Podcasts about though paul

This sermon centers on the encounter between Paul and Governor Felix, highlighting how Felix, despite being well-informed about Christianity and confronted with the gospel's core truths—sin, righteousness, and judgment—responded not with repentance but with delay and greed. Though Paul's message stirred alarm in Felix, revealing his guilt before God, Felix chose to postpone repentance, hoping for personal gain and comfort, ultimately rejecting the grace presented. The preacher emphasizes that conviction of sin does not guarantee repentance, and that delaying faith is not merely imprudent but a dangerous presumption that dishonors God's sovereignty. Drawing from Felix's tragic example, the sermon calls listeners to immediate surrender to Christ, warning against the deception of thinking salvation can be postponed or bargained for, and affirms that true faith is not a future possibility but a present necessity, grounded in the resurrection and eternal hope secured through Christ.

Title: “The Maltenes Mission” Part 1 Text: Acts 28:1-6 FCF: We often struggle fearing our circumstances rather than seeing them as opportunities to preach Christ. Prop: Because God providentially provides platforms for us to preach Christ, we must trust and proclaim the Lord. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to Acts chapter 28. In a moment we'll read from the Christian Standard Bible starting in verse 1. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. Today we officially begin the last chapter of the book of Acts. With it, we begin the final episode of the maritime adventure of Paul on his journey to Rome. Paul, his companions, the soldiers, the sailors and all the other passengers on board the Alexandrian grain ship have all come safely to shore. But now what? It is still November. They are on an island they don't recognize. They are cold, tired, hungry, and drenched. How will God providentially preserve them through the winter? Let's find out. Please stand with me to give honor to and to focus on the Word of God as it is read. Invocation: Most Gracious God, we humbly seek Your presence today to ask that You send Your Spirit to reveal truth from Your Word. Speak persistently and loudly. Show us, convict us, move us, shape us with the Words of Scripture. We pray that You would uncover Your providential work to prepare a platform for the gospel to be preached. We pray that even if the circumstances are painful for us that we would not give way to fear, but would stand firm in trusting You and preach Christ crucified to the lost. Convict us of our negligence and our panic. Help us to see the greatest mission we have and to do it for Your glory. We pray this in Jesus' name… Amen. Transition: Many people are ill equipped and unmotivated to hear the gospel message. Its truths are aggressive because they call men to repent of things that they cherish. Men love sin. But God not only prepares the heart of one of His lost sheep to hear the gospel, but He also prepares the circumstances for the message to be preached. For the Maltenes people, God prepared them to hear the truth. And He did this by… of all things… a snake bite. Let's look. I.) God providentially provides platforms for us to preach Christ, so we must preach the gospel. (1-4) a. [Slide 2] 1 - Once safely ashore, we then learned that the island was called Malta. i. Luke dutifully records for us again, that the people who could swim as well as those who could not arrived safely to the shore. ii. In the process of landing on the beach, certainly they would have looked for shelter. Being a beach, but not the main port on the island, there would probably have a small fishing village nearby. iii. [Slide 3] In this process they would have learned that the island they landed on was indeed the island of Malta. iv. Perhaps with shock they would have recognized how far the storm had carried them while also getting them closer to their intended destination of Italy. v. Indeed, in the last two weeks they had been blown by this Nor'easter about 476 Nautical miles west, which is just shy of 550 miles. b. [Slide 4] 2 - The local people showed us extraordinary kindness. They lit a fire and took us all in, since it was raining and cold. i. Luke using the term “Local people” here is actually the word “barbarians”. This indicates to us that these people probably did not speak Greek as a primary language. More than likely the Maltenes people spoke Punic which would be a dialect of Phoenician language. ii. And even though the main dock in Malta would have been sufficiently Hellenized, this village was probably less so. iii. Still there is no reason to believe that the shipwrecked crew was completely unable to converse with the people. They probably knew at least some Greek or Latin. iv. Luke marvels at the uncommon care the locals gave to the shipwrecked passengers. Many times small villages become quite closed off and suspicious of new people. Against that stereotype, these islanders went out of their way to help. v. The rain and cold had left these tired, drenched, hungry, and sleep deprived people in a truly miserable state. vi. For at least two weeks they had been battling no small storm and now they wash up completely helpless. vii. In this setting, it would be easy to prey upon them or fear them. But instead, they receive all 276 people and build a fire – probably several, to warm them all. c. [Slide 5] 3 - As Paul gathered a bundle of brushwood and put it on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened itself on his hand. i. As a prisoner of Rome, Paul would have no doubt been one of the first to be forced to go and look for more fuel for the fire. ii. Of course, this was probably a welcome task standing on dry land with the promise of warmth. And certainly, we wouldn't expect Paul to refuse to help in menial duties. iii. In the midst of this, Paul lays a bundle of sticks on the fire and unbeknownst to Paul there was a viper hiding within. iv. The word “viper” indicates to us that this was a venomous snake. v. But here is the problem. Today, there are no venomous snakes on the island of Malta. And for that matter, there are actually no woodlands on Malta either. 1. Some scholars have put so much weight on this fact that they have endeavored to find a different island than Malta for this shipwreck. 2. However, these two problems are actually easily explained by one fact. 3. Malta today has almost 600,000 people living on an island that has an area of only 122 square miles. 4. That is a ratio of almost 5,000 people per square mile. This makes it one of the more densely populated places in the world. 5. With population being so dense, woodlands would have disappeared long ago and along with woodlands the environment for venomous snakes. 6. Therefore, there is no reason to question Luke's identification of this snake as venomous. vi. This snake was probably one, that although now is either extinct or eradicated on Malta, was at the time known and avoided by the Maltenes people. vii. As any snake would do, after being roused from its more dormant state in the cold and fleeing the heat of the fire, it attacks a perceived threat upon its life. viii. In this case, it would be Paul. ix. The snake bites and latches hold of Paul's hand. d. [Slide 6] 4 - When the local people saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “This man, no doubt, is a murderer. Even though he has escaped the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live.” i. There are a few layers here that I want to unpack concerning the Maltenes' reaction to this viper biting Paul. ii. They say three things. 1. They conclude that Paul is a murderer since this snake bit him. 2. He was saved from the sea, but this was merely a temporary escape for him. 3. Finally, they conclude that Justice has not allowed Paul to live. iii. All three things they say… are true in a manner of speaking. iv. First, I want to go in backward order of their statements, They conclude he is a murderer and the last two statements contribute to that thought in unique ways. Justice has not allowed him to live. 1. Notice how the word Justice in the CSB is capitalized. 2. This occurs not just in the CSB but in several other modern translations of this passage. 3. The word Justice could be translated simply as a lowercase letter j with that meaning. 4. However, the Greek goddess of Justice was named Dike… Justice. The word Luke uses here. 5. What seems clear is that these people were fairly religious. They recognize that the Greek goddess of justice, who always repays a life for a life and always hits her mark, seems to have hunted Paul down through Poseidon's realm and finally found him here on Malta. 6. Justice always wins, she has caught Paul. This is their conclusion. 7. Is this true? 8. Well… in a way. But it didn't happen by Dike's doing. Compared to the God who actually caught up with Paul, she is not a god at all. 9. We have already seen the Judge of the living and the dead catch up with Paul. Haven't we? 10. In one sense Paul stood up that day and kept going… but in another way Paul died that day in the dust on the road to Damascus. 11. Paul himself says “I have been crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live, Christ lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by the faithfulness of Jesus Christ who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” 12. True Justice… the King of Glory… has already hunted down and found Paul. And killed him… by killing Paul's sin and former life on the same cross He died on. Paul only lives now because Jesus lives in Him. 13. Whatever sins Paul has committed, were killed with Christ. And that same Just Judge has commissioned Paul to go to the ends of the earth with the good news. 14. That is why he is here. Justice sent him here… but not to die. But to preach the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. v. Second, they conclude that his salvation from the sea was a temporary escape. 1. No doubt they couch this in superstitious understanding similar to our idea of cheating death and karma. 2. You can only run for so long before it all catches up to you. 3. Job's friends had the same conclusion. 4. But in a way, they are right. 5. Paul will eventually be executed by the same Roman government who hold him in chains now. His rescue from the sea is ultimately only a temporary one. 6. But at the same time, his permanent rescue, his permanent salvation has already been secured. 7. And that is why he is here. To tell these people… about that salvation. vi. That brings us to what they conclude. That Paul is a murderer because he was bitten by a venomous snake. 1. Now why might they conclude this? 2. Well, as we've already said, history records that the Maltenes people were quite religiously attuned. They were a religious melting pot of Phoenician, Greek, and Roman influences. a. And this is a very old concept. b. As we've already said, dating back to the first book of the bible written, the book of Job, that when you commit sins in life, eventually you will get divine payment for them. c. It is the concept of reciprocity. d. The Old Testament also says surely your sins will find you out. e. The New Testament says that what you will reap what you sow. f. Many religious backgrounds have this sort of teaching. Including Phoenician, Greek, and Roman. 3. And the Maltenes people, though religious and superstitious, were not idiots. a. They know Paul is a prisoner. There are guards watching him all the time. b. They probably know that their destination is Rome itself. Certainly, prisoners being transported to Rome are probably not going for small crimes. c. It is really that much of a leap for them to think that Paul's crime is a serious one? 4. Finally, we must ask the question… is Paul a murderer? a. Luke thinks Paul is. Luke said that he was breathing out murderous threats toward the church. b. Paul thinks Paul is. Paul himself said that he persecuted the church to death. He calls himself the chief of sinners. 5. The Maltenes people are right! Paul is a murderer. And anyone who has ever hated or despised someone is a murderer too. 6. But Paul is here now to preach to these people, how God can take murderers like him and destroy their sin and raise them up to righteousness. e. [Slide 7] Summary of the Point: Luke writes this second episode of Paul's maritime adventure with a clear focus. He is emphasizing the providence of God to get Paul to Rome to preach the gospel to the Emperor. Here we see God's hand delivering Paul safely from the storm but right into the teeth of a viper. And we might wonder… why? Paul did deserve to die for all he had done to God's people. But Jesus saved him instead. Now he is on this island, not fleeing from the goddess of justice, but instead preaching the love of the One who will one day judge the living and the dead. God is just in that He will certainly judge sinners. But he is also the justifier of sinners who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, for Christ is the One who satisfied the justice of God for them on the cross. Because of the Maltenes' religious beliefs and God allowing the snake to bite Paul, now Paul has an platform to preach the gospel to them. To tell them about justice AND mercy. God will do the same for us. He will providentially open doors for us to share our faith. The doors may not be painless for us. Indeed, they may hurt us a lot. But we must be faithful to share the gospel with those the Lord has brought to us. [Slide 8 (blank)] Transition: Of course, Paul can't preach the gospel message if he dies from a snakebite. Jesus can't keep his promise if Paul dies of a snakebite. God would be a liar if Paul doesn't go before Caesar because he died of a snakebite. What is the only option for Paul? He must live. Let's see how. II.) God providentially provides platforms for us to preach Christ, so we must have faith without fear. (5-6) a. [Slide 9] 5 - But he shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no harm. i. As we knew would be true, Paul lives. ii. In fulfillment of what Jesus says Luke 10:19 and possibly in Mark 16:18, we see Paul handling a venomous snake without being poisoned and without dying. iii. He simply shakes the creature off into the fire. iv. This doesn't appear to be a panicked reaction. Nor does it seem to be done in malice or hatred. Nor does it seem to be some kind of spiritual cleansing ritual, as if he is warding off a spiritual by burning the source. v. Paul simply eliminates the threat against him and others by calmly shaking the snake into the fire. vi. He trusts God explicitly, that the snake will not harm him, no doubt as he bandages the two puncture wounds in his hand. vii. Paul did not seek out the snake to prove that he was from God or that his faith was genuine. Paul didn't do this on purpose as some kind of display of Spiritual maturity as some churches do who handle snakes on purpose. viii. Paul trusted God, unphased by this snakebite, knowing that he would go to Rome and stand before Caesar. Why? ix. Because God said he would. x. This is faith without fear. b. [Slide 10] 6 - They expected that he would begin to swell up or suddenly drop dead. i. Though Paul did not fear, the Maltenes people were afraid for him. They were convinced that despite Paul acting like all was normal – that he would certainly swell up and/or die. ii. There is no hint here that they simply mistook the snake that bit Paul as a venomous one when it actually wasn't. iii. These are natives of this island and the sticks did not come from the ship. