Podcast appearances and mentions of peter acts

The fuller sermon title would be THE CURE TO A CRUMBLING CHURCH IS THE SAVIOR & THE SCRIPTURE. This is true in Crete and Lenoir City and every other place on the globe. The modern church in America is consumed by the social instead of the spiritual. Transformation comes from Christ not cultural change. I. The Attitude of Evangelism - 1. Jesus - John 4 2. Peter - Acts 4:12-13 3. James - Luke - John - Hebrews 4. Paul - Romans 9; 22 & 26 • Romans 1:14-16 (duty + desire) • Ephesians 3:8 (God's gift to us) • SALVATION & PASTORAL EPISTLES: I Timothy 1:1, 15; 2:1-6; Titus 1:1-4; 2:8-11;II. The Actions of Evangelism - Titus 3 • Titus 3 - 7 virtues 1. What we do = Remind them (not a new thought) to be: I Timothy 2:1-5; I Peter 2 & 3; I (salvation, suffering, submission). = Submit, Obey, Be Ready - v. 1 (Jesus said “pay taxes” - Matt 22) = To Speak, To Avoid, To Show - v. 2 1. What we were (humility) - v. 3 2. What God does (regeneration) - vv. 4-7

The fuller sermon title would be THE CURE TO A CRUMBLING CHURCH IS THE SAVIOR & THE SCRIPTURE. This is true in Crete and Lenoir City, and every other place on the globe. The modern church in America is consumed by the social instead of the spiritual. Transformation comes from Christ, not cultural change. Disciples of Christ vs Discipline of men Spiritual Justice vs Social Justice Christlikeness vs Cultural Change Eternal vs Temporal Titus 3 is focused on three groups: believers, unbelievers, & God! Consider each group as you refocus the church. Acts 2:42-47; 20:28-31Believers - Unbelievers - God - Father, Son, Holy Spirit I. The Attitude of Evangelism - Jesus - John 4Peter - Acts 4:12-13James - Luke - John - Hebrews Paul - Romans 9; 22 & 26Romans 1:14-16 duty + desireEphesians 3:8 God's gift to usSALVATION & PASTORAL EPISTLES: I Timothy 1:1, 15; 2:1-6; Titus 1:1-4; 2:8-11; II. The Actions of Evangelism - Titus 3Titus 3 - 7 virtues What we do - = Remind them (not a new thought) to be: I Timothy 2:1-5; I Peter 2 & 3; I (salvation, suffering, submission). = Submit, Obey, Be Ready - v. 1What we were (humility) - v. 3 What God does (regeneration) - vv. 4-7

The Temperament of the Believer - David Hansen - May 18, 2025 Sanguine Actors Salesman Public speakers Politicians Choleric Producers Builders Leaders Scientists Melancholy Musicians, poets Inventors Philosophers Artists Phlegmatic Diplomats Accountants Teachers Bureaucrats Temperaments Phlegmatic (Abraham) Melancholy (Moses) Sanguine (Peter) Choleric (Paul) Phlegmatic (Abraham) stingy, fearful, indecisive, unmotivated, self-protective, spectator diplomatic, practical, efficient, dependable once under way, calm, easy-going, dry humour Phlegmatic (Abraham) examples Flesh: Waited in Haran because of father Terah (Genesis 11). Went to Egypt when Promised Land in famine (Genesis 12). Schemed twice regarding Sara (Genesis 12, Genesis 20). Spirit: Obeyed God and left Ur (Genesis 12). Rescued Lot and thoroughly defeated captors (Genesis 14). Was prepared to sacrifice his son (Genesis 22). Melancholy (Moses) theoretical, pessimistic, moody, upsets infrequent but dramatic, unsociable, rigid gifted, sympathetic, empathetic, great depth, loyal, great ‘composer' theoretical, pessimistic, moody, upsets infrequent but dramatic, unsociable, rigid gifted, sympathetic, empathetic, great depth, loyal, great ‘composer' examples Flesh: “don't send me, I stammer, send my brother Aaron” (Exodus 4). Struck the rock instead of speaking to it (Numbers 20). Spirit: Interceded for his people (Exodus 32). Communed with God (Exodus 33). Sanguine (Peter) weak-willed, unstable, undisciplined, restless, reactionary, easily discouraged, fearful, exaggerates, does not analyze self, enjoys the stage outgoing, warm, exciting to be around, does not stay angry, enthusiastic, easily encouraged, heart on his sleeve, charismatic, outspoken, heart-driven examples Flesh: rebuked the Lord, denied the Lord, blurt-out on Mt of Transfiguration, ran into tomb, took out sword in Gethsemane, went fishing after crucifixion Spirit: More interaction with Jesus than anyone else, “To whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (Jn 6 - heart right place and usable). First recorded sermon is given by Peter (Acts 1). ‘I have nothing but Christ, walk!' (Acts 3 - no self-orientation). Peter stood and faced down all the ‘PhD' Pharisees and Saducees in the Spirit and with a powerful array of facts (Acts 4). Choleric (Paul) cold, demanding, cranky, crafty, unemotional, sarcastic, inconsiderate, calculating, driven, self sufficient insightful, perceptive, cerebral/cognitive, analytical, ‘doer'. examples Flesh: “..breathing out threatenings” (Acts 9), Mark not allowed to continue (Acts 15:39) Spirit: Undeterred by prospect of prison (Acts 23). Thoughts brought into captivity (II Cor. 10). Strength of the believer (Phil. 4:13). Love toward Timothy (epistles to Timothy). Self - Interest or fascination ? - Understanding or acceptance Philippians 2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Forebearance Ephesians 4 2With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. in all. Colossians 3 12Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. Grace We are expected to grow in it. II Peter 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. Final Notes God can and has (and will) use very human humans. Major biblical figures seem to be very ‘real people' (because they were). A transformed temperament is a wonderful (usable) thing.

Hello, Kindly listen to the teaching titled THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER AT WORK: PETER (Acts 4:13-22) by Mr. Frank Muyambi from the Morning Devotion of Thursday, 8th May 2025

Verse by verse teaching of Acts 10 titled “Gentiles Receive the Good News from Peter” by Pastor Kevin Edwards of Calvary Chapel Clayton, NC on April 9, 2025.

