Murder and a Miracle

Murder and A Miracle Part Two Praying Without Faith Acts 12.1-19 God is not obligated to explain why He does things differently with two of His followers. Peter, James and John were fishermen in business together when Jesus called them. Peter was arrested. His fate seemed to be the same as James. God can step in, even at the last minute. It looked like it was all over. It was going to be a double murder. He was being guarded by 16 soldiers, one fisherman, 16 soldiers The sentence of death was upon him. Paul, the Apostle wrote II Corinthians 1.19 Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, Who raises the dead. Jesus, Isaac, Peter His situation was helpless and hopeless. Maybe you feel yours is this morning. If so I pray you will receive hope today from the Word. I have been there a few times in my life. It has never helped me when people have asked, “What are you going to do?” I don’t know. Learn this lesson of life. God deals differently with people in the same set of circumstances. God works miracles when He wills. When we look at the circumstances whether good or bad, blessings or burdens, even deep heartbreaking ones we can lose our way in praying. Our focus needs to be on the LORD. Whether in giving thanks for the blessings or coming before Him with our petitions and interecessions, our eyes need to be fixed on Him. Fixing our eyes… Hebrews 12. 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. What were the eyes of the Church at Jerusalem fixed on? Was it the LORD? Was it Stephen and James’ Death by stoning and the sword? Let’s be gracious here…but honest. Death profoundly changes life. Violent death traumatizes us. They were not believing that the LORD was going to deliver Peter. Even if they were praying it, which the LORD lets us wonder about. As God continues to do amazing things through this little church I stand is awe. Photos from Bangladesh Feeding, India Feeding, Kenya on Monday Morning Throughout Kenya and into Southeast Asia the LORD is working in amazing ways. The Church there is exploding with new believers. The LORD is adding daily to the church. They have no gimmicks, no special programs. All they have is God. Other churches in Tanzania and Malawi have connected with us this past week for prayer and encouragement. What about America? Our country and Israel have a different heritage. We were founded in prayer to God from the hearts of people longing to be free… Israel was released from Egypt due to those cries. God’s Hand has been upon this nation. "America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.” Our Judeo Christian Ethic I love reading about the beginnings of this nation of ours. The Sanctity of Life All men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights: Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness… Our country needs to rediscover its roots. God has blessed America America needs God’s help, desperately We pray today for discernment in distinguishing spirits. Money, sex and power is what tempts men of God. I think power is the most insidious. The Oval Office is the most powerful room on Earth. Many have fallen into its lure. Both Presidents and Ministers of the Gospel. Some, amazingly, have not allowed its power to overtake them, but they are few in number. Been reading about Saul and David. Saul trying to take David’s life. David ducking spears and not retaliating against Saul because he was God’s anointed, as was David. * Even When We Are Faithless, God is Faithful. He definitely desires faith from us. Hebrews 11. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. This makes sense. Believe in Him Believe that those who diligently seek Him will be rewarded. There is this verse in II Timothy 2.13 if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot disown Himself. The church’s lack of faith here shows that they didn’t believe even when God answered their prayers for Peter’s Release… or were they? Maybe they were praying that God would be with him as he went to Heaven. These could have been prayers of grief. Maybe they were praying for his loss ahead of time. Fervent, earnest prayer, continuous Maybe they were praying, “If you can…” like the man who brought his son to the Disciples in Mark 9.23 if you can? All things are possible to him who believes. Whatever they were praying they did not believe he was going to be released, and definitely not miraculously! There is a prayer offered in faith which makes the sick person well according to James 5. If there is a prayer offered in faith then it seems possible that there can be prayers offered without faith. Matthew 21.22 if you ask anything believing you will receive it, 22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Faith the size of a grain of mustard seed. Prayer for wife of well known pastor in the awakening. The prayer for dying grace. Then God healed her! God has Grace that even when the church misses the mark He calls it back. Look at Revelation 2-3, the letters or messages to the Seven Churches from the LORD. Jesus is offering hope. He is calling them to repent of their sins and shortcomings. He is being faithful when they are not. I believe He is calling many churches back to Acts 2:42-47, not gimmicks or tricks, but sincerity. One of the problems with gimmicks is if you win people to the church with them you have to keep using them and even more if you want to keep them, whereas if you let the LORD add to the church you just need to keep following Him. The Apostles Teaching, The Fellowship, the Breaking of Bread and Prayer. The call for the church to return to its first love… Just as you received Christ Jesus as LORD, continue to live in Him… Colossians 2.6 Herein is a mistake many make. They fail to pray. They need to pray: Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139.23-24 David’s Prayer, A man after God’s Own Heart How do we pray with faith? Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Romans 10.17 Get into the Word and prayer. Otherwise you will eventually say, “Sending prayers to you.” Huh? Prayer is to God in Heaven. There is one mediator, Jesus Christ. * God Stirred the City of Jerusalem and His Own People. We want this or at least we say we do but look at the bigger picture here. Are we willing to be persecuted? The early church received a Baptism of Persecution Where persecution is the greatest the church is the strongest. It purifies the church. It strengthens the church. No one would dare join a church when there is persecution unless they are followers of Jesus Christ. There was no casual Christians. The early church embraced the suffering they received. We want to run or be delivered. God did for Peter. James got the better deal. He was home safe. The game of Trouble… get your pieces home! They are safe there. Are we willing to suffer? Jesus was. The LORD’s Supper