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that this snake was indigenous and most likely well known to the Maltenes people. iv. So, they waited. v. And waited. vi. And… waited. c. [Slide 11] After they waited a long time and saw nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god. i. Before, they concluded that the gods were out to get Paul. ii. That he must have been some terrible person who had murdered someone and justice finally caught up to him. iii. But having waited a long time to watch if he would die or suffer any ill effects, and finding nothing out of the ordinary occurring, they change their minds. iv. Again, we are given insight into the deeply religious and somewhat superstitious nature of the Maltenes people. v. They have just witnessed a miracle. And because of this, they go from thinking Paul is a vile human being to concluding that Paul must be an invulnerable divine being. vi. This isn't the first time Paul was mistaken for a god. vii. In Lystra, after Paul and Barnabas healed a lame man, they were mistaken for Zeus and Hermes. The people of Lystra then began to offer sacrifices to them. viii. Paul and Barnabas tore their clothes and with great effort stopped the people of Lystra from worshipping them. ix. There is no record here of the Maltenes people trying to worship Paul. Luke is somewhat brief with the Maltenes narrative. x. But we see how volatile their opinion of Paul is. xi. But just like in Lystra, after denying deity, Paul will have a unique opportunity to share the gospel with these people. xii. He is not a god… but He is sent by THE One True God. He is God's ambassador sent here with a message for them to hear. And this miracle proves that they should listen to him. xiii. [Slide 12] As a side note here, and one we must address before we close out this point … 1. Keen observers will note that Luke does not actually say that Paul shares the gospel with the Maltenes people. 2. Luke doesn't record a single conversion. 3. So, am I being a little presumptuous to think that Paul shared the gospel with these folks? 4. Not at all. For three reasons. a. We know the heart of Paul. i. He has preached the gospel to Jews, to gentiles, before the Areopagite, in the hall of Tyrannus in Ephesus, before Felix and Festus and Herod Agrippa. ii. We have no reason to believe that he stopped now. iii. And Luke doesn't always need to spell things out for us. iv. He has written thousands of words giving us the track record of Paul. v. He probably expects us to fill in the blanks. b. We know the purpose of sign gifts. i. Throughout the book of Acts God has used sign gifts to authenticate the message of the gospel. ii. Paul did not die from this snake bite and, as a bit of a spoiler for next week, he will heal a prominent Maltenes figure before departing for Rome. iii. Since Luke has linked signs like these to the authentication of the gospel message, again he probably assumes we will wisely link it without him saying it explicitly. c. Lastly, we know the history of Malta. A Christian community sprang up on the island of Malta. i. Not only that, but the earliest records indicate that this happened in the same general time frame that Paul was on Malta. ii. Also, there are some records that indicate that the first Elder of the Christian church on Malta was a man named Publius whom we will meet next week. 5. And so, I think we can confidently say that Paul did indeed preach the gospel here and while wintering here for three months, he helped to establish the church on Malta. d. [Slide 13] Summary of the Point: Just as God providentially provided an avenue for preaching the gospel to the Maltenes by allowing His servant Paul to be bitten by a snake, so also God now miraculously prevents Paul from being poisoned to authenticate that same message. If they will believe he is a god because he did not die from this snake bite, perhaps they can believe that he is God's message bearer bringing them the message of the gospel. But Paul's reaction is key here. He doesn't panic. He doesn't start sucking the venom out. He doesn't pace around the fire nervously waiting for the same reactions the locals waited for. Instead, he shook off the snake and did nothing unusual. If it wasn't for the two puncture marks, they might have wondered if he had been bitten at all. We too may face even unpleasant things that God has providentially arranged for us so that we have a platform to share the gospel. But how we face those unpleasant circumstances may impact the openness of some to hear the message. In the midst of this, we must not allow fear to win out over faith. Instead, we must trust the Lord. Conclusion: So CBC, what have we learned today that informs and corrects our beliefs and shapes our lifestyles? Basics of Faith and Practice: [Slide 14] God's providence is the undisputed primary theme in the book of Acts. God is always moving to advance the Kingdom of His dear Son through the work of His Spirit. Certainly, God at times does this on His own without any human agency, but most often in the book of Acts God empowers and commissions His church to go and preach the gospel. Here we see God using a snake bite and its failure to harm Paul to give him a platform to preach the gospel to these very religious people. So, we must look for God's providential hand to create platforms for us to live by faith and share the gospel. And though those platforms may be painful and even life-threatening, we must not fear what men can do to us. We have the words of life. Let us hold His banner high. But let me apply this a little more directly to us today. 1.) [Slide 15] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that God providentially arranges platforms for us to preach the gospel. a. From every tribe, every tongue, every nation, every ethnicity, both genders – God is calling to Himself a royal priesthood. b. While we certainly have some, who like Paul, are called to other parts of the world to share the gospel to people outside of their context… c. Most of us are called to be ambassadors for the Kingdom of God right where we are. d. God has equipped us to be in the right situation with the right strengths and skills to be lights that shine in the darkness for His Kingdom. e. And that is not just to stand up and live holy and loving lives before others but to call to repentance sinners who have offended a holy God with their wickedness. f. To preach Christ crucified for sinners. g. To call sinners to turn from their wicked ways and trust in Christ. h. You and I are uniquely suited to share Christ to our friends, our family, and our neighbors. i. Not only that, but all that we face in life, and all the trials and tribulations shape us to be in positions where we can give the gospel call in a real and impactful way. j. The Maltenes were a religious and even superstitious people. God turned their eyes toward justice and then wowed them with a miracle. All so Paul could preach Christ crucified for sinners. k. God is the same today. He orchestrates the events of our lives to provide a platform for His gospel call to go out. l. But as the Lord Jesus lamented, the harvest is plenty but the harvesters are few. m. So, what must we do? n. First, something we must not do… 2.) [Slide 16] De-Exhortation: “What actions should we stop doing” or “What behaviors do we naturally practice that this passage tells us to stop doing?” We must not fear our circumstances. a. God may lead us down some very difficult paths to share the gospel with others. b. We may be surrounded by enemies, we may be hated by many, we may be shouted down, we may face certain death. c. In those times we should not fear. d. We should not fear what men can do to us. e. We should not fear what could or could not happen. f. We should not fear that we might die before God's plan for our lives is realized. g. We should not fear at all. Why? h. Not because we are brave, strong, determined, or resolute. i. Not because our cause is just or because we are something special… j. If we lack fear for these reasons, then we are trusting in ourselves. k. The reason we should not fear is because we trust the Lord. We trust that His ways are perfect and that His will will be done. l. But not fearing doesn't mean we are passive either. We must also… 3.) [Slide 17] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must trust the Lord and share the gospel. a. In spite of the danger, in spite of the difficulty and trials we may face. We must share the gospel. b. We are on this earth for such a short time. We only have so many days to preach Christ crucified. c. To make disciples is the commission of the church. And God has equipped us to do just that. d. We preach the gospel and teach disciples to obey Christ. This is the primary mission of the church. e. Wherever Paul was, and in whatever state he was in, he preached Christ crucified. This wasn't because he was an evangelist. It is because he was a Christian. And although he received a specific commission to go to the gentiles and to Caesar, his commission was the same general commission given to all believers. f. We don't all have to go to some far away place. And hopefully we don't all have to get bitten by a snake. g. But all of us must preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Because it and it alone is the power of God unto salvation to the Jews first and also to the gentiles. h. There is also something in this text that corrects something we might believe. 4.) [Slide 18] Refutation: “What lies must we cast down” or “What do we naturally believe, or have been taught to believe, that this passage shows is false?” We must deny that God is either all justice or all mercy. Both are errors we must avoid. a. A young apologist that is making some waves today named Wes Huff was recently on a podcast talking about the differences between other religions and Christianity. b. He astutely observed that all religions besides Chrsitianty have strong aspects of either justice or mercy. c. He zoomed into Hinduism and Buddhism and pointed out how there is a very strong justice emphasis within it. Karma is 100% just. What you reap is a product of what you have sown… every time. There is no mercy. d. But Islam is the opposite. Allah, almost arbitrarily, hands out mercy to people who have died allowing them to enter paradise. But what happens with the evil they did during their life? What happens to all the actions they committed that are out of step with what Allah desires? e. In a word, nothing. There is no justice. Some get what they deserve and others don't and there is no real rhyme or reason for why. f. The Maltenes clearly believed in an all-justice god. You can't hide from a god who rights wrongs and trades a life for a life. The idea of reciprocity is strong with them. g. How amazing it would have been for them to be told that Paul was a murderer, but that the same God who will judge him is the one who died to pay for his sin. h. And that leads us to the most comforting thought that only Christianity preaches, and it just so happens to be the heart of the gospel of Jesus Christ… 5.) [Slide 19] Evangelism: “What about this text points us to Jesus Christ, the gospel, and how we are restored?” God is both Just and the Justifier of all who believe on Christ. a. Proverbs 17:15 says that whoever justifies the wicked is an abomination to Yahweh. b. So how is it that God is NOT an abomination to Himself? c. I want you to listen very carefully to what I'm saying because I don't want you to misunderstand me. d. Depending on your definition of forgiveness, you might be under the impression that when God forgives you, your sins magically disappear from the record. They are, erased. e. But my friends that isn't what forgiveness means. Forgiveness is a financial term. f. When you are forgiven a financial debt, does that mean that the person who gave the loan magically gets all their money back? No. g. Someone has to pay the debt. Forgiveness is simply saying… it isn't you. h. In this way, every single sin will be paid for. Every single one. Every single sin is an act of treason against a holy God. And every single sin you commit must be paid off in full. i. God is Just. Not one sin will be left unaccounted. God will NOT justify the wicked. He will not call someone innocent who still has an outstanding debt. j. But God, in His mercy, has chosen to take the debt Himself. He has chosen to pay the penalty for sin in the second person of the Godhead. He has paid with His death the whole amount for every single person who believes on Jesus as Savior and Lord. k. God is Just… and the justifier of those who believe on Christ. Because although every sin must be punished… He laid on Christ the chastisement that was due to us. By His stripes… we are healed. l. God is not Dike… hunting down the guilty. One day He will raise all of the dead to life and put them before the judgment seat of Christ to measure their works. And all who are measured by their works will pay for every single sin they have committed by enduring eternity in the lake of fire which is the second death. m. God doesn't hunt down the guilty. They will come to Him when He calls for them. When it is time for all things to be made right and justice to be delivered… they will come to Him. n. But God does hunt down some of us. He aims to destroy us but then to raise us up to a new life in Christ. o. My friends… are your sins paid for or will you pay for them yourself? p. Only those who believe in true faith… who believe and keep believing… who believe so much that they pursue Christ as their Savior and Lord… only these have had their sins paid. Their sins were red like scarlet… q. But He has washed them white as snow. r. Will you turn from your sin and believe on Jesus Christ today? [Slide 20 (end)] Let me close with a prayer by the Reformer John Calvin. Lord, as you urge us daily to repentance, and we are stung with the consciousness of our own sins, help us not to grow stupid in our vices or deceive ourselves with empty flattery. Instead, help us to carefully examine our own life, and then together confess that we are all guilty-not just of light offenses, but of offenses that deserve eternal death. And no other cure remains for us ... except your infinite mercy. So we seek a share of that grace which has been once offered to us by your Son, and is daily offered to us by his gospel. By relying on him as our mediator, we entertain hope even in the midst of a thousand deaths, until we are gathered into that blessed life bought for us by the blood of your only Son. For it is in His name we pray this… Amen. Benediction: And now may Jesus, Who satisfies our longings like nothing else can do Who is more pleasant than all the fancies of our golden dreams May that Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else. Until we meet again, go in peace.