John 11:3 Phileo is a word that expresses deep friendship, affection, and warmth, love between close companions. 5, 11 They were more than disciples; they were friends. 8 Stone you – 10:31-32 Jesus, undaunted, knew that God would guide and protect him. 9 Look fellows, I am doing God's will. Everything is going to be all right. I am not afraid, nor should you be. You are with me. 14 Sleep – focus your attention on the living and not the dead. 16 Thomas' reaction could be interpreted as confidence or sarcasm and fear. 17 Four days The Widow's Son at Zarephath – Elijah (1 Kings 17:17-24) The Shunammite Woman's Son – Elisha (2 Kings 4:18-37) A Dead Man Who Touched Elisha's Bones – (2 Kings 13:20-21) Jairus' Daughter – Raised by Jesus (Mark 5:35-43; Luke 8:49-56) The Widow's Son at Nain – Raised by Jesus (Luke 7:11-17) Lazarus – Raised by Jesus after four days in the tomb (John 11:1-44) Tabitha (Dorcas) – Raised by Peter (Acts 9:36-42) Boy falling out window – Raised by Paul (Acts 20:7-12) Yes, in the time of Jesus, the custom in Jewish culture was to bury the dead on the day of death, just as it is today. One of the clearest prophetic signs comes from Jonah's experience: “Now the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.” (Jonah 1:17 KJV) Jesus himself referenced this as a prophecy of his own death and resurrection: “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” (Matthew 12:40 KJV)The post Christ Series 1: Lazarus: Forerunner of Christ first appeared on Living Hope.

June 13, 2024 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stjohnrandomlake/support

Acts 20:7-12 7 On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight. 8 There were many lamps in the upstairs room where we were meeting. 9 Seated in a window was a young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, he fell to the ground from the third story and was picked up dead. 10 Paul went down, threw himself on the young man and put his arms around him. "Don't be alarmed," he said. "He's alive!" 11 Then he went upstairs again and broke bread and ate. After talking until daylight, he left. 12 The people took the young man home alive and were greatly comforted. (NIV 84) FROM THE LESSON 10 Examples in Scripture of Someone Being Raised from the Dead: 1 The widow of Zarephath's son by Elijah (1 Kings 17:17-24) 2 The Shunammite woman's son by Elisha (2 Kings 4:18-37) 3 The man who touched Elisha's bones (2 Kings 13:20-21) 4 The widow of Nain's son by Jesus (Luke 7:11-17) 5 Jairus' daughter by Jesus (Matthew 9:18-26, Mark 5:21-43, Luke 8:40-56) 6 Lazarus by Jesus (John 11:1-44) 7 Holy people at the death of Jesus (Matthew 27:50-53) 8 Tabitha (Dorcas) by Peter (Acts 9:36-43) 9 Eutychus by Paul (Acts 20:7-12) 10 Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-18) How these examples are the same: In each example, someone was literally dead - not seemingly dead, not playing dead, not thought to be dead, they were dead - and by the authority and power of God, they were raised from the dead. How one is different from the other ones: The first nine were raised to their old lives. They were all raised from the dead back to how things used to be. They were raised from death to old life. They were brought back from death to their old life. This is called resuscitation from the dead. Jesus was raised to a new life. He was raised from death to new life. He is the only one who has been raised from the dead to a new, glorified body. He is the only one who has been brought through death to a new life. This is called resurrection from the dead. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1 Icebreaker: what are some of the ways you have heard the story of Eutychus taught before today? Have you ever heard it used as a warning to stay alert or as a practical encouragement for better preaching? 2 Read through some of the examples in Scripture of people being raised from the dead. Is there one that has stood out to you more than another? Is there one that has been a favorite of yours? Why? How do these examples of God's power and authority over death encourage your faith? 3 Do you understand the difference between resuscitation from the dead and resurrection from the dead? Why is it important to know the difference?  4 The gospel invitation is to a new life in Jesus Christ. It is not a call to a better version of you. It's a call to a brand new version of you. Discuss the difference with your group. 

Chapter Twenty-Two: ON THE USE OF MATERIAL THINGS WE are made up of soul and body; the two cannot be separated in our conduct. Let the physical therefore come to your aid: Christ knew our weakness and for our sake used words and gestures, spittle and earth as media. For our sake He let His power flow from the fringe of His garment (Matthew 9:20; 14:36), from the handkerchiefs or aprons that were carried away from the apostle Paul's body (Acts I9:I2), yes, from the shadow of the apostle Peter (Acts 5:I5). Therefore use all that is of earth as a staff of remembrance on your troublesome wandering along the narrow way. May the whiteness of the snow and the blue of the heavens, the jewelled eye of the fly and the scorching of the flame, and all of creation that meets your senses, remind you of your Creator; but make use especially of what the Church offers you to help you yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness (Romans 6:19). First of all, the Lord's Holy Communion. But likewise the other mysteries, or sacraments, and the holy Scriptures. And the Church offers you also the holy icons of the Mother of God, the angels and the saints; and prayer before them, and candles and incense, holy water and the gleam of gold, and singing. Receive all this with gratitude and use it all for your upbuilding and encouragement, improvement and benefit as you travel further. Give free outlet to your love for the generous Lord of love, kiss the Cross and the icons, adorn them with flowers; if only evil be crushed with silence, the good will be allowed to breathe freely. If what is given in love is received with love, the scope of love is increased and enlarged, and this is the aim of your work. The greater the river, the wider the delta. Use your own body, too, as an aid in the struggle. Trim it down and make it independent of earthly whims. Let it share your trouble: you wish to learn humility, so let the body also be humble and bow to the ground. Fall on your knees with your face to the earth as often as you can in privacy, but get up at once, for after a fall follows restoration in Christ. Make the sign of the Cross assiduously: it is a wordless prayer. In a brief moment, independent of sluggish words, it gives expression to your will to share Christ's life and crucify your flesh, and willingly, without grumbling, to receive all that the Holy Trinity sends. Moreover, the sign of the Cross is a weapon against evil spirits: use this weapon often and with reflection. A house is never built until the scaffolding is raised. Only the strong man has no need of outward support. But are you strong? Are you not the weakest among the weak? Are you not a child?

