Podcasts about in acts

True ministry is grounded in the Word of God and fueled by the Spirit of God—without compromise. In Acts 13, we follow Paul and Barnabas as they boldly preach the gospel, navigating both spiritual power and fierce opposition.

In Acts 8, one faithful step leads Philip into a gospel moment that crosses continents, as the Spirit moves through Scripture to meet someone right where they are. This week, we explore what it means to be a Bible-saturated people—shaped by the Word and led by the Spirit.

In Acts 8, we see a shift in the spread of the Jesus movement. The persecution, culminating in the martyrdom of Stephen, caused the Church to scatter, and the message to spread to surrounding nations and people groups. This is all because a small group of people listened to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and did what he asked them to do. This is particularly on display in the life of Philip, who has the opportunity to tell people he never thought he'd meet all about Jesus. Through his interaction with a man from Ethiopia, we learn that when you are following the voice of the Spirit, he will take you to people and to places you never thought you'd go.

Wednesday, 21 May 2025   And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet. Matthew 10:14   “And who, if not he should receive you nor he should hear your words, departing the house or that city, you out-swing the dust of your feet!” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus continued his instructions about greeting a house when looking to stay with someone in a city. Concerning someone whose peace is not received, Jesus says, “And who, if not he should receive you nor he should hear your words.”   The word dechomai, to receive, is introduced. HELPS Word Studies says, “to receive in a welcoming (receptive) way. ... [The personal element is emphasized ... which accounts for it always being in the Greek middle voice. This stresses the high level of self-involvement (interest) involved with the ‘welcoming-receiving.'”   If the peace spoken to the house is not well-received, it symbolically returns to the one who made the greeting. The apostles' words were heard, their mission was explained, and the one to whom the appeal was made found it unsuitable to the state of their household.   This is essentially what Jesus is speaking of. If this is the case, and their words have been rejected, He next says, “departing the house or that city, you out-swing the dust of your feet!”   The word ektinassó, to out-swing, is first used here. It is derived from ek, out or from, and tinassó, to swing. Thus, it literally signifies to out-swing. Saying “shake off,” as most translations say, is a suitable and understandable translation.   One can imagine them walking out of the house or the city, putting their foot forward, and swinging it back and forth as a symbolic gesture of their displeasure at how things transpired. This is something that is seen by Paul in Acts 13 –   “Now when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord. And as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was being spread throughout all the region. 50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and prominent women and the chief men of the city, raised up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them, and came to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 15:48-52   A third new word is also seen in this verse, koniortos, dust. It is derived from koniaó, to whitewash or plaster, and ornumi, to rouse. Thus, one can think of something being pulverized. That leads to the thought of dust, which blows about like something as it is pulverized.   This symbolic gesture is a way of indicating that the very dust of the house or city that they visited was repulsive to them and they wanted to be rid of it, lest they carry a vestige of it with them, reminding them of the dirty treatment they received.   Life application: Concerning the act of shaking off the dust in this verse, the Pulpit Commentary, among other similar commentaries, says –   “Treating it as a heathen place, whose pollution must be shaken off. For the very dust from a heathen land was to be reckoned as polluting, since, as Rashi says on Talm. Bab., ‘Sabb.,' 15b (cf. Lightfoot, 'Hor. Hebr.,' in loc.), ‘It may be doubted, of all the dust of a heathen land, whether it were not from the sepulchre of the dead.'”   Because of this comment from Rashi, Vincent's Word Studies says –   “The very dust of a heathen country was unclean, and it defiled by contact. It was regarded like a grave, or like the putrescence of death. If a spot of heathen dust had touched an offering, it must at once be burnt. More than that, if by mischance any heathen dust had been brought into Palestine, it did not and could not mingle with that of 'the land,' but remained to the end what it had been - unclean, defiled and defiling everything to which it adhered." The apostles, therefore, were not only to leave the house or city which should refuse to receive them, ‘but it was to be considered and treated as if it were heathen, just as in the similar case mentioned in Matthew 18:17. All contact with such must be avoided, all trace of it shaken off' (Edersheim, ‘Jewish Social Life in the Days of Christ').”   There is a problem with this, which is that there is nothing to support the conclusion that this was how Jews felt about the dust of pagan lands. It is illogical and a pointless commentary. First, many Jews lived in the diaspora. Paul was born and raised in Tarsus of Cilicia.   Acts 2 notes that Jews were visiting from all over the empire. Further, Rashi was born in France in 1040 AD, studied in Germany, and then returned to France. Commenting on the filthy nature of pagan lands by someone who was born, raised, and died in them just means that he was an arrogant, close-minded, and racist person who thought he was better than those among whom he lived.   Jesus was making a point about the treatment of the apostles in the land of Israel, not among Gentiles. In Acts 13, Paul was making the same point about Jews in a Gentile nation.   God is not worried about the dust of foreign lands. His concern is about the defiled nature of those who come against the gospel. Be sure not to pass on ridiculous commentaries that are not based on a rational analysis of Scripture or how God deals with humanity.   Rashi, like the Jews in Acts 13, rejected Jesus Christ. Therefore, Rashi, not the dust of the land in which he lived, was defiled and unacceptable to God.   Heavenly Father, the earth is Yours and all its fullness. You are pleased with Your creation, whether in Ome, Japan, or Pueblo Viejo, Ecuador. The things that displease You don't concern the nature of the lands or the clarity of the water. Rather, You are pleased with those who have received Your Son, Jesus. Upon all others, Your wrath remains. Help us to get the word out so that the world will know the glory of Jesus! Amen.  