Title: “The Maltenes Mission” Part 1 Text: Acts 28:1-6 FCF: We often struggle fearing our circumstances rather than seeing them as opportunities to preach Christ. Prop: Because God providentially provides platforms for us to preach Christ, we must trust and proclaim the Lord. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to Acts chapter 28. In a moment we'll read from the Christian Standard Bible starting in verse 1. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. Today we officially begin the last chapter of the book of Acts. With it, we begin the final episode of the maritime adventure of Paul on his journey to Rome. Paul, his companions, the soldiers, the sailors and all the other passengers on board the Alexandrian grain ship have all come safely to shore. But now what? It is still November. They are on an island they don't recognize. They are cold, tired, hungry, and drenched. How will God providentially preserve them through the winter? Let's find out. Please stand with me to give honor to and to focus on the Word of God as it is read. Invocation: Most Gracious God, we humbly seek Your presence today to ask that You send Your Spirit to reveal truth from Your Word. Speak persistently and loudly. Show us, convict us, move us, shape us with the Words of Scripture. We pray that You would uncover Your providential work to prepare a platform for the gospel to be preached. We pray that even if the circumstances are painful for us that we would not give way to fear, but would stand firm in trusting You and preach Christ crucified to the lost. Convict us of our negligence and our panic. Help us to see the greatest mission we have and to do it for Your glory. We pray this in Jesus' name… Amen. Transition: Many people are ill equipped and unmotivated to hear the gospel message. Its truths are aggressive because they call men to repent of things that they cherish. Men love sin. But God not only prepares the heart of one of His lost sheep to hear the gospel, but He also prepares the circumstances for the message to be preached. For the Maltenes people, God prepared them to hear the truth. And He did this by… of all things… a snake bite. Let's look. I.) God providentially provides platforms for us to preach Christ, so we must preach the gospel. (1-4) a. [Slide 2] 1 - Once safely ashore, we then learned that the island was called Malta. i. Luke dutifully records for us again, that the people who could swim as well as those who could not arrived safely to the shore. ii. In the process of landing on the beach, certainly they would have looked for shelter. Being a beach, but not the main port on the island, there would probably have a small fishing village nearby. iii. [Slide 3] In this process they would have learned that the island they landed on was indeed the island of Malta. iv. Perhaps with shock they would have recognized how far the storm had carried them while also getting them closer to their intended destination of Italy. v. Indeed, in the last two weeks they had been blown by this Nor'easter about 476 Nautical miles west, which is just shy of 550 miles. b. [Slide 4] 2 - The local people showed us extraordinary kindness. They lit a fire and took us all in, since it was raining and cold. i. Luke using the term “Local people” here is actually the word “barbarians”. This indicates to us that these people probably did not speak Greek as a primary language. More than likely the Maltenes people spoke Punic which would be a dialect of Phoenician language. ii. And even though the main dock in Malta would have been sufficiently Hellenized, this village was probably less so. iii. Still there is no reason to believe that the shipwrecked crew was completely unable to converse with the people. They probably knew at least some Greek or Latin. iv. Luke marvels at the uncommon care the locals gave to the shipwrecked passengers. Many times small villages become quite closed off and suspicious of new people. Against that stereotype, these islanders went out of their way to help. v. The rain and cold had left these tired, drenched, hungry, and sleep deprived people in a truly miserable state. vi. For at least two weeks they had been battling no small storm and now they wash up completely helpless. vii. In this setting, it would be easy to prey upon them or fear them. But instead, they receive all 276 people and build a fire – probably several, to warm them all. c. [Slide 5] 3 - As Paul gathered a bundle of brushwood and put it on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened itself on his hand. i. As a prisoner of Rome, Paul would have no doubt been one of the first to be forced to go and look for more fuel for the fire. ii. Of course, this was probably a welcome task standing on dry land with the promise of warmth. And certainly, we wouldn't expect Paul to refuse to help in menial duties. iii. In the midst of this, Paul lays a bundle of sticks on the fire and unbeknownst to Paul there was a viper hiding within. iv. The word “viper” indicates to us that this was a venomous snake. v. But here is the problem. Today, there are no venomous snakes on the island of Malta. And for that matter, there are actually no woodlands on Malta either. 1. Some scholars have put so much weight on this fact that they have endeavored to find a different island than Malta for this shipwreck. 2. However, these two problems are actually easily explained by one fact. 3. Malta today has almost 600,000 people living on an island that has an area of only 122 square miles. 4. That is a ratio of almost 5,000 people per square mile. This makes it one of the more densely populated places in the world. 5. With population being so dense, woodlands would have disappeared long ago and along with woodlands the environment for venomous snakes. 6. Therefore, there is no reason to question Luke's identification of this snake as venomous. vi. This snake was probably one, that although now is either extinct or eradicated on Malta, was at the time known and avoided by the Maltenes people. vii. As any snake would do, after being roused from its more dormant state in the cold and fleeing the heat of the fire, it attacks a perceived threat upon its life. viii. In this case, it would be Paul. ix. The snake bites and latches hold of Paul's hand. d. [Slide 6] 4 - When the local people saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “This man, no doubt, is a murderer. Even though he has escaped the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live.” i. There are a few layers here that I want to unpack concerning the Maltenes' reaction to this viper biting Paul. ii. They say three things. 1. They conclude that Paul is a murderer since this snake bit him. 2. He was saved from the sea, but this was merely a temporary escape for him. 3. Finally, they conclude that Justice has not allowed Paul to live. iii. All three things they say… are true in a manner of speaking. iv. First, I want to go in backward order of their statements, They conclude he is a murderer and the last two statements contribute to that thought in unique ways. Justice has not allowed him to live. 1. Notice how the word Justice in the CSB is capitalized. 2. This occurs not just in the CSB but in several other modern translations of this passage. 3. The word Justice could be translated simply as a lowercase letter j with that meaning. 4. However, the Greek goddess of Justice was named Dike… Justice. The word Luke uses here. 5. What seems clear is that these people were fairly religious. They recognize that the Greek goddess of justice, who always repays a life for a life and always hits her mark, seems to have hunted Paul down through Poseidon's realm and finally found him here on Malta. 6. Justice always wins, she has caught Paul. This is their conclusion. 7. Is this true? 8. Well… in a way. But it didn't happen by Dike's doing. Compared to the God who actually caught up with Paul, she is not a god at all. 9. We have already seen the Judge of the living and the dead catch up with Paul. Haven't we? 10. In one sense Paul stood up that day and kept going… but in another way Paul died that day in the dust on the road to Damascus. 11. Paul himself says “I have been crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live, Christ lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by the faithfulness of Jesus Christ who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” 12. True Justice… the King of Glory… has already hunted down and found Paul. And killed him… by killing Paul's sin and former life on the same cross He died on. Paul only lives now because Jesus lives in Him. 13. Whatever sins Paul has committed, were killed with Christ. And that same Just Judge has commissioned Paul to go to the ends of the earth with the good news. 14. That is why he is here. Justice sent him here… but not to die. But to preach the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. v. Second, they conclude that his salvation from the sea was a temporary escape. 1. No doubt they couch this in superstitious understanding similar to our idea of cheating death and karma. 2. You can only run for so long before it all catches up to you. 3. Job's friends had the same conclusion. 4. But in a way, they are right. 5. Paul will eventually be executed by the same Roman government who hold him in chains now. His rescue from the sea is ultimately only a temporary one. 6. But at the same time, his permanent rescue, his permanent salvation has already been secured. 7. And that is why he is here. To tell these people… about that salvation. vi. That brings us to what they conclude. That Paul is a murderer because he was bitten by a venomous snake. 1. Now why might they conclude this? 2. Well, as we've already said, history records that the Maltenes people were quite religiously attuned. They were a religious melting pot of Phoenician, Greek, and Roman influences. a. And this is a very old concept. b. As we've already said, dating back to the first book of the bible written, the book of Job, that when you commit sins in life, eventually you will get divine payment for them. c. It is the concept of reciprocity. d. The Old Testament also says surely your sins will find you out. e. The New Testament says that what you will reap what you sow. f. Many religious backgrounds have this sort of teaching. Including Phoenician, Greek, and Roman. 3. And the Maltenes people, though religious and superstitious, were not idiots. a. They know Paul is a prisoner. There are guards watching him all the time. b. They probably know that their destination is Rome itself. Certainly, prisoners being transported to Rome are probably not going for small crimes. c. It is really that much of a leap for them to think that Paul's crime is a serious one? 4. Finally, we must ask the question… is Paul a murderer? a. Luke thinks Paul is. Luke said that he was breathing out murderous threats toward the church. b. Paul thinks Paul is. Paul himself said that he persecuted the church to death. He calls himself the chief of sinners. 5. The Maltenes people are right! Paul is a murderer. And anyone who has ever hated or despised someone is a murderer too. 6. But Paul is here now to preach to these people, how God can take murderers like him and destroy their sin and raise them up to righteousness. e. [Slide 7] Summary of the Point: Luke writes this second episode of Paul's maritime adventure with a clear focus. He is emphasizing the providence of God to get Paul to Rome to preach the gospel to the Emperor. Here we see God's hand delivering Paul safely from the storm but right into the teeth of a viper. And we might wonder… why? Paul did deserve to die for all he had done to God's people. But Jesus saved him instead. Now he is on this island, not fleeing from the goddess of justice, but instead preaching the love of the One who will one day judge the living and the dead. God is just in that He will certainly judge sinners. But he is also the justifier of sinners who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, for Christ is the One who satisfied the justice of God for them on the cross. Because of the Maltenes' religious beliefs and God allowing the snake to bite Paul, now Paul has an platform to preach the gospel to them. To tell them about justice AND mercy. God will do the same for us. He will providentially open doors for us to share our faith. The doors may not be painless for us. Indeed, they may hurt us a lot. But we must be faithful to share the gospel with those the Lord has brought to us. [Slide 8 (blank)] Transition: Of course, Paul can't preach the gospel message if he dies from a snakebite. Jesus can't keep his promise if Paul dies of a snakebite. God would be a liar if Paul doesn't go before Caesar because he died of a snakebite. What is the only option for Paul? He must live. Let's see how. II.) God providentially provides platforms for us to preach Christ, so we must have faith without fear. (5-6) a. [Slide 9] 5 - But he shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no harm. i. As we knew would be true, Paul lives. ii. In fulfillment of what Jesus says Luke 10:19 and possibly in Mark 16:18, we see Paul handling a venomous snake without being poisoned and without dying. iii. He simply shakes the creature off into the fire. iv. This doesn't appear to be a panicked reaction. Nor does it seem to be done in malice or hatred. Nor does it seem to be some kind of spiritual cleansing ritual, as if he is warding off a spiritual by burning the source. v. Paul simply eliminates the threat against him and others by calmly shaking the snake into the fire. vi. He trusts God explicitly, that the snake will not harm him, no doubt as he bandages the two puncture wounds in his hand. vii. Paul did not seek out the snake to prove that he was from God or that his faith was genuine. Paul didn't do this on purpose as some kind of display of Spiritual maturity as some churches do who handle snakes on purpose. viii. Paul trusted God, unphased by this snakebite, knowing that he would go to Rome and stand before Caesar. Why? ix. Because God said he would. x. This is faith without fear. b. [Slide 10] 6 - They expected that he would begin to swell up or suddenly drop dead. i. Though Paul did not fear, the Maltenes people were afraid for him. They were convinced that despite Paul acting like all was normal – that he would certainly swell up and/or die. ii. There is no hint here that they simply mistook the snake that bit Paul as a venomous one when it actually wasn't. iii. These are natives of this island and the sticks did not come from the ship. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that this snake was indigenous and most likely well known to the Maltenes people. iv. So, they waited. v. And waited. vi. And… waited. c. [Slide 11] After they waited a long time and saw nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god. i. Before, they concluded that the gods were out to get Paul. ii. That he must have been some terrible person who had murdered someone and justice finally caught up to him. iii. But having waited a long time to watch if he would die or suffer any ill effects, and finding nothing out of the ordinary occurring, they change their minds. iv. Again, we are given insight into the deeply religious and somewhat superstitious nature of the Maltenes people. v. They have just witnessed a miracle. And because of this, they go from thinking Paul is a vile human being to concluding that Paul must be an invulnerable divine being. vi. This isn't the first time Paul was mistaken for a god. vii. In Lystra, after Paul and Barnabas healed a lame man, they were mistaken for Zeus and Hermes. The people of Lystra then began to offer sacrifices to them. viii. Paul and Barnabas tore their clothes and with great effort stopped the people of Lystra from worshipping them. ix. There is no record here of the Maltenes people trying to worship Paul. Luke is somewhat brief with the Maltenes narrative. x. But we see how volatile their opinion of Paul is. xi. But just like in Lystra, after denying deity, Paul will have a unique opportunity to share the gospel with these people. xii. He is not a god… but He is sent by THE One True God. He is God's ambassador sent here with a message for them to hear. And this miracle proves that they should listen to him. xiii. [Slide 12] As a side note here, and one we must address before we close out this point … 1. Keen observers will note that Luke does not actually say that Paul shares the gospel with the Maltenes people. 2. Luke doesn't record a single conversion. 3. So, am I being a little presumptuous to think that Paul shared the gospel with these folks? 4. Not at all. For three reasons. a. We know the heart of Paul. i. He has preached the gospel to Jews, to gentiles, before the Areopagite, in the hall of Tyrannus in Ephesus, before Felix and Festus and Herod Agrippa. ii. We have no reason to believe that he stopped now. iii. And Luke doesn't always need to spell things out for us. iv. He has written thousands of words giving us the track record of Paul. v. He probably expects us to fill in the blanks. b. We know the purpose of sign gifts. i. Throughout the book of Acts God has used sign gifts to authenticate the message of the gospel. ii. Paul did not die from this snake bite and, as a bit of a spoiler for next week, he will heal a prominent Maltenes figure before departing for Rome. iii. Since Luke has linked signs like these to the authentication of the gospel message, again he probably assumes we will wisely link it without him saying it explicitly. c. Lastly, we know the history of Malta. A Christian community sprang up on the island of Malta. i. Not only that, but the earliest records indicate that this happened in the same general time frame that Paul was on Malta. ii. Also, there are some records that indicate that the first Elder of the Christian church on Malta was a man named Publius whom we will meet next week. 5. And so, I think we can confidently say that Paul did indeed preach the gospel here and while wintering here for three months, he helped to establish the church on Malta. d. [Slide 13] Summary of the Point: Just as God providentially provided an avenue for preaching the gospel to the Maltenes by allowing His servant Paul to be bitten by a snake, so also God now miraculously prevents Paul from being poisoned to authenticate that same message. If they will believe he is a god because he did not die from this snake bite, perhaps they can believe that he is God's message bearer bringing them the message of the gospel. But Paul's reaction is key here. He doesn't panic. He doesn't start sucking the venom out. He doesn't pace around the fire nervously waiting for the same reactions the locals waited for. Instead, he shook off the snake and did nothing unusual. If it wasn't for the two puncture marks, they might have wondered if he had been bitten at all. We too may face even unpleasant things that God has providentially arranged for us so that we have a platform to share the gospel. But how we face those unpleasant circumstances may impact the openness of some to hear the message. In the midst of this, we must not allow fear to win out over faith. Instead, we must trust the Lord. Conclusion: So CBC, what have we learned today that informs and corrects our beliefs and shapes our lifestyles? Basics of Faith and Practice: [Slide 14] God's providence is the undisputed primary theme in the book of Acts. God is always moving to advance the Kingdom of His dear Son through the work of His Spirit. Certainly, God at times does this on His own without any human agency, but most often in the book of Acts God empowers and commissions His church to go and preach the gospel. Here we see God using a snake bite and its failure to harm Paul to give him a platform to preach the gospel to these very religious people. So, we must look for God's providential hand to create platforms for us to live by faith and share the gospel. And though those platforms may be painful and even life-threatening, we must not fear what men can do to us. We have the words of life. Let us hold His banner high. But let me apply this a little more directly to us today. 1.) [Slide 15] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that God providentially arranges platforms for us to preach the gospel. a. From every tribe, every tongue, every nation, every ethnicity, both genders – God is calling to Himself a royal priesthood. b. While we certainly have some, who like Paul, are called to other parts of the world to share the gospel to people outside of their context… c. Most of us are called to be ambassadors for the Kingdom of God right where we are. d. God has equipped us to be in the right situation with the right strengths and skills to be lights that shine in the darkness for His Kingdom. e. And that is not just to stand up and live holy and loving lives before others but to call to repentance sinners who have offended a holy God with their wickedness. f. To preach Christ crucified for sinners. g. To call sinners to turn from their wicked ways and trust in Christ. h. You and I are uniquely suited to share Christ to our friends, our family, and our neighbors. i. Not only that, but all that we face in life, and all the trials and tribulations shape us to be in positions where we can give the gospel call in a real and impactful way. j. The Maltenes were a religious and even superstitious people. God turned their eyes toward justice and then wowed them with a miracle. All so Paul could preach Christ crucified for sinners. k. God is the same today. He orchestrates the events of our lives to provide a platform for His gospel call to go out. l. But as the Lord Jesus lamented, the harvest is plenty but the harvesters are few. m. So, what must we do? n. First, something we must not do… 2.) [Slide 16] De-Exhortation: “What actions should we stop doing” or “What behaviors do we naturally practice that this passage tells us to stop doing?” We must not fear our circumstances. a. God may lead us down some very difficult paths to share the gospel with others. b. We may be surrounded by enemies, we may be hated by many, we may be shouted down, we may face certain death. c. In those times we should not fear. d. We should not fear what men can do to us. e. We should not fear what could or could not happen. f. We should not fear that we might die before God's plan for our lives is realized. g. We should not fear at all. Why? h. Not because we are brave, strong, determined, or resolute. i. Not because our cause is just or because we are something special… j. If we lack fear for these reasons, then we are trusting in ourselves. k. The reason we should not fear is because we trust the Lord. We trust that His ways are perfect and that His will will be done. l. But not fearing doesn't mean we are passive either. We must also… 3.) [Slide 17] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must trust the Lord and share the gospel. a. In spite of the danger, in spite of the difficulty and trials we may face. We must share the gospel. b. We are on this earth for such a short time. We only have so many days to preach Christ crucified. c. To make disciples is the commission of the church. And God has equipped us to do just that. d. We preach the gospel and teach disciples to obey Christ. This is the primary mission of the church. e. Wherever Paul was, and in whatever state he was in, he preached Christ crucified. This wasn't because he was an evangelist. It is because he was a Christian. And although he received a specific commission to go to the gentiles and to Caesar, his commission was the same general commission given to all believers. f. We don't all have to go to some far away place. And hopefully we don't all have to get bitten by a snake. g. But all of us must preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Because it and it alone is the power of God unto salvation to the Jews first and also to the gentiles. h. There is also something in this text that corrects something we might believe. 4.) [Slide 18] Refutation: “What lies must we cast down” or “What do we naturally believe, or have been taught to believe, that this passage shows is false?” We must deny that God is either all justice or all mercy. Both are errors we must avoid. a. A young apologist that is making some waves today named Wes Huff was recently on a podcast talking about the differences between other religions and Christianity. b. He astutely observed that all religions besides Chrsitianty have strong aspects of either justice or mercy. c. He zoomed into Hinduism and Buddhism and pointed out how there is a very strong justice emphasis within it. Karma is 100% just. What you reap is a product of what you have sown… every time. There is no mercy. d. But Islam is the opposite. Allah, almost arbitrarily, hands out mercy to people who have died allowing them to enter paradise. But what happens with the evil they did during their life? What happens to all the actions they committed that are out of step with what Allah desires? e. In a word, nothing. There is no justice. Some get what they deserve and others don't and there is no real rhyme or reason for why. f. The Maltenes clearly believed in an all-justice god. You can't hide from a god who rights wrongs and trades a life for a life. The idea of reciprocity is strong with them. g. How amazing it would have been for them to be told that Paul was a murderer, but that the same God who will judge him is the one who died to pay for his sin. h. And that leads us to the most comforting thought that only Christianity preaches, and it just so happens to be the heart of the gospel of Jesus Christ… 5.) [Slide 19] Evangelism: “What about this text points us to Jesus Christ, the gospel, and how we are restored?” God is both Just and the Justifier of all who believe on Christ. a. Proverbs 17:15 says that whoever justifies the wicked is an abomination to Yahweh. b. So how is it that God is NOT an abomination to Himself? c. I want you to listen very carefully to what I'm saying because I don't want you to misunderstand me. d. Depending on your definition of forgiveness, you might be under the impression that when God forgives you, your sins magically disappear from the record. They are, erased. e. But my friends that isn't what forgiveness means. Forgiveness is a financial term. f. When you are forgiven a financial debt, does that mean that the person who gave the loan magically gets all their money back? No. g. Someone has to pay the debt. Forgiveness is simply saying… it isn't you. h. In this way, every single sin will be paid for. Every single one. Every single sin is an act of treason against a holy God. And every single sin you commit must be paid off in full. i. God is Just. Not one sin will be left unaccounted. God will NOT justify the wicked. He will not call someone innocent who still has an outstanding debt. j. But God, in His mercy, has chosen to take the debt Himself. He has chosen to pay the penalty for sin in the second person of the Godhead. He has paid with His death the whole amount for every single person who believes on Jesus as Savior and Lord. k. God is Just… and the justifier of those who believe on Christ. Because although every sin must be punished… He laid on Christ the chastisement that was due to us. By His stripes… we are healed. l. God is not Dike… hunting down the guilty. One day He will raise all of the dead to life and put them before the judgment seat of Christ to measure their works. And all who are measured by their works will pay for every single sin they have committed by enduring eternity in the lake of fire which is the second death. m. God doesn't hunt down the guilty. They will come to Him when He calls for them. When it is time for all things to be made right and justice to be delivered… they will come to Him. n. But God does hunt down some of us. He aims to destroy us but then to raise us up to a new life in Christ. o. My friends… are your sins paid for or will you pay for them yourself? p. Only those who believe in true faith… who believe and keep believing… who believe so much that they pursue Christ as their Savior and Lord… only these have had their sins paid. Their sins were red like scarlet… q. But He has washed them white as snow. r. Will you turn from your sin and believe on Jesus Christ today? [Slide 20 (end)] Let me close with a prayer by the Reformer John Calvin. Lord, as you urge us daily to repentance, and we are stung with the consciousness of our own sins, help us not to grow stupid in our vices or deceive ourselves with empty flattery. Instead, help us to carefully examine our own life, and then together confess that we are all guilty-not just of light offenses, but of offenses that deserve eternal death. And no other cure remains for us ... except your infinite mercy. So we seek a share of that grace which has been once offered to us by your Son, and is daily offered to us by his gospel. By relying on him as our mediator, we entertain hope even in the midst of a thousand deaths, until we are gathered into that blessed life bought for us by the blood of your only Son. For it is in His name we pray this… Amen. Benediction: And now may Jesus, Who satisfies our longings like nothing else can do Who is more pleasant than all the fancies of our golden dreams May that Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else. Until we meet again, go in peace.