God is currently doing things that will impact our lives, and we are completely unaware of those things. He loves us, and He is working things—all things—together for good to us right now. Let's see how He did that in the lives of Cornelius and Peter today.   ---    What is a Christian, and what does a Christian do? How do we live out our faith in everyday life? In this new series called “Decided,” we're going back to the basics of what it means to trust and follow Jesus.    Sermon Notes: http://bible.com/events/49202262 Submit a Question: bit.ly/BeyondSundayQuestions

For the last while, Paul has been the focus of our study. Starting in Acts 9:36, Luke brings Peter back to the forefront and we get to see how God is using him.Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/sunrisecommunitychurchWatch live on Mondays at 10am: www.facebook.com/sunrisecommunityonline/liveSong: Fredji - Happy Life (Vlog No Copyright Music)Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.Video Link: https://youtu.be/KzQiRABVARk

Why do bad things happen?Are bad things a sign of God not being with us?Does God lead us to judge sinfulness?Join David and I on week 6 of our journey through the book of Acts. This week, join us as we read through and discuss the death of James, Peter's imprisonment and the death of King Herod.Note from producers: Early historian Josephus also records Herod's death after an inexplicable illness ( Josephus (c. 1760) Antiquities of the Jews. Translated by Whiston, William.).We need your support! Support from listeners like you keeps Come Read with Me going, so please consider donating at www.burningheart.org/comereadwithme.If you're not already, make sure to follow Chris on instagram for 60 sermons on @revchris7, and make sure to give David a follow on @burningheartorg.Come Read with Me, with Rev Chris and David Ingall is produced by the Listenarium. Original music by Jack Gionis.

Message from Ryan Ross on September 3, 2023

Message from Ryan Ross on September 3, 2023

Overcoming Prejudice: The Conversion of the Apostle Peter | Pastor Michael Mattis Let us know what you think or send us your questions by visiting the site, or simply commenting below. We're glad you're here! Scripture & Literature References: Acts 9:43 & 10:1-23 ---------------------------------------­----------------------------------------­-- CONNECT: Website ► http://www.SaltboxChurch.com Podcast ► https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/saltboxchurch/ Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/saltboxchurch/ Yellow Truck Coffee Co. ► https://www.yellowtruckcoffeeco.com/ ---------------------------------------­----------------------------------------­--

Today we see that Peter and John's preaching have consequences.  We see that they are brought before, and they are questioned by the religious leaders. And let's remember what happened to Peter last time this happened.  He denied.  He turned away. He failed.  But this time, full of the Holy Spirit, he boldly proclaimed the goodness of God.  Last time he denied Jesus. This time, he pointed to Jesus. What made the difference?  Today's text tells us. Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.Read our passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%204%3A1-22&version=NRSVUEIf you'd like to read a transcript of this episode, click here - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Xuq3Do5MBpEzz_Ib7fffR7rkSH2Zf0JRS45KDy4I-00/edit?usp=sharingYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

Acts 9:36-42

Pentecost Acts 1:8 Acts 2:1-4 May 28, 2023 Pentecost-Feast of the First Fruits to celebrate the Wheat Harvest. In later years it also became a feast celebrating the giving of the Law. When the Law was given 3000 people died. Exodus 32 When Holy Spirit was poured out 3000 people were saved. Acts 2 Often, we mistakenly associate the power of the Holy Spirit with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Examples of the power of the Holy Spirit to be witnesses: Peter Acts 2:5-39 Paul 1 Corinthians 11:22-27 The power of Holy Spirit enables us to live in LOVE. 1 Corinthians 13. +++++++ You can find our service times on our website: https://allnationstallahassee.com/ You can find sermon highlights on Twitter here: https://mobile.twitter.com/allnationstally

The New Story Podcast exists to equip you to live out your Christian life as you faithfully love God and love others with truth and grace. To learn more about New Story Church, you can do that by visiting NewStory.Church..Series: Acts Week 12Message Title: Jonah or PeterSpeaker: Jeremy DykemanTo learn more about New Story Church, you can do that by visiting NewStory.Church or find us on Instagram and Facebook at @NewStoryKC.

3/20/23. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: Acts 12:5. The church goes to God in fervent prayer for Apostle Peter who is scheduled for execution after Passover by Herod Agrippa I. Resources: enduringword.com; biblehub.com; Matthew Henry Complete Commentary; logos.com; and Life Application Study Bible. #Podchaser list of "60 Best Podcasts to Discover for November 2021" #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailydevotional #christianpodcast #MinutesWord #christianpodcaster Listen, like, follow, share! Available on Spotify and most podcast apps! #prayforukraine #voiceofthemartyrs #prayforTurkey #prayforSyria

Acts 2:36 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the [k]remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

3/5/23. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: Acts 10:30-33. Cornelius shares with Peter and his guests what he called for Peter. Resources: enduringword.com; Matthew Henry Complete Commentary; logos.com; and Life Application Study Bible. #Podchaser list of "60 Best Podcasts to Discover for November 2021" #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailydevotional #christianpodcast #MinutesWord #christianpodcaster Listen, like, follow, share! Available on Spotify and most podcast apps! #prayforukraine #prayforbhutan#voiceofthemartyrs #prayforTurkey #prayforSyria

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Greetings and welcome- This is our daily devotional for January 10, 2023. Today we continue our series in the Gospel according to John in chapter 18 with more on Jesus's arrest and Peter's betrayal. Thanks for joining us.

THE CLEAR ACCUSATION Festus introduced the case of Paul to King Agrippa, who visited Caesaria with his sister Bernice. King Agrippa was the son of Agrippa I, the king who killed the apostle James and tried to kill Peter (Acts 12:1–3) and soon after died of intestinal worms (Acts 12:20–23). Their grandfather was Herod the Great. The Jewish historian Josephus was a friend of theirs. Agrippa and Bernice's relationship was incestuous. Undoubtedly, there was one apparent thing about Festus understanding about the case of Paul. With certainty, the accusers of Paul has no merit to accuse him based on either legal or political issues or implications. It was purely religious in nature. They accused Paul of spreading heresy that Jesus is alive. Thus, Festus, having lost ground how to investigate, he asked Paul's consent to bring back his case to the Sanhedrin. But, Paul had appealed that his case be brought to Caesar. Festus asked Agrippa's help. Why? AS Paul appealed to the emperor, he decided to go ahead and send him. But he had nothing definite to write to the emperor about Paul's case. Therefore he asked Agrippa to examine him so that he would have something to write to the emperor. He found it unreasonable, in sending a prisoner, not to indicate the charges against him. Paul, a lawyer himself by training, did not cloud his case before anyone else. One thing was sure. That was, he preached Christ being crucified, buried and is alive. This was the only message he wanted everyone to know. There was neither equivocation nor sugarcoating. This is the truth he did not shy away and was planning to prove and defend even in Rome. In other words, what he was accused of was what he was convinced with. How about us? If we are accused of being a believer, is it becaused we are convinced of its merits and claims? Are there enough evidences to prove it? The undeniable evidence that we are committed to Jesus is manifested when others would be annoyed by our preaching and promoting Christ. As Peter wrote, “If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.”[1 Pet 4:14,15] ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Cornelius and Peter have both grown up in very different households, with very different beliefs, but their worlds are about to collide. See how God can move in all of us if we are willing to submit to Him!———————————————————————————————Connect with us on Social Media:Website: nbcc.com/Facebook: facebook.com/nbccnorcoInstagram: instagram.com/nbccnorcoYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6S-3n9PVnXm8zSPHAYVyGw----------------------------------------If you have any prayer requests or questions, please message us on our social media or send us an email at hello@nbcc.com. Don't forget to rate and subscribe to the podcast!----------------------------------------Join us in person, Sunday's at 9am & 10:30amhttps://goo.gl/maps/PEe1rzXWKBv

