1 Kings 1-2

Introduction

https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/kings/

1 Kings 1

David in His Old Age

Adonijah Sets Himself Up as King

Nathan and Bathsheba Before David

Solomon Anointed King

1 Kings 2

David's Instructions to Solomon

The Death of David

Solomon's Reign Established

1 Kings Introduction

 1 Kings Introduction

https://youtu.be/kqRrBbYTfaE

1 & 2 Kings form one book on Israel's history. But more importantly, they tell a story about death and life. In Kings, everything Israel hoped in as a nation fails them. The kings, the temple, the law, and the prophets are all unable to stop Israel's inevitable death. All the evil and failure of the kings point to the end of the story when Israel as a nation will die in exile. But the good news of Kings is that death is not the end. Throughout the story, God promises that the people of Israel will be raised back to life. This same hope extends to us in the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Psalm 33

Psalm 33:16‐21 (NIV): “No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength.  A horse is a vain hope for deliverance; despite all its great strength it cannot save.  But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine.  We wait in hope for the Lord; He is our help and our shield.  In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name.”  

    

One of the greatest vulnerabilities of Christians today is to approach career, struggles, and objectives out of their own strength – not relying on or trusting in God as the source of their success.  Trusting God does not relieve you of the responsibility of doing your best.  Trusting God and doing your best are two different issues.  2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”  God calls you to do your best and be capable in what you are doing, but your underlying position is to be called, led, equipped, sustained, and empowered by God.  Galatians 2:20 says, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me.”  

As a follower of Christ, you must always remember that it is not by your power, equipping, and tools that you succeed.  True success is found only through the Lord.  Your job is to keep your eyes on the Lord.  No matter how difficult or impossible the challenge, your hope is in God and not the circumstances.  Christ has secured your place for eternity; your place now is to be used by Him for His purposes.  1 Corinthians 15:57 says, “But thanks be to God!  He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”  God wants to pour His life into you each day.  Do not be an obstacle for His in‐pouring by relying on yourself and not Him.  It is in your moments of greatest need that God is closest.  Draw into Him and allow Him to pour into you!

2 Corinthians 12:9: “But He [Jesus] said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.”

Psalm 34

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Psalm 34:1 “I will extol the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.”  NIV

     

Praise for God your Father should be the easiest thing that flows from your heart and mouth.  The pure recognition of you not only being God’s creation, but also being the recipient of His love and grace through your redemption in Christ Jesus should flood your heart with praise for Him.  

Romans 5:8 say, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”  Your praise should not be limited to when you receive something from God, but praise Him for the reality that God Almighty even considers you.  Your praise should not be limited to when you come out of hard times, but just for the normal things in your life.  Your praise should not be limited to when you get a raise or promotion, but for the very job you have.  Your praise should not be limited to when God heals you, but for the very breath of life itself.  Praise should not be limited to

Sunday morning, but to every waking moment.  Praise is the inexpressible recognition of Who God is in your life, His immeasurable love for you, His never exhausting patience with you, and His unfathomable capacity to cover you with His grace.  Your praise is not dependent on how good times are, but how GOOD YOUR GOD IS!  

Romans 5:6 says, “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.”  The world’s affect on you is probably crowding God out of your life when your praise becomes limited to the events of life itself and not your life in communion with God.  It is out of your intimacy with God that you begin to see and experience God in every detail of your life.

Philippians 1:9‐11 “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ — to the glory and praise of God.”  NIV

Romans 11:33, 36 “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God!  How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!  For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.  To Him be the glory forever! Amen.”  NIV

============

Psalm 34:11 “Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.”   

The Church has done a good job of sharing about Jesus, but not as well on teaching about the fear of the Lord.  A recent Barna survey found that 86% of youth had a negative perception of Christians.  The top two reasons given in the survey are: (1) Christians are judgmental and (2) Christians are hypocritical.  These two areas were major teaching points of

Jesus yet are two of the biggest stumbling blocks for people coming to Jesus.  