The Open Door To The Gentiles

The Open Door To The Gentiles Acts 11.1-18 This was a tremendous turning point in the history of the church. God so loved the world… the human family John 3. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. If this event and the ones in the rest of this chapter had not occurred then we would not be here today. This enlarged the church’s vision and field beyond the Jews, the lost sheep of the House of Israel, to the whole world. Part of what Jesus meant when in John 16, He said, “12 “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth.He will not speak on His own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come. They could not have borne the thought of the Gentiles coming to faith at that point. That would be too much with all that Jesus had just told them about His death. They would have had many questions which He would not time to answer. They were on their way to the Garden of Gethsemane. They needed to see what was happening to Jesus in that moment. The Holy Spirit worked through Peter and Cornelius. The LORD was weaving events and people together. People can try (and they do) what only God can do. It was His grace and beauty, producing wonderful lasting fruit. He uses individuals and involves them in His plan for the accomplishments of His purposes and their spiritual growth in the faith. If you try and make things happen they will fall apart eventually. Let God do it. Don’t try to orchestrate or manipulate people. It backfires. I was encouraging Pastor Humphrey not to fund raise for future projects. We can learn how to receive funds through prayer. It gives God the glory. It depends upon Him completely. It comes in His timing. Faith Missions is exciting. Trusting in the LORD to speak to hearts is what the Scriptures direct us to do. Photos of roofing materials Give room for God to work. Allow grace poured out in your life. Be patient with one another. Be humble. Notice the criticism. Do something unusual and you will be criticized. Obey the LORD and someone will find fault… the circumcised followers in the church at Jerusalem, The only way to avoid this kind of criticism is to do nothing. God help us. If people are coming to know Jesus and we are critical because they broke some traditions or didn’t do it as we would have. I have seen that firsthand. So at this point Peter is traveling. We do not know what brought him down to Joppa, to stay with Simon, the Tanner. He was there by Divine Appointment. We never know what God might do, where He may have us. Maybe Peter was there for a break, on the coast, to relax for a few days. God is the Divine Interrupter. Thursday Morning 6am Pastor Daniel on a mountain in Kenya with a group of men. Will you tell them about Jesus? So I did. And souls were added to the church. He is adding daily there. So often we are going about our duty and then He shows us something. Bernie and I at Bagel Boss. Diddi and I at the Bagel place in Valley Stream… recently God is working through bagel shops. John Tocci at Bagel Boss So God interrupts Peter’s prayer time. * Peter’s Prejudices and Preconceived Ideas Had To Be Changed. vs.1-10 I love the way God works. He knows what needs to change in us. He knows how to bring about such change. The sheet came down three times. He knew Peter would need this. Everything is established in the mouth of two or three witnesses. II Corinthians 13.1 As the LORD works in our lives He directs our paths. He disintegrates our prejudices. He began with Samaria. Luke 9. 51 Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, 52 and sent messengers before His face. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. 53 But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem. 54 And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “LORD, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” 55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” And they went to another village. By the time we get to Acts 8. 4 Those who had been scattered preached the Word wherever they went. 5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed Christ there. 6 When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said. 7 For with shrieks, impure spirits came out of many, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was great joy in that city. And with that the Samaritans were in! He accomplishes His purposes. Now onto the uttermost parts of the world. The Goyim. The word "goyim" (singular "goy") is a Hebrew word that literally means "nations". It is used in Jewish tradition and texts to refer to non-Jewish people.  Ethnos in Matthew 28.19 Peter struggled. This was not easy for Peter. Change never is, especially when it has been part of our lives since we were born. Food restrictions suddenly lifted were revolutionary for the apostle. This was going to have to happen if the Gentiles would be reached. Businessman from Bangladesh, “First you drink our tea. Then we do business.” In my travels I have always eaten the food of the people with the utensils provided. The impact of Chop Sticks in China and when I eat with my Asian friends. “He knows how to eat with our utensils!” It draws you close to the people of that land. Same here where the nations have come to live. I believe one of the reasons I was taught Spanish in elementary school was to prepare me for this time. I believe one of the reasons I took German in Junior High and High School was to talk to John Tocci’s wife this week. She is from Germany. When I spoke to her she looked at him and said, “He speaks German!” Peter submitted. Peter finally got it. He went to Cornelius’ house. He explained that this was not something he ever did and why. God was broadening his vision. He was bring Peter closer to His view (the whole world). The teachings of Jesus and Jesus Himself taking over Peter’s heart and mind. Could this be what he was referring to when he wrote, “In your hearts set apart Christ Jesus as LORD.” I Peter 3.15 ? Peter was being used by God to open up the way for the Gentiles, the non Jewish people to come into the Church. Then he was preparing the way for Paul to be an Apostle to them. Oh that we would see the Kingdom of God in world events. He is working. * The Spirit leads us into new territory. vs.11-14 God leads us into new ventures of faith, to move with Him to reach others. He opens our hearts to His heart. Peter said that the Spirit told him not to have any hesitation to go with these men. It sounds as if he heard these words in his ears or within his heart or both. I love it when the Spirit leads, when He speaks