Sunday, 6 November 2022   But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. Acts 11:20   The last verse spoke of those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen. They traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch. While they went, they preached, but only to the Jews. However, it now says, “But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene.”   In other words, these men had been in Jerusalem, but when Stephen was stoned and the great time of tribulation came against the saints, some of the people who were scattered to the cities previously mentioned were Jews who originally came from Cyprus and Cyrene.   As such, they would speak the native languages and they would be able to effectively relay the word about Jesus to people in those areas. And more, they would be more comfortable having conversations with the native people, including Gentiles. Having noted that, it next says, “who, when they had come to Antioch.”   This is referring to the same location named Antioch in the previous verse. These Jews who spoke either Greek or the native language of the area (or both) had returned home or were in an area where they could easily converse with the local population. With that noted, the next words are highly debated, and the meaning depends on which Greek texts are correct. It says they “spoke to the Hellenists.”   The issue is that some manuscripts say Ἑλληνιστάς (Hellénistés) meaning Greek-speaking Jews while others say Ἕλληνας (Hellénes) meaning Gentile Greeks. As noted, the previous verse said that those scattered spoke to the Jews only. The words of this verse are set in contrast to that thought. And so, it could be assumed that these people were speaking to the Gentiles. This is how Vincent's Word Studies takes it –   “The express object of the narrative has been to describe the admission of Gentiles into the church. There would have been nothing remarkable in these men preaching to Hellenists who had long before been received into the church, and formed a large part of the church at Jerusalem. It is better to follow the rendering of A. V. and Rev., though the other reading has the stronger MS. evidence. Note, also, the contrast with the statement in Acts 11:19, to the Jews only. There is no contrast between Jews and Hellenists, since Hellenists are included in the general term Jews.”   Albert Barnes agrees and even says, “The connection would lead us to suppose that they had heard of what had been done by Peter, and that, imitating his example, they preached the gospel now to the Gentiles also.”   However, this is an incorrect idea because the account is backing up to the dispersion that took place after Stephen's stoning. The event with Peter (Acts 10) came later in time even though it is recorded earlier in this passage in Acts 11. The two accounts are now meeting up after both events have occurred –   Stephen was stoned resulting in persecution and a scattering of the people. After this:   Some of those scattered went as far as Antioch and spread the good news. The events of Chapters 8, 9, and 10 (and Peter's explanation in Acts 11) were ongoing at the same time.   As such, this does not mean that these Jews who were scattered didn't speak to the Gentiles, which is the matter in question, but that the reasoning used by Barnes is incorrect.   John Gill, on the other hand, says, “which when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians; or Hellenist Jews, who were born and brought up in Greece, and spoke the Greek language; though the Alexandrian copy, and the Syriac version, read ‘Greeks', as if they were native Greeks, and properly Gentiles, to whom these ministers spoke the word of the Lord; but the former seems most likely.”   A logical argument is made for either rendering, but it appears that without the knowledge of Cornelius' conversion, these Jews would have been unlikely to speak to Gentiles directly. In fact, Paul is sought out by Barnabas in Acts 11:25. From there, he and Barnabas travel quite a bit as is recorded in Acts 13, but nothing is said of preaching to Gentiles until Acts 13:42. Before that, only interaction with Jews is made. It is in Acts 13:44-48 that this is recorded –   “On the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God. 45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy; and contradicting and blaspheming, they opposed the things spoken by Paul. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, ‘It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but since you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us: “I have set you as a light to the Gentiles, That you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.”' 48 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.”   As this is the case, the most likely translation now in Acts 11 is that this is referring to the Greek-speaking Jews, not the Gentiles. In other words, the Jews are given every chance possible to come to Christ as a nation. The majority of those in Israel had rejected the word. From there, the account will show that the majority of Jews outside of Israel will also reject the word. At that time, the account will show that the Gentiles, in contrast to the Jews, will come flooding to the good news of Jesus, setting up the Gentile-led church for the long period that has continued since. As for now, the verse finishes with the note that these people of the scattering caused by Stephen's stoning were “preaching the Lord Jesus.”   The words more precisely read, “proclaiming good news - the Lord Jesus” (YLT). The word is going out from Israel to the Jews of the diaspora. This appears to be the main point of the narrative at this time.   As noted above, it is believed by many scholars that this is speaking of a conversion of the Gentiles, and that is a possibility. However, the internal markings of what has occurred and what will continue to occur appear to show that it is only the Greek-speaking Jews that are being referred to at this point. Either way, the main point is that word is going forth outside of the borders of Israel.   Life application: One of the key things to take away from these words is that God used the stoning of Stephen to expand the preaching of the gospel. Surely Stephen would approve of this, knowing that the ending of his life would be a way of bringing many others to a saving knowledge of Jesus.   We should be willing to have this same heart for the lost. How far are we willing to go in order that others might be saved? This is something we should ask ourselves. Our temporary afflictions, whatever they may be, can be used for great gain in the spreading of the gospel. So, let's look for ways to have this come about. It is the most important thing that can occur in another person's life. Without this good news, there is only bad news ahead for them   Let us consider this always. Stephen would certainly agree. He would tell you, “Don't worry about this life. God has a plan that is so marvelous you just won't believe it. Trust Him and He will do great things with you and for you.”   Lord God, use us now while we are here! May we be vessels ready to be poured out in whatever way You choose for the furtherance of Your good news. Help us to see the lost and to have pity on them. And then prompt us to act so that they might hear and respond while there is time. To Your glory, we pray this. Amen.  

