Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 11 – 13

Highlights:

Jesus died for all who receive Him as their Savior and Lord (Acts 11:1-18). Peter's defense: "God said it" (11:17). Persecution spreads the Gospel (11:19-26;12:24). James martyred (12:1-2); Peter lives (12:6-19). Beginning of Paul's first mission trip (chap. 13).
The Jerusalem church had met early opposition by the Jewish religious leaders but, for the first time, Luke recorded persecution from the ruling civil authorities in Judea. King Herod (grandson of Herod the Great, who was the Roman-appointed king of Judea when Jesus was born) catered to public opinion. The popular response at the execution of James, the brother of John (Acts 12:2) and the son of Zebedee (Matt. 4:21), led Herod to seize Peter for execution also. Sixteen guards (Acts 12:4) had to answer with their lives for the safekeeping of this prisoner (12:19). No mob could force open the prison's massive gates. To judge by all outward appearance, Peter's fate was sealed.

His friends had no money to offer for a ransom. No attorneys were hired and no plea bargain was made with Herod. But, they could pray, so they prayed. Here we see the power of persevering prayer — prayer was made without ceasing of the Church unto God for him (Peter) (12:5). Even though the believers had been praying earnestly for Peter's release, they were amazed when their prayers were answered.

Herod the king and Peter the Christian stand as representatives of two distinct types of humanity. To the world, one was rich, strong, and powerful, and the other was poor, weak, and a prisoner. The contest between them seemed most unequal. But God heard the prayers for what seemed an impossible situation.

We often judge by mere human circumstances. If one has social position, wealth, and great ability, we think he is equipped for success. But the Lord seeth not as man seeth (I Sam. 16:7). Do we continue in prayer without ceasing (I Thess. 5:17)? With God, nothing is impossible, but apart from Him, our brightest prospects are only delusive dreams.

Never forget, dear friend; when God moves in behalf of His children, no obstacle is too great for Him. How easy it is for God to do what is impossible for man! And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible (Mark 10:27). And yet, how quickly one fails to acknowledge the ability of God to answer prayer for things which cannot be accomplished through human effort. Man does not need to visualize how God can bring about the answer to prayer. Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for Me (Jer. 32:27)?

Thought for Today:

Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth (Mark 9:23).
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.
Word Studies:

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

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Government Official: Gov. John de Jongh (Virgin Islands) • Country: Eritrea (4 million) in eastern Africa • Major languages: English and Tigrinya • Religious persecution • 51% Muslim; 40% Eritrean Orthodox; 4% Catholic; 1.5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Keep your mind on the Lord and trust Him; He will give you peace (Is. 26:3).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 14 – 16

Highlights:

Paul's first mission trip ends (Acts 14:27-28). His second mission trip begins (15:36 — 16:40). 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).
The Holy Spirit is mentioned about 60 times in the Book of Acts, which is sometimes referred to as the Acts of the Holy Spirit. Paul chose Timothy to go forth with him. . . . And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily (Acts 16:3,5). But Paul and Timothy were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the Word in Asia (16:6).

Paul, who had planned to preach at that time in the great cities of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), could have become discouraged. But he recognized that the Lord was instructing and guiding him. It was later that he had the opportunity to preach in Asia Minor (19:1-10).

When Paul turned toward Bithynia, once again the Holy Spirit led him to redirect his missionary journey. In a vision, Paul saw a man pleading: Come over into Macedonia, and help us (16:9). Paul recognized that the vision was from the Holy Spirit, who came to guide the development of the Church and the footsteps of its witnesses (8:29; 10:19; 11:12; 13:2,4).

The worldly-minded have their hearts set on better material things. This is in striking contrast to the Church in Jerusalem where as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold . . . and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need (4:34-35).

No one should always be seeking his own personal welfare, but rather let each one seek the good of others (see I Cor. 10:24). To illustrate: If a Christian has a home well above average in the nation, Satan will tempt his selfish nature to desire a better one — to never be satisfied. This was the nature of the rich farmer who planned to build bigger barns (Luke 12:18). Jesus called him a fool (12:20). He might have had a neighbor who was a beggar and had nothing.

As the footsteps of Paul, Barnabas, Silas, and others were directed by the Holy Spirit, so are those of all believers who accept and submit to His guidance. Let the absolute and unceasing dependence upon His presence prove that His leadership is all we need (Rom. 8:14; Gal. 5:16).

Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth (well-being) (I Cor. 10:24).

Thought for Today:

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh (Gal. 5:16).
Cross Reference:

For Acts 15:16-17: See Amos 9:11-12.
Word Studies:

14:2 made their minds evil affected, influenced them to be hostile; 14:8 impotent, weak, helpless, crippled; 15:10 yoke a burden.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Gloria Schmidt • Staff: Pam Murton • Country: Estonia (1.47 million) northeastern Europe • Major languages: Estonian and Russian • Religious freedom • 38.4% Protestant; 20.3% Orthodox; 1% Roman Catholic; 1% Muslim; .3% Jewish; 39% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Cry and pour out your soul in prayer in time of affliction (Is. 26:16).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     
Read Acts 17 – 19

Highlights:

Preaching Jesus, Paul challenges the Greek worship of idols (Acts 17:16-17), false gods and philosophers (17:18-34). He leaves Greece, returns to Syria, and begins his third mission trip, sailing for Ephesus (in Asia Minor, which is present-day Turkey) (chap. 19). After 2 years, all they which dwelt in Asia (Asia Minor) heard the Word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks (19:10). Wicked people cause a riot (19:21-41)!
The audience in Berea was not prejudiced like the one in Thessalonica. This is shown in their willingness to study the Scriptures to determine if Jesus is the promised Messiah.

The Bereans listened to Paul appeal to the highest authority — namely, the Old Testament prophecies. By a careful comparison of Scriptures with the facts of Jesus' life, Paul pointed out that Jesus of Nazareth fulfilled all the prophecies to remove all doubt that He is the Messiah. We wait for His return to fulfill all others.

The Berean Christians received this with all readiness of mind (Acts 17:11) and with a willingness to surrender all former opinions to the authority of the Scriptures.

All the books of the Bible are interdependent; none possess an unconnected revelation totally unrelated to the others. Even the twenty-seven books of the New Testament are based on those of the Old Testament, for there are 250 — 350 direct quotations and 2,000 — 4,000 allusions.

Furthermore, the Bible is the only inspired Word of God. Any addition or deletion would be uninspired. The Apostle Paul was led by God to write: Though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed (Gal. 1:. We should beware of putting as much confidence in other books as we do in the Bible.

Although the 66 books of the Bible were written by about 40 men over a period of 1500 years, it is One Book with One Author — our Creator — and it closes with: If any man shall take away from the words of the Book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the Book of Life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this Book (Rev. 22:19).

The function of a good book is to stand like a signpost, directing the reader toward truth as the author sees it. That book serves best which early makes itself unnecessary, just as a signpost serves best after it is forgotten, for the traveler has safely arrived. The purpose of Bible Pathway is to help the reader understand and turn his eyes toward the Book of all Books, the Bible, which reveals the Truth of God. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable (II Tim. 3:16; 2:15).

Thought for Today:

Jesus said to His tempter: It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God (Matt. 4:4).
Cross Reference:

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

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

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mary A. Tarjan • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Country: Country: Ethiopia (60 million) in eastern Africa • Major languages: Amharic and Tigrinya • Unsettled after overthrow of communist regime • 41% Eastern Orthodox; 35% Muslim; 10% Protestant; 10% animist; .7% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and praise God that the answers to your prayers are granted through the grace of God (Is. 30:19).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 20 – 22

Highlights:

One message (Acts 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).
Once the Holy Spirit made it clear to the Apostle Paul that he was to go to Jerusalem, he headed in that direction even though the Holy Spirit revealed he would be imprisoned and possibly put to death when he arrived. And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them. . . . I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, 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 (Acts 20:1,22-24). Fearing for his life, Paul's companions and other Christians who had assembled in Philip's house urged their beloved Apostle Paul not to proceed to Jerusalem (21:8-14).

The response of the believers was similar to that of Peter when our Lord said to His Apostles: I must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things . . . and be killed, and be raised again. Peter had reacted by saying: Be it far from Thee, Lord: this shall not be (Matt. 16:21-22).

With a determination resembling that of His Master, the Apostle Paul told his friends that death itself held no fear for him. One would naturally have expected Paul to be sad and occupied with his misfortunes. But Paul was not concerned about his personal life because of his love to please his Master.