to our hearts. For me most of the time it is in the early morning as I read the Word. Most of my livestreams throughout the week are from that reading. He speak to my heart and then I share. When I moved back to Long Island and to this church in 1984 it was through the Spirit. I used to get the map of Long Island out before I moved. Look over that page in my Rand McNally Atlas and feel a pull back here. Then the LORD began to give me an uneasy feeling about where I was. Then a letter and after a phone call came from Dr. Dallas Mucci. He was very gracious. I was recalling that trip from Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada to Bay Shore, to the church, to meet with the board. All but one person on that board are still alive now 40 years later. The rest are in Heaven. Time moves on. I never looked back, even when the church I left asked me to return after being here for a number of years. I had heard from God coming here and I was not hearing Him when they asked me to come back. Our venture into other places now. Photos from Kenya and Bangladesh. Roof materials and feeding. How is this happening? It is the LORD. There is a mystery sometimes of how we got to a certain place on our journey. When they questioned Peter he told them what happened. Basically he was saying, “I just did what God told me. I didn’t do anything. I was just was telling them what I knew and heard. The Holy Spirit just came upon them.” Are you sensing a pull in your heart? Is something up in your life? Wait. Pray with me over “the new Bay Shore”. We tried to start something down near Main Street… we fished but came up with empty nets. Maybe God is speaking to someone here to reach out to this growing community. * The Spirit Brings New Life. vs.15-18 He brought new life to Cornelius, his family and friends. How wonderful! He knew God was up to something and he didn’t want anyone he loved to miss it. Their lives were transformed by the LORD. They all received the Spirit. The Church was never to be the same! Pork Chops and Shell Fish! The Beauty of the Nations. What a wonderful sight! Serving the LORD together Choirs singing Children singing Pastors Humphrey and Daniel in Kenya Photos Liton The beauty of Bangladesh, Kenya (Pastor Humphrey’s daughters) Is there a group of people you are avoiding? People you don’t associate with? Could God be calling you to them?

Giving To The Poor

Giving To The Poor Acts 10.1-4 Cornelius A Centurion in the Italian Regiment “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.” Gentile Because of his office patient, courage, builder A sign of the Kingdom is the preaching of the Gospel to the poor: Luke 4. 18  “The Spirit of the LORD is on Me,     because He has anointed Me     to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners     and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, * This is Obviously Close To God’s Heart God hears our prayers and our giving to the poor comes up before the LORD. Thanksgiving. Don’t make something spiritual into something political. There is a lot of politicization of caring for the poor. What I mean by that are political parties using the poor for their own advantages. If they are seemingly neglected by one then the other says the other side is evil. My question this morning to them and to you is, “What have you done for the poor lately?” Jesus left this in the church’s hands not Rome or any other government. This is life in the Kingdom of God. So what have you done personally in this regard? If your answer is nothing, then I would ask you why not? No condemnation, He gently speaks to us. This is a message on giving but it will be up to you how and where you respond. We do not have a program we are pushing or a scheme in mind. This is the Word of God. I never want to limit His work in your hearts by a scheme of mine. * Jesus had something to say about the poor. Jesus said, “The poor you will always have with you and you can help them anytime you want.” Mark 14.7 We will not eliminate poverty. Nice thought: Eliminate world hunger but never has happened. Many reasons for this. Greed is one. No delusions or visions of grandeur. Just simply helping the poor Anytime we want. Any time you desire and resolve to. When the LORD leads us. When we hear of a need. Twice a week here in the parking lot. Those who have seen the little God is enabling us to do around the world and want give. The poor. Are they spiritually poor or literally poor? They are first the literal poor. Those who have to resort to begging, no money. Second they are the rich who are spiritually poor. destitute of the Christian virtues and eternal riches, Lost souls 5:30 this morning in Bangladesh It is the first sign mentioned! Cornelius was already living in Kingdom Come. I pray this message strengthens and encourages you. Cornelius was further ahead than many professing Christians in the United States! * Jesus was among the poor. He was rich but for your sake He became poor so that through His poverty you might become rich. II Corinthians 8.9 Spiritually He had no place to lay His head. Luke 9.58 Homeless, Penniless He left Heaven’s wealth for a life of poverty on Earth. Philippians 2 Does not mean he was not “At home” with the rich. Matthew’s home, Martha, Mary and Lazarus Nicodemus, Joseph of Arimithea The Rich Young Ruler set his own boundaries. I want eternal life but I want my riches. You cannot serve both God and money. Thankful for my Dad, Bob Pawson, John Stark… Pastor Rapalje. These men worked hard but served the LORD with their talents. They loved God and His Kingdom. They did not seek a kingdom for themselves. Their legacy in part is this church building we enjoy… for future generations… us! And if Jesus tarries beyond our time. Photos of church being built We will stand before Jesus one day with these words… Matthew 25.31-46 An offering for the church at Jerusalem II Corinthians 9. 12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the Gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! The dynamic of Christian Giving Kenyan Church roof * The Blessings of Giving To The Poor II Corinthians 9. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor;
    their righteousness endures forever.” Luke 6.38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Proverbs 19.17 Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done. Bangladesh hungry children photo Colossians 2.7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Mm,kk These gifts to the poor and needy are noted by God. In Cornelius’ case they were a Memorial before the LORD. Gifts to the poor are a partnership with God. It brings peace. Give to the poor Do it quietly. Do it as God moves on your heart Do your research. Give.

