Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 4 -- 6

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Faithfulness in persecution (4:1-12). Disciples warned not to preach (4:13-18). How to combat threats (4:19-20,23-31; 5:29-32). Death by lying to Holy Spirit (5:1-11). Results of prayer, and . . . the ministry of the Word (6:4). A deacon full of faith and the Holy Spirit (6:1-6).
The church of Jerusalem expressed the spirit of love by the generous giving of their material resources. The multitude . . . that believed were of one heart. . . . Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them . . . and distribution was made . . . according as he (any) had need. . . . Barnabas . . . a Levite . . . Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the Apostles' feet (4:32,34-37). Devotion to the Lord, and a love for each other, permeated this congregation. Believers voluntarily sold their possessions and brought the money to be used for the ministry of the Lord. Barnabas' sacrifice undoubtedly greatly encouraged the congregation.

Then a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the Apostles' feet (5:1-2) while implying they were giving everything just as Barnabas had done.

This "generous" gift resulted in the death of Ananias and Sapphira. We need to consider why these two were judged so severely by God. The "possession" was theirs to dispose of as they chose, and all giving was voluntary (5:4).

The Holy Spirit led Peter to ask Ananias: Why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost (Spirit), and to keep back part of the price? (5:3). This question reveals that truthfulness is vital to our relationship with the Lord. Peter revealed that their hypocrisy went far beyond lying to others: Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God (5:4). It is of utmost importance that we consider our motives, both in giving and in worship.

All who refuse to give the tithe to further reach a lost world with the Good News should realize that God has said: Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed Me (Mal. 3:9).

But the good news is that we can all be a Barnabas and prove Me . . . I will . . . pour you out a blessing that there shall not be room enough to receive it. . . . And all nations (your mission field) shall call you blessed. . . . Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it (Mal. 3:10,12,16).

Thought for Today:

Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble (Ps. 41:1).
Word Studies:

5:2 being privy to it =b> knowing of it, she helped plan the deception; 6:11 suborned =b> influenced to do wrong, bribed.
Cross References:

For Acts 4:11: See Ps. 118:22. Acts 4:25-26: See Ps. 2:1-2.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Officials: Sen. Saxby Chambliss (GA) and Rep. Silvestre Reyes (TX) • Country: Laos (5 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Lao and French • Great suppression of all Christian activities • 58% Buddhist; 33% belief in spirits and ancestor worship; 2% Christian; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Recognize the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness and praise Him (Ps. 100:4-5).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:25

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 7 -- 8

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Stephen tells it like it is (7:1-53). This 1st Christian martyr gives us a glimpse of heaven (7:54-60). Follow the Lord's plan to tell the world: (1) He allows persecution (8:1-3); (2) Believers scatter sharing the Word as they go (8:4).; (3) Individuals hear Word and believe (8:12,27-38); (4) Preaching continues in all the cities (8:40).
Stephen could have avoided being stoned to death by being more "diplomatic" and saying what the Sanhedrin (6:12) wanted to hear. When confronted by the high priest and others who opposed Jesus as the Messiah, He made it clear that they were guilty of crucifying the Just One; of whom ye have been . . . the . . . murderers (7:52). In anger, they dragged Stephen out of the city, and stoned him (7:57-58).

Following the example of the last prayer of Jesus on the cross, as he was dying, Stephen prayed for his enemies: He kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge (7:60). Stephen's prayer undoubtedly was answered in part through one young man named Saul, who stood by watching and listening. If Stephen had not remained loyal to his Lord there might never have been a converted Saul to later become the Apostle Paul. In the spirit of our Savior's love, we too need to pray for the blessing of the love of God upon those who wrong us. One who seems to be our enemy may someday be saved if we remain faithful to the Lord by proclaiming His Word and then praying for our enemies just as Stephen did. After his death there was a great persecution against the Church . . . at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout . . . Judaea and Samaria (8:1). Instead of discouraging believers from telling how Christ died on the cross to save sinners, this persecution resulted in the first missionary movement. They that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the Word (8:4).