In the Psalm above, the writer (David) is encouraging you to allow him to teach you the fear of the Lord.  Let’s think about how Jesus would teach you the fear of the Lord?  I believe Jesus would do it by spending time with you.  Jesus began His ministry with hundreds, if not thousands of followers, but whittled them down to 77, then 12, and finally 3 which reflected the increased intensity of teaching, fellowship, and relationship with His disciples.  

Jesus knew that a changed life comes from a healthy fear of God, and a healthy fear of God comes out of the intensity of His relationship with His disciples.  The same is true for followers of Christ today.  Fear of God is reverence, respect, and faith that God is God and He “Is”, “Was”, and “Will Always” be God!  Your fear of God will come out of the intensity of your relationship with Him on a daily basis.  If Jesus were to say to me, “Come, my child, listen to Me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord,” I would envision myself sitting at His feet listening to His words and stories.  Reading His Word, talking to Him, receiving His Word into your life and allowing it to galvanize your life will cultivate intimacy with God.  

A life that is touched by God is a life that fears God.  A life that fears God is a life that is experiencing God’s love and grace while growing in appreciation of who He is.  As you read the following Scriptures, pray for God to open your heart to new levels of intimacy with Him.

Imitate Jesus - Mark 1:35 “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.”   

Priority - Job 23:12 “I have not departed from the commands of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily bread.”  

Hunger for God - Psalm 42:1-2 “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You, O God.  My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. 

When can I go and meet with God?”  

Refreshed by God - Psalm 90:14 “Satisfy us in the morning with Your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.”  

Instructed by God - Isaiah 50:4-5 “The Sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary.  He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught.  The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears, and I have not been rebellious; I have not drawn back.”   

Paul's Life - Paul's Voyage to Rome = July 25

Paul & His Associates Sail to Rome

Series on the Life of Paul

Possible Date: 60-61 A. D.

Scripture: 27:1--28:10

NOTE: 

#Paul

#Apostle Paul

#Rome

#Journey

The time now approaches for Paul to be sent to Rome to make his appeal to Caesar. Paul is placed in the custody of a Roman official named Julius and is accompanied by Luke and Aristarchus, a brother in the Lord from Thessalonica. What follows is Luke's account of their almost disastrous voyage from Caesarea to Rome. Leaving Caesarea, they sail North along the Syrian coast to Sidon, then west along the southern coast of what is known today as Turkey, past the ancient provinces of Cilicia and Pamphylia, to the port city of Myra in Lycia. 

At Myra, Paul's entourage obtains passage on an Egyptian ship bound for Italy with both cargo and 276 persons on board. Despite a warning from Paul, that trouble awaits them, the crew set sail and they soon find themselves in difficulty off the east coast of the island of Crete. Attempting to make a safe harbor at Phoenix, on the west coast, the ship is blown off course during a 2-week storm and finally breaks apart as it approaches the small island of Malta (Melita), south of Sicily. By God's grace, however, all lives are spared. During the next 3 months. Paul works among the people of Malta and heals many of their diseases. When it is once again safe to sail, the group sets out for Italy on another Egyptian ship that has been waiting out winter storms in the harbor of Malta. The remainder of the voyage is happily uneventful, and Luke records the warm welcome that they receive from the brethren in Italy. 

The Voyage To Rome

(60-61 A.D.)

INTRODUCTION

• At long last, Paul is headed for Rome...
• As he had wanted to do for some time - cf. Acts 19:21; Romans 1:9-11,15; 15:23-29
• As the Lord had revealed in a vision - Acts 23:11
• Paul is not going as a tourist but as a prisoner...
• Having been arrested in Jerusalem two years earlier - Acts 21:26-36
• Having defended himself in various trials
• Before the mob in Jerusalem - Acts 21:37-22:29
• Before the Sanhedrin council in Jerusalem - Acts 22:30-23:10
• Before Felix the governor in Caesarea - Acts 23:11-24:27
• Before Festus the governor in Caesarea - Acts 25:1-12
• Before King Herod Agrippa II in Caesarea - Acts 25:13-26:32 -- Going to Rome because he had exercised his right as a Roman citizen to appeal his case before Caesar - Acts 25:11-12; 26:30-32

[The voyage to Rome would not be without trials of its own. Traveling by sea was extremely very hazardous in those days. Paul had already experienced three shipwrecks (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:25-26). He is about to add to his experiences of “perils in the sea”. The first leg of the trip was...]