Acts 12:5-11 ESV 5 So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church. 6 Now when Herod was about to bring him out, on that very night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison. 7 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood next to him, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands. 8 And the angel said to him, “Dress yourself and put on your sandals.” And he did so. And he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” 9 And he went out and followed him. He did not know that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. 10 When they had passed the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate leading into the city. It opened for them of its own accord, and they went out and went along one street, and immediately the angel left him. 11 When Peter came to himself, he said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.” THE SLEEP OF PETER King Herod Agrippa I had beheaded James and was determined to deliver Peter to the Jews after the Feast of the Unleavened Bread. Peter's life was at stake. Yet, we found Peter sleeping in between two soldiers. Sleep is a gift from God.[Psa 127:2] A few weeks back, we saw Peter sleeping in the garden of Gethsemane with the other disciples. It was a sleep marked by weakness for they supposed to be awake and had prayed with Jesus. When Jesus tenderly warned them, “Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”[Matt 26:41] Contrariwise, Peter's sleep here wasn't a sign of weakness. It was a mark of peace and security. What made the difference her? Peter became a different man, that is, a Spirit-filled apostle. The Holy Spirit was in control and not his feeble self. Isn't peace the fruit of the Spirit? [Gal 5:22,23] “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”[2 Cor 3:17] Fear brings bondage but our submission to the Spirit could free us from any form of bondage. Moreover, the church was praying for him. There is a comfort when we know that the brethren are praying us during our time of crisis. God promises to hear, with a mind to act on the prayers of those who are righteous. Solomon writes, “The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous.”(Prov 15:29) -------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Josh Haggan, Simon Peter: Acts 10:1 - 11:18 by Terrill Road Bible Chapel

The Expanding Church: Father's Day Lessons from Peter Acts 9:32-43

Lesson Notes

Can a Gentile be saved? Overwhelmingly throughout the Biblical narrative up until this point, the story has been primarily Jewish. Even from the beginning, the Israelites were called to be a light to the nations (Genesis 12:1-3). The early church was made up of Jewish believers, but what about Gentiles? Can they be saved? This was the question that surfaced in Acts 10 when Jewish Peter meet a Gentile Roman named Cornelius. He was a God-fearing man who gave alms and prayed regularly. He even had a vision from God telling him to send for Peter (Acts 10:1-8). So he did and when Peter arrived, Cornelius fell at his feet worshiping him (Acts 10:25). Obviously, this was not the reaction that Peter was expecting, but he saw that God was at work. So what about today? The tables have turned. The question today is no longer, "Can a Gentile be saved?" but rather, "Can a Jew be saved?" While the answer to both questions is, "Yes!" and we know God desires for all people to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9), there is still a lot of confusion today. Join us on this episode of The Jewish Road Podcast as we discuss all of these issues and more!

We have been addressing forgiveness recently on Sunday mornings but this morning I want to look at our perception of Father, Son and Holy Spirit.I heard someone in a secular setting recently say “worship is what you imitate”.The Holy Spirit led me to John 13 v 1-17. The story of Jesus preparing his disciples for his final journey to the cross.Jesus was trying to spell out the role of humility and having a servant heart in the Kingdom of God.Nothing is too small in your life for Him to be involved in and to show his love for you. No fears too small, needs too silly or stresses too insignificant that he does not care about.Jesus washing their feet shows us how to imitate Him in our lives.We are called to be servants of others, to live in humility and love in every situation.Ephesians 4:2-4 Jesus is saying that when you are born again your sins are washed away and you can come into a relationship with the Lord. When the disciples had been sent out by Jesus and they saw great miracles. John and James rejoiced but when they came across opposition in Samaria, they asked Jesus if they should call down fire on the people to destroy them.Jesus rebuked them. They hadn't understood that Jesus is counter cultural. Their worship was of power not God. James and John ask if they will sit at His right hand in glory.Their intimacy with Jesus had turned to spiritual pride. This was not the example Jesus had been setting with his servanthood in his ministry. Their worship was of their status in the group not God. Another rebuke.Thomas and Philip were sent out to pray for the sick and demon possessed. Philip says “show us the Father and we will believe” Jesus says if you've seen me you've seen the Father.Thomas says I won't believe Jesus is resurrected unless I can put my hand in his side and see him in my own eyes. His worship was of his own wisdom not the Father. It wasn't a soft option for them but they had not grasped the full magnitude of who Jesus is.Until the resurrection and Pentecost.They had some head knowledge but when the Holy Spirit fills them they finally understand the message.We are called to be counter cultural.John and Peter - Acts 3:1-12 Before the resurrection and Pentecost I think they might have reached for the purse, now they're pointing to Jesus. What a transformation.We don't see Thomas in Acts after the time of doubt but legend has it he went to India to start the church there.Philip has a major effect when he goes to Samaria and the people hear his message and see the miracles. A few years earlier they were disinterested in the message but now they are turning to Christ. Even Simon the sorcerer asks to repent and be prayed for when Peter and John help Philip handle the revival by praying for the people to be filled with the Spirit.The disciples have been changed by the power of witnessing the resurrected Jesus and the filling of the Holy Spirit at PentecostApplicationJesus has called us to be counter cultural by serving the community around us with humility not for status and to love one another.Peter was shocked at the humility Jesus showed when he washed the disciples feet.As a Christian, are you what the world expects?As a follower of Christ do our expectations line up with the example Jesus set us?Have you put Jesus in a box thinking he should work in a certain way?Jesus is never the way I expect him to be full of holy grace and mercy. Are we being different to the world view of the church?

This Sunday we continued our 'Church Alive' sermon series. We looked at Acts 10 which records another conversion story, but very different than Paul's conversion. Here in Acts 10, Peter, who was an apostle and the leader of the church, experiences a kind of conversion. He realises that the good news of Jesus is for all peoples. Listen to this sermon as we learn how the same gospel which reconciles people to God also reconciles those people to other people, across racial, ethnic, and cultural lines.