In Acts 28:16–31, we are reminded that we are still “Facing a Task Unfinished;” a task that is as urgent and important as in the time of Paul.

Kyle Kauffman | May 18 2025God intends for all Christians to live with a sense of being sent into the world with the gospel. But God also calls the church to send out those who he specifically calls to go across geographic and cultural boundaries with the gospel. In Acts 13 we get a window into the first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas. We discover that God's plan to reach the world with the gospel involves using missionaries to advance the gospel in places where it has not been heard before. In this chapter we see not only what is involved in this missionary endeavor, but also what it looks like for us to live with an awareness of being sent by God in our own individual lives.

In Acts 11, we see God at work through His scattered followers, spreading the gospel beyond Jewish boundaries. As the gathered crowd in Antioch forms, God brings together a diverse community, united by faith in Jesus. Through unexpected messengers and Spirit-led moments, the early church grows—multicultural, mission-minded, and marked by grace. Scriptures: Acts 11

In Acts 4 and 5, we encounter a powerful narrative of early Christian community, highlighting the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the challenges faced by the apostles. The key message revolves around the concept of 'mega grace' - God's abundant, unmerited favor that empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. We see how the early church responded to this grace through radical generosity and unity, selling possessions to meet each other's needs. This challenges us to examine our own response to God's grace. Are we allowing it to transform our relationships and attitudes towards material possessions? The story of Ananias and Sapphira serves as a stark reminder that God values honesty and integrity in our giving, urging us to check our motives and trust in God's provision. As we reflect on this passage, we're called to consider how we can cultivate a spirit of generosity and unity in our own faith communities, allowing God's grace to overflow in our lives and impact those around us.