Just think! They could have gone into hiding or denied their faith. But this persecution was the will of the Lord to fulfill His command: Ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (1:. What at first would seem like a disaster to the early Christians was the will of God for spreading His Word. Our disappointments are often His appointments.

God sometimes uses persecution and difficulties from evil people to bring about the fulfillment of His will, as he did with the Apostle Paul. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Rom. 8:18).

Thought for Today:

For in the time of trouble He shall hide me . . . in the secret of His Tabernacle shall He hide me; He shall set me up upon a rock (Ps. 27:5).
Word Studies:

7:19 subtilly =b> shrewdly, treacherously took advantage; 7:51 stiffnecked and uncircumcised =b> stubborn, deaf to the truth, and unrepentant; 8:9 sorcery =b> witchcraft, magic arts.
Cross References:

For Acts 7:3: See Gen. 12:1. Acts 7:27-28: See Ex. 2:14. Acts 7:32: See Ex. 3:6. Acts 7:33-34: See Ex. 3:5,7-8,10. Acts 7:37: See Deut. 18:15. Acts 7:40: See Ex. 32:1. Acts 7:42-43: See Amos 5:25-27. Acts 7:49-50: See Is. 66:1-2. Acts 8:32-33: See Is. 53:7-8.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Dr. John A. Hash • Staff: Al Joslyn • Government Officials: Sen. Barbara Boxer (CA), Rep. Corrine Brown (FL), and Rep. Pete Stark (CA) • Country: Latvia (2.48 million) eastern coast of Baltic Sea in northeastern Europe • Major languages: Latvian and Russian • Religious freedom • 20% Protestant (mainly Lutheran); 20% Roman Catholic; 15% Orthodox; .9% Jewish; .4% Muslim; 43.7% Atheist/Agnostics/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord when you are oppressed (Ps. 102:8-13).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:25

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 9 -- 10

Highlights In Today's Reading:

A zealous man on an evil mission — to destroy the Lord's followers (9:1-2). When God calls, never underestimate His power to change even the vilest heart (9:3-18). The Church strengthened (9:19-31). Miraculous healings; many believe (9:32-42). The Lord clearly relates that Christ also died for the Gentiles (chap. 10).
Saul of Tarsus was a Jew and a Roman citizen by birth (Acts 16:37-38; 22:25-29). A devout Pharisee (26:4-5), he was determined to stamp out them which called on this Name (Jesus) in Jerusalem (9:21), seeing them as heretics deserving death. He was appointed by the high priest to go to Damascus looking for Christians who had fled Jerusalem, that . . . whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem (9:2). As Saul neared Damascus, suddenly there was an awesome bright light. Christ, the Light of the World (John 8:12; 9:5), confronted him with a powerful voice from Heaven: Saul, Saul . . . I am Jesus whom thou persecutest (Acts 9:4-5). When someone harms a Christian, Jesus Christ feels it (Matt. 25:35-40). He is moved with the feeling of our infirmities (Heb. 4:15).

Blinded, Saul was led into the city. Ananias, a faithful disciple of Christ in Damascus, also heard the voice of the Lord saying: Inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth (Acts 9:11). Saul, no doubt, had "prayed" many times. But he had not known Jesus as Savior, and the only Mediator between God and men (I Tim. 2:5).

Ananias, putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus . . . hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost (Spirit). And . . . he received sight . . . and was baptized (Acts 9:13, 17-18). Elsewhere, Peter, preaching in the home of Cornelius, a Gentile, said: To Him give all the prophets witness, that through His Name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins. . . .the Holy Ghost (Spirit) fell on all them which heard the Word (10:43-44). And Peter said: Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we (Jews)? And he commanded them to be baptized in the Name of the Lord (10:47-48).

After his conversion, Saul was convinced that all must accept Jesus as Savior. Each of us chooses what is most important to us — living to achieve personal goals or living to serve Jesus. Can we say with Paul: I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me (Gal. 2:20)?