Well-wishing friends will plead as did the church with Paul: "Surely, there must be some other way!" No, my friend, there is no other way to follow the Master.

The Holy Spirit was seeking to reveal that all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution (II Tim. 3:12) and if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him (2:12). Peter wrote: 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).

And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying,The will of the Lord be done (Acts 21:14).

Thought for Today:

I gave my back to the smiters. . . . For the Lord God will help me . . . therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed (Is. 50:6-7).
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 International Broadcasts in honor of the Lord • Staff: Rita Guerra • Country: Fiji (813,000) in the southwestern Pacific • Major languages: English and Fijian • Religious freedom • 41% Hindu; 40% Protestant; 9% Roman Catholic; 8% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Give praise to God that His Word will stand forever (Is. 40:.
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 23 – 25

Highlights:

Paul before a divided Jewish High Council (Acts 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).
Whatever motive Felix, the Roman governor, may have had when he summoned Paul to appear before him, he was aware of the intense hatred of some religious leaders who wanted Paul dead. But their hatred did not cause Paul to tremble or fail to witness for Christ — the very reason they had him arrested. Paul's purpose was not to defend himself or plead for leniency; his purpose was to tell the good news that Christ died for sinners. There is none righteous, no, not one. . . . For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:10,23).

From the Old Testament Scriptures, Paul confirmed Christ's Messiahship. He spoke to them of righteousness that could be received only by faith in Jesus Christ and how Christ alone could bestow within men that righteousness required by the Law. No man can produce it in himself (3:24-25; 8:1-4; Is. 64:6; John 15:5). And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of Me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness . . . at Rome (Acts 23:11).

Felix, this Roman judge, was summoned to preside in a matter which affected not only Paul but himself, for he was a guilty sinner. It appears that, at that moment, the Holy Spirit may have convicted Felix to repent of all his sins, but he said: Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee (Acts 24:25). He would postpone his own case as he had postponed Paul's. Let it be noted that whatever good intentions he may have had, the only "convenient" time is now. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation (II Cor. 6:2).

Tomorrow he promised his conscience,
Tomorrow I mean to believe.
Tomorrow I'll live as I ought to, Tomorrow my Savior receive.
Tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow, Thus day after day it went on.
Tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow, Till youth like a vision had gone.
Till age and its passion had written,
The message of "fate" on his brow,
And forth from the shadows came death,
With that pitiful syllable, "now."

Whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:15).

Thought for Today:

To day if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. . . . they could not enter in because of unbelief (Heb. 3:15-19).
Cross Reference:

For Acts 23:5: See Ex. 22:28.
Word Studies:

23:3 whited wall, whitewashed wall, meaning hypocrite (see Matt. 23:27); 23:23 third hour of the night, 9 p.m.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Bill Beach • Government Officials: Rep. John Boehner (Speaker of the House), Sen. James Inhofe (OK), Sen. Pat Toomey (PA), and Gov. Terry Branstad (IA) • Country: Finland (5.2 million) in northern Europe • Major languages: Finnish and Swedish • Religious freedom • 86% Lutheran; 1% Orthodox; 12% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Wait upon the LORD and He will renew your strength (Is. 40:31).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Read Acts 26 – 28

Highlights:

Paul warns of danger but is ignored; shipwreck follows (Acts chap. 27). Paul is shipwrecked on Melita (Malta) (28:1-10); his witness in Rome (28:17-31).
Although they were famous, Paul's two listeners, Festus and King Agrippa, were merely lost souls standing before God, resisting His Word. Paul testified how, before his conversion, he had opposed Christ and all Christians. He distinctly claimed he was as sincerely conscientious before his conversion as he had been since. Before Paul's conversion, he thought (ignorantly, of course) that in opposing, hindering, persecuting, and destroying Christians, he was actually doing God a service (I Tim. 1:13). This clearly points out that one's conscience is unreliable and is a dangerous guide unless it is enlightened by the Holy Spirit and instructed by the Word of God.

When Saul of Tarsus (later called Paul) raved against God, blasphemed Christ, and breathed out threats of slaughter against Christians, his contemporaries considered him both wise and prudent. But when Paul, the aged apostle, talked in sublime tones of a crucified and risen Savior, Festus, the Judean governor, declared that Paul was a radical who had lost his mind.