I. FROM CAESAREA TO MYRA

A. THE JOURNEY BEGINS...

• Paul was placed in the care of Julius, a Roman centurion - Acts 27:1
• Of the Augustan Regiment, a division consisting of 400-600 men (Barnes)
• Perhaps named in honor of the Roman emperor Augustus
• Along with some other prisoners - Acts 27:1; cf. 27:42
• Paul was joined by two dear friends - Acts 27:1-2
• Luke, the author of Acts and “beloved physician” (Corinthians 4:14), as evidenced by the use of “we”
• Aristarchus, from Thessalonica of Macedonia
• Who had faced the mob in Ephesus - Acts 19:29
• Who had returned with Paul to Asia - Acts 20:4
• Later described as Paul’s “fellow prisoner” and “fellow laborer” - Corinthians 4:10; Philemon 24
• Placed on a ship of Adramyttium - Acts 27:2
• A maritime town of Mysia in Asia Minor (Barnes)
• Located between Troas and Pergamos

B. ALONG THE COAST OF PHOENICIA...

• From Caesarea they sailed to Sidon - Acts 27:3
• At Sidon, the Roman centurion allowed Paul to visit friends and receive care

C. AROUND THE ISLAND OF CYPRUS...

• From Sidon they sailed “under” Cyprus - Acts 27:4
• Because of the winds
• Where Paul had gone on his first missionary journey - Acts 13:4-12
• They continued off the coasts of Cilicia and Pamphylia - Acts 27:5
• Cilicia, where Paul was born, and spent five years after becoming a disciple of Christ - Acts 22:3; Galatians 1:21
• Pamphylia, where PerGalatians was located - cf. Acts 13:13; 14:24-25

D. ARRIVING AT MYRA...

• A city of Lycia, the province west of Pamphylia - Acts 27:5
• At Myra, the centurion books passage on an Alexandrian (Egypt) ship sailing to Italy - Acts 27:6

[The first leg of the trip appears to have been a pleasant one, despite the rough winds they encountered near Cyprus. But those winds were nothing compared to what they would experience on the next leg of their voyage...]

II. FROM MYRA TO MALTA

A. SLOW BOAT TO CRETE...

• It was slow sailing for many days - Acts 27:7
• They arrived with difficulty off Cnidus (on the coast of Asia Minor, northwest of the island of Rhodes)
• The wind forced them to sail westward under Crete off Salmone (on the eastern promontory of the island)
• With difficulty they arrived at Fair Havens - Acts 27:8
• Near the city of Lasea
• On the southern part of the island of Crete
• Where they spent “much time” - Acts 27:9
• Sailing was now dangerous because the Fast (Day Of Atonement) was over
• This would have been around September or October
• Paul’s advice is ignored - Acts 27:9-12
• He perceived that the voyage would end in disaster
• With the loss of cargo and ship
• With the loss of their lives
• The centurion is persuaded otherwise
• By the helmsman and owner of the ship
• Because the harbor at Fair Havens was not suitable for winter
• The majority prevailed to try for Phoenix (Phenice), a harbor that faced both southwest and northwest

B. STRONG WIND NEAR CLAUDA...

• Lured by a soft south wind, they sailed along the coast of Crete - Acts 27:13
• They were soon caught up by a strong wind - Acts 27:14-15
• Called “Euroclydon” (lit., wind wave), perhaps a hurricane or typhoon
• Forced to let the wind just drive the ship
• A short reprieve near the island of Clauda - Acts 27:16-17
• A small island southwest of Crete
• Where they secured the small skiff (boat) onboard
• Where they used cables to undergird the ship
• They struck sail, fearing they would run aground on the Syrtis Sands (quicksands off the coast of Africa)
• At the mercy of the winds - Acts 27:17-19
• Driven and tossed by the tempest
• Throwing ship’s tackle overboard to lighten the ship
• Paul’s comforting words, prompted by a visit from an angel - Acts 27:20-26
• After many days without seeing the sun or stars, all hope was lost
• After a long abstinence from food, Paul addresses those on the ship
• Reminding them they should have listened to him
• Encouraging them to take heart, for no lives would be lost, only the ship
• An angel had appeared to Paul, telling him:
• Not to be afraid, for he must appear before Caesar
• God has granted the lives of all those with him
• Paul encourages them to take heart, though they must run aground on a certain island