Thought for Today:

He that doeth the will of God abideth for ever (I John 2:17).
Word Studies:

10:1 centurion =b> a captain of an Italian troop of 100 men; 10:3 ninth hour =b> 3 p.m, the usual hour of evening worship among the Jews.
Cross References:

For Acts 10:14: See Lev. 11:4; 20:25; Deut. 14:3,7. Acts 10:34 See Deut. 10:17. Acts 10:38: See Is. 61:1-3.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Staff: George Kopchak • Government Officials: Gov. Ernie Fletcher (KY), Sen. Jack Reed (RI), and Rep. Diane Watson (CA) • Country: Lebanon (4.3 million) in the Middle East • Major languages: Arabic and French • Limited religious freedom • 55% Muslim (Shi'a, Sunni); 41% Christian (Maronite, Orthodox, Melchite, Protestant, Chaldean, Assyrian, Syriac); 3% Druze; 1% Others (Jewish, Baha'i, Alawi, Jehovah's Witness) • Prayer Suggestion: Bless the Lord for your redemption (Ps. 103:4).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:25

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 11 -- 13

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Proof from heaven — Jesus died for all (11:1-18). Use Peter's defense: 'God said it and I'm not arguing with Him' (11:17). Persecution spreads the Gospel (11:19-26;12:24). Notable fact (11:26). Two die, one lives: James martyred (12:1-2); Herod 'consumed' (12:20-23), Peter lives (12:6-19). Paul's 1st mission trip (chap. 13).
About the time of the famine, Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church (11:27 — 12:1). And the Jews . . . raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts (13:50). Young Christians and sometimes some of us older ones as well have gone out of our way, often including finances as well as time, to help someone who we just knew was deserving; we "knew" they would be grateful. Instead, to our surprise, they were not thankful, and even criticized us.

Well, the Apostle Paul had some words of "encouragement" after he went to Damascus. He was determined to persecute Christians but, on his way, was miraculously saved. Now his foremost desire was to let everyone in the world know how wonderful it is to be a Christian. But the disciples in Jerusalem were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple (9:26). Even years later, in the church in Corinth that he organized, some of the leaders there said his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible (II Cor. 10:10). What a pitiful disappointment when he may have expected as the founder of the church to receive a hero's welcome. It seems that wherever Paul went the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and (poisoned) their minds . . . against the brethren (Acts 14:2).

This way of life is illustrated when the Lord told the apostles to get in their boat, and go to the other side. You would expect that the disciples would have had the wind carrying their sails leisurely in the direction of their destination; but instead, in the midst of the sea. . . . He saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them (Mark 6:47-48).

The fact is the winds of life's opposition often are contrary winds in our families, in our churches, and in our social lives; and they often come, when like the disciples, we are striving to reach the other side, desiring to be a blessing. But often we face powerful stormy winds of opposition and everything seems to be against us. The surprise is that Peter could see Jesus in the storm (Matt. 14:28).

The amazing thing is the wind ceased (6:48-51). In the midst of the storms of life, Jesus is waiting to say: Be of good cheer . . . be not afraid (Mark 6:50).

Thought for Today:

My soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decket himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels (Is. 61:10).
Word Studies:

12:1 Herod =b> Agrippa I, King of Judea, grandson of Herod the Great (Luke 1:5); to vex =b> to trouble; 12:4 four quaternions =b> 4 guards of 4 soldiers each; Easter =b> Passover; 12:15 mad =b> out of your mind; 13:17 high arm =b> great power.
Cross References:

For Acts 13:22: See I Sam. 13:14; Ps. 89:20. Acts 13:33: See Ps. 2:7. Acts 13:34: See Is. 55:3. Acts 13:35: See Ps. 16:10. Acts 13:41: See Hab. 1:5. Acts 13:47: See Is. 49:6.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Country: Lesotho (2 million) within the east-central part of the Republic of South Africa • Major languages: Sesotho and English • Limited religious freedom • 43% Roman Catholic; 30% Protestant; 6% ancestor worship, divination, and spirit-possession cults • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy (Ps. 106:1).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:25

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 14 -- 16

Highlights In Today's Reading:

1st mission trip ends (14:27-28). Paul's 2nd mission trip (chap. 16). A call from Macedonia (16:6-10). Christians can have peace, joy, and a song in their hearts (16:22-25). Miraculous victory in Jesus (16:26-40).
After Paul was baptized by Ananias in Damascus, he wrote: Immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood. . . . but I went into Arabia (Gal. 1:16-17). Then he returned to Damascus certain days. . . . And . . . he preached Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God (Acts 9:19-20). Because of the hostility of the Jews, the disciples let him through a window in a basket . . . and (he) escaped (II Cor. 11:33). Paul went to Jerusalem and spake boldly in the Name of the Lord Jesus . . . but they went about to slay him (Acts 9:29).

Barnabas was moved by the Holy Spirit to go to Tarsus and bring Saul to Antioch (11:25-26). Sometime later, in the church there, as they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost (Spirit) said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away (13:2-3).

Wherever they went, they preached. . . . that through this Man (Jesus) is . . . the forgiveness of sins: And by Him all that believe are justified (13:5,38-39). . . . And . . . a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed (14:1).

Almost everywhere Paul traveled there was violent opposition by unbelieving Jews. When he was speaking at Lystra certain Jews . . . persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead (14:19). However, Paul rose up . . . and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe (14:20).

Later, the Apostle Paul made just a brief statement referring to his near death and extreme suffering, saying: We must through much tribulation enter into the Kingdom of God (14:22). There are "musts" in the life of every Christian and we should not be surprised that, following our best efforts to serve the Lord, Satan will seek to discourage us.

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy (I Pet. 4:12-13).

Thought for Today:

I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation (Hab. 3:18).
Word Studies:

14:2 made their minds evil affected =b> influenced them to be hostile; 14:8 impotent =b> weak, helpless, crippled; 15:10 yoke =b> burden.
Cross Reference:

For Acts 15:16-17: See Amos 9:11-12.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Beth Carlton • Country: Liberia (3 million) in West Africa • Major languages: English and more than 20 local languages of the Niger-Congo language group • Religious freedom • 41% ancestor worship and witchcraft; 21% Muslim; 13% Protestant; 2% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and praise God with a spirit of thankfulness for His goodness (Ps. 107:1,21).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:25

[Judy Harder]

   Bible Pathways

Sunday, November 15, 2009   

Read Acts 17 -- 19

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Preaching Jesus, Paul challenges the Greek worship of idols (17:16-17), false gods and philosophers (17:18-34). He leaves Greece and begins 3rd mission trip, sailing for Ephesus (present day Turkey) and Syria (chap. 19). After 2 years of Godly influence (19:10), wicked influences rise up and cause a riot (19:21-41)!
At the synagogue in Thessalonica, Paul, as his manner was . . . reasoned with them out of the Scriptures, Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs (had to) have suffered, and risen again from the dead. . . . And some of them believed (17:2-4). When the unbelieving Jewish leaders heard this, they created a riot.

Following a failed attempt to assault him, Paul traveled south to Berea. The Berean Jews were commended for being more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the Word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore many of them believed (17:11-12). After searching the Scriptures, the Berean Jews believed that Jesus was their Messiah. This should encourage everyone to diligently study all Scripture with a sincere desire to know all the facts. One cannot continue to read through the Bible without getting a deeper conviction of the unity of the entire Book. It was written by One Creator/Author through over 40 human authors over a period of 1500 years. We marvel at how each book is arranged exactly where it needs to be in order to portray His perfect plan and purpose for our lives.

As we continue searching the Scriptures, Christ is revealed beginning with the first prophecy of Him in Genesis 3:15; on through the five Books of Moses, the Psalms, and the Prophets. Then His life, death, resurrection, ascension, and second coming are recorded in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. We too will be convinced that Jesus was Christ (Acts 18:28).

With only one brief lifetime and no shortcuts to spiritual maturity, the Creator has provided one Book revealing what He expects us to know to be the person we need to be in order to accomplish the purpose for which He has created us.

Think how tragic it would be to fall short of fulfilling the will of God — wasting our few short years achieving material, social, and financial goals for self-gratification — but failing to achieve the purpose for which He created us.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth (II Tim. 2:15).