Today people who reject Christ as their Savior would agree with Festus that earnest and enthusiastic Christians, who base their present happiness and future hope of heaven on the resurrection of Jesus Christ, are foolish visionaries.

Paul then appealed to the king: King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest (Acts 26:27). Paul felt that Agrippa believed that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah of Israel and Savior of our world and that Jesus died for our sins according to the Scriptures (I Cor. 15:1-4).

Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. And Paul said, I would to God, that . . . thou . . . were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds (Acts 26:28-29). Agrippa's heart was touched, his mind was enlightened, and his spirit trembled on the verge of a decision for Christ — nothing was lacking but the decision. Sadly, countless thousands reach this position as did Agrippa and put it off without becoming altogether a Christian. To be almost saved is to be completely lost.

Andrew. . . . findeth his own brother Simon (Peter), and saith . . . We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. And he brought him to Jesus (John 1:40-42).

Thought for Today:

And he (Saul) said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest . . . And he . . . said, Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do (Acts 9:5-6)?
Cross Reference:

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

Pray for Staff: Ben Wallace • Government Official: Rep. Tom Reed (NY) • Country: France (59.1 million) in western Europe • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 80% Roman Catholic; 7% Islam; 1.22% Protestant; 1.18% Jewish; 1% Buddhist; .2% Orthodox; .2% Eastern Catholic; .2% Jehovah's Witness; 9% Other/None • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and depend upon the Lord when in need for He will not forsake you (Is. 41:17).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Read Romans 1 – 3

Highlights:

Paul's mission to preach the Gospel to the Romans (Rom. 1:15-17). The wrath of God is . . . against all . . . unrighteousness of men, who hold the Truth in unrighteousness (1:18). God judges it (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).
Sin cut off man's relationship with God. Genuine repentance is a fundamental requirement to saving faith. Sadly, today there are many who continue to commit some of these sins: Being filled with all unrighteousness (every kind of wrongdoing), fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate (quarreling), deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection (unloving), implacable (ruthless), unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them (Rom. 1:29-32). Some even say they believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, but their lives show no evidence of being transformed. This people honoureth Me (the Lord) with their lips, but their heart is far from Me (Mark 7:6).

Jesus said that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His Name among all nations (Luke 24:47). There will always be repentance where there is genuine faith. Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out (erased; wiped clean) (Acts 3:19). God . . . commandeth all men every where to repent (17:30).

The confession of one's personal sinfulness is the first step to all true repentance. The sincere believer never seeks to excuse himself or blame or compare himself with others but instead, like the publican, he cries out: God be merciful to me a sinner (Luke 18:13). Through the Holy Spirit, he is convicted in his heart and sees himself as a sinner in rebellion against God.

How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? . . . Knowing this, that our old man (unrenewed self) is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. . . . Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. . . . Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness (Rom. 6:2,6,12,16)?

Thought for Today:

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world (Titus 2:11-12).
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.
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 of sins that are past, forgiveness of former sins.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. Sean Parnell (AK), Rep. Gary Ackerman (NY), Rep. Jo Bonner (AL), Sen. Tom Harkin (IA), Rep. Lamar Smith (TX), and Rep. Tim Scott (SC) • Country: French Guiana (168,000) on the northern coast of South America • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 85% Christian; 9.5% non-Religious/Other; 2% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Amidst uncertainty, seek the guidance of God (Is. 42:16).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Read Romans 4 – 7

Highlights:

Before we "do right," we have to "be right" with the Lord (Rom. 4:16-25). Faith brings joy (5:1-2). Jesus transforms us from enemies to family and friends, from death to life (5:10,17). With sin's power broken (6:1-14), we are free to obey God (6:15-23).The battle between the flesh and the spirit (7:7-25).
The more we understand the various aspects of the death of Christ, the richer our experience will be of its power. Although believers are conscious of Christ's death on the cross for their sins, some pass over what it means that the body of sin might be destroyed (Rom. 6:6) in their lives. And some fail to recognize that His death also represents His life passing from them to help heal someone else.

The Christian who does not understand this always imagines that sin is too strong for him, that sin still has power over him, and that he can't help but obey it. It was the sins of mankind that caused Jesus the suffering and humiliation of the cross and resulted in His death. But in Christ, the Christian is now dead to sin; it has lost all rightful claim over him. He is entirely and forever freed from submitting to its power. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. . . . so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness (6:18-19).