Not Righteous Professing Christians Are "Whitewashed Tombstones" - Pretty on the Outside but Dead on the Inside MESSAGE SUMMARY: A righteousness, that comes from your being in communion with the Holy Spirit, is not like a professing Christian who is really just a "whitewashed tombstone" -- pretty on the outside but dead on the inside. Rather, followers of Jesus are called to live righteous lives, as we are instructed by the Psalmist in Psalms 37:39: “The salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.". Also, Paul tells us in Romans 1:17: “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.'”. In Acts 1:8, Jesus tells us, as His followers, that: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.". In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us, as His followers, that we are different and blessed; and these blessings flow from your living a righteous life in Him. Allow the Holy Spirit to create in you a clean and pure heart.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I acknowledge that I prefer to ignore and deny my pain and loss. I struggle with seeing how resurrection life can come out of death. Grant me the courage to pay attention to what you are doing, and to wait on you — even when everything in me wants to run away. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 114). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Inconsistencies. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Faithfulness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 5:1-48; Romans 1:17; Romans 2:13; Psalms 70a:1-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Being in Christ, Part 3” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Thursday, 15 May 2025   Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Matthew 10:8   “Being feeble – you heal, leprous – you cleanse, dead – you rouse, demons – you eject. Freely you received, freely you give” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus instructed the twelve what to say when they went forth to proclaim their words to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Now, adding to the proclamation they were to make, He tells them of the authority they will possess as well, beginning with, “Being feeble – you heal.”   This is a new word, astheneó. It is a verb signifying to be feeble, coming from the adjective asthenés, to be feeble. The verb, being a present participle, literally reads “being feeble.” The word, however, is generally translated as a noun or an adverb. Jesus gives the apostles the ability to heal those who are feeble. Also, He next says, “leprous – you cleanse.”   This is something Jesus has already done. This same ability is now conferred upon them. Being a leper was something that required additional steps to be taken after a person was cleansed. This is because having leprosy was something that was determined by the priest. Once he proclaimed a person to be leprous, he was to be excluded from the community.   The specific details are found in Leviticus 13. If a person was cleansed, the instructions in Leviticus 14 were then to be followed. Therefore, only the priest could officially declare a person free from the leprosy that once afflicted him. Next come disputed words, saying, “dead – you rouse.”   These words are not recorded in some manuscripts. Even if original, there is no indication that any were raised from the dead except by Jesus. Only after the resurrection are Dorcas (Tabitha) and Eutychus restored to life by Peter and then Paul. If the words were inserted later, it was probably in connection with that thought concerning what was done through Peter and Paul.   However, that would be an inexcusable reason to insert it here. Whether the words are original or not, Jesus possessed the ability, and after the completion of His ministry, it was granted in those two instances. Next, it says, “demons – you eject.”   In Luke, not only are the twelve given authority to do these things, but seventy disciples were also sent out. Upon their return, it says –   “Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, ‘Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.'” Luke 10:17   Therefore, these gospel narratives support one another in confirming this granted ability from the Lord. Finally, Jesus finishes the verse saying, “Freely you received, freely you give.”   Here he introduces the word dórean. It is a word signifying without cause, freely, for nothing, or even in vain. Each instance requires the context to be considered. In this case, it signifies they were not to charge for their services.   Life application: In Acts 8, Simon the sorcerer is said to have believed the gospel message preached to him. After that, however, it says –   “And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, 19 saying, ‘Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.' 20 But Peter said to him, ‘Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! 21 You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.' 24 Then Simon answered and said, ‘Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.'” Acts 8:18-24   It is often argued that Simon was not saved because of his conduct. However, it says quite clearly in Acts 8:13 that he believed. It is the same word used when speaking of belief leading to salvation elsewhere. If he truly believed he was saved. Salvation is not conditional on knowing everything about the faith. Nor is it conditional on not adhering to proper doctrine after being saved when what is proper is known.   Rather, salvation is conditional on one thing: belief in the gospel. We do not read the hearts of others. As such, it is entirely inappropriate to say of someone, “He is not saved.” It may be true that he is not reflecting proper Christian values, but that is not a salvific issue.   Let us not be finger-pointers when we do not have all the facts. If someone is not living for the Lord as expected after being saved, there are verses that deal with what we are to do with them. However, let us not make proclamations about things we cannot truly be certain of.   “But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner—not even to eat with such a person.” 1 Corinthians 5:11   Lord God, thank You for the simplicity of the gospel. If it were up to us, none of us would continue to be saved after we first believed. But Your grace extends to all of our faults – past, present, and future. Thank You for the surety of salvation we possess. Amen.  

We are told throughout Scripture the importance of prayer. We taught how to pray and how not to pray. But, the question I want to pose to you today is: Do you expect anything out of prayer. In Acts 12, we read about Peter being thrown in prison, and the church praying consistently for him. When Peter shows up at the door, the people praying for him first don't believe it's actually him, then are astonished at the sight. Listen to this episode, and take time to look at your prayer life and prayer habits, and start praying the way Jesus would want us to pray-expectantly.

God often works through women to accomplish extraordinary things. In Acts 9, the story of Tabitha offers a powerful reminder that faithfulness and strong character are tools that God uses to advance His Kingdom.   Tabitha's life shows us what it looks like to serve and influence others with grace. Her legacy reminds us that when we live faithfully, God can work through us in ways we might never expect. Tune in as we explore how this godly woman left a lasting impact for the Gospel—and how we can learn to do the same.

In Acts 2 we see the coming of the promised Holy Spirit who enables God's presence with us, empowers our gospel proclamation, brings genuine transformation, and fuels gospel-shaped community.

Mars HillMay 11, 2025 • Greg Pinkner • Acts 17:16–34This Sunday, Greg continues our series on the Book of Acts. In Acts 17, Paul engages the philosophers of Athens at Mars Hill—a city filled with idols and intellectual pride. Surrounded by temples to false gods, Paul boldly proclaims the one true God who made the world, gives life and breath to all, and cannot be contained by human temples or served by human hands. He confronts both Stoic and Epicurean worldviews, contextualizing the gospel in their language, and calls them to repent because God has appointed Jesus as the righteous judge, proven by His resurrection. The idols of our own culture—pleasure, power, success—are empty, but the gospel of Jesus is full of life and truth.WEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/

When Stephen stood before the Sanhedrin, he didn't defend himself—he told a story. In Acts 7, we see how God's promise, provision, and deliverance have been unfolding since Abraham—and how that story ultimately points to Jesus. In this message, Pastor Alan unpacks Stephen's powerful sermon and challenges us to turn our hearts toward Jesus, the true Deliverer who sets us free and invites us into God's greater story. 