Thought for Today:

In God I will praise His Word, in God I have put my trust (Ps. 56:4).
Cross Reference:

For Acts 17:31: See Ps. 96:13; 98:9.
Word Studies:

17:19 Areopagus =b> the Athenian council which met on Mars Hill; 17:29 Godhead =b> the Trinity — God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. Bill Richardson (NM) and Rep. Ellen Tauscher (CA) • Country: Libya (5 million) in North Africa • Major languages: Arabic and Italian • No form of Christian witness to Libyans is permitted • 98% Muslim; 2% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for your adversaries (Ps. 109:4).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:26

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 20 -- 22

Highlights In Today's Reading:

One message (20:20-21). One destination (20:22). We all have a part in this job (20:28). Lift up the poor and weak; remember what Jesus said (20:35). Jerusalem and the brethren (21:15-25). People riot — Paul arrested (21:26-36). Paul's defense (21:39; 22:1-29).
After Paul spent two years in Ephesus (19:10), where mightily grew the Word of God and prevailed (19:20), the Holy Spirit impressed him to go to Jerusalem (19:21). Before going to Jerusalem, Paul called for the Ephesian elders at Miletus, saying: I go bound in the Spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost (Spirit) witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide (await) me. But . . . neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God (20:22-24). Paul could say this because of the power and presence of the Holy Spirit to whom he was fully submitted.

Paul reminded them and us: After my departing shall grievous (savage) wolves enter in among you . . . speaking perverse things (distorting the truth) . . . Therefore watch . . . And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the Word of His Grace, which is able to build you up (20:29-32). Although deceivers, grievous wolves, distort the truth, we can recognize them if we study the Word of His Grace.

The indwelling Holy Spirit enables us to withstand our trials and temptations. Jesus promised: I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you (John 14:16). What a joy to know that we are strengthened with might by His Spirit (Eph. 3:16) to live a victorious Christian life. The indwelling Holy Spirit also enables us to accomplish His will regardless of everchanging, adverse circumstances (Phil. 4:13). Thus we can respond in love to those who offend us. No opposition on earth can rob us of the peace God gives if we permit Christ to control our emotions. Christ also loved the Church (Eph. 5:25) and gave Himself for it. Christians should live to strengthen it. The Word of God is our unique source of strength, as well as our source of spiritual growth.

Spiritual growth takes place when we witness to others. That always involves giving of ourselves of what people really need — love, forgiveness, and understanding. True satisfaction in life comes as we realize, like Paul: It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).

Thought for Today:

The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost (Spirit) which is given unto us (Rom. 5:5)
Word Studies:

20:12 not a little =greatly; 21:15 took up our carriages =packed our baggage; 21:24 be at charges with them =pay their expenses.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Barbara Jean Loyd (retired) • Government Official: Gov. John deJongh, Jr (Virgin Islands) • Country: Liechtenstein (32,000) in western Europe • Major languages: German and Alemannic dialect • Religious freedom • 87% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Do not be fearful or live in dread of what might happen; trust the Lord to take care of you (Ps. 112:7).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:26  

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 23 -- 25

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Paul before a divided Jewish High Council (23:1-11). Kill the man of God (23:12-24). Jews demand his death before Roman rulers: (1) Felix, Roman governor (24:1-27); (2) Festus, new Roman governor (25:1-12); (3) King Agrippa, Roman ruler of Galilee (25:23-27).
When Paul arrived at the Temple in Jerusalem, the religious leaders were angered. To them he was a traitor to their Jewish religion. They stirred up all the people with false charges. This . . . man . . . teacheth . . . against . . . the Law . . . and hath polluted this Holy Place. . . . they had seen before with him . . . Trophimus an Ephesian (Gentile), whom they (mistakenly) supposed that Paul had brought into the Temple (21:27-29). Gentiles were allowed only in the outer court.