C. SHIPWRECKED ON MALTA...

• After two weeks in the Adriatic Sea, they run aground - Acts 27:27-44
• Sensing they were nearing ground around midnight, soundings confirmed their fears
• Sailors attempted to flee using the skiff, but Paul and the Roman soldiers prevented them, letting the skiff fall off the ship
• At dawn, Paul encourages them to eat and offers thanks in their presence
• They then further lightened the ship by throwing the wheat into the sea
• In daylight, they tried to run the ship into a bay with a beach
• The prow of the ship ran aground where two seas met, and the stern began to break up
• The Roman soldiers planned to kill the prisoners but were prevented by the centurion who wanted to save Paul
• All made it land, some swimming, others on broken pieces of the ship
• 2. Three months on the island of Malta (Melita, 60 miles S from Sicily) - Acts 28:1-10
• Where the natives made them welcome
• Where Paul amazed the people when he did not die from a poisonous snake bite - cf. Mark 16:17-18
• Where Paul healed Publius’ father of a fever and dysentery
• Where they were honored in many ways, and provided with whatever was necessary when they departed

[For the fourth time in his life, Paul had experienced a shipwreck. Yet God was with him, and would be with him as he and his traveling companions continued their journey...]

III. FROM MALTA TO ROME

A. ON THE SHIP TO ROME...

• After three months on the island, they sail from Malta - Acts 28:11
• On an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead “The Twin Brothers”
• Which had wintered on the island
• They sailed to Syracuse (capital of Sicily), where they stayed three days - Acts 28:12
• From there they circled about to Rhegium (a city on the SW extremity of Italy) - Acts 28:13
• With the aid of a south wind, they sailed on to Puteoli (8 miles NW of Naples) - Acts 28:13-14
• Where they found brethren!
• Where they were invited to say seven days

B. ON THE ROAD TO ROME...

• From Puteoli they head to Rome - Acts 28:14
• Brethren from Rome hear of their coming - Acts 28:15
• They came to meet Paul and his companions
• When Paul saw them, He thanked God and took courage
• Finally, they arrive in Rome! - Acts 28:16
• The centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard
• Paul was permitted to dwell by himself with the soldier who guarded him

CONCLUSION

• Several years earlier, Paul had written of his desire and prayers to meet his brethren in Rome - cf. Romans 1:8-10
• Paul finally had his desire granted, and for two years remained in Rome...
• Yes, it was as a prisoner awaiting his appeal before Caesar
• But as we shall see in our next study, it was a fruitful time in which he taught, preached, and wrote much about the gospel of Jesus Christ!

What helped Paul throughout his voyage and the remaining years of his life was “the God to whom I belong and whom I serve” (cf. Acts 27:23). Later, Paul would write:

“And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!” (2 Timothy 4:18)

May the example and faith of the apostle Paul encourage us to serve the same God with the same faith he did!

https://www.youtube.com/c/edmondchurchofchrist

Other Resources:

Psalm 131, Psalm 138–139, Psalm 143–145

 

Psalm 131

Psalm 138

Psalm 139

Psalm 143

Psalm 144

Psalm 145

Life of Paul - Paul's Two-Year Time in Caesarea = July 17

Paul's Two-Year Time in Caesarea

Series on the Life of Paul

Possible Date: 58-60 A. D.

Scripture: 23:23--24:27

NOTE: 

#Paul

#Apostle Paul

#Caesarea

Imprisonment In Caesarea

• Following his arrest in Jerusalem, Paul was given an armed escort to Caesarea...
• In response to a plot by some Jews to kill him - Acts 23:12-24
• Accompanied by a letter from the Roman commander (Claudius Lysias) in Jerusalem, to the Roman governor Felix - Acts 23:25-33
• Paul begins a two-year imprisonment.
• Upon reading the letter, and learning that Paul was from Cilicia, Felix...
• Promised to grant Paul an audience when his accusers had come - Acts 23:34-35
• Commanded Paul to be kept in Herod’s Praetorium - Acts 23:35

[Thus begins the next phase of Paul’s life, in which he spent two years of imprisonment in Caesarea. It would prove to be a time of prophetic fulfillment (cf. Acts 9:15), for Paul would have the opportunity to preach Jesus to two Roman governors and a Jewish king...]