Thank you for listening to this podcast. This is a recording of a previous sermon. For more resources, visit our Church Website: https://www.wellfordchurch.org/

Friends, in this episode we explain why it is so, so, so important to be familiar with the story of Jesus. We look at how the first Christians started with the story of Jesus in their efforts to make disciples and why we should too! Dan references numerous scripture passages and one great website by past podcast guest Marcel LeJeune to help you learn how to boldly, confidently, and fluidly proclaim the story of Jesus to anyone who asks, and you can find those below.Examples of the Kerygma proclaimed in the book of Acts:By St. Peter: Acts 2:14-36; 3:12-26; 4:8-12; 5:29-32; 10:34-43By St. Paul: Acts 13:16-41; 14:15-17; 17:22-31https://catholicmissionarydisciples.com/news/the-content-of-the-kerygma-good-news-for-the-worldAdditional guide:https://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/how-we-teach/catechesis/catechetical-sunday/enlisting-witnesses/kerygmatic-proclamation-of-jesus-christ

This is not your grandmas Bible study circle, this is a Bible study for normal people who want to engage in their Bible and think beyond the words. Hosted by Jon, Matt, and Nick we bring up our everyday problems and search the word of God for answers. We not here to teach at you, but to learn with you. Our guest span from Special Forces soldiers to stay at home moms. We only want one thing, and that is to bring the word of God to you wherever you may be in your walk with Him. Follow along as we go through the Bible chapter by Chapter, with a quick recap, what it means to us, and how we can relate to it today.Our focus is on salvation and giving you the truth about Jesus. Jesus paid for your sins in his death and resurrection. Through this we have everlasting life. We believe that if you truly accept Jesus in your life and live by the words in the Bible you will one day be greeted at the gates of heaven and live eternally with Him.Join us for some conversation and real life testimony. Have questions or concerns Email us at hisservantbiblestudy@gmail.com we would love to hear from you. Join the conversation on our Instagram.com/servants_bible_study_podcast

Hello and welcome to the show today! In our study of the book of Acts we have just witnessed a Gentile centurion named Cornelius (along with his entire household) coming to faith in Christ after Peter shares with them the good news that God's salvation is available not just to the Jew, but to the Gentile as well (10:35). In Jesus, anyone can become a child of God. As Paul writes in… Galatians 3:26-28 (NKJV)— 26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 3 Responses of The Church— And so we are entering into a new stage of the Church. And in Acts 11 we will see the three ways the Jewish Christians responded to these new Gentile believers. And these responses help us also to know how to relate to one another as Christians. Here in verses 1-18 we see that THEY ACCEPTED THE GENTILES. In verses 19-26 we will see that THEY ENCOURAGED THE GENTILES. And in verses 27-30 we will see that THEY RECEIVED HELP FROM THE GENTILES. A Transplant Needed— Just recently I heard the story of a young teenage girl who suddenly out of the blue was rushed to the hospital after suffering serious symptoms, after which she was told she could not leave. And that was because her liver was failing. And because of her age, she was placed as top priority on the transplant list and they soon found her a new liver. And they replaced her failed liver with the new one, which she was very grateful for and even met with the family whose loved one had passed away to thank them for giving her the gift of life; even out of the pain of their own personal loss. It was an amazing story. Failed Transplants— But you know, as amazing as that whole process is, sadly it doesn't always take. Sometimes a person experiences this miracle of modern medicine, is ecstatic at the gift of life that has been given back to them, but then it is discovered that the body's immune system refuses to recognize the new organ and instead attacks it like a foreign objects. Some transplants (unfortunately) don't take. Now doctors can give medication in order to suppress the immune system in order to help the new organ to get established and for the body to accept it, but even then there is sometimes the risk that that may fail. Will God's Transplant Fail?— And you know, this imagery is very helpful in helping us to understand the nature of what was happening here in Acts 11 and throughout much of the history of the Early Church. God had transplanted a new element into the Church; Gentiles (non-Jews). And Romans 11 describes them as being like wild olive shoots grafted into a domestic olive tree. The question is, is this transplant going to take? Is the body going to accept and receive them? Or is the immune system of the Early Church (which is responsible for helping to protect the Body against infection) going to reject the transplant, not recognizing what God (the Great Physician) understands; and that is that the new element is not only not harmful, but will even bring life to the Church? That is the central question of this passage. And it is one that pops up right away. Now news of the Gentiles coming to faith in Christ had spread like wildfire. It says in… Acts 11:1-3 (NKJV)— 1 Now the apostles and brethren who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. 2 And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision contended with him, 3 saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them!” Peter Rebuked— And so Peter returned to Jerusalem and was immediately met by a group of angry church members. And these were church members of the legalistic party in the church in Judea, which is why they are described as those who were "of the circumcision”. And they rebuke Peter for entering into the house of Gentiles and eating with them. Commonality at Table— And the reason it was so offensive to them that Peter ate with them was not just because he was around people considered by the Jews of that time to be unclean (which would have been bad enough), but because in Jewish culture to eat someone was a very intimate and personal thing. You only did that with people you were at peace with, which is why in Jewish culture if there was a grievance between two parties seeking reconciliation, the forgiveness process was never considered complete until both parties had shared meal together. Because to eat with someone was a way of saying (often in a public way) that there is a commonality between you; a mutual acceptance. That is why people were so offended when Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners. Remember the story of Zacchaeus in particular and how people reacted to Jesus' going into his home, undoubtedly to eat with him. Jesus was saying that the barriers between he and Zacchaeus had come down. The Church's Immune System— And this is what is happening here with Peter and those of the circumcision. These Jews of this legalistic party in the church in Judea were like the immune system of the Church. They wanted to make sure that the Church was not aligning itself with anything that might pollute it. And so they say exclaim to Peter (and you can really feel the anger in their accusation): “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them!” Only Half of The Story— Now I find it interesting that that is the piece of information they latch onto and accuse Peter with. Notice they don't say a word about the Holy Spirit's being given to the Gentiles or anything like that. And do you know why that is? Well, in verse 18, after Peter tells them the full story, they seem genuinely surprised and willing to accept what God was so clearly doing. And so what is likely the case is that these men of the circumcision simply did not know before approaching Peter the other half of the story. They only knew the part that would be offensive to them. But why is that? Why did they not know? How is it that they were unaware? Well, it seems that whoever brought the news to them had only given them half of the story; the half that would really make their blood boil. The other part had been left out. And let me tell you, that is how most conflict in the Church starts out; with somebody spreading around something that is only half-true or that leaves out those details that might challenge the views of the person spreading the gossip. Any of you ever witness this before? Sensational Deceit— It's like if somebody were to tell you “Such and such Church member hasn't taken a bath in months.” And that's true. They haven't. Things sound pretty bad until it comes out later that they take showers not baths; and do so frequently.  Okay then, things are not as disgusting as they first appeared. Now you might say there is no way that kind of thing really goes on, but let me tell you, it does. We see it everyday on the news, which is built on sensationalism. News networks want to keep you hooked. And anger is a great way of doing that. And so they so often feed you what are often only half-truths in order to keep you angry; because if they can create that emotional response in you, you will keep tuning in. They know that deep down we crave for justice; and so if they can convince us there is gross injustice, they will excite you (or even incite you). But so often what happens is the full story comes out later and what then seemed like something heinous is seen in its fullest light to be something only moderately bad, somewhat acceptable, or even good; sometimes even great. Dealing With Stories— And so one of the truths we can glean here from this passage is not always to accept immediately as true the stories we hear about other people. And this is something I have tried to be very careful about in my ministry, especially when I am counseling somebody. I try always to remember Proverbs 18:17 says, which says that… Proverbs 18:17 (ESV)— 17 The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him. Hear The Other Side— And that is so true. The first person always seems right until you hear the other side; which is why it is so important to forego making a judgment until you are sure that you have all the facts. And this is something these Jews who confronted Peter should have done. Peter Tells The FULL Story— Now Peter deals with the situation remarkably well. Ever since Jesus restored him after his 3 denials (and after Pentecost) Peter has demonstrate a wonderful humility; a humility that makes him such wonderful Church leader. I had a mentor (Roman Miller) who used to tell me numerous times that to be a good pastor you need to have two things: (1) A thick hide and (2) A warm heart. Well, it is clear in this passage that Peter has both. He doesn't show signs of being offended or hurt. He doesn't bite back or pull rank on them, which he probably could have done. No, he calmly and humbly relays to them the full story in its entirety. And all the missing pieces begin to come together for them, which we will unpack more next week. God's View— But as we think about this passage and what it might mean for us, one of the things that jumps out at us is that you and I are called to stand for what God thinks about issues. And ultimately (even though we may see things differently) we need to submit all our beliefs and prejudices to God. Because when you think about it, Peter's racism might have led him (as it did with Jonah) to reject God's call for him to carry God's message to  the Gentiles. At this point Peter was probably more like this group of legalists in his beliefs about the Gentiles than he was like Christ. But nevertheless, Peter was determined to embrace God's view over and against his own; and to take heavy criticism, because ultimately God's way was what mattered to him most. And that is something you and I ought always to apply. What does God have to say about the issue; what is revealed in His Word? Racism and hate has always and will always die and unity and healing will always be found when Christians commit themselves to live according to the way of the Lord in accordance with His Word. It is when we become united with God in His Spirit, sanctified by His Word (John 17:17) that we will consequently become more united with one another and bring true healing to the world. So let us commit ourselves to know and submit to the Word of God. Amen.