When Saul of Tarsus Was Apprehended

When Saul of Tarsus Was Apprehended Acts 9.1-19 This was a long trip of 135 miles from Jerusalem to Damascus. Saul was on a mission. His mission was to rid this earth of the Disciples of Christ, the Sect called “the Nazarenes.” He was determined. It was futile. He did not realize Who he was fighting. He was about to find out! It is fascinating how God works in our individual lives. Each one of us has a story which is uniquely ours. As I look back over my life I see the Hand of God. He was with me since I was born. When I was born again I came to Him of course and throughout my journey. I was very zealous for the LORD. I still am. Things wrong with God’s people bothered me deeply… still do. Some have said to me, “Why are you concerned about that?” I cannot help it. If it involves people there is a deep concern, even more so with the family of God. I can understand Saul. He was zealous for his faith, the Hebrew faith, what we know as Judaism. He saw the Way as a threat to his religion. He however didn’t heed to his own teacher’s advice: Acts 5. 33 When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. 34 But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. 35 Then he addressed the Sanhedrin: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. 36 Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. 37 After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. 38 Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. 39 But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.” That is exactly where Saul of Tarsus found himself, fighting against God! That is not in a position you nor I would ever want to be in. Jacob contended with God on Peniel. You are not going to win as limping Israel discovered. The wisest thing you can do is to surrender to the LORD. Some just seem to want to contend. I never understood that. Contentious people. We have talked a few weeks ago about Paul’s accomplishments but here is his bio again: Philippians 3.4 If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more:5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. Spurgeon said, “Paul, had a very high estimate of his own character.” 7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my LORD, for Whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ. Saul was breathing out murderous threats against the followers of Jesus. This was about to change… in a moment v.3 The phrase "Christ Jesus apprehended me" from Philippians 3:12 refers to the moment when Christ took hold of Paul, capturing his attention and setting him on a path of faith. It's a forceful image, implying a powerful and transformative encounter where Christ laid claim to Paul's life. This experience is described as a taking hold, and an overtaking, highlighting the initiative that Christ took in Paul's salvation.  * The Encounter With Jesus Christ. vs.4-6 It was from Heaven. Always is! Born from Above Those 30 men and women who came to Christ on Tuesday Evening in Bangladesh and were given Bibles were told that their names were written down in Heaven after they prayed. Photo Our faith is a change within, a new heart. He was living outwardly in line with the law but in his heart there was murder. It was personal. Remember what we said last week? All the sacraments are personal, very personal Coming to Christ is as well. Nicodemus, the Woman at the well in Samaria It was life changing. Without fruit, a life change, I doubt if it has taken place! People are getting baptized in sin, many professions, wait for the moral and spiritual impact. The question for the ages :”Who are You, LORD?” This is the most important question you will ever ask. Some think it is, “Will you marry me?” Paul had to be married to be a Pharisee. His wife either died or more likely she left him when he became a Christian. He gave up everything for Jesus. The LORD became his LORD. * The Obedient Response. vs.7-9 Note this was arresting, immediate and a total change of direction and purpose. How quickly the transaction was made. God blinded him. Three days of rest, not being to do anything. Humbling and necessary. Time to think… what happened. What this means. Saul of Tarusus got hit by God’s wrecking ball Jesus fasted 40 days in the Desert. Have you thought about that lately? The Creator hungry. He was blind, the same time Jesus was in the tomb and Jonah was in the belly of the great fish. The obedient ask directions. Here am I LORD, What will You have me do? To know Jesus comes from repenting. To know Christ better leads to submission. * The Words of Encouragement, Baptism, Healing and Baptism With the Holy Spirit. vs.11-19 Saul’s conversion was dramatic and emotional. His whole direction had changed. When we come to Christ we head in different direction…an about face. He and Brother Ananias did not neglect the things we all need to do. Have you believed? Have you received the Holy Spirit since you believed? Is He presently gushing forth from you? (John 7) Are you in need of healing? Physically Emotionally The group in India on Thursday Morning Bangladesh orphans We all need to encourage new believers. Not put heavy weights on them. Rejoice with them. Gently instruct them. When I came home from First Grade, Mrs. Pirone with a sticker for addition my Mom had me show my Dad in the eating area of the little,bungalow in Bellmore. My Dad got excited and started to show me subtraction. My Mom said, “Wait! He just learned addition. He did a good job. Don’t rush him.” We don’t need to rush new believers… gently instruct them. The apprehension of Saul to become Paul, the Apostle was so important. He was to be a light to the Gentiles, our Apostle. 15 But the LORD said to Ananias, “Go! This man is My chosen instrument to proclaim My name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. A most unlikely choice: This a way of God. He chooses the most unlikely Abraham and Sarah beyond age to have a baby. Jacob the heel grasper Moses to lead the children of Israel to the Promised Land. He was slow of speech. Joshua, at 80, leading them in. David, the shepherd boy to kill Goliath and become king over Israel. The shepherd did what the army of Israel could not. The Disciples, ignorant and unlearned men. Me, speech impediment, remedial reading, not an “A” student You… Paul the apostle wrote to the Church at Corinth… I Corinthians 1. 26 For consider your calling, brothers, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; 27 but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, 28 and the insignificant things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are,29 so that no human may boast before God. 30 But it is due to Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, 31 so that, just as it is written: “Let the one who boasts, boast in the LORD.” God was going before him. Next week we will see Cornelius led to the LORD by Peter. First Peter had to be led to Cornelius. This will greatly help Paul on his mission. There was not a more unlikely Jew! He was a Hebrew of Hebrews! A Pharisee! He was going to leave all that to bring the Gospel to the non Jews, the Gentiles, those the Jews considered dogs… they worked hard at making converts to Judaism of them. Now the Apostle would proclaim that circumcision doesn’t matter! That Christ fulfilled the law. He was going to suffer greatly. This new creation is not in what you know. Although we should marinate ourselves in the Word. What matters is Who you know. Do you know Jesus? If you do.. Mostly let them see how you live. You are living epistles. Questions will come from your godly lives. Maybe, like Saul, you are a religious person, sincere, strict but you have not been apprehended by Jesus. This could be your moment when you give up your religious life and become an instrument in God’s Hands… His chosen instrument to reach a whole segment of society, of the world for which Christ died for. You will be a witness because of your love for Jesus.