"The Holy Spirit didn't come to make you emotional—He came to make you bold." In Acts 2, the Holy Spirit is poured out—and what follows is not a quiet response, but radical transformation. Peter, once fearful, now stands up and declares the gospel with boldness. This message explores what happens after the Holy Spirit fills you: courage replaces fear, purpose replaces confusion, and ordinary people begin to live with supernatural power.

In Acts 28:1–16 we reflect on the end of this “Extraordinary Journey” that led Paul next to the island of Malta and eventually to the heart of the Roman Empire where not only would he defend himself before Caesar but make disciples for the glory of God.

Kyle Kauffman | May 11 2025 There are areas in our lives or the lives of others that may look or feel hopeless to us on the surface. We may struggle to believe that change is really possible or that things will ever get better. In Acts 12 we read of a time when things may have looked and felt hopeless to the early Christians in Jerusalem. We find God intervening in a powerful and amazing way to bring change. This story can help us in whatever areas we may struggle with hopelessness today by helping us to see that God hears and answers the prayers of his people. And it can help us to see that even when things may feel hopeless to us, God is still good and he can still be trusted.

Philip McCallum, Founder of Philips House and Lead Outreach Pastor of Everegreen Church, continues our series of The Birth of the Church. In Acts 2, we see the Holy Spirit move on the disciples. Pastor Philip underscores important historical truths, shedding light on the Jewish traditions surrounding Pentecost, and in so doing, we are challenged and encouraged to remember the power of waiting in expectation for God and His Spirit.

In Acts 22, Paul stands trial before the religious Jewish leaders sharing the story of his encounter with Jesus. We are often afraid to share our stories because of how others may perceive us, but the story of God at work in your life just might be the most powerful tool in sharing Jesus with others.

In Acts 9 Dorcus was tired, like mom doing all the work tired, like little red hen tired, God finally called her to rest. Peter on the other hand had an early church staffing problem and had to bring her back. Pastor Krogh suggested the best memorial to faithful saints is to pick up their work, not lament their absense.

In Acts 25 tells us that, when Festus was determined to send Paul to Jerusalem, the Apostle had no alternative but to make his appeal to Caesar. After a short period of time Festus conducts another hearing of Paul's matters. Festus was again seeking the favour of the Jews and at this time Paul announces that he would exercise his right as a Roman Citizen to be judged by Caesar. We then hear of Herod Agrippa and his wife Bernice visiting Caesarea and at this time Festus requests that they hear Paul's case as Festus was struggling with the wording of the charge to be made against Paul. Festus explains to Agrippa that in his opinion there was no commuting or a capital crime, but simply matters concerning Jewish law. With great pomp and ceremony Agrippa, Bernice and all the other dignitaries enter the judgment hall. Festus seeks Agrippa's view about the nature of the charge to appear on the letter to be sent to Caesar. Chapter 26 records Paul's defence and his earnest appeal to Agrippa to embrace the Christian cause. Paul tells his audience of his fervour for the Jewish way and his concerted opposition to Christianity. But when he was confronted by the risen Lord Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus everything changed. He tells the audience of his great commission and then knowing king Agrippa to be a man who read the prophets he appeals to the king to adopt the Christian belief. Festus, being embarrassed by the situation, attempts to finish the hearing immediately by declaring Paul to be mad due to his great learning. Paul was not to be silenced so quickly and continues to ask Agrippa whether he believes the prophets. Paul states plainly I know you believe them king Agrippa. At this point king Agrippa and all the dignitaries rise and leave with the king stating Paul's innocence.

Not Righteous Professing Christians Are "Whitewashed Tombstones" - Pretty on the Outside but Dead on the Inside MESSAGE SUMMARY: A righteousness, that comes from your being in communion with the Holy Spirit, is not like a professing Christian who is really just a "whitewashed tombstone" -- pretty on the outside but dead on the inside. Rather, followers of Jesus are called to live righteous lives, as we are instructed by the Psalmist in Psalms 37:39: “The salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.". Also, Paul tells us in Romans 1:17: “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.'”. In Acts 1:8, Jesus tells us, as His followers, that: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.". In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us, as His followers, that we are different and blessed; and these blessings flow from your living a righteous life in Him. Allow the Holy Spirit to create in you a clean and pure heart.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I acknowledge that I prefer to ignore and deny my pain and loss. I struggle with seeing how resurrection life can come out of death. Grant me the courage to pay attention to what you are doing, and to wait on you — even when everything in me wants to run away. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 114). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Evil Ways. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Goodness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 5:1-48; Romans 1:17; Romans 2:13; Psalms 70a:1-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Being in Christ, Part 2” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