People of the Spirit - Peter Acts 12:1-17 Andrew Bowles 29 August 2021

Hello and welcome to the show today! In our study of Acts chapter 10, we have been taking a look at a Roman centurion by the name of Cornelius, who we see is striving in every way that he can to follow God. But he does not yet know about Jesus. But he is drawing near to God in the best way that he knows how. And that is something that God will always honor. God promises in… James 4:8a (NKJV)— 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Well that is what Cornelius has been doing. And so therefore Jesus is preparing to draw near to him in a powerful way. Now it says in… Acts 10:3-8 (NKJV)— 3 About the ninth hour of the day {([3:00 p.m.])} he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius!” 4 And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, “What is it, lord?” So he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God. {(So we see that God is acknowledging that what Cornelius intended has in fact been the reality. [Cornelius' prayers, devotion, faith, and goodness were like a fragrant offering rising up to God.] And God is about to reward him. Now the Angel continues, saying:) 5 Now send men to Joppa, and send for Simon whose surname is Peter. 6 He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. He will tell you what you must do.” 7 And when the angel who spoke to him had departed, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who waited on him continually. 8 So when he had explained all these things to them, he sent them to Joppa. The Right Servant— Now you can definitely sense how military-minded Cornelius is. After the angel gives him these instructions, he immediately obeys. Now God could have had him send for Philip, who was already in Caesarea (Acts 8:40), but he doesn't; because remember [it was Peter, not Philip, who had been given the “keys.” {And what this shows us is that} God not only works at the right time, but He also works through the right servant, and both are essential.] There are people God isn't sending to others because His intention is to send them to you. You are the one He wants to open the door for them. The question is, are you and I going to respond to that call? Peter's Preparation— Now it was not only necessary for Cornelius to be prepared for this event; Peter had to be as well. After all, [he had lived as an orthodox Jew all of his life (Acts 10:14).] And because of that (being a product of his culture) he did not see the Gentiles as a part of God's salvation plan. For the Jews of the time there was a strong barrier between them and the Gentiles; and they considered them aliens and strangers [as far as the Jewish covenants and promises were concerned (vv. 11-13).] However, we know that that barrier was [broken down at the cross (Eph. 2:14–18).] And now [“There is no difference” either in condemnation (Rom. 3:22–23) or in salvation (10:12–13).] A Seed In The Declaration— And you know, a very similar circumstance took place when the United States was founded. God no doubt inspired Thomas Jefferson to write these incredible words into our Declaration of Independence: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.” Now you'd think that this would mean that America (from the moment it was conceived when that Declaration was signed on July 4, 1776) would be a nation free of racism and slavery (which is often a product of that racism). But no, it took a long time for that to trickle down. It wasn't until almost a hundred years later that the Thirteenth Amendment finally abolished slavery in 1865. And it wasn't until 1870 (5 years later) that the Fifteenth Amendment gave African Americans the right to vote, which was a landmark decision. And then in 1954 there was another landmark decision made by the Supreme Court. And that was the Brown vs. the Topeka Board of Education, which ended segregation in public education. And then in 1964 of course you had the Civil Rights Act, which gave equal opportunity to all. Now did any of these decisions fix all our problems or completely eradicate racism? No. But each of them was another step in the right direction. And when you take a step back you can see how God placed a seed in the minds of our founding founders (some of whom owned slaves) and caused that seed to grow and eventually bring freedom and desegregation to our land and a recognized equality that has become so complete that on January 20, 2009 we inaugurated our first African-American president. And whether you liked his politics or not, that (for many people) was a milestone because it revealed just how unified the United States had become under the idea that all of us are equal. Now we have a long way to go still, but that equality (for much of our history) has been recognized as having its roots in the very the nature of God Himself, in whose image we are created. Losing The Seed— Now unfortunately that concept has been vehemently attacked in recent years. And that is sad, because it was that concept that got the ball rolling in the right direction to begin with. And without that foundational belief in our being created in the image of a loving God, we will always be open for that racism to creep back in. Because without God, there is nobody to hold us accountable for how we treat one another. And if naturalism is true (the belief that we were only created through natural processes) and we are all just highly evolved primates, who is to say that one race is not better than another? Actually that's exactly what Evolution teaches in its doctrine of the Survival of the Fittest. There are some people who are lower on the evolutionary food chain and may even need to die so that the fittest can survive. That was one of the key fundamental ideas that drove the Nazis. And they ended up committing the most heinous acts imaginable on other human beings not because they were insane (though many of them were) but because they took these evolutionary ideas to their logical conclusion. Now not everyone who rejects God will embrace that kind of hatred, because all of have demonstrated at least some of the effect of our having been created in the image of God; but anywhere from which the fear of God has been removed, history will always repeat itself. Because you will have lost the very foundation that supports every individual's inherent worth. And furthermore, it is only through Jesus that we can be renewed in the image of our Creator and receive the spiritual equipment we need to overcome our evil tendencies and defeat racism. And that is what was starting to happen in our passage today; and things will eventually progress to the point where Paul can write in… Colossians 3:11 (ESV)— 11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all. But this was a big transition; one that God had to prepare Peter for. And so it says in… Acts 10:9-16 (NKJV)— 9 The next day, as they went on their journey and drew near the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray, about the sixth hour {(12:00 noon)}. 