The new life in the believer is the life of Christ triumphant over death (6:4). Believers, as new creatures in Christ Jesus, can say: "Like Christ, we are dead to sin." We believe the Word of God that: Henceforth we should not serve sin (6:6). Every Christian should be Christlike at all times and should recognize the exceeding greatness of the power of God. For He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us (Eph. 3:20).

However, to speak only of bearing the cross and of self-denial gives a one-sided view of following Christ. It is the power of His resurrection that gives us strength to face the trials of our faith (I Pet. 1:7). To some Christians who are unfamiliar with the Bible, their Christian experience is weak and they do not know Christ in the power of His resurrection (Phil. 3:10). His life now works with power in those who are willing, when the opportunities come, to forsake self-satisfaction to help others.

May the eyes of (our) understanding be enlightened to realize what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power, Which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places (Eph. 1:18-20).

Thought for Today:

Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy . . . be glory (Jude 1:24-25).
Cross References:

For Rom. 4:3: See Gen. 15:6. Rom. 4:7-8: See Ps. 32:1-2. Rom. 4:17: See Gen. 17:5. Rom. 4:18: See Gen. 15:5. Rom. 7:7: See Ex. 20:17; Deut. 5:21.
Word Studies:

4:8 will not impute sin no longer regards as a sinner; 7:8 concupiscence,  evil desires or lust; covetousness.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Audrey Hash • Government Official: Vice-President Joseph Biden, Jr. • Country: Gabon (1 million) in west-central Africa • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 66% Roman Catholic; 30% Protestant; 3% animism and ancestor worship • Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord in prayer, turn from your sinful ways, and God will have mercy and pardon for you (Is. 55:6-7).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:14

[Judy Harder]

Read Romans 8 – 10

Highlights:

The Law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law (control) of sin and death (Rom. 8:1-17). Nothing that Satan can do can separate us from the love of God (8:31-39). Gentiles also are called the children of the Living God (9:23-26,30). Whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved (10:9-10,13).
Through the convicting and illuminating power of the Holy Spirit, we are led to see how awful sin is (John 16:8-11). Only when a person recognizes that he is a sinner, unable to save himself and living in rebellion against his Creator God, will there be a godly sorrow that leads to repentance to salvation (II Cor. 7:10).

When we accept Christ as our personal Savior, we receive the spiritual nature of God. This enables us to be filled with and led by the Spirit of God. Christians will sincerely desire: That the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk (live) not after the flesh (in worldly ways), but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh. . . . the carnal (fleshly, earthly) mind is enmity against (hostile to) God: for it is not subject to the Law of God (Rom. 8:4-5,7). Consequently, if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify (put an end to) the deeds of the body, ye shall live (8:13).

Therefore, sin must not only be confessed, but also forsaken: If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (10:9-10).

True repentance results in a change of our heart attitude which will manifest itself in our becoming involved in a local church when physically able. Many people join a church, attend worship services, give generously, or even attempt to keep the Ten Commandments, as the rich young ruler did (Matt. 19:16-22; Luke 18:18-23). Many such people assume that good works are sufficient for entrance into heaven. But, they only express a form of godliness . . . denying the power thereof (II Tim. 3:5). God is concerned first with what we are, then with what we do for Him.

The likeness of Christ will be seen in us to the degree that we yield to the indwelling Holy Spirit and allow Him to reign as Lord of our lives, controlling our thoughts, words, and deeds. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God (Rom. 8:14).

Thought for Today:

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Phil. 4:13).
Cross References:

For Rom. 8:36: See Ps. 44:22. Rom 9:7: See Gen. 21:12. Rom. 9:9: See Gen. 18:10. Rom. 9:12: See Gen. 25:23. Rom. 9:13: See Mal. 1:2-3. Rom. 9:15: See Ex. 33:19. Rom. 9:17: See Ex. 9:16. Rom. 9:25: See Hos. 2:23. Rom. 9:26: See Hos. 1:10. Rom. 9:27-28: See Is. 10:22-23. Rom. 9:29: See Is. 1:9. Rom. 9:33: See Is. 28:16. Rom. 10:5: See Lev. 18:5. Rom. 10:6-7: See Deut. 30:12-13. Rom. 10:8: See Deut. 30:14. Rom. 10:11: See Is. 49:23. Rom. 10:13: See Joel 2:32. Rom. 10:15: See Is. 52:7. Rom. 10:16: See Is. 53:1. Rom. 10:18: See Ps. 19:4. Rom. 10:19: See Deut. 32:21. Rom. 10:20: See Is. 65:1. Rom. 10:21: See Is. 65:2.
Word Studies:

9:15 compassion, grace, mercy, gentleness, loving-kindness; 10:21 gainsaying, faultfinding, contradicting, opposing.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Gloria Schmidt; and in honor of Linda Kennon • Government Officials: Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY), Sen. Richard Durbin (IL), Rep. Chaka Fattah (PA), and Rep. Tom Rooney (FL) • Country: Gambia (1 million) in West Africa • Major languages: English and Mandinka • Religious freedom • 87% Muslim; 10% animism and ancestral spirit worship; 2% Roman Catholic; .7% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and call upon the Lord with assurance that He will answer if you pray with a godly spirit free from sin (Is. 58:9-11).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:14

[Judy Harder]

Read Romans 11 – 13

Highlights:

The mercy of God on Israel (Rom. 11:1-24). The mercy of God for everyone (11:25-32). A living sacrifice — just think, our hands, our feet, our mouth — all used for the Lord (12:1-2). Do things the way God says; it's always best (12:19-21). Respect authority, obey laws of the land, pay taxes, pay debts (chap. 13). He that loveth another hath fulfilled the Law (13:.
Many believers have dedicated their time, talents, and abilities doing the Lord's work but do not understand why their efforts are so fruitless. Others have forsaken the world but seem unmotivated and useless when an opportunity arises to serve the Lord. They may have gone too far with God to please the world but also have come short of truly pleasing the Lord. They are like Israel, who had faith to leave Egypt but rebelled and refused to enter the promised land on the Lord's terms. Such believers succumb to selective obedience and then an aimless "wilderness experience." I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Rom. 12:1-2).

We cannot present (our) bodies without offering our self life to be crucified with Him. Without passing through death to self-interest we have nothing to present, nor is there anything God can accept, for our Savior and Lord has condemned all that is of the self life: If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me (Luke 9:23).

Before Christ, an animal was required for a sin sacrifice. It had to be without blemish or it was unacceptable. It was only when it was presented on the Altar that it was considered a sacrifice and became acceptable to God. Just as the animal had to be slain, so there must come a death to the self life — the ego must be broken.

There is a spiritual principle that Christ gives special blessings only to the extent we allow ourselves first to be broken. The five loaves and two fishes were broken before they could be used to feed the multitude. It was not until Mary broke the alabaster box that its fragrance filled the house and blessed Christ.

There should come a time in our lives when we consider our whole life as belonging to Him. Then Christ becomes the center of our life. When some of John the Baptist's followers left him to follow Jesus, John said to those who remained: He must increase, but I must decrease (John 3:30).

Thought for Today:Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's (I Cor. 6:20).

Cross References:

For Rom. 11:3: See I Kin. 19:10,14. Rom. 11:4: See I Kin. 19:18. Rom. 11:8: See Is. 29:10. Rom. 11:9-10: See Ps. 69:22-23. Rom. 11:26-27: See Is. 59:20-21; Jer. 31:33. Rom. 11:34: See Is. 40:13. Rom. 11:35: See Job 41:11. Rom. 12:19: See Deut. 32:35. Rom. 12:20: See Prov. 25:21-22. Rom. 13:9: See Ex. 20:13-17; Lev. 19:18.
Word Studies:

11:14 emulation, jealousy; 12:9 dissimulation, hypocrisy; 13:13 rioting and drunkenness . . . chambering and wantonness, unbridled lust, immorality and indecency.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Country: Georgia (5.38 million) west and central Transcaucasia between Asia and Europe • Major languages: Georgian and Russian • Religious opposition to Christianity • 57% Georgian (and Russian) Orthodox; 21.2% Muslim; 5% Armenian Apostolic; .8% Catholic (Greek-Catholic); .5% Protestant (mainly Baptist); .5% Jewish; 15% Atheist/Agnostic • Prayer Suggestion: Confess and forsake all sin (Is. 59:12-13).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:14