Between the Promise and the Promised Land Hidden seasons are not wasted seasons. What looks like delay may actually be divine preparation. Though Paul had a dramatic conversion and a clear calling, he did not immediately launch into ministry. He spent three years in the desert, unseen and unknown, allowing God to shape him. This period of silence was not failure. It was formation. “The desert delays public fruit, not divine purpose.” Throughout Scripture, God consistently forms leaders in obscurity […] The post Between the Promise and the Promised Land appeared first on Revival Life Church Boca Raton, FL.

When Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. — Galatians 2:11 After his formative, life-changing encounter with Cornelius the centurion, Peter and others led the early church in understanding God's grace for all people (see Acts 10-11, 15). Later, however, Peter tended to favor Jesus' Jewish followers, while Paul continued working for the Lord as a missionary to Gentiles (Acts 9, 13-14, 16-28). Though Peter believed that Jesus' love was for all people, he sometimes slipped back into ethnic prejudices, avoiding eating with Gentiles for fear of offending Jewish believers. In Antioch, Paul confronted Peter (Cephas) as a hypocrite for separating himself from Gentiles. Though Paul's response may have been excessive, we can thank God that Paul did not go along with twisting Jesus' gospel of love and unity. And, sadly, again we see Peter, “a pillar” of the early church, showing weakness in the face of peer pressure from Jewish hardliners. Yet Peter didn't completely collapse here. From his later teaching we can tell that he accepted Paul's reprimand and moved on without holding a grudge. In a letter to Christians in Galatia and other parts of Asia Minor (present-day Turkey), Peter describes Paul as “our dear brother,” who had also written to them “with the wisdom that God gave him” (2 Peter 3:15). Like Peter, we can expect to fail at times. As we grow in becoming disciples, though, we can also, like Peter, humbly accept correction and continue to follow Jesus. Lord, by your grace, may we continue to follow and serve you. Amen.

Today, we're wrapping up our four-year journey through the book of Acts with the final message in our series, We Are All Witnesses. Over the past fifty-plus sermons, we've seen the risen Jesus build His church through ordinary men and women empowered by the Holy Spirit. This weekend, Pastor Jeff Bucknam closes the series with a sermon from Acts 28 entitled, The Final Word. In this chapter, we see three themes come into focus: the mighty God who delivers, the transforming faith that sustains, and the unchained Gospel that advances to the ends of the earth. Though Paul ends the story in chains, the Word of God is not bound. That's the lasting message of Acts—the Gospel of Jesus Christ cannot be stopped. So let's lean in together as Pastor Jeff leads us through Acts 28, reminding us that God still keeps His promises, still changes lives, and still carries His Gospel forward—without hindrance. This podcast is a production of Harvest Bible Chapel in Chicago. Executive Producer: Flavius Herlo Speaker: Pastor Jeff Bucknam Sound design, mixing, and editing: Bryan Tripp Graphic Design: Wesley Cassford Social Media: Bryan Spahr Producer: Dave Putnam WE INVITE YOU TO CONNECT WITH US: • Website: www.harvestbible.org/ WE INVITE YOU TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: • Instagram: @harvestbiblechapel • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harvestbiblechapel/

Are you feeling defeated by closed doors, setbacks, or the fear that your life isn't making a difference? Discover how God turns obstacles into opportunities in today's Battle Drill Daily Devotional. #BattleDrill #GodsPurpose #OvercomingSetbacks #SalvationArmy In this inspiring episode of Battle Drill Daily Devotional, Rob unpacks Acts 16:6-7 (NLT), where the Apostle Paul faces closed doors and divine redirection. Though Paul's ministry looked uncertain and unsuccessful at times, God was orchestrating an unstoppable plan that would transform the world. Rob shares practical insights and relatable examples to help you navigate your own disappointments, reminding you that earthly failures don't define your worth or your impact. Whether you're facing career roadblocks, personal setbacks, or spiritual detours, this episode will encourage you to keep pressing on, confident that no one can destroy what God is accomplishing through your life. 

Though Paul is physically chained, the gospel is not. Our greatest limitations may actually be God's greatest opportunities.

Though Paul is physically chained, the gospel is not. Our greatest limitations may actually be God's greatest opportunities.

Though Paul had to address 2nd coming speculations circulating in the Thessalonian church and the enormities of the Man of Lawlessness, his real exhortation comes in these ensuing verses. He calls us back to the work of the Trinity in our salvation: God chooses us, the Lord (Jesus) loves us, and the Spirit makes us holy and leads us to believe in the truth that we may obtain the glory of Christ. Because eternal salvation is entirely God's decision and doing, Paul calls us to grip firmly and hold to the traditions (Scripture) that we have been taught. Moreover, because we are ineffective in our own strength, Paul asks God on our behalf to comfort our hearts in all of this and establish them in every good work and word.

Take Aways:1. Though Paul reviewed his credentials that demonstrated his status as a true apostle including visions, revelations, perseverance, signs, wonders, and mighty deeds, he ultimately boasted in his infirmities knowing that the Lord Jesus would be glorified in his weakness as he humbly relied on the grace and power of God—“But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ…that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death,” Philippians 3:7, 102. As Paul demonstrated his sincere care for the church at Corinth through his sacrificial and blameless conduct, so we should strive to edify the body through selfless, loving action focused on glorifying God and blessing others—“By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35

Today's chapter is pretty short, but nonetheless intriguing. Though Paul is a man of great intelligence, he tells the Corinthian church that is resolved to know nothing among them except Christ and him crucified. This does not mean that he is emptying his mind, but that he orients all of his knowledge in such a way that Christ and his cross and central in his mind. The power of God's wisdom was not given to the rulers of this age, but to the church. He has revealed his truth to us by his Spirit. Those who do not have the Spirit find God's wisdom to be foolishness, because they are not equipped to evaluate spiritual things. Those with the Spirit, however, have the mind of Christ. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Though Paul's life is distinctive, it is also imitable. Here we see the early days of his life as a disciple: the people he was with; the proclamation he proved from Scripture; the progress he made; the persecution he endured; and, the preservation he enjoyed. In these respects, we all have something to learn.

Federal agents call it a "house of horrors," but for Sean “Diddy” Combs, it was home. As headlines blaze with accusations of drug-fueled assaults, coercion, and the systematic abuse of power, the world watches a man once heralded as a music mogul fight to clear his name. “At first, he was incredibly friendly,” the anonymous accuser said in a haunting interview that aired this morning on CNN. This accuser, identified in court filings as John Doe, recounted the evening he crossed paths with Combs at an exclusive Hamptons party. Doe had been hired as a security guard, ensuring the safety of guests at one of Combs' famed soirées. The evening began innocuously enough, with glamorous attendees and glasses of champagne flowing freely. Combs, the host, was charming—gracious even. But by Doe's account, that charm soon twisted into something far more sinister. “The first drink started to have some effect on me,” Doe recalled. “I thought, ‘Wow, these are really strong drinks.' But it wasn't until the second drink that it was already too late.” ## Allegations of Drugging and Assault In the federal complaint filed earlier this fall, Doe alleges that Combs or his associates laced his drink with a cocktail of drugs, including GHB and ecstasy. What followed, he claims, was a chilling sequence of events that left him forever changed. “He was watching,” Doe told the interviewer. “Waiting from a vantage point until I was helpless. Once he knew he had power over me, he took full advantage.” The complaint paints a horrifying picture of Doe being forced into a van, where he says the music mogul sexually assaulted him. Through tears, Doe described the assault as “abusive beyond belief,” adding, “I was screaming, begging him to stop. He acted like it was nothing, completely disconnected.” ## An Expanding Case This case, explosive in its details, represents just one of over 120 allegations now leveled against Combs. Among them are accusations involving minors, with at least 25 complainants claiming they were underage when the alleged assaults occurred. Federal prosecutors have called the claims a “pattern of behavior,” alleging that Combs leveraged his immense wealth and influence to operate what they describe as a criminal enterprise designed to exploit and silence his victims. The investigation took a dramatic turn earlier this year when federal agents executed search warrants at Combs' Miami and Los Angeles properties. Homeland Security agents seized phones, firearms, and other evidence while questioning witnesses on allegations of sex trafficking, sexual assault, and narcotics distribution. Law enforcement sources say the raids uncovered disturbing links between Combs' inner circle and illicit activities allegedly tied to his sprawling business empire. One of Combs' associates, Brendan Paul, was arrested during the Miami raid on suspicion of drug possession. Though Paul has since entered a diversion program, his arrest has cast a long shadow over the case, raising questions about who else within Combs' orbit might face legal jeopardy. Details from the raids themselves were unsettling. Witnesses described agents storming the properties with a military-level presence, a move criticized by Combs' legal team as excessive. Phones, laptops, and personal files were seized, all of which prosecutors claim contain damning evidence. Reports suggest that these devices may hold communications and media that corroborate accusers' claims, further tightening the legal noose around Combs. Combs' legal team, led by high-profile attorney Marc Agnifilo, has fiercely denied the accusations. “These are meritless claims from individuals looking for a payday,” Agnifilo stated. “Sean Combs is innocent and will fight these baseless allegations with every fiber of his being.” But the denials have done little to quell public outrage. Last week, attorney Tony Buzbee held a press conference announcing that dozens of new victims had come forward. “The scope of these allegations is staggering,” Buzbee said, detailing claims ranging from drug-facilitated rape to the dissemination of compromising video recordings. “This is not just about one man's misconduct; this is about a system of abuse designed to protect the powerful at the expense of the vulnerable.” Public opinion appears to be shifting. While some fans and colleagues have rallied to Combs' defense, others have expressed shock and disappointment. Comedian Jeff Wittek recently shared his own unsettling experience at one of Combs' infamous “freak off” parties. “It was like something out of a movie,” Wittek said on his podcast. “I saw things that night I'll never forget. It was just crazy.” These “freak off” parties, long whispered about in entertainment circles, are now under intense scrutiny. Former attendees have come forward describing wild scenes, some of which reportedly included illicit substances and predatory behavior. Prosecutors are said to be investigating whether these gatherings were used to recruit or groom victims, further expanding the case's scope. Even as the allegations pile up, Combs remains steadfast in his declarations of innocence. Speaking through his attorney, he described the federal investigation as a “witch hunt” driven by media sensationalism. His mother, Janice Small Combs, echoed that sentiment, calling the allegations “a public lynching.” The music mogul's defense has also highlighted inconsistencies in some accusers' stories, with Agnifilo pointing out a few instances where timelines or details have conflicted. “We're confident that these discrepancies will ultimately discredit the claims,” Agnifilo said. However, legal experts caution that such arguments may not hold up against the weight of overwhelming evidence if the seized materials substantiate key allegations. But with the trial looming and prosecutors reportedly building a robust case, the stakes for Combs couldn't be higher. He faces charges of racketeering, sex trafficking, and obstruction of justice, among others. If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life behind bars. For now, the world waits. Will the evidence reveal a predator who abused his power for decades, or will Combs emerge vindicated, his reputation scarred but intact? The next phase of this trial promises to reveal whether the accusations hold the weight of undeniable truth or crumble under scrutiny. One thing is certain: this story, already shocking in its revelations, is far from over. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com 