The Result of the First Martyrdom

The Results of The First Martyrdom Acts 8..1 And Saul approved of their killing him. The Church Persecuted and Scattered On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2 Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. 3 But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison. 4 Those who had been scattered preached the Word wherever they went. The surest way to make something grow is to persecute it. 4 Those who had been scattered preached the Word wherever they went. I imagine there are some that look at this and say this is horrible. These poor people lost their homes. I would imagine there were some that were being persecuted say, “What is God doing?!” What they were doing, was fulfilling the words of Jesus, that they would be His witnesses in Jerusalem in all Judea and Samaria. Often when God is at work, His people are not cognizant of what He is doing. He is riding out His purposes of the activities of sinful human beings. Why would God do such a thing?! Because He is God. He is in control. People who say that He is not have a narrow view. They need to read their Bibles. He gives us free will. We make choices. God overrules. He works out His Sovereign will. I hope you will see today that in this portion of Scripture we see God’s man home in Heaven and God’s purposes being accomplished. It is a win win for the LORD. We think, “Poor Stephen.” When actually it is “Blessed Stephen.” There is nothing better than Heaven. His ways are higher than our ways…. Beyond our finding out. Isaiah 55.8-9 in the specifics but we can learn of His Ways in Principle. Teach me your ways Psalm 25.4 He is at work in your life today, even in the midst of confusion and the stormy blast. Trust Him. You are going to have to. You don’t have any other choice! About God’s ways… Jesus was born in Bethlehem because of the census. Humanly speaking. From our understanding. It was God riding out His purposes on an Emperor’s whims. I have observed in my life the Hand of God at work… and others. These believers probably would’ve never left Jerusalem had it not been for Stephen being stoned, becoming a first martyr of the church. They probably would’ve stayed there in Jerusalem and the sect called the Nazarenes (Acts 24.5) would have grown, but the world would never have heard. God allowed the persecution to come to get them out of the city. He had told him to stay in the city. And then He said, and when you are filled with the Spirit, you’ll be my witnesses all over the Earth. God often uses things that we think are against us to accomplish his work. The Pastors Conference in Kenya on Friday (photo) Power out delayed. Gave me more time to quiet my heart. It was good. The world doesn’t hear the Good News because God’s people like it where they are! His sovereignty has been expressed by some in salvation. Our Calvinist friends: You cannot lose your salvation… You need a much bigger view of God’s Sovereignty. It is over Heaven and Earth. It goes into nations and historical events. Jesus said that All authority in Heaven and on Earth has been given to Him… Therefore name and claim your blessings Therefore eat, drink and be merry Therefore have Great Bible Studies Therefore find a church that you love… No He said therefore go and make disciples of all nations. Peter, “LORD, let’s stay here, build three tabernacles..” He didn’t know what he was talking about. We need to see it in our lives today. God is at work. All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be. 139.16 * The Persecution 3 But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison. This was a house to house search. Children watched their parents taken away. Just when they thought this was horrible what happened to Stephen, now they are coming for them. Saul was out to totally destroy the church. Mao Tsa Tong was as well. Both Saul and Mao, in their desire to destroy the church and scatter it launched great missionary movements. The Word was preached all the more. Saul was feared. He had letters from the Chief Priests. He was an enemy. He was about to become a believer and an Apostle! An Apostle to the Gentiles! Next week. God is at work. It did not seem so when they were running for their lives but He was. He always is. * The Scattering China Mao noted how the Christians needed the fellowship so he sent the Christians away from each other. He scattered them throughout China and launched a great missionary movement that continues in China to this day! The scattering here in the Book of Acts fulfilled the words of Jesus in them being witnesses in Judea and Samaria. Saul was out to kill them. God was using his efforts to get them out of Jerusalem . The Persecution led to a house to house search through Jerusalem where many were coming to the faith and pushed them out to Judea and Samaria. Saul did not know it at the time but he was going to be used by the LORD to bring the Gospel all over the Roman Empire, right into Caesar’s Palace! He was being used to get the believers where God wanted them. You cannot take on God and win. In this Kingdom you win by surrender. You defeat your enemies by love and you forgive everyone. You have no idea what God might do in your life with the spread of the Gospel to all nations! He is calling you look and nations and watch and be utterly amazed. You may think but I am retired, I am not able to travel. In this time. you do not need to travel to go! You can but it all begins with prayer. * The Preaching of the Word v.4 Scattered, they preached the Word wherever they went Proclaiming the Word which became flesh, died, buried and risen! The primacy of preaching the Word, proclaiming Jesus crucified, buried and risen. They continued in the Apostle’s doctrine They were devoted to it even when life uprooted them, in the loss of their homes.. I believe the Promise of Jesus applies Mark 10. 29 “Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for Me and the gospel 30 will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life. I am sure conversations when something like this: so you guys moved from Jerusalem? Why did you move? That gave them the opening to preach the Word. It was the same thing when Mao moved all the Christians away from each other in China and they went to different cities. They were scattered because of the Gospel. Why did you move here? Answer: because of the Word of God! Revelation 1. 9 I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and Kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, 11 which said: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum,Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.” How different from today! Moving because of the weather, lower taxes, to be near family, are very promises of Jesus to take care of us, and to move with the Spirit and that would include persecution.

