compassionate. Dorcas lived, like all people, subject every moment to death. The Bible said of Dorcas that she got sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upper room.                                                                        

   Two men were sent to Peter in nearby Lydda to tell him what had happened. They asked him to come with them as quickly as he could. Peter went with them right away. When they got to Joppa Peter was brought to the upper room. The weeping widows showed garments that Dorcas had made. Peter sent the people out and "turned to the body of Dorcas and said, “Tabitha, get up!” The woman opened her eyes, and “when she saw Peter, she sat up.” When people heard what had happened with Dorcas many of them put their faith in the Lord. After this Peter stayed in Joppa for some time with Simon, a tanner.

   This great miracle teaches us that we should spare no effort to develop a faith greater than earthly life. We also should consider each day a blessing from God and use it in His service.                                                      

      To become a Christian you must hear the gospel (Romans 10:17); believe in Jesus (John 8:24); repent of sins (Romans 10:9-10); confess Christ as Lord (Acts 8:37) and be baptized into Christ (I Peter 3:21). After baptism use your life to spread the gospel of Christ!

The Conversion Of Cornelius
– Acts Ten – 

    It was God's will that the gospel be preached to every creature. (Mark 16:15). At this point in history the gospel had been preached only to the Jews and Samaritans. The Samaritans had part Jewish blood. Cornelius and his household were the first Gentile converts. The Jews had been long separated from the Gentiles. It took a series of miracles from God to help break down this prejudice.

    Cornelius, was the captain or centurion of a group of soldiers called "The Italian Band." He and the other soldiers in this unit were from Italy. He was a praying man that practiced charity to the poor. These deeds did not save him but they did cause God to take notice of him. God instructed him to send for Peter to learn what he needed to do to be saved.

   In a vision the Lord told Peter to kill and eat unclean animals. Peter told the Lord he had never eaten anything unclean. Peter was told that what God had cleansed no one should call unclean. The vision was not really about food, but it was about people. While Peter thought about what the vision meant three men came from Cornelius. He went with these men without doubting. Some brethren accompanied him from Joppa.

   When they arrived at Caesarea Cornelius was waiting. Cornelius, his family and friends were ready to hear what they must do to be saved. Cornelius fell down and worshipped at Peter's feet. Peter said to him, "Stand up! I am just a man." Peter explained to Cornelius how he had learned that no man is common or unclean.

    Peter now knew that any person that fears God and works righteousness is accepted with God. He is no respecter of persons. Peter preached the gospel to those that had gathered. He told them of the work of Jesus and of His death and resurrection. Peter showed that Jesus is the one that God has chosen to judge the living and the dead. As Peter was speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon those that heard the word. The Jewish brethren that had come with Peter were surprised that the Holy Spirit had been given to Gentiles. They heard the Gentiles speaking in unknown languages and praising God. Peter now saw clearly that the Gentiles should be baptized. So He commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.

    Cornelius, a good moral man – Acts 10:1-8: In Acts chapter ten we meet a man named Cornelius, who was a captain of a group of soldiers called "The Italian Band." He lived in Caesarea. Cornelius was Roman by race and a soldier by profession. He was a devout man that feared God with his entire house. Even though Cornelius was very religious he was unsaved. (Acts 11:14).  

   At about the ninth hour of the day Cornelius saw an angel of God. The angel told him his prayers and alms have come up for a memorial before God. The angel instructed him to send for Peter. Peter was lodging with Simon the tanner in Joppa. Cornelius sent two of his servants and a devout soldier to Joppa to seek for Peter. The Lord brought Peter and Cornelius together so Cornelius could learn the truth.                   

   Peter's vision while on the housetop – Acts 10:9-18: Peter was prejudiced against Gentile and his Jewish prejudice had to be broken. While on a housetop praying Peter saw a vision of something like a great sheet bound at the four corners coming down to the earth. In the sheet there were all kind of things unlawful for Jews to eat. A voice told peter to "Kill these and eat them."                                                                       

   Peter protested that he had never eaten anything common or unclean. Peter is told that when God says that something is clean man should not call it unclean. The vision happened three times before the sheet was suddenly taken back to heaven. The vision was to show Peter that God would receive Gentiles into the kingdom. The result of the vision was that Peter went with those sent by Cornelius.            

   Peter went to Cornelius – Acts 10:19-33: As Peter thought about what the vision meant, the men from Cornelius arrived. The Holy Spirit instructed Peter to go with them, doubting nothing. The men told Peter that Cornelius was a good man that worshiped God and that he was loved by the Jewish people. Peter invited the men to stay the night and then he went with them.

   Cornelius had an audience waiting to hear God's message. He had invited his relatives and close friends to hear the preaching. Cornelius was concerned that all would hear the things commanded by God. When Peter arrived, Cornelius greeted him and knelt down at his feet to worship him. Peter took hold of him and said, "Stand up! I am nothing more than a human." No man is to be worshipped, not even those that might call themselves 'Pope."      

   Peter explained to Cornelius that the Jews are not allowed to have anything to do with other people. But God has shown him not to call any man common or unclean. Peter said that he had agreed to come but he wanted Cornelius to tell him why he had sent for him. Cornelius recounted the vision that had occurred four days before. Now all of these people were present before God to hear everything He has commanded. 

    Peter's sermon to the Gentiles – Acts 10:34-48: Peter said that he was certain that God treats all people alike. Everyone that worships God and does His will, can be saved. Peter recognized that God respects no man because of his nationality. He also understood that the gospel is for all and the conditions of gospel obedience are the same for all.        

   Peter's sermon involved the same message that he had preached from Pentecost. He said that, (1) God sent Jesus as Lord of all, (2) God offers peace through Jesus,  (3) God gave miraculous power to Jesus, (4) Jesus died, was buried and was raised on the third, (5) the prophets witness to Jesus, and (6) Peter and others were commanded to testify that Jesus was ordained to be the Judge of the living and the dead.       

   As Peter began to speak the Holy Spirit came upon Cornelius and his house. Some Jewish brethren had come with Peter. They were surprised that the Holy Spirit had been given to Gentiles. They knew the Gentiles had received the Holy Ghost because "they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God." Peter questioned as to whether anyone could forbid water for the baptism of those that had received the Spirit just as the Jews did? Peter commanded baptism in water as a condition of salvation from past sins.

   Now is the time to serve God faithfully. To become a Christian you must hear the gospel (Romans 10:17), believe in Jesus (John 8:24), repent of sins (Acts