Federal agents call it a "house of horrors," but for Sean “Diddy” Combs, it was home. As headlines blaze with accusations of drug-fueled assaults, coercion, and the systematic abuse of power, the world watches a man once heralded as a music mogul fight to clear his name. “At first, he was incredibly friendly,” the anonymous accuser said in a haunting interview that aired this morning on CNN. This accuser, identified in court filings as John Doe, recounted the evening he crossed paths with Combs at an exclusive Hamptons party. Doe had been hired as a security guard, ensuring the safety of guests at one of Combs' famed soirées. The evening began innocuously enough, with glamorous attendees and glasses of champagne flowing freely. Combs, the host, was charming—gracious even. But by Doe's account, that charm soon twisted into something far more sinister. “The first drink started to have some effect on me,” Doe recalled. “I thought, ‘Wow, these are really strong drinks.' But it wasn't until the second drink that it was already too late.” ## Allegations of Drugging and Assault In the federal complaint filed earlier this fall, Doe alleges that Combs or his associates laced his drink with a cocktail of drugs, including GHB and ecstasy. What followed, he claims, was a chilling sequence of events that left him forever changed. “He was watching,” Doe told the interviewer. “Waiting from a vantage point until I was helpless. Once he knew he had power over me, he took full advantage.” The complaint paints a horrifying picture of Doe being forced into a van, where he says the music mogul sexually assaulted him. Through tears, Doe described the assault as “abusive beyond belief,” adding, “I was screaming, begging him to stop. He acted like it was nothing, completely disconnected.” ## An Expanding Case This case, explosive in its details, represents just one of over 120 allegations now leveled against Combs. Among them are accusations involving minors, with at least 25 complainants claiming they were underage when the alleged assaults occurred. Federal prosecutors have called the claims a “pattern of behavior,” alleging that Combs leveraged his immense wealth and influence to operate what they describe as a criminal enterprise designed to exploit and silence his victims. The investigation took a dramatic turn earlier this year when federal agents executed search warrants at Combs' Miami and Los Angeles properties. Homeland Security agents seized phones, firearms, and other evidence while questioning witnesses on allegations of sex trafficking, sexual assault, and narcotics distribution. Law enforcement sources say the raids uncovered disturbing links between Combs' inner circle and illicit activities allegedly tied to his sprawling business empire. One of Combs' associates, Brendan Paul, was arrested during the Miami raid on suspicion of drug possession. Though Paul has since entered a diversion program, his arrest has cast a long shadow over the case, raising questions about who else within Combs' orbit might face legal jeopardy. Details from the raids themselves were unsettling. Witnesses described agents storming the properties with a military-level presence, a move criticized by Combs' legal team as excessive. Phones, laptops, and personal files were seized, all of which prosecutors claim contain damning evidence. Reports suggest that these devices may hold communications and media that corroborate accusers' claims, further tightening the legal noose around Combs. Combs' legal team, led by high-profile attorney Marc Agnifilo, has fiercely denied the accusations. “These are meritless claims from individuals looking for a payday,” Agnifilo stated. “Sean Combs is innocent and will fight these baseless allegations with every fiber of his being.” But the denials have done little to quell public outrage. Last week, attorney Tony Buzbee held a press conference announcing that dozens of new victims had come forward. “The scope of these allegations is staggering,” Buzbee said, detailing claims ranging from drug-facilitated rape to the dissemination of compromising video recordings. “This is not just about one man's misconduct; this is about a system of abuse designed to protect the powerful at the expense of the vulnerable.” Public opinion appears to be shifting. While some fans and colleagues have rallied to Combs' defense, others have expressed shock and disappointment. Comedian Jeff Wittek recently shared his own unsettling experience at one of Combs' infamous “freak off” parties. “It was like something out of a movie,” Wittek said on his podcast. “I saw things that night I'll never forget. It was just crazy.” These “freak off” parties, long whispered about in entertainment circles, are now under intense scrutiny. Former attendees have come forward describing wild scenes, some of which reportedly included illicit substances and predatory behavior. Prosecutors are said to be investigating whether these gatherings were used to recruit or groom victims, further expanding the case's scope. Even as the allegations pile up, Combs remains steadfast in his declarations of innocence. Speaking through his attorney, he described the federal investigation as a “witch hunt” driven by media sensationalism. His mother, Janice Small Combs, echoed that sentiment, calling the allegations “a public lynching.” The music mogul's defense has also highlighted inconsistencies in some accusers' stories, with Agnifilo pointing out a few instances where timelines or details have conflicted. “We're confident that these discrepancies will ultimately discredit the claims,” Agnifilo said. However, legal experts caution that such arguments may not hold up against the weight of overwhelming evidence if the seized materials substantiate key allegations. But with the trial looming and prosecutors reportedly building a robust case, the stakes for Combs couldn't be higher. He faces charges of racketeering, sex trafficking, and obstruction of justice, among others. If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life behind bars. For now, the world waits. Will the evidence reveal a predator who abused his power for decades, or will Combs emerge vindicated, his reputation scarred but intact? The next phase of this trial promises to reveal whether the accusations hold the weight of undeniable truth or crumble under scrutiny. One thing is certain: this story, already shocking in its revelations, is far from over. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Federal agents call it a "house of horrors," but for Sean “Diddy” Combs, it was home. As headlines blaze with accusations of drug-fueled assaults, coercion, and the systematic abuse of power, the world watches a man once heralded as a music mogul fight to clear his name. “At first, he was incredibly friendly,” the anonymous accuser said in a haunting interview that aired this morning on CNN. This accuser, identified in court filings as John Doe, recounted the evening he crossed paths with Combs at an exclusive Hamptons party. Doe had been hired as a security guard, ensuring the safety of guests at one of Combs' famed soirées. The evening began innocuously enough, with glamorous attendees and glasses of champagne flowing freely. Combs, the host, was charming—gracious even. But by Doe's account, that charm soon twisted into something far more sinister. “The first drink started to have some effect on me,” Doe recalled. “I thought, ‘Wow, these are really strong drinks.' But it wasn't until the second drink that it was already too late.” ## Allegations of Drugging and Assault In the federal complaint filed earlier this fall, Doe alleges that Combs or his associates laced his drink with a cocktail of drugs, including GHB and ecstasy. What followed, he claims, was a chilling sequence of events that left him forever changed. “He was watching,” Doe told the interviewer. “Waiting from a vantage point until I was helpless. Once he knew he had power over me, he took full advantage.” The complaint paints a horrifying picture of Doe being forced into a van, where he says the music mogul sexually assaulted him. Through tears, Doe described the assault as “abusive beyond belief,” adding, “I was screaming, begging him to stop. He acted like it was nothing, completely disconnected.” ## An Expanding Case This case, explosive in its details, represents just one of over 120 allegations now leveled against Combs. Among them are accusations involving minors, with at least 25 complainants claiming they were underage when the alleged assaults occurred. Federal prosecutors have called the claims a “pattern of behavior,” alleging that Combs leveraged his immense wealth and influence to operate what they describe as a criminal enterprise designed to exploit and silence his victims. The investigation took a dramatic turn earlier this year when federal agents executed search warrants at Combs' Miami and Los Angeles properties. Homeland Security agents seized phones, firearms, and other evidence while questioning witnesses on allegations of sex trafficking, sexual assault, and narcotics distribution. Law enforcement sources say the raids uncovered disturbing links between Combs' inner circle and illicit activities allegedly tied to his sprawling business empire. One of Combs' associates, Brendan Paul, was arrested during the Miami raid on suspicion of drug possession. Though Paul has since entered a diversion program, his arrest has cast a long shadow over the case, raising questions about who else within Combs' orbit might face legal jeopardy. Details from the raids themselves were unsettling. Witnesses described agents storming the properties with a military-level presence, a move criticized by Combs' legal team as excessive. Phones, laptops, and personal files were seized, all of which prosecutors claim contain damning evidence. Reports suggest that these devices may hold communications and media that corroborate accusers' claims, further tightening the legal noose around Combs. Combs' legal team, led by high-profile attorney Marc Agnifilo, has fiercely denied the accusations. “These are meritless claims from individuals looking for a payday,” Agnifilo stated. “Sean Combs is innocent and will fight these baseless allegations with every fiber of his being.” But the denials have done little to quell public outrage. Last week, attorney Tony Buzbee held a press conference announcing that dozens of new victims had come forward. “The scope of these allegations is staggering,” Buzbee said, detailing claims ranging from drug-facilitated rape to the dissemination of compromising video recordings. “This is not just about one man's misconduct; this is about a system of abuse designed to protect the powerful at the expense of the vulnerable.” Public opinion appears to be shifting. While some fans and colleagues have rallied to Combs' defense, others have expressed shock and disappointment. Comedian Jeff Wittek recently shared his own unsettling experience at one of Combs' infamous “freak off” parties. “It was like something out of a movie,” Wittek said on his podcast. “I saw things that night I'll never forget. It was just crazy.” These “freak off” parties, long whispered about in entertainment circles, are now under intense scrutiny. Former attendees have come forward describing wild scenes, some of which reportedly included illicit substances and predatory behavior. Prosecutors are said to be investigating whether these gatherings were used to recruit or groom victims, further expanding the case's scope. Even as the allegations pile up, Combs remains steadfast in his declarations of innocence. Speaking through his attorney, he described the federal investigation as a “witch hunt” driven by media sensationalism. His mother, Janice Small Combs, echoed that sentiment, calling the allegations “a public lynching.” The music mogul's defense has also highlighted inconsistencies in some accusers' stories, with Agnifilo pointing out a few instances where timelines or details have conflicted. “We're confident that these discrepancies will ultimately discredit the claims,” Agnifilo said. However, legal experts caution that such arguments may not hold up against the weight of overwhelming evidence if the seized materials substantiate key allegations. But with the trial looming and prosecutors reportedly building a robust case, the stakes for Combs couldn't be higher. He faces charges of racketeering, sex trafficking, and obstruction of justice, among others. If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life behind bars. For now, the world waits. Will the evidence reveal a predator who abused his power for decades, or will Combs emerge vindicated, his reputation scarred but intact? The next phase of this trial promises to reveal whether the accusations hold the weight of undeniable truth or crumble under scrutiny. One thing is certain: this story, already shocking in its revelations, is far from over. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK's Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, The Menendez Brothers: Quest For Justice, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

If ever there was a film that brings true terror out of something as every day as fan meeting their idol, Stephen King's Misery (1990) is that film. Directed by Rob Reiner and based on the bestselling novel by Stephen King, Misery tells a haunting story that swaps out supernatural threats for the all-too-real horror of human obsession. Released at the dawn of the '90s and now over 30 years old, Misery remains one of the most potent psychological horror films of our time. It is a perfect Halloween watch for those who seek more tension than jump scares.Misery centres on novelist Paul Sheldon (James Caan), a successful author famous for his romance series about a character named Misery. After a car accident in a snowstorm, Paul is “rescued” by Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates), a devoted fan who happens to be a nurse—and who also happens to be completely unhinged. When Annie discovers that Paul has killed off her beloved Misery in his latest manuscript, she takes the word “fanatic” to a horrifying new level. A tightly contained, claustrophobic thriller ensues that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, not with gore or traditional horror imagery, but with an unrelenting, stomach-turning tension.One of the most striking elements of Misery is its setting. From the moment Paul wakes up in Annie's isolated, snow-locked farmhouse, the world shrinks, trapping both Paul and the audience in an increasingly claustrophobic space where the only two characters are locked in a power struggle. Annie's house becomes a cage, meticulously designed to feel familiar and suffocating, with its well-worn furnishings masking a deadly intensity underneath. The snow-covered landscape outside reflects this feeling—cold, remote, and unforgiving. It's a classic King setting that director Rob Reiner uses to maximum effect, making the walls of that farmhouse press ever closer as Annie's mental state deteriorates.Kathy Bates' performance as Annie Wilkes is legendary, and rightly so. In what became her career-defining role, Bates brings vulnerability and sheer terror to the character, infusing Annie with a disarming sweetness that makes her psychosis even more chilling. She is charming one moment, terrifying the next—a character who could exist in real life and who taps into our deepest fears about trusting the wrong people. With almost no warning, the scenes where she switches from gentle caretaker to vengeful captor reveal Bates' extraordinary range and leave viewers with a sense of helpless dread. Her portrayal of Annie won her the Academy Award for Best Actress, a rare honour for a horror performance and one that cemented her place in film history.Opposite Bates, James Caan delivers a nuanced performance as Paul Sheldon. Though Paul starts as a somewhat self-absorbed writer who wants to escape his romantic series, Caan's portrayal evolves as he faces Annie's wrath. Caan captures Paul's vulnerability and determination, making his transformation from a helpless captive to a man desperate for survival both believable and gripping. His character is put through unimaginable psychological and physical torture, but his resilience offers a glimmer of hope amidst the nightmare. Caan and Bates create a twisted, unforgettable dynamic that keeps the film's tension at a fever pitch.One of the film's most famous—and undeniably hardest-to-watch—scenes is the “hobbling” sequence, in which Annie punishes Paul in a shocking act of violence to prevent his escape. The scene is iconic not just for its brutality but also for how it embodies the film's emotional and psychological stakes. By physically maiming him, Annie shows just how deeply she is willing to go to keep her fantasy alive. Her twisted affection is at its apex here, making viewers squirm from the sight and the implications of her actions. The scene became infamous in horror cinema and is arguably more memorable for the psychological horror it encapsulates than for its actual violence. For many, it is the film's defining moment, encapsulating its unflinching approach to the terror of captivity.Reiner, known primarily for his work in comedies and dramas (When Harry Met Sally, Stand by Me), was an unexpected but brilliant choice to direct this adaptation. He understood that Misery would benefit from a restrained approach, choosing tension over blood and psychological horror over spectacle. This restraint is a large part of what makes the movie so unsettling. The viewer is always left dreading what Annie might do next, imagining the horrors rather than seeing them explicitly laid out. Reiner's style here elevates Misery from a straightforward thriller to a layered character study, forcing audiences to confront the darkness in everyday people and situations.Beyond its immediate impact, Misery has left a lasting influence on pop culture, particularly how it portrays fan obsession. Annie's character has become a cultural symbol for the idea of the “toxic fan,” a trope that has only become more relevant with the rise of social media. Her obsession with controlling Paul's creative output and shaping his work to her liking echoes the demands fans sometimes place on creators today and the entitlement and anger that can arise when fans feel a creator has betrayed their vision. The film's exploration of this dynamic remains unnervingly relevant, making it more than just a Halloween thrill but a commentary on the power dynamics between fans and artists.Watching Misery today, it's remarkable how well it holds up and how fresh and frightening it feels. Stephen King adaptations have always been hit or miss, but Misery succeeds because it strikes at something deeply primal—the fear of being controlled, trapped, and hurt by someone who professes to love you. It's a horror story not of monsters or demons but of a real human capacity for cruelty. As a Halloween viewing, Misery offers horror in a way that is less about jump scares and more about slowly building dread, a psychological unspooling that lingers long after the credits roll.In the realm of horror movies, Misery stands out as a true classic, one that doesn't need blood-soaked scenes or supernatural elements to scare its audience. Instead, it relies on masterful performances, tight storytelling, and universal fear of entrapment to create an atmosphere of relentless terror. This Halloween, for those who crave a horror experience that's as intelligent as it is frightening, Stephen King's Misery (1990) is essential viewing. Grab a blanket, dim the lights, and prepare for an unforgettable ride into the dark depths of fandom gone wrong.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