The Stoning of Stephen

The Stoning of Stephen (A Martyr Mindset) Our greatest losses are our greatest gains if we see things from God’s perspective, from His Word. Acts 7. 54 -60 54 When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit,looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.56 “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” 57 At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him,58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul. 59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “LORD Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “LORD, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep. The Religious leaders are furious. Religious leaders are not always spiritual leaders. Spiritual leaders do not gnash their teeth. They do not yell at the top of their voices. They do not kill people. Be assured if you are not old and have not yet seen it, over the next 40 years you will see men whom are supposed to be spiritual leaders in the Kingdom of God do some very dark and ugly deeds. So many things were going on here. We see… * The First Martyr The Greek word for witness is martyr (martoos) One who gives his life for the faith. Our lives, our reputation, what people think of us, our “good standing” in their eyes. Being a martyr means we do not count our life as precious but offer it up to the LORD. Being a martyr means that our lives match up to Jesus’, Who gave up everything in obedience to God, the Father. When you share the love of Jesus, witness for Him, and you do not care what people say about you or do to you, you are a martyr. If they kill you, you get a martyr’s crown. (Revelation 2.10) Stephen’s name means “crowned.” Stephen led the way in following Jesus. Jesus predicted this to happen. Matthew 24.9 Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of Me. John 16.1 “All this I have told you so that you will not fall away. 2 They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. 3 They will do such things because they have not known the Father or Me.4 I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you about them. I did not tell you this from the beginning. This could very well be true of our time on earth. I don’t know why we doubt. The more we witness for Christ, ask people what they think of Him, the more His words of instruction and prophecy regarding persecution and being hated for His sake will come about. The seed will produce 30, 60, 100 times what is sown. It seems that the condition of America is in that third type of soil and the plants it produced. Mark 4. 18 Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the Word; 19 but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. * the worries of this life * the deceitfulness of wealth (if I just have enough, if I had security until the day I die, pleasure, travel) * the desires for other things come in The love of the world, money, fortune, fame, relationships A good way to overcome doubt is to have “a martyr mentality.” Esther had this. “If I perish, I perish.” I love it! I am going to do what is right no matter what happens to me. Bonhoffer, Luther, John Knox, Prophets, Jesus Those who have gone on mission trips will experience what Jesus said in Mark 10. 29 “Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for Me and the gospel 30 will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life. I was shocked when it happened but more shocked over who was saying it. I have not resisted to the shedding of my own blood like Jesus and Stephen and Peter and Paul and those in that 10/40 Window who will die today. Today Voices of the Martyrs Map Website Philippians 1.21 For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain. This expresses the idea of that the followers of Christ have a life is entirely dedicated to serving and living according to Grace, teaching that death is not something to be feared but a transition to greater gain. Philippians 2 The mindset of Christ Jesus, your attitude, your mind Let this mind be in you that was also in Christ Jesus. * Precious in the Sight of the LORD is the death of His Saints. Psalm 116.15 His first martyr He stood up to welcome home Jesus prayed, I want the ones You have given me Father to be with Me. John 17.24 Father, I want those you have given Me to be with Me where I am, and to see My glory, the glory You have given Me because you loved Me before the creation of the world. Please note Stephen did not cling to this life. He didn’t protest his own death. He quietly and with deep faith submitted to his own death. He saw into Heaven. * God was working in the Heart of a Head Strong Pharisee,Saul Philippians 3.4 If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more:5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. 7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in[a] Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. The Apostle Paul (formerly Saul of Tarsus) desiring to follow Jesus into his own death. This was after he saw the death of Stephen. We are so tied into this world. We have been made and recreated for another world, for Heaven. The upward mobility has not been good for our faith. Those in developing nations have strong faith. I have been with many many people when they have died. I always am in awe when believers make that transition. John Wesley observed, “God’s people die well.” Now if they are suffering, being sawed in two they will experience pain, but the peace of God surrounds the room. My brother, Mark, died in pain but immediately after his death in his home two deer went running down Riverside Drive, just as stately as you could imagine. One of his favorite songs were, “As The Deer Panteth For The Water.” In that moment he was with Jesus. Many of you have similar stories. Saul of Tarsus seeing Stephen die deeply affected Him. Stephen was seeing beyond this life into eternity. How we need this view as well. We have so much interference here. When I was a kid, before cable television and high def, we had an antenna. We had some ham operators in the neighborhood. We would have static on the TV. The picture would get fuzzy and the sound would be drowned out. Kids today know nothing about that. It is not easy to break through the interference. If we quiet ourselves before the LORD, we can gain that perspective. I tell you one way you will not get it and that is running from one thing to another. Be still no know that I am God. After the prayer meeting on Wednesday, Diddi said to me, “Churches need to pray. So few are.” Wednesday at noon, Thursday at 7:30pm and Saturday at 7am are times of scheduled prayer for us. Come.if you can’t come you can join us online on Wednesdays. Pray. Photo * Intercessory Forgiveness 59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “LORD Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “LORD, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep. Imitating Jesus “Father, forgive them. They do not know what they are doing.” O to get to that place in our lives. Not fighting back. Not ignoring them But praying for those who do things against us. Matthew 5. 43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. The LORD has placed you in an interesting place if you have people who hurt you that you can pray for. You can intercede for their forgiveness before the Father like Jesus and Stephen did. You shall be My martyrs. Have that mindset Let this mindset be in you that was also in Christ Jesus.