10 Then he became very hungry and wanted to eat; but while they made ready, he fell into a trance 11 and saw heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, descending to him and let down to the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. 13 And a voice came to him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “Not so, Lord! For I have never eaten anything common or unclean.” 15 And a voice spoke to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.” 16 This was done three times. And the object was taken up into heaven again. Unclean— Now what was going on with this vision, and why did God choose to use this imagery to teach Peter to start to see the Gentiles as He did? Well, keep in mind that the text says Peter was hungry. And so what better way to “speak to his condition” (as the Quakers used to say) than to give him a vision involving food. He's longing for food and so God gives him food; just not the food he was expecting. He is given food that (according to Jewish dietary regulations) was ceremonially unclean. And [the distinction between “clean and unclean foods” was a major problem between the Jews and the Gentiles in that day. In fact, {we will see in the very next chapter that} Peter's Christian friends {actually} criticized him for eating with the Gentiles (Acts 11:1–3)! {And so} God used this centuries-old regulation (Lev. 11) to teach Peter an important spiritual lesson.] Peter Refuses— Now (though it shouldn't have) this command to eat ceremonially unclean food came as quite a shock to Peter. And he politely but vehemently refuses God! And though he meant well, it was still wrong for him to respond the way he did. As Dr. W. Graham Scroggie wrote, “You can say ‘No,' and you can say ‘Lord'; but you cannot say ‘No, Lord!'” If He is truly our Lord, then we can only say “Yes!” to Him and obey His commands.] But God is very merciful and patient with Peter, which should be an encouragement to us because He is just as patient with us. But the angel responds to Peter. Verse 15… Acts 10:15 (NKJV)—15 And a voice spoke to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.” Both Unclean— Now I want you to hear this, because this is very important. The lesson here is not that the Jews were clean and the Gentiles were just as clean. No, it was that both Jew and Gentile alike are unclean in the sight of God. Both needed cleansing. The Jew is just as unclean and in need of the cleansing of God as the Gentile is. And the reason that is important for us to understand is because what this [meant {was} that a Gentile did not have to become a Jew in order to become a Christian.] The Jew was not at some kind of higher spiritual level just by being a Jew. No, ALL of us need the cleansing work of Jesus Christ. Now Peter doesn't understand the meaning of the vision right away, but (as we saw with Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, God's timing is perfect. It says in… Acts 10:17-20 (NKJV)— 17 Now while Peter wondered within himself what this vision which he had seen meant, behold, the men who had been sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate. 18 And they called and asked whether Simon, whose surname was Peter, was lodging there. 19 While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are seeking you. 20 Arise therefore, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them.” Doubting Nothing— And that [phrase “doubting nothing” (Acts 10:20) means “making no distinctions.” You find it again in Acts 11:12, and a similar word is used in Acts 11:2 (“contended with him” = “made a difference”). Peter was no longer to make any distinctions between the Jews and the Gentiles.] And it says in… Acts 10:21-23a (NKJV)— 21 Then Peter went down to the men who had been sent to him from Cornelius, and said, “Yes, I am he whom you seek. For what reason have you come?” 22 And they said, “Cornelius the centurion, a just man, one who fears God and has a good reputation among all the nation of the Jews, was divinely instructed by a holy angel to summon you to his house, and to hear words from you.” 23 Then he invited them in and lodged them. Who's Your Cornelius?— You know, this story has so much to say to us about allowing God to challenge and re-shape our world-views. Even we as Gentiles who (by God's grace) have been grafted into His family can still look down on others. We can become exclusive in our thinking. And I don't think there are many of us here today (if any) who are openly racist or prejudice; who would say there is a person or a people group that we hate or openly reject. But I don't think this passage is just about not openly rejecting people. Sometimes we reject by neglect. And the way we reject by neglect is by simply choosing to overlook people. And I think that for each of us, there probably is a Cornelius in our life that needs what we have in Christ Jesus, the Good News of the Gospel. The question is, are we willing to go to them? Are we willing to cross whatever barriers we have to in order to introduce them to Jesus? As we close today, I want to challenge you to ask God to show you the Cornelius in your life; and after revealing that person to you, ask Him to give you the courage and strength to reach out to them with the love and message of Jesus Christ. Because if you do, they will be blessed, you will be blessed, and the Church will be blessed. Let's do so. Amen.

June 25, 2021

This week we are coming to the end of our study, the life of Peter.  Through these months we've seen Peter develop a strong voice for the  apostles and then for the early church. We’ve have seen him accomplish  great things for the cause of Christ.

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In this week’s study, we find Peter in trouble again, and how God  delivers him from his situation.

Thanks to everyone who supports TMBH at patreon.com/thetmbhpodcast You're the reason we can all do this together! Discuss the episode here Music written and performed by Jeff Foote.