Paul was very grateful for his friends in the church in Philippi. He rejoiced in the Lord for their pattern of support for him, and for what it revealed about their hearts. Though Paul was in prison, he had learned how to stay satisfied and fulfilled, even if his friends hadn't been able to help him. Contentment is learned, and we mature in this God-honoring part of our own discipleship. Whether we have much or little, we are able to do all the things that God has commissioned us to do, not through ourselves but through the strength that comes through Jesus Christ.

Today's chapter is pretty short, but nonetheless intriguing. Though Paul is a man of great intelligence, he tells the Corinthian church that is resolved to know nothing among them except Christ and him crucified. This does not mean that he is emptying his mind, but that he orients all of his knowledge in such a way that Christ and his cross and central in his mind. The power of God's wisdom was not given to the rulers of this age, but to the church. He has revealed his truth to us by his Spirit. Those who do not have the Spirit find God's wisdom to be foolishness, because they are not equipped to evaluate spiritual things. Those with the Spirit, however, have the mind of Christ. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

We're excited to welcome John North, the Australia National Director for Ambassadors for Christ International, to share from Acts 13:44-52, “The Turn.” Though Paul and Barnabas make it their mission to preach the gospel first to Jews in the synagogues, wherever they go, in Pisidian Antioch they experience extreme opposite responses to their message. Some Jews and devout Gentiles believe that Jesus is the Messiah—others band together to drive them from the city. Was this part of God's plan? Join us this weekend as we watch the gospel turn to the Gentiles!

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:19-27 In the preceding passage, Paul cites his willingness to forgo his right to receive financial support from the Corinthians.  He had done this because, in this instance, the gospel was heralded with greater power.  In the present passage the apostle describes what his life looks like when it is governed by the greatness of the gospel of Christ. One way his life was affected was that he lived in terms of practical flexibility.  Though Paul is free from living his life according to the opinions of others, he subjects himself to all for the sake of the gospel.   "I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them" (1 Cor 9:19). Paul's life goal is the conversion of lost people to the light of Christ.  Within the limitations of the Christian faith, Paul would be as 'Jewish' as necessary in order to win Jews to Christ.  When Paul preached the gospel to Gentiles, he reasoned with them without quoting the Old Testament.  "I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some" (1 Cor 9:22) A second way Paul's life was affected by the gospel was in terms of personal discipline.  He was careful to guard himself, lest he tarnish the gospel and disqualify himself from being a herald of the truth.  Let us be so consumed by the glories of the gospel that we look for ways to spread its truth.  And let us be so taken by the gospel of Christ that we carefully guard ourselves against anything that would mar the name of Jesus. 

Though Paul is clear that our good works are not needed for salvation, our neighbors, our bosses, and our employees need our good works. Pastor Mollenkopf explains God's plan and purposes for our day-to-day work as followers of Christ.

Though Paul is writing primarily to combat false teachers threatening that congregation, his pastoral care for this flock is clearly evident in this letter. Since believers in Jesus have new life in Him, all aspects of our lives (our "walk") should clearly demonstrate that fact, including our speech—an exposition of Colossians 4:2-6. ★ Support this podcast ★

Though Paul is writing primarily to combat false teachers threatening that congregation, his pastoral care for this flock is clearly evident in this letter. Since believers in Jesus have new life in Him, all aspects of our lives (our "walk") should clearly demonstrate that fact, including our speech—an exposition of Colossians 4:2-6. ★ Support this podcast ★

The traditions of the eucharist. Communion, closed, open, traditional, meals, fellowship with results: strength, resolve, hope, wisdom, understanding, presence of God.Read and explore Text.Notice, before the big event, a daily investment in small faith steps prepares us for the great storms of life! Paul started by being faithful in little things along this great path he is living.Sea of Adria was in the middle of the Mediterranean while the Gulf of Adria what we today call the Adriatic Sea. As they near shipwreck, it becomes clear to the crew that Paul's prophecy is coming to pass.  Fear is still present.  Some want to escape.  Now Paul is in control with divine authority. His insight is followed by the centurion. When the ship starts to run aground, the centurion wants to save Paul, and the prisoners so all make it to shore.What is the purpose of the very clear and extensive account given by Luke here and not in Chapter 21? Notice the lack of calming the storm. Here there is something else that God is doing, namely, he is establishing the power of faith and God's control over history in sight of overwhelming paganism. What could be construed as magic has no place in the very real fear of the elements of nature. God is not tinkering with natural and human processes with arbitrary interventions, but with the direction of the human heart by revealing the purposes and call of God.  See Luke 21:12-19. When we are caught in the complexity of social entanglements, our faith in God must not be focused so much on the elimination of these circumstances but on God's power that enables us to endure and so gain possession of our lives!Here we find the real value of prophecy:  Though Paul is predicting the future and seeing it fulfilled, he is also a spokesperson for God! He advises, exhorts, comforts, strengthens, challenges as a servant of God whom he serves! And at the center of the storm and its ravages, fears, and confusion, he breaks bread.  Of the 276 on board, only 3 are Christians. Yet he includes all with dramatic results – not all believe, some try to escape, but all are brought to safety as he said they would. This act of faith changed the course of the events, as it gave courage, strength, and hope to all. Paul's faith reminds us of Mary, who chose to believe God and whet he said would come to pass.  Put your faith in Jesus today.

Paul Putz serves as the assistant director of the Faith & Sports Institute, part of the Truett Seminary at Baylor University. Though Paul and I connected previously through social media, we met in person at a conference in June in Minneapolis and found out we have quite a bit in common, mainly our passion for Jesus and sports. If you're a Christian who likes sports, you'll especially enjoy this conversation. Earlier in 2023, Paul gave a chapel talk called "Jesus and James Naismith," where he explored the Christian roots of basketball. In our conversation this week, he shares a little bit about that history and the Christian origin of one of the world's most popular games. Even if you don't like sports, stick around for Paul discuss how he followed his passions to end up where he is now professionally as well as how he goes about his research and writing. Speaking of his writing, he's writing a book about the history of sports and Christianity in modern American culture, which should be published in late 2024 or early 2025. Paul is pretty active on Twitter, so give him a follow @p_emory, or on Threads @paulemoryputz. You can also email him at Paul_Putz@baylor.edu. I'd love for you to connect with me by signing up for my newsletter, "The Road Ahead": ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠coledouglasclaybourn.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can also find more of my articles and content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠coleclaybourn.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and on social media: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@coleclaybourn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@ColeClaybourn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Also find me on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/ColeDouglasClaybourn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/in-no-hurry/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/in-no-hurry/support

Pastor Rich's message "For The Sake of The Gospel", is packed with powerful insights. In this passage, Paul is arrested for preaching the gospel in Jerusalem and taken before the Roman rulers. Though Paul is met with hostility and violence, he courageously stands up for what he believes in. Pastor Rich masterfully unpacks this passage and shares how Paul's unwavering faith in the face of persecution is a powerful reminder for all Christians to remain faithful no matter what. He also emphasizes the importance of standing up for our beliefs, even if it means facing opposition. This powerful message motivates us to keep spreading the good news of Jesus Christ, no matter what obstacles we may encounter along the way. With the Lord's help, we can gain a better understanding of this passage and be inspired to follow Paul's example of faithfulness.

One of our favorite Out to Lunch shows, for many reasons, was a 2019 episode  called High on Mushrooms that brought together two interesting, unlikely guests, whose worlds could not have been more different. Paul Charbonnet, a drone pilot and the owner of Atmosphere Drones, which shoots all sort of aerial scenes for movies, TV and a variety of users; and Cyrus Lester, co-owner of Mushroom Maggies Farm, a Saint Francisville based farmer of specialty and exotic mushrooms that Cyrus and his wife Maggie sell to local restaurants, farmers markets and specialty distributors. Though Paul and Cyrus were strangers to each other when they met on the show, several months later, quite by chance, they became next door neighbors! And from there they've become real friends. In the few years since a lot has changed. Both have weathered the pandemic. Cyrus has had a second child. Paul has started a second company called Compass Visuals, which specializes in robots that work with their cameras to hyper real videos for commercials. And Cyrus has had a second child, in addition to growing his farm. On this reunion edition of Out to Lunch we're welcoming back two old guests and new friends to see how they're doing and find out what's new at Atmosphere Drones and Mushroom Maggie's. Out to Lunch is recorded over lunch at Mansurs on the Boulevard. You can find photos from this show at itsbatonrouge.la.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scripture Reading: Malachi 3:6-12 One of the sins of the Israelites in Malachi's time was the failure to give the tithes which the Mosaic law had prescribed.  The law required that the Jews pay ten percent of their income/produce to the Levites and to the temple (Num 18:21-26; Deut 14:22-27).  God justly accused the Israelites of Malachi's day of robbing Him (Mal 3:8,9).  Giving to the work of God is an important element in the life of a Christian.  Though Paul does not mention giving ten percent of our income as an ongoing command, the New Testament does reveal principles that should govern our giving.  "On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come" (1 Cor 16:2).  "Each one must give as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Cor 9:7). We are to give regularly.  "On the first day of every week . . ."  As regular exercise is more beneficial to the body than exercising only once in a while, so regular giving is more spiritually beneficial to the soul. We are to give individually.  ". . . each of you is to put something aside . . ."  The responsibility to give to the Lord's work belongs to every one of us, regardless of economic status. We are to give proportionally.  ". . . as he may prosper . . ."  Some proportion is suggested in this phrase.  The more one has, the more he should give.   We are to give deliberately.  "Each one must give as he has made up his mind . . ."  Giving should be planned, prayerful, thoughtful, budgeted, and not impulsive. We are to give willingly.  ". . . not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."  The God who owns all things does not lack for resources.  He wants our hearts, so He does not want us to give anything that is not offered willingly. The motive for giving comes from a realization of the effects it has on our souls.  God does not need our money, but we have the need to give to Him.   First, giving produces humility.   In giving to the building of the temple in the Old Testament, David declared, "But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able thus to offer willingly? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you" (1 Chr 29:14). Second, giving produces joy.  "Then the people rejoiced because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the Lord. David the king also rejoiced greatly" (1 Chr 29:9). Third, giving produces compassion toward the needs of others.  "Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need" (Eph 4:28). Fourth, giving produces devotion to God.  "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Lk 12:34).  Giving to God's eternal kingdom unites our hearts with Him.  It follows that if we give regularly to the Lord, we will think about Him more and our hearts will be attached to Him more deeply.  The Almighty does not need our money.  He can make money out of the grass.  The issue in giving is our hearts.   In our giving, let us learn to say, with great joy, "O LORD our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building you a house for your holy name comes from your hand and is all your own" (1 Chr 29:16).

Today's chapter is pretty short, but nonetheless intriguing. Though Paul is a man of great intelligence, he tells the Corinthian church that is resolved to know nothing among them except Christ and him crucified. This does not mean that he is emptying his mind, but that he orients all of his knowledge in such a way that Christ and his cross and central in his mind. The power of God's wisdom was not given to the rulers of this age, but to the church. He has revealed his truth to us by his Spirit. Those who do not have the Spirit find God's wisdom to be foolishness, because they are not equipped to evaluate spiritual things. Those with the Spirit, however, have the mind of Christ.:::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Because of the clarity of God's Word, the path to life change is not mysterious or elusive. If it were complex, we'd all be in a mess. Did you know that Paul gave his protege, Timothy, a practical plan for change that we can replicate in our lives, too? Though Paul's process is not the final or plenary word for transformation, it's one of the most excellent thumbnail sketches you'll find in Scripture. It's concise, understandable, and, best of all, attainable. Read Here: https://lifeovercoffee.com/four-sequential-steps-to-change-your-life/ Will you help us to continue providing free content for everyone? You can become a supporting member here https://lifeovercoffee.com/join/, or you can make a one-time or recurring donation here https://lifeovercoffee.com/donate/.