The Wedding At Cana of Galilee

The Wedding At Cana of Galilee John 2.1-11 Very early in Jesus’ ministry, three days into it, He, Andrew, John, Peter, Nathaniel, Phillip were invited to a wedding. First Century weddings in Israel... Whole town, not a list of selected people. It was a party for all to celebrate 6 days Feasting Far East still that way I was asked to go to one, being told there would be 4,000 guests. You are getting the picture. The whole village of Cana and families from Nazareth were invited. Cana of Galilee is a small town. Estimates of 300 residents at the time of Christ. First time, second time from the Sea of Galilee on our way to Nazareth. Thanking me for stopping. Very meaningful. Our guide was a young Israeli woman. It was Purim. She took a train back each night to Tel Aviv to party with her friends. She was always in a hurry so she would not miss the train. Cana was a small village. Jesus did His first miracle in an out of the way place, for people who remain nameless. Since Jesus and Mary were there it probably was one of their relatives. There is more, much more, in this account. We see... 1. The Sanctity of Marriage. vs.1-2 Jesus, by being there, showed its sanctity. Second Chapter of John. Second Chapter of Genesis. Early in Creation. Early in Jesus’ Ministry Genesis 2.15 The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. 16 And the LORD God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17 but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.” 18 The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” 19 Now the LORD God had formed out of the ground all the wild animals and all the birds in the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. 20 So the man gave names to all the livestock, the birds in the sky and all the wild animals. But for Adam no suitable helper was found. 21 So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping,  He took one of the man’s ribs and then closed up the place with flesh. 22 Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib He had taken out of the man, and He brought her to the man. 23 The man said, “This is now bone of my bones     and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’     for she was taken out of man.” 24 That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. It is interesting that both Genesis and John open their books with the words... In the beginning... God... the Word Then the second chapter there is a wedding! A marriage. Marriage and the family is the cornerstone of societial order. The home is where discipline is learned. It is interesting to me how even among those far from God they realize this fact. Even when secular pagan godless weddings take place there is still a submission to these words in Scripture. Of course there is  2. The Miracle Unexplainable Emma, 15 years ago... I had a young theologian I worked with a few years ago. Her name is Emma. She was also my granddaughter. When she was  6 years old we watched a movie about Jesus based on the Gospel of Luke. It did not contain this miracle of course. She wanted to see this miracle so I put one with it in it. We walked home that evening and she asked me, "Poppa, how did Jesus turn that water into wine?" I answered, "I don't know Emma. That's part of it being a miracle." And we both wondered about the One Isaiah said would be called Wonderful. Miracles are happening. Several of you have been touched by the LORD in unexplainable ways. Some people cannot see. They are blinded by their stubborn refusal. Or they don’t forgive so they do not know forgiveness. Orphans and starving people/ children are being fed and the Gospel is going out. Photos 3. The Servants Knew.  vs.5-9 v.8-9 the servants knew John knew too- He is the only one of the Gospel writers to record this miracle. His Gospel has been called the Gospel from the Eagle's Eye's view. He was very close to Jesus. In the following few chapters John mentions things, interviews if you will, that Jesus had with Nicodemus in Jerusalem (c.3) and with the woman at the well in Samaria (c.4) that the other Gospel writers omit. John was there on the spot with Jesus. At night when Nicodemus came and in the middle of the heat of the day when the Samaritan woman came to Jacob's well in Sychar. The fact is... The closer to the LORD you get, the more you see the wonders He performs. v.8-9 The eagle’s eye view What I get to see. Please continue to pray. I know God is doing something extraordinary. I am not sure all He has planned but I know that it is good, very good. All we are doing here is continuing in the Word and praying. Pastor Fabian from Kenya called last night. He is pastoring a church that needs a building. They have gotten heavy rains recently. Pray for him and his flock. Each task is dignified when it is done for Jesus. The servants knew... the Banquet Master did not. The secrets of the kingdom... Mark 4.11 The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. -Jesus He spoke this to His disciples. Nicodemus was struggling to understand, seeking... The disciples didn't fully until after Jesus rose from the dead. Then they knew! We are on this side of the Resurrection. We have understanding, insight into the Word of God, the ways He works, His Hand upon us. The servants knew the power of God. The servants knew Jesus could work miracles.  The servants knew Jesus' character. * He was not into making a spectacle of Himself. * He cares about people. * He saves the best until last. Servants of God can look back on a vast array of Divine Moments when God stepped in and worked. I am using this in my life when I come up against things that make no sense or when I am praying and there is no answer coming. Habakkuk struggled in his prayers at one point in his life. The nation was going down the tubes. He had been praying. God had seemingly been silent. In Habakkuk 1.2 "How long, O LORD, must I call for help, but You do not listen?"  