A quickly-gathered mob seized Paul, but Roman soldiers rescued him. Paul was allowed to speak to the Jews. But, when Paul mentioned his commission to go to the Gentiles, they violently erupted calling him an even greater traitor. They shouted: Away with such a fellow from the earth (kill him): for it is not fit that he should live (22:22)!

Felix unjustly kept Paul in prison for two years (24:27); then the Emperor of Rome appointed Festus to take Felix' place. The Jews again came to Caesarea urging Festus to try Paul in Jerusalem. As a Roman citizen, Paul could legally refuse to be turned over to the Jews. Then said Paul . . . to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest. . . . I appeal unto Caesar (25:10-11).

During his stay in Caesarea, Paul was tried before three powerful rulers of the Roman Empire, who listened to what he had to say about his faith in Jesus Christ. He faithfully reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come (24:25). Each of his judges had a different reaction as Paul spoke of the judgment to come. Felix, his first judge, trembled. At a later time, Festus, his second judge, exposed his indifference when he said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself (26:24)! And finally Agrippa, his third judge, said: Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian (26:28).

Like Agrippa (25:13 — 26:28), some are almost persuaded to accept Christ as Savior. Their consciences condemn them, but often they believe there would be a more convenient time to confess Jesus as Savior. Without realizing it, by putting it off, they actually have made a choice that eventually ends in eternal hell. God said there is only one wise time to repent and receive Christ as Savior Lord: Now is the day of salvation (II Cor. 6:2)!

Thought for Today:

The Lord is my strength and song, and He is become my salvation: He is my God, and I will prepare Him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt Him (Ex. 15:2).
Word Studies:

23:3 whited wall =hitewashed wall, meaning hypocrite (see Matt. 23:27); 23:23 third hour of the night = p.m.
Cross Reference:

For Acts 23:5: See Ex. 22:28.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Mike Moore • Government Officials: Rep. John Boehner (OH) and Sen. James Inhofe (OK) • Country: Lithuania (4 million) eastern coast of Baltic Sea in northeastern Europe • Major languages: Lithuanian and Russian • Limited religious freedom • 80% Roman Catholic; 5% Russian Orthodox; 1% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that one of the purposes of prayer is to glorify God (Ps. 115:1).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:26

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 26 -- 28

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Paul warns of danger but is ignored; shipwreck follows (chap. 27). Paul: Shipwrecked on Malta (28:1-10); witness in Rome (28:17-31).
Paul appealed his case to Caesar and Festus placed him in the custody of Julius, a centurion (officer) (27:1). He was to take Paul safely to Rome for trial before Nero, the Roman emperor. At the Port of Myra he found a ship sailing for Italy. Winds and storms made the journey very slow and dangerous. On reaching Fair Havens in Crete (27:, Paul urged them to stay there during the winter, warning: I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage; but the majority urged Julius to continue to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete (27:10-12).

After two perilous weeks (27:7) of furious hurricane winds beating upon them, their vessel was pounded to pieces off the coast of Melita (28:1). All hope that we should be saved was then taken away. Confidently, Paul . . . said . . . be of good cheer. . . . For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee (27:20-24).

None of the 276 aboard was lost (27:37,44). Although the shipwreck created severe physical and financial hardship, the Lord used these circumstances to allow Paul to witness to the passengers and to the people on the island. Many of the inhabitants of Melita were healed through Paul's ministry (28:7-10).

At Rome the following spring, Christians came out to meet Paul. He thanked God, and took courage (28:15). As a Roman citizen Paul was permitted to rent a house; however, soldiers were assigned to guard him (28:16).

Three days after Paul arrived in Rome, he called together the local Jewish leadership and explained: For the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain. . . . And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him. Paul persuaded them concerning Jesus, both out of the Law of Moses, and out of the Prophets (28:17,20,23).

At times, our life's voyage will face violent storms. It may seem that all hope that we should be saved is gone (27:20). But there will come a day, if we remain faithful, when we will see what God accomplished as a result of our trials. With Paul we can confidently say: I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake (II Cor. 12:10).