Gentiles in the city of Rome formed a church. Though Paul had not been to the church yet, he wrote to encourage the believers in that church. The book of Romans is his message to them. He chose Phoebe to deliver the letterAll God's Women is a daily devotional women's Bible study podcast and internationally syndicated radio show where we journey through the Bible one woman's story at a time. If you enjoy learning about women in the Bible, tune in each weekday for 2-minute Bible stories about Bible women.Take your study further with the Women of Prayer BIBLE STUDY Be a part of the Women of Prayer SIMULSTUDYLearn more at the All God's Women WEBSITEJoin the All God's Women FACEBOOK GROUPPin All God's Women on PINTERESTFollow Sharon Wilharm on FACEBOOK

Gentiles in the city of Rome formed a church. Though Paul had not been to the church yet, he wrote to encourage the believers in that church. The book of Romans is his message to them. He chose Phoebe to deliver the letterAll God's Women is a daily devotional women's Bible study podcast and internationally syndicated radio show where we journey through the Bible one woman's story at a time. If you enjoy learning about women in the Bible, tune in each weekday for 2-minute Bible stories about Bible women. Take your study further with the Women of Prayer BIBLE STUDY Be a part of the Women of Prayer SIMULSTUDYLearn more at the All God's Women WEBSITEJoin the All God's Women FACEBOOK GROUPPin All God's Women on PINTERESTFollow Sharon Wilharm on FACEBOOK

Though Paul was able to declare, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (Philippians 3:8), Paul also had a thorn—a burdensome pain from which he prayed to God for relief three times (see 2 Corinthians 12:7-9). Today's devotional explores what we can learn from Paul's thorn.   If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon The Secrets of Positive Living, Part 14: LISTEN NOW

Map of the Tribes of Israel Introduction      Throughout the book of Deuteronomy, Moses' death has loomed like a shadow over the nation. The book as a whole is his farewell address, as he imparts to them all that is needed for a life of success after he dies. Moses, after having communicated the core of the law to Israel, appointed Joshua as his successor and received the Lord's command to ascend Mount Nebo and die, is left only to offer his blessings to the nation before his graduation to heaven. Moses' blessing in Deuteronomy 33 reveals the heart of this great leader for God's people, Israel. The blessings were not predictive, but rather, express Moses' desires of what he wished for the nation. According to Eugene Merrill, “Moses' utterances concerning the tribes were in the nature of prayerful intercession. They express what he fervently desired for his people and what he confidently expected that God would do.”[1] Of course, under the Mosaic Law, Israel's blessing were conditional on the obedience of his people. The Blessing Introduction      “Now this is the blessing with which Moses the man of God blessed the sons of Israel before his death” (Deut 33:1). This opening verse sets the tone for what follows, as it is Moses' blessing on the nation just prior to his death. The word blessing translates the Hebrew word בְּרָכָה berakah, which means to bless or favor someone. The blessing derived from Moses revealed his wish or prayer for the future of God's people. Of course, this was conditional, as they would receive the blessing if they would “listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, which I am commanding you today” (Deut 11:27). Though Moses sought their best interests, he can do no more than give them God's directives and encourage them to walk by them, knowing the Lord's blessings would follow if they obeyed.        Moses continued, saying, “The LORD came from Sinai, and dawned on them from Seir; He shone forth from Mount Paran, and He came from the midst of ten thousand holy ones; at His right hand there was flashing lightning for them'” (Deut 33:2). Here, God is portrayed as the Divine Warrior who goes before His people, and this is seen elsewhere in Scripture (Judg 5:4-5; Psa 68:7-8). That God shone forth (יָפַע yapha – brightness, splendor) at various times and places revealed His glory in theophanic form. The holy ones mentioned in this verse refer to angels. The reference to flashing lightning could be a manifestation of the angels as they come with the Lord and do His work. This picture of God as Divine Warrior was intended to instill confidence among His people that He was with them, and to instill fear among Israel's enemies who sought to thwart God's purposes among His people.      Of the Lord, Moses said, “Indeed, He loves the people; all Your holy ones are in Your hand, and they followed in Your steps; everyone receives of Your words” (Deut 33:3). Here, Moses emphasized God's love for His people (cf. Deut 7:7-8), which is what motivated Him to set them apart. The holy ones in this verse refer to the nation of Israel, whom God had created as special (Isa 43:1, 15), to be set apart from the other nations and to walk with Him in righteousness (Deut 7:6, 11). The text continues, saying, “Moses charged us with a law, a possession for the assembly of Jacob. 5 And He was king in Jeshurun, when the heads of the people were gathered, the tribes of Israel together” (Deut 33:4-5). Moses had given Israel God's law (תּוֹרָה torah – law, instruction, direction), which was their special possession (Lev 27:34), which gave them everything they needed for a life of righteousness. And God was their king (Isa 33:22), the One who ruled over them, to provide, guide, and protect them in all things. The term Jeshurun (יְשֻׁרוּן Yeshurun) means upright one and was a nickname for Israel. Here, the word is used of how Israel was intended to be, as Moses hoped they would be, as upright to the Lord. In the NT we see where God's people are called saints (ἅγιος hagios – sacred, holy; Rom 1:7; 1 Cor 1:2; Eph 1:1), and the ideal Christian is one whose performance is that of his/her position in Christ (Eph 4:1; Col 1:10). Blessing the Tribes Reuben      Moses' first wish of blessing fell to Reuben, as he says, “May Reuben live and not die, nor his men be few” (Deut 33:6). Reuben was Jacob's firstborn son (Gen 29:32; 49:3). As the firstborn son, the birthright and blessing naturally fell to him. However, we know that Reuben committed a terrible sin when he had sex with his father's concubine (Gen 35:22), and for this he was cursed by Jacob just before he died (Gen 49:4), which meant he'd forfeited his inheritance. Reuben's descendants were judged, as they followed in the footsteps of their progenitor. Though there are always exceptions, children often model their parents values and behavior, and worldly parents tend to produce worldly children. According to Thomas Constable, “Reuben (v. 6) was the firstborn son of Jacob, but he did not enjoy greatness among the tribes because of his sin. He lost his father's birthright and blessing. Furthermore, no great civil or military leader or prophet ever came from this tribe, as far as Scripture records.”[2] Judah      Next in the order of Moses' blessings was Judah, where it reads, “And this regarding Judah; so he said, ‘Hear, O LORD, the voice of Judah, and bring him to his people. With his hands he contended for them, and may You be a help against his adversaries'” (Deut 33:7). Judah was Jacob's fourth son (after Simeon and Levi) and was singled out for blessing, from whom would come Messiah (Gen 49:8-12). Moses asked God to help Judah, to hear his voice, and to “bring him to his people” (Deut 33:7). This phrase likely refers to the safe return of Judahites after a military campaign. According to the book of Numbers, Judah was to lead the other nations in battle, as “They shall set out first” (Num 2:9b). This meant Judah would take the lead and be in a dangerous position, militarily speaking. It's natural that as they went into battle, they would ask to be returned safely to their people and that God would “be a help against his adversaries” (Deut 33:7b). Ultimately, through Judah would come David, and through David would come Jesus, the Messiah (Matt 1:1, 6, 16). Levi Concerning the tribe of Levi, Moses said: Of Levi he said, “Let your Thummim and Your Urim belong to Your godly man, whom You proved at Massah, with whom You contended at the waters of Meribah; 9 who said of his father and his mother, ‘I did not consider them'; and he did not acknowledge his brothers, nor did he regard his own sons, for they observed Your word, and kept Your covenant. 10 They shall teach Your ordinances to Jacob, and Your law to Israel. They shall put incense before You, and whole burnt offerings on Your altar. 11 O LORD, bless his substance, and accept the work of his hands; shatter the loins of those who rise up against him, and those who hate him, so that they will not rise again.” (Deut 33:8-11)      The tribe of Levi is mentioned here without regard to the tribe of Simeon. Previously, in the book of Genesis, Moses had recorded Jacob's genealogy and listed Simeon and Levi together, as the second and third sons in the lineage. Of those brothers, Jacob had said, “Simeon and Levi are brothers; their swords are implements of violence” (Gen 49:5). This refers to Simeon and Levi's exaggerated violence against the Shechemites, whose leader had raped their sister, Dinah (Gen 34:1-29). Jacob, having cursed his two sons for their violence (Gen 49:6-7a), said, “I will disperse them in Jacob, and scatter them in Israel” (Gen 49:7). Though Levi retained land in Israel, Simeon was incorporated into the tribe of Judah (Josh 19:1, 9). Concerning this, Eugene Merrill states, “The effect of this is evident even here in the blessing of Moses because Simeon is lacking entirely in the list, and Levi appears without reference to territory of its own. Moreover, Simeon had already become involved in idolatry at Baal Peor (cf. Num 25:6–15), a sin that brought such devastating population loss that the whole tribe eventually became assimilated into Judah.”[3]      Though the tribe of Levi did not own land, they were blessed by Moses and became the tribe that was given to Aaron and his sons to help them in their priestly duties (Num 3:6-10; 18:1-7). The selection of the tribe of Levi came because of their faithfulness to God during the incident of the golden calf in which they stood with the Lord and Moses (Ex 32:25-29). In this way, they had been faithful to God's covenant (Deut 33:9b). Both Moses and Aaron were from the tribe of Levi. Part of Moses' blessing referred to the function of the high priest who was given the Urim and Thummim to wear inside a pouch on his chest and was occasionally used to discern a divine answer (Ex 28:29-30; cf. 1 Sam 28:6).[4] One of the functions of the priests was to teach God's Word to the other tribes (Lev 10:8-11; Deut 31:9-13; 33:10; 2 Ch 17:7-9; Ezra 7:10; Mal 2:7). Another function of the priests was to offer sacrifices to the Lord, as Moses wrote, “They shall put incense before You, and whole burnt offerings on Your altar” (Deut 33:10b; cf., Leviticus chapters 4, 9, 16). Moses closed out this section on Levi, saying, “O LORD, bless his substance, and accept the work of his hands; shatter the loins of those who rise up against him, and those who hate him, so that they will not rise again” (Deut 33:11). To accept the work of Levi's hands meant God approved of their work. And to shatter the loins of their enemies meant they would be destroyed completely without descendants. Benjamin      Moses blessed Benjamin, the last of Jacob's sons (Gen 49:27), saying, “Of Benjamin he said, ‘May the beloved of the LORD dwell in security by Him, Who shields him all the day, and he dwells between His shoulders” (Deut 33:12). Moses' blessing was that Benjamin would dwell in security in the land. And God would be the One to shield him, as he dwelt “between His shoulders” (Deut 33:12b). Eugene Merrill notes, “The anthropomorphism here is suggestive of the most tender compassion and solid security at the same time. The phrase speaks not of carrying on the back but of being held close to the breast or bosom.”[5] Benjamin's safety in battle came, not because of his military prowess, but because of His closeness to God. Joseph (i.e., Ephraim and Manasseh) Moving on to Joseph, Moses wrote: Of Joseph he said, “Blessed of the LORD be his land, with the choice things of heaven, with the dew, and from the deep lying beneath, 14 and with the choice yield of the sun, and with the choice produce of the months. 15 And with the best things of the ancient mountains, and with the choice things of the everlasting hills, 16 and with the choice things of the earth and its fullness, and the favor of Him who dwelt in the bush. Let it come to the head of Joseph, and to the crown of the head of the one distinguished among his brothers. 17 As the firstborn of his ox, majesty is his, and his horns are the horns of the wild ox; with them he will push the peoples, all at once, to the ends of the earth. And those are the ten thousands of Ephraim, and those are the thousands of Manasseh.” (Deut 33:13-17)      Here, Joseph is represented by his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh (Deut 33:17). Living in Canaan meant relying on the weather—rain, dew, sun—to bring forth fertile crops. Moses' wishes for Joseph—i.e., Ephraim and Manasseh—was that their land would be blessed with fertility and production of vegetation (Deut 33:13-16). Moses also asked that they be given strength whereby they might judge other nations, perhaps in battle, as the Lord's instrument of judgment (Deut 33:17). The reference to “the ends of the earth” (Deut 33:17b), according to Merrill, “suggests an eschatological rather than historical fulfillment, a time when God's kingdom would rise above and rule over the kingdoms of the earth (cf. 1 Sam 2:10; Psa 2:8; 59:13; 72:8; Mic 5:4).”[6] Zebulun and Issachar      Next, Moses blessed Zebulun and Issachar, saying, “Of Zebulun he said, ‘Rejoice, Zebulun, in your going forth, and, Issachar, in your tents. 19 They will call peoples to the mountain; there they will offer righteous sacrifices; for they will draw out the abundance of the seas, and the hidden treasures of the sand'” (Deut 33:18-19). Zebulun and Issachar were the sixth and fifth sons of Jacob by his wife, Leah (Gen 30:18-20), here blessed by Moses in reverse order. Jacob also blessed them in reverse order of their birth (Gen 49:13-15), These two brothers were close, and so were their descendant tribes, as their land was near to each other. Both were to rejoice; Zebulun in their “going forth” and Issachar in their “tents” (Deut 33:18). The phrase forms a merism, a figure of speech with includes all activities of life. In this way, Moses wished for their blessings to be wherever they went and in all they did. These tribes would bring blessings to Israel by offering “righteous sacrifices” that were in conformity with God's directives, and by drawing out “the abundance of the seas, and the hidden treasures of the sand” (Deut 33:19). That is, their wealth was shared with their brethren, and in this way were a blessing to others. Gad      Moses' blessing on Gad was, “Blessed is the One who enlarges Gad; he lies down as a lion, and tears the arm, also the crown of the head. 21 Then he provided the first part for himself, for there the ruler's portion was reserved; and he came with the leaders of the people; he executed the justice of the LORD, and His ordinances with Israel” (Deut 33:20-21). When entering the land of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua, all Israel proved faithful to fight, but apparently some fought harder than others and they were blessed in a special way with more land. Gad was known “as a lion” that was ferocious in battle. According to Peter Craigie, “The blessing indicates that Gad was to play an important part in the battle, and that as a result the tribe would deserve a lion's share of the fruit of victory.”[7] The tribe of Gad (as well as Manasseh and Reuben) requested to live east of the Jordan River, and Moses granted their request, but only on the condition they would help their brothers complete the military conquest into Canaan beyond the Jordan River (Deut 3:18). They would help their fellow Israelites by leaving their wives, children, and livestock behind (Deut 3:19). After victory was obtained, they could return to their own land (Deut 3:20). We know from the book of Joshua that they were faithful to help their brothers (Josh 22:1-6). Dan      Moses continued, “Of Dan he said, ‘Dan is a lion's whelp, that leaps forth from Bashan'” (Deut 33:22). As a lion's whelp, the tribe of Dan would display timidity early on, but would become strong and eventually leap forth as a powerful lion. Jacob, when blessing Dan, used similar language, saying, “Judah is a lion's whelp; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He couches, he lies down as a lion, and as a lion, who dares rouse him up?” (Gen 49:9). Naphtali      Moses' next blessing was for Naphtali, and “Of Naphtali he said, ‘O Naphtali, satisfied with favor, and full of the blessing of the LORD, take possession of the sea and the south'” (Deut 33:23). This tribe was to be satisfied with the Lord's favor (רָצוֹן ratson – goodness, favor). The result of the Lord's full blessing was their taking “possession of the sea and the south” (Deut 33:23b). The sea is a reference to the Sea of Galilee. Eugene Merrill notes, “The Galilee region embraced by Naphtali did indeed enjoy many temporal and material riches (cf. Josh 20:7; 2 Chr 16:4; Isa 9:1), but by far the most abundant blessing was the fact that the Messiah spent most of his life and exercised much of his ministry there or in nearby Zebulun (cf. Matt 4:12–17).”[8] Asher      Moses continued, saying, “Of Asher he said, ‘More blessed than sons is Asher; may he be favored by his brothers, and may he dip his foot in oil. 25 Your locks will be iron and bronze, and according to your days, so will your leisurely walk be” (Deut 33:24-25). The tribe of Asher was blessed more than others and had good relations with his brothers (i.e. was favored). To dip his foot in oil was a reference to the many olive trees of that region as well as the overall fertility of the land and its produce. The reference to locks of iron and bronze meant the tribe would dwell in safety and would enjoy the leisure of their wealth. Conclusion to Moses' Blessings      Moses concludes this section, saying, “There is none like the God of Jeshurun, Who rides the heavens to your help, and through the skies in His majesty. 27 The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms; and He drove out the enemy from before you, and said, ‘Destroy!' 28 So Israel dwells in security, the fountain of Jacob secluded, in a land of grain and new wine; His heavens also drop down dew” (Deut 33:26-28). Israel's God is unique and there are none like Him (Isa 45:5-6). He is pictured as the Divine Warrior “Who rides the heavens to your help, and through the skies in His majesty” (Deut 33:26b). According to Earl Radmacher, “Like a soldier, the Lord is constantly on the lookout for ways to defend His people from attack. The Divine Warrior is always providing protection because He is eternal. God is a refuge or fortress for the people to flee to in times of distress (Psa 90:1; 91:9).”[9] And the eternal God would be Israel's “dwelling place” where they would find refuge and safety “underneath are the everlasting arms” (Deut 33:27a). The same arms that brought them to safety would be the ones used to drive out their enemies and would “destroy” those who opposed. Because of their relationship with Yahweh and their walk with Him, Israel would dwell in safety and seclusion (Deut 33:28a), and would live in a land blessed by the Lord, “in a land of grain and new wine” where “His heavens also drop down dew” (Deut 33:28b). Concerning this section, Peter Craigie notes, “The substance of verse 26-28 expresses once again the apparent paradox of Israel's existence. The path lying ahead was not one of peaceful existence and quiet solitude, but it was one beset on every side with danger. Yet it was within this danger and war that Israel would find its safety (v. 28), because the path of danger was the path in which the presence and help of God would be found.”[10]      Moses closed his blessing, saying, “Blessed are you, O Israel; who is like you, a people saved by the LORD, Who is the shield of your help and the sword of your majesty! So your enemies will cringe before you, and you will tread upon their high places'” (Deut 33:29). Israel's blessings were possible only because of their relationship with God, as He shielded them from danger and would defeat their enemies when they walked with Him in righteousness. And Israel's enemies would cringe in fear, knowing God was with them to grant them victory as they would “tread upon their high places” (Deut 33:29b). Summary      Moses, the man of God, blessed the sons of Israel before his death. He spoke about the Lord's love for His people and called for them to obey His law (Deut 33:1-5). Moses also made specific blessings for each tribe of Israel (Deut 33:6-25). And in conclusion, praised the greatness of God and how He protected Israel from their enemies and would allow them to dwell in safety (Deut 33:26-28). Moses ended his blessing by declaring the blessedness of the people of Israel, who were saved by the Lord and would tread upon their enemies Deut 33:29). Present Application      As Moses' death approached, his great concern was for the success of Israel in the days after his departure. The Lord had worked through Moses to liberate the people from Egyptian slavery, to guide them for forty years in the wilderness, and to educate them in the law of the Lord that they might walk with Him and know success (Deut 11:26-28; 28:1-2; 30:15-16). But God revealed to Moses that after his death the nation would turn away from Yahweh and pursue idols (Deut 31:16; cf., Judg 2:11-12; 2 Ki 18:11-12). Though this news saddened Moses, it did not hinder his efforts to guide them into righteousness, giving them what they needed for success—the Word of God.      Likewise, we see something similar in the life and ministry of the apostle Paul. Paul had taught in Ephesus for several years (Acts 19:10; 20:31), and as his ministry was nearing an end, he called for the elders of the church to come to him (Acts 20:17). He reminded them about his faithfulness to serve the Lord and to teach them the Word of God (Acts 20:18-21), and that he was about to leave for Jerusalem where he would suffer persecution (Acts 20:22-24). He told the elders of the church they would no longer see him (Acts 20:25), which was upsetting news. He also told them he was innocent of harming anyone (Acts 20:26), and that he had been faithful to declare to them “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). Afterwards, Paul gave them heavy news, saying, “I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them” (Acts 20:29-30). Knowing this, Paul instructed them to “be on the alert, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears” (Acts 20:31). Paul was leaving, but he was not leaving them emptyhanded, as he said, “I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (Acts 20:32). Though Paul was leaving, God and His Word remained, and that was sufficient for a life of success. The church at Ephesus did well after Paul's departure, and he gave thanks for their faith and love (Eph 1:15-16). However, the generation that followed did not continue in their love, as Jesus said of them, “I have this against you, that you have left your first love” (Rev 2:4). This shows that the faith of one generation does not automatically continue into the next, as each generation must choose for themselves whether they will learn and live God's Word.      As Christian leaders (whether pastors, parents, or teachers), we bear special responsibility for our own spiritual growth which comes by studying God's Word (2 Tim 2:15; 1 Pet 2:2), learning from gifted teachers (Eph 4:11-14), and applying His Word by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; Jam 1:22), which leads to spiritual maturity (Heb 6:1). Furthermore, we seek to communicate His Word to others who will listen (Mark 16:15; Matt 28:19-20; Eph 6:4; 2 Tim 4:2; cf., Ezra 7:10). Once we've fulfilled our duty to the Lord, we then entrust our loved ones to Him, knowing that the Lord and His Word provides a fortress of truth and love that will protect their souls as they advance to spiritual maturity. Our desires and prayers for our loved ones are that they will “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Pet 3:18) and learn to “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Col 1:10). Dr. Steven R. Cook   [1] Eugene H. Merrill, Deuteronomy, vol. 4, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1994), 431–432. [2] Tom Constable, Tom Constable's Expository Notes on the Bible (Galaxie Software, 2003), Dt 33:6. [3] Eugene H. Merrill, Deuteronomy, vol. 4, 438. [4] Only a descendant of Aaron could serve as the high priest (Ex 28:1; 40:13-15), and the non-Aaronic priests came from the tribe of Levi (Deut 17:18; 18:1; 24:8; 27:9). All priests were Levites, but not all Levites were priests. The priesthood consisted of men who could not have any physical defects (Lev 21:17-23), and restricted to the age of twenty-five to fifty (Num 8:24-25). [5] Eugene H. Merrill, Deuteronomy, vol. 4, 440. [6] Ibid., 442–443. [7] Peter C. Craigie, The Book of Deuteronomy, The New International Commentary on the Old Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1976), 400. [8] Eugene H. Merrill, Deuteronomy, vol. 4, 445–446. [9] Earl D. Radmacher, Ronald Barclay Allen, and H. Wayne House, Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Commentary (Nashville: T. Nelson Publishers, 1999), 269. [10] Peter C. Craigie, The Book of Deuteronomy, 403.