Habakkuk found out that God was working even though it did not appear He was. Serving the LORD, wrestling through these issues, shows us God is working all things together for our good, for us because we are the called according to His Purpose. He is at work in your life and the things that concern you today. “O my lord, what are we going to do?” II Kings 6.15 Elisha v.9 and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew... The highest calling on this earth is to be a servant of God. These servants at the Wedding in Cana of Galilee became that in a moment. Jesus called them, gave them a specific task and they did it. He is calling people to be His servants today. We need to dwell on that for a few moments. God calls us to serve Him. He does wonders. We know it was not us. We give Him the glory. If you looked at this scene in 30 A.D. in Cana of Galilee, Israel you would look at the Banquet Master. That is who was overseeing and directing this wedding feast. He was kind of the Maitre' D of the 1st Century. It is interesting how so often we look at the person in charge. The activity among the servants and Jesus and His Disciples were where things were really happening. That is the way Jesus works! You would not have even heard of that little out of the way place called Cana of Galilee if it were not for Jesus.  He goes where needs are to help. Helen Wilk’s prophecy Rudy Migliore… invited me. After, “I think more was happening at your table than was happening on the dayas!” God often shows up with His servants, quietly. It is still so today. Go to the horrific disaster in Texas, North Carolina, New Mexico to today caused by the flesh floods. You will find relief efforts by Nazarene Compassion Ministries, Samaritan's Purse and The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team with its chaplains among other Christian groups and churches. Go to Bangladesh where Pastor Liton is feeding the orphans and leading them to Jesus. I was questioned this week about children coming to Jesus. I wanted to ask, “What are you doing to help?” I know they were doing nothing. If I did when they said, “Nothing.” Then I like my way better. Photos Go to any natural disaster world wide and it will be the same. Who is still sending food into Haiti, 11 years after the earthquake? Small mission groups like the one Diddi leads that To Haiti With Love merged with. Mission Haiti: Helping Kids Go to the local food pantry and it is run by the church or people from the church. All over the country today people who do not drive were picked up and brought to church by others. All these things manned by people who felt Jesus speak to them about serving. V.5 His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever He tells you." The Definition of a Servant is Just That! v.5 "Do whatever He tells you." Great advice! Godly counsel! Mary did not know what Jesus would do. She knew if anyone could help He could! Often we do not know what the LORD will tell us to do. Serving the LORD means doing whatever He tells us to do. The  directions Jesus gives us are very simple. "Fill the jars with water." "Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet." Go here. Go there. Speak to this person. Write this person a note. Jesus' followers follow Him and His Directions. Servants Get To See Things Others Don't. v.9 Special Moments as God works. God could do miracles in the sky. He chooses rather to work through our hands, the hands of His servants. In the most menial tasks like filling water jars He appears and does wonders. We watch Him move. Years ago when we had Thanksgiving Dinners we would see the LORD open hearts.  Each task is dignified when it is done for Jesus. The servants knew... the Banquet Master did not. us. Servants Can Look Back on God's Hand Upon Things. These servants never forgot what happened that day.  They never saw anything like this before! When God works in our lives those moments stand out. In John 14.11 Jesus is giving His Last Will and Testament to His Disciples before He goes to the Garden of Gethsemane to be arrested and the next day be crucified. He is speaking to them about things they have never heard Him say before.  He states, "Believe Me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves." Servants of God can look back on a vast array of Divine Moments when God stepped in and worked. Psalm 100.2 Serve the LORD with gladness... The most content people are those! Filled to overflowing with joy. The Servants Knew The power of Jesus Christ. The compassion of the Savior The joy of obedience Him! Finally a little math... When Jesus works He does the immeasurable or close to it. v.10-11 6 stone water pots/jars Let's say 3 were 20 gallons and 3 were 30. That would have been 150 gallons of wine or 600 bottles! There probably weren't that many people in Cana at the time! This was the first! The worldwould not have room for the books that would have to be written. Acts 1.1-2 All that Jesus began to do He is at work today. The kingdom of God is like a wedding banquet! Abundance, joy, adventure God bless each of you this LORD’s Day! Come and Dine 1. Jesus has a table spread
Where the saints of God are fed,
He invites His chosen people, “Come and dine”;
With His manna He doth feed
And supplies our every need:
Oh, ’tis sweet to sup with Jesus all the time! * * Refrain:
“Come and dine,” the Master calleth, “Come and dine”;
You may feast at Jesus’ table all the time;
He Who fed the multitude, turned the water into wine,
To the hungry calleth now, “Come and dine.” * 2. The disciples came to land,
Thus obeying Christ’s command,
For the Master called unto them, “Come and dine”;
There they found their heart’s desire,
Bread and fish upon the fire;
Thus He satisfies the hungry every time. 3. Soon the Lamb will take His bride
To be ever at His side,
All the host of heaven will assembled be;
Oh, ’twill be a glorious sight,
All the saints in spotless white;
And with Jesus they will feast eternally. Better and Better It keeps getting better and better until we arrive at the best