Thought for Today:

The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in Him (Lam. 3:24).
Word Studies:

26:5 most straitest =most exact, strictest; 26:7 instantly =earnestly; 27:7 under =close to, on the side sheltered from wind; 27:12 commodious =suitable; 27:30 under colour =under pretense; 28:2 barbarous people =foreigners, who don't speak your language well; 28:13 fetched a compass =circled around; 28:16 suffered =permitted.
Cross Reference:

For Acts 28:26-27: See Is. 6:9-10.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Bible Pathway Printer: Ambrose Printing Staff, Nashville TN • Country: Luxembourg (429,000) in western Europe • Major languages: Luxembourgish and German • Religious freedom • 84% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant; .1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Call upon the Lord in adversity, for He will hear (Ps. 116:1-4,8).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:26

[Judy Harder]

Read Romans 1 -- 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Paul's mission to preach the Gospel to the Romans (1:15-17). No excuse for not knowing God (1:20). God is angry at sin (1:18-32). God judges sin (2:1-16). Jews and the Law (2:17-29). No one is righteous; all have sinned (3:10,23). Redeemed through Jesus (3:22,24).
I have always been especially drawn to the church in Philadelphia. The Lord said: I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength (that word little caught my attention), and hast kept My Word (that's the real key), and hast not denied My Name (Rev. 3:. That has to be true. You can't be one day for the Lord and the next day unfaithful to Him.

Even though they had only a little strength, no man could shut their open door of opportunity. Isn't that great? And if you're really being honest with yourself, you don't have much strength (if any). The fact is, Jesus reminds all of us: Without Me ye can do nothing (John 15:5).

The Apostle Paul said: I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth (Rom. 1:16).

In Paul's day, the Church was despised, and often, after preaching the Gospel message, he had to flee for his life. Often he was stoned and left for dead.

It is comforting to read what Jesus said to the Church at Philadelpha even though they had only a little strength: Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man (or Satan with all his demons) can shut it (Rev. 3: — an open door because God has said: All things are possible to him that believeth (Mark 9:23).

Let us be determined that we will use our little strength of faith and continue on through that open door. We know that His all-sufficiency for all our necessities and for all our opportunities is assured: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Phil. 4:13). There's a wonderful comfort in this declaration.

When we, as Christians, wholly dedicate ourselves to Christ and reserve nothing for self, then we automatically are available. Once we recognize this truth it is then easy to recognize that it is the indwelling Christ who seeks to live out His life through us.

God does not gain pleasure from what we do for Him. On the contrary, He gains pleasure from what we allow Him to do through us. Christ in you, the hope of glory (Col. 1:27). Never forget what the prophet of old said: O Lord, I know that . . . it is not in man . . . direct his steps (Jer. 10:23).

Thought for Today:

Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered (Ps. 32:1).
Word Studies:

1:13 let hitherto =prevented; 1:21 vain =morally misguided, empty, worthless; 1:29 debate =strife; malignity =depravity of heart; whisperers =gossipers; 2:22 commit sacrilege =rob temples; 3:2 oracles =the Scriptures; 3:25 propitiation =satisfaction, reconciliation, appeasement; remission =orgiveness of former sins.
Cross References:

For Rom. 1:17: See Hab. 2:4. Rom. 2:24: See Is. 52:5. Rom. 3:4: See Ps. 51:4. Rom. 3:10: See Ps. 14:1. Rom. 3:11: See Ps. 14:2. Rom. 3:12: See Ps. 14:3. Rom. 3:13: See Ps. 5:9. Rom. 3:14: See Ps. 10:7. Rom. 3:15: Is. 59:7. Rom. 3:16-17: See Is. 59:7-8. Rom. 3:18: See Ps. 36:1.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Dan Murton • Government Officials: Rep. Gary Ackerman (NY), Rep. Jo Bonner (AL), Sen. Tom Harkin (IA), and Rep. Lamar Smith (TX) • Country: Macedonia (2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Macedonian and Albanian • strongly Orthodox country • 67% Macedonian Orthodox; 23% Muslim; 3% Catholic; 2% Protestant; 5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Know that God answers prayer (Ps. 118:5).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 16:26