This Sunday we find Paul in a very unenviable situation. In fact, it looks utterly hopeless. Paul has been mobbed and arrested by the Romans. The Roman Tribune allowed him to speak to the crowd in the hopes that he would calm them and disperse them. Last week we examined what Paul said to the crowd as he explained the testimony of how the Lord Jesus transformed and called him. However, Paul is not allowed to finish his proclamation to the mob in the Temple courts. As we pick up in Acts 22:22, the crowd again goes berserk at the mention of Paul being sent to invite the Gentiles into God's covenant. At this point, things go from bad to worse. From Acts 22:22-23:11 we will examine how Paul navigates the impossible situation he now finds himself in. Though Paul does not act sinlessly throughout the next events, we do see some principles of wisdom in his actions that Jesus' witnesses must understand in order to be faithful in hostile situations. Whether we are speaking of overt persecution and attacks from the world or hostility from individuals to whom we bear witness, we must be ready to give a defense for the hope that is within us, and to do so with gentleness and respect. Sunday we will see how to do so even when circumstances seem chaotic and hopeless.

The church needs a pastor, and a pastor needs the church. Timothy graduates from St. Paul Seminary, and Paul writes a letter to encourage him in this new ministry.

This week we will take a brief pause from our series in Genesis to reflect on the theme of thankfulness. Thanksgiving Day means different things for different people, but what I hope it allows us all to do is spend a few moments reflecting on our lives and all that we have to be thankful for. When Pastor Jason asked me to speak on this topic, I began to think about our church, and my mind instantaneously went to Philippians 1:3-8.    In this passage, we find the apostle Paul in rare form. He is not trying to convince the church of profound doctrine through beautiful greek rhetoric, but rather, is expressing his heartfelt love and gratitude for the Philippian church.    We find that the core of Paul's thankfulness stems from the Philippians' partnership with him in the Gospel. Paul had an incredible resolve for the mission and life that God had called him to, which was taking the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Though Paul could have been content doing it all by himself, in Philippians 1:3-8, we see a tired, old, and beaten up Paul getting emotional over how nice it is to have a church family partnering alongside him.   When I reflect on the last year, I can relate to Paul. It has been a privilege to partner alongside this Illuminate Community Church family as we continue through the grace of God to take ground for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.    I know that the holidays bring a bag of mixed emotions with all the different family dynamics that exist throughout our congregation. I hope that through the Word of God being preached, our hearts are stirred toward thankfulness for our church family, and our eyes are raised to exalt and glorify the head of the church body, Jesus Christ. 

How can God turn life's obstacles for good? Though Paul encountered injustices in prison, that didn't stop him from seizing the moment to communicate the Gospel. In this message, we're encouraged by two lessons from Paul's conversion story. Even amid disappointments and difficulties, God is still working to shine His light. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at moodyoffer.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. 

When God shines His light upon our consciences, we see everything clearly. Though Paul faced certain death in Rome, he took every opportunity to share about his conversion on a Damascus road. In this message, we see how Christ redeemed him from self-righteousness to a Gospel mission. How does the Gospel shine into our moral darkness?  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001.

Too often, we sacrifice eternity on the altar of the here-and-now. Though Paul was on trial, he confronted the Roman governor Felix's sin face-to-face. In this message, we hear a clear warning against the love of money or people's opinions. We cannot delay being humbled before God.  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. 

How can God turn life's obstacles for good? Though Paul encountered injustices in prison, that didn't stop him. In this message from Acts 25, we're reminded of God's purposes in difficulties and disappointments. Let's watch Paul's conduct before and after Christ, from the perspective of a pagan ruler.  To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29

How can God turn life's obstacles for good? Though Paul encountered injustices in prison, that didn't stop him. In this message from Acts 25, we're reminded of God's purposes in difficulties and disappointments. Let's watch Paul's conduct before and after Christ, from the perspective of a pagan ruler.  To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29

How can God turn life's obstacles for good? Though Paul encountered injustices in prison, that didn't stop him. In this message from Acts 25, we're reminded of God's purposes in difficulties and disappointments. Let's watch Paul's conduct before and after Christ, from the perspective of a pagan ruler.  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-217-9337.

Too often, we sacrifice eternity on the altar of the present. Though Paul was on trial, he confronted the Roman governor Felix's sins. In this message, we hear a clear warning against the love of money or people's opinions. We cannot wait until we die for our sins to come to light and for us to be humbled before God.  To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29

Too often, we sacrifice eternity on the altar of the present. Though Paul was on trial, he confronted the Roman governor Felix's sins. In this message, we hear a clear warning against the love of money or people's opinions. We cannot wait until we die for our sins to come to light and for us to be humbled before God.  To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29

Too often, we sacrifice eternity on the altar of the present. Though Paul was on trial, he confronted the Roman governor Felix's sins. In this message, we hear a clear warning against the love of money or people's opinions. We cannot wait until we die for our sins to come to light and for us to be humbled before God.  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-217-9337.

Though Paul goes through trials, he always gives God glory for His strength.

Jesus Christ is the most controversial person who has ever lived! There are as many opinions about Him as there are religions, cults, philosophies, and church denominations. Though Paul had never met the young Christians in the church of Colosse, he was deeply concerned for them since attractive, man-made philosophies were making inroads. He wanted them to know the truth, to grow in their faith, and to be careful of any human ideas that diminish the place of Jesus Christ. I have summed up Paul's concerns with three simple directives: Believe! Behave! Beware!

Acts 12:1-11: tells us about Herod who had James executed by the sword. Since this was pleasing to the Jews, he thought he would go after Peter too. You can imagine the hostility in the air when you execute someone and it makes them happy. Though Paul and Peter had some differences, their unity is symbolized by the famous kiss of peace, where they embrace on their way to their martyrdom. Preached in Ernescliff College on June 29, 2022. Music: Faith of Our Fathers | Fountainview Academy | The Great Controversy. Thumbnail: Greek Icon of Peter and Paul embrace. For more meditations, check my channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/EricNicolai/videos www.ernescliff.ca www.opusdei.ca