PAUL BEFORE FELIX 

ACCUSATIONS AGAINST PAUL... 

• Made by Ananias the high priest, elders, and an orator named Tertullus - Acts 24:1 
• Tertullus’ speech 
• Opening statements, complimenting Felix - Acts 24:2-4 
• Charges against Paul - Acts 24:5-6 
• A plague 
• A creator of dissension among Jews throughout the world 
• A ringleader of the sect of Nazarenes 
• Tried to profane the temple - cf. Acts 21:27-29 
• They wanted to judge him by Jewish law, but Lysias prevented them - Acts 24:6-8 
• Closing statement, calling upon Felix to examine Paul himself - Acts 24:8 
• Supporting testimony by the Jews present - Acts 24:9 

PAUL’S DEFENSE... 

• Permitted to speak, Paul gladly responds - Acts 24:10 
• Paul’s defending arguments, part one - Acts 24:11-13 
• It has only been twelve days since Paul arrived in Jerusalem to worship 
• He had not disputed with anyone, nor incited crowds, either in the temple, synagogues, or in the city 
• His accusers cannot prove their charges against him (see part two) 
• Paul’s affirmation of his faith and hope - Acts 24:14-16 
• He worships God according to the Way they call a sect 
• He believes all things written in the Law and the Prophets 
• He has hope in God regarding the resurrection of the dead - cf. Acts 23:6 
• He always strove to have a good conscience before God and men - cf. Acts 23:1 
• Paul’s defending arguments, part two - Acts 24:17-21 
• He came to Jerusalem to bring alms and offerings for his nation - cf. Romans 15:25-27 
• He was found purified in the temple by Jews from Asia, but neither with a multitude nor with tumult - cf. Acts 21:26-27 
• Those Jews from Asia should be the ones making accusations against him 
• The Jews from Jerusalem could find only one thing wrong with him: 
• His statement before the Sanhedrin council - cf. Acts 23:6-9 
• I.e., his belief in the resurrection of the dead, which divided the council 

FELIX’S PROCRASTINATION... 

• He suspends judgment until Lysias can come - Acts 24:22 
• Paul is allowed limited freedom, along with visitors - Acts 24:23 
• Paul before Felix and Drusilla - Acts 24:24-25 
• Drusilla, his wife who was Jewish 
• Youngest daughter of Herod Agrippa I, and sister of Bernice - Acts 25:13 
• Married to King Azia of Emesa, who had agreed to be circumcised 
• Atomos, a magician from Cyprus, helped Felix win Drusilla away from her husband 
• Paul reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come (because of their adulterous marriage?) 
• Felix, fearful, sends Paul away for a more convenient time 
• Felix, hoping Paul would pay for his release, talks with him often - Acts 24:26 

[After two years (58-60 A.D.), Felix is replaced by Porcius Festus. Wanting to please the Jews, Felix leaves Paul bound (Acts 24:27). This sets the stage for...] 

PAUL BEFORE FESTUS 

PAUL’S TRIAL ARRANGED... 

• Three days after arriving in Caesarea, Festus goes to Jerusalem - Acts 25:1 
• He is petitioned by the high priest and other chief men - Acts 25:2-3 
• To send Paul to Jerusalem 
• Whom they hope to kill on the way 
• Festus arranges for the trial at Caesarea - Acts 25:4-6 
• Determining that Paul should be kept there 
• Festus himself would be going there, which he does after ten days 
• Paul’s accusers were invited to come and present their charges 
• Paul is brought before Festus and the judgment seat 

THE TRIAL AND PAUL’S APPEAL... 

• The Jews from Jerusalem make charges they cannot prove - Acts 25:7 
• Paul denies any offense against the Law, the temple, or Caesar - Acts 25:8; cf