A Woman, a Slave Girl, and a JailerMay 4, 2025 • RD McClenagan • Acts 16:11–40This Sunday, RD continues our series on the Book of Acts. In Acts 16, we see how the gospel meets three very different people—a successful businesswoman, a spiritually oppressed slave girl, and a hardened Roman jailer—and transforms them each in unique ways through an encounter with Jesus. The gospel is for everyone; it transforms and disrupts, overturning personal lives and societal systems with the love and authority of Jesus. The result isn't just individual salvation but the formation of a radically diverse, Spirit-filled community called the church.WEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/

Welcome to Christ Community's Online Service! What does real influence look like in God's kingdom? In Acts 6, we meet Stephen—an ordinary guy who became a powerful influence for Jesus. This week, Pastor Alan unpacks how Stephen's life of servanthood, faith, and wisdom shows us a radically different path to true impact. In a culture obsessed with followers and fame, discover how you can become a person of kingdom influence right where you are. For prayer and to stay connected, please visit: https://www.cccgreeley.org For Giving: https://www.cccgreeley.org/give/ Discussion Guide: https://www.cccgreeley.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2025-5-3-4-Group-Discussion-Questions.pdf Celebrate Baptism Weekend With Us!

What if the disruption you're facing isn't the end of the road—but the beginning of your real story? In Acts 9, Saul is literally knocked off his path by a blinding light—and a voice. Jesus doesn't argue. He interrupts. Because every divine disruption… is a divine opportunity. In this message, we explore why comfort and calling don't usually travel together. We follow Jesus as He disrupts fishermen, Pharisees, and modern people like us—with a call to something deeper.

In Acts chapter 9, Saul experienced a radical conversion after encountering Jesus Christ. What is just as amazing is the radical redirection his life immediately took. Too often today, we can look at such a story and think that our story is 'not as good,' and consider ourselves less effective or useful for ministry. But the reality is that our stories are all the same, though the details are different, and the results should always glorify God. Cody King | Acts of the Church www.stonepointchurch.com

What if the key to seeing lives changed and the church grow isn't doing more, but depending more—on the Holy Spirit, on faithful prayer, and on one another? In Acts 5 and 6, we see a movement multiply not through celebrity leaders, but through surrendered people using their gifts. This message explores how the resurrected life leads to exponential impact when God's people walk in His power and purpose. Come discover how multiplication starts with you.

Ever been called by your full name and instantly knew something serious was going on? Names carry weight—especially the name of Jesus. God gives meaning to names, and through Jesus, He gives power to those who believe. In Acts 3:6, Peter says, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Could the name of Jesus be what you need to stand up and walk into a new life?MESSAGE NOTES: https://www.bible.com/events/49430032RESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.orgBLOG: https://canyonridge.org/blogs/

Christ's apostles are not idle in the days between His ascension and Pentecost. They pray and organize leadership to witness deliberately and powerfully to the most significant event in human history: the resurrection of Jesus.Notes:Significant movements of the Holy Spirit and the Gospel almost invariably flow from the committed and concerted prayers of God's people. If the resurrection didn't happen, nothing of the Christian message matters. If the resurrection did happen, nothing but the Christian message matters.Questions:1. After the loss of Judas, why was it important to restore the number of apostles to twelve?2.Do you have examples in your own life or experience of clear works of the Holy Spirit that are preceded by prayer? 3. Is it possible for you to be a witness to Christ's resurrection if you were not actually there to see it with your own eyes?4. In Acts 26, Paul asks King Agrippa: “why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead?” Why do you think people find it incredible?5. Why is it best to lead apologetics discussions toward the issue of the resurrection?

Pride distorts our God-given purpose. Genesis 11 shows humanity building a tower to make a name for themselves, forsaking their identity, value, and mission. But God, in mercy, intervened. In Acts 2, He reversed Babel—sending the Holy Spirit to restore what pride destroyed. Now, through Jesus, we receive a new name and a renewed purpose. Just like the crowd in Acts 2, we're invited to respond: “What shall we do?” The answer—repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Spirit.

Jesus completed His earthly work, but he left a small group to continue the ministry. In Acts, the church was born! This message begins a study focused on the power of the Holy Spirit!

Kyle Kauffman | May 4 2025 God's mission of making disciples is global. We can see this in the book of Acts. The gospel is spreading all across the known world throughout this book. And sometimes we can become so focused on the Big Names in the book of Acts that we forget God's mission in Acts involved far more people than Peter, Paul, and Philip. Because God's mission is so BIG, it's easy for us to lose or forget what role the local church (and every member in the church) plays in this mission. In Acts 11:19-30 we get a good glimpse into how God intends to use the local church (and every member of the church) as part of the plan to make disciples. As we discover how God used the local church in Antioch to make a big difference, we might be encouraged to hope that God will use the local church in Paradise to make a big difference as well.

In Acts 9, God chooses Saul—a violent enemy of the Church—to carry His name to the world. After encountering Jesus, Saul becomes Paul, a bold messenger of the gospel. His story shows that God uses sinners, and His mission often includes suffering. Paul's life of hardship wasn't a mistake—it was part of God's plan to make His name known. Scriptures: Acts 9: 1-18, 2 Timothy 3:12, 2 Corinthians 11:23-28

God's plan has always been to build His covenant community — His people, the Church — empowered by the Holy Spirit to carry the good news to the world. Pastor Sean kicks off our new sermon series In Acts 1, and we see Jesus commission His followers, reminding them that His Spirit would go with them, their testimony would flow through them, and the Church would grow beyond them despite opposition. Today, we stand on their legacy, called to be Spirit-empowered witnesses to the hope and life found in Jesus.

Acts 9 | The Conversion of Paul | Dean Miller | May the 4th, 2025 In Acts 9, we read about the conversion of Paul. Dean talks about the surrounding chapters, which include the conversions of the Roman Centurion Cornelius and the Ethiopian Eunuch, and how we can be like Ananias and Barnabas were to […]

Shortly before the soldiers came to arrest Jesus, our Savior prayed for the disciples saying: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in Me through their message.” In Acts, we hear how the apostles continued to proclaim this message. And what they shared was far from piffle.

Acts 11 commences with Peter being caused to justify why he baptised Gentiles. We next have a description of the progress of the truth in Antioch in the province of Syria, where believers were first derisively called ‘Christians'. Oneof these faithful believers is a prophet named Agabus. He prophesies of a great famine that would affect the entire Roman world. The disciples of Antioch start a fund to help Judean believers, who were greatly affected and in dire need.In Acts 12 Herod Antipas kills the Apostle James – the year was AD 44. Seeing how much this delighted the Jews Herod has Peter arrested for execution after Passover. Despite being securely chained between guards the angel of the Lord causes a deep sleep to overcome the guards and releases Peter. Peter proceeds to the house where the ecclesia is gathered to pray for his deliverance. A maid named Rhoda answers the door and runs to tell the disciples that Peter was outside. Rhoda is told that she must be mistaken. The disciples say that it must be Peter's “messenger” (Greek angelos- angel). Peter is admitted to the house and he recounts how he had been delivered. James, the half brother of Jesus. was informed and told Peter to secretly depart to a different location where he cannot be found. Herod kills the guards (verses 20-23). The chapter concludes with an account of Herod's narcissistic claims and his being smitten with dysentery by the angel of God and Herod dying verses 20-23. Nonetheless the Word of God exceedingly prevails.

Welcome to Day 2621 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – “Tough Love” –  I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible. Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2621 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2621 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Today is the 54th lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church. The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God's redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it's also a book that seems strange to us. While God's Word was written for us, it wasn't written to us. Today's lesson is: “Tough Love.” It's a common myth that God will always bring us back to repentance. This myth is debunked in the first letter of John. While John writes that “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9), he also tells us that sometimes God never gives us another chance to confess our sins and be forgiven. In 1 John 5:16-17, the apostle gives us the other side of the sin-confession- forgiveness coin: If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life—to those who commit sins that do not lead to death. There is sin that leads to death; I do not say that one should pray for that. All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin that does not lead to death. Put simply, there are sins that Christians commit that don't lead to death— but there are some that do. Is John talking about a divine law of cause and effect, where a specific sin irrevocably results in death? Not exactly. We can be certain that John has no specific sin in mind because he never names a sin in this passage. John is saying there may come a time when God has had enough of our sin, and then our time on earth is up. We cannot know when such a time might come—so we shouldn't be in the habit of sinning with impunity. John had actually seen this happen. In Acts 5:1-11, Luke relates the incident of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied to Peter (and to God) about the proceeds from a piece of property they had sold. They were under no obligation to give any of it to the church, but pretended that they had given all the money to the Lord's work. When confronted by Peter, both of them collapsed and died on the spot. Luke writes that “great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things” (Acts 5:11). No kidding. No doubt this incident left an imprint on John's mind. But John would have also known that there was Old Testament precedent for “sin unto death” as well. In Numbers 11, in response to the latest wave of complaining about their circumstances, the LORD sent the people of Israel meat to eat in the form of quails. “While the meat was yet between their teeth, before it was consumed, the anger of the LORD

by Elder Chris McCool, Pastor (preached on March 16, 2025) As we began to see yesterday, there is a certain urgency to the work of the Kingdom of God! In Acts 2:42, we learn what that work is: continuing steadfastly in the Apostles’ doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. Join us today as we...

In Acts 7 we have Stephen's defence. Stephen shows a) God is not confined to a Temple, or place; and, b) Israel's history illustrates a pattern of rebellion against the leaders God sent them. Stephen begins by telling the Sanhedrin Council – his accusers – that the God of glory appears to Abraham, not in the Land of Israel, not in a temple but in Mesopotamia. When Abraham dies the only inheritance he has in the land is the burial plot he has recently purchased. Stephen enumerates the terrible behaviour of the 12 sons of Israel. God raises up for His people Israel in Egypt a deliverer – Moses who was raised as an Egyptian prince. Stephen says that Moses was “mighty in words and deeds”. But this self confident prince thought it would be via his might and power that the Almighty would deliver His people. But at this time they reject Moses – just as they rejected Jesus in his time among God's people. Moses flees from Egypt a fearful and disillusioned man. Once again the glory of God is revealed to Moses outside the land in the Sinai desert by an angel at the burning bush in Sinai. Moses worships the LORD here. And for 40 years Moses leads Yahweh's people through the Wilderness and he is supported with signs and wonders from God. And it was Moses who had declares, in Deuteronomy 18, that the LORD God would raise them up a prophet like himself. God did send them that prophet – His Son Jesus – whom they had failed to hear. Idolatry and disbelief are Israel's characteristic pattern throughout their history. The same traits continued and caused them to be exiled in Babylon. Once again their persistent hard heartedness and their resistance to God had been evidenced in their crucifixion of God's Holy Son. At this point the hostile audience gnash upon Stephen and drawing him outside the city and stoning him. In his dying moment Stephen is granted a vision of the Son of Man, from Daniel 7 returning to set up his kingdom. He prays for their forgiveness – but omits Jesus' words that ‘they knew not what they were doing'. Stephen asks that the spirit of his testimony be received as a witness of his life.

Acts 4 spoke of Barnabas' generous act in selling land and donating the proceeds to the ecclesial common cause. Barnabas may well have been the rich young ruler of Matthew 19. In Acts 5 couple named: Ananias and Sapphira, want the ecclesia's acclaim without giving all of the proceeds of their sale of land. It was their right to do with their money as they pleased. Their sin lay in lying – attempting to deceive God and other believers. It cost them their lives and was a great wake-up call to the ecclesia. We are told from verse 12 of the mighty signs that support the Apostles' preaching The chapter says that Peter and John are arrested and put in the public prison overnight. The angel of the Lord comes and releases those 2 Apostles and tells them to continue to proclaim “the words of life”. At daybreak Peter and John were enthusiastically preaching in the temple. The Apostles are rearrested by the officers, but this time quietly for fear of the people and once more the Jewish Council forbids them to preach full stop. The Apostles' answer in verse 29 is a message to believers for all time, “We must obey God rather than men”. Their bold testimony was an evidence that they were Jesus' disciples. Gamaliel counsels his peers to desist from opposing, or harming, the Apostles, since historical evidence – Gamaliel asserts – always showed that what was not from God was doomed to fail. In chapter 6 we have a complaint from the Hellenistic believers that their widows were not being treated fairly in the daily distribution of help. Seven faithful believers of Grecian background were chosen to rectify the matter. One of the seven, Stephen, was seized by the Jewish rulers and falsely accused of speaking words against Moses and the temple. False witnesses are secured and tell lies against Stephen. Those members of the Council behold Stephen's angelic appearance and demeanour.

In Acts 3 we have the healing of the crippled man, who was lame from birth and greater than 40 years of age (4 verse 22). He represented Israel and their inability to walk before God. Peter commanded the lame man to fix his gaze on them, which he did expecting alms. He got greater – he received healing and discipleship; and walking, and leaping, and praising God he entered the temple with Peter and John. Remarkable words of witness follow with the testimony that there is no other name under heaven by which salvation can come; than our Lord Jesus Christ. Buddhism, Hinduism cannot save. Our Lord was the stone rejected by men, but chosen and precious to God (Psalm 118 verses 22). Peter outlined in verses 19-26 what they must do. The rulers sent officers in chapter 4 to arrest Peter and John. Note that the number of disciples had now reached 5,000. They were cross examined by the Counsel and commanded to refrain In Acts 3 we have the healing of the crippled man, who was lame from birth and more than 40 years old ( 4:22). This healing has many parallels with the testy of the crippled man at the pool of Bethesda in John 5. The crippled man represents Israel and their inability to walk before their God. Peter commands the lame man to fix his gaze on them, which he does expecting alms. The crippled man receives far greater – he receives healing and discipleship. And walking, and leaping, and praising God he enters the temple with Peter and John. Remarkable words of witness follow with the testimony of Peter that there is no other name given under heaven by which salvation can come than our Lord Jesus Christ. Buddhism, Hinduism and all other isms cannot save. Our Lord was the stone rejected by men, but chosen and precious to God (Psalm 118 verse 22). Peter outlines in verses 19-26 what they must do. The rulers send officers in chapter 4 to arrest Peter and John. Note that the number of disciples had now reached 5,000. They were examined by the Counsel and commanded to refrain from preaching Christ Jesus. The Apostles' response is that: “We cannot cease from doing what the Almighty has commanded us”. Peter and John are threatened and released. Upon joining their fellow believers the two Apostles together with their assembled brothers praise the LORD and in prayer speak of what had just happened as being a fulfilment of Psalm 2. Their Sovereign's response to their prayer is a shaking of the house they were in. God is further demonstrating His power in support of their testimony. This was given as yet another endorsement by their God of His guarantee to support his ecclesia's faithful testimony. The spirit of unity and community is spoken of in verses 32-37. Oh for such a spirit among believers today!

A Door of FaithApril 27, 2025 • Devon Accardi • Acts 14:8–28This Sunday, Devon continues our series on the Book of Acts. In Acts 13–14, Paul and Barnabas are sent out from Antioch. They preached across multiple cities, faced strong opposition, and ultimately saw the gospel begin to spread among the Gentiles, marking a major turning point in the early church. In the same way that God called Paul and Barnabas, He still calls ordinary people to walk through "doors of faith" to expand His Kingdom. Believers need to tune into the Holy Spirit, be intentionally present in the lives of those who don't know Jesus, and be committed to the long, patient work of spiritual influence.WEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/

Johnny Outing // To move forward as radical followers of Jesus, we need to look back at the early Church. In Acts 2, people were baptized, made new in faith, met urgent needs, and lived in deep community. They blazed a path of bold, transformative faith. In a world shaped by individualism and distraction, we're challenged to do the same—letting our faith reshape how we show up, love others, and live with purpose.Visit Our Website summitchurchfl.org Follow Us on Social Media Facebook // InstagramWatch Online Services and More YouTube Subscribe for weekly sermon podcasts!

God is not far from any of us. He created us with the capacity to seek, reason, and know Him. Human consciousness and our ability to reflect on truth, morality, and meaning point to the One in whom we live and move and have our being. In Acts 17:16–31, Paul does not perform miracles or healings, yet the message is powerful. The gospel itself is the power of God unto salvation. Even when miracles are not happening, God is still near, and we are still accountable to that truth. #TheGodWhoIsNear #Acts17 #ChristianApologetics #GospelTruth #FaithAndReason #BibleTeaching #BoldApologia #JesusIsAlive #RepentAndBelieveBackground music created and licensed through Brev.ai. I hold the rights to use this music commercially.

In Acts, we see the Church in Antioch take off—God's message spreads fast, and tons of people come to faith and get baptized. With Jesus bringing the new covenant and tearing the veil, a brand-new kind of Church was born.This week, Pastor Jon brings an encouraging message: the Church isn't confined to walls—it's the people. It's growing, it's thriving, and it's alive!

In Acts 17, Paul stood in a city full of idols and confusion—which sounds a lot like today's world. Yet, his message then is as relevant as it is today: Only the risen Jesus can save. Only He can judge. In this message, Dr. Michael Youssef reminds us that the resurrection isn't just a historical event—it's a wake-up call. God has overlooked ignorance in the past, but now He commands everyone, everywhere to repent. Will you heed His call? Now is the time to turn from the empty promises of culture. Now is the time to turn to the one whose tomb is empty—the only Savior and coming Judge.

In Acts 17, Paul stood in a city full of idols and confusion—which sounds a lot like today's world. Yet, his message then is as relevant as it is today: Only the risen Jesus can save. Only He can judge. In this message, Dr. Michael Youssef reminds us that the resurrection isn't just a historical event—it's a wake-up call. God has overlooked ignorance in the past, but now He commands everyone, everywhere to repent. Will you heed His call? Now is the time to turn from the empty promises of culture. Now is the time to turn to the one whose tomb is empty—the only Savior and coming Judge.

In Acts 17, Paul stood in a city full of idols and confusion—which sounds a lot like today's world. Yet, his message then is as relevant as it is today: Only the risen Jesus can save. Only He can judge. In this message, Dr. Michael Youssef reminds us that the resurrection isn't just a historical event—it's a wake-up call. God has overlooked ignorance in the past, but now He commands everyone, everywhere to repent. Will you heed His call? Now is the time to turn from the empty promises of culture. Now is the time to turn to the one whose tomb is empty—the only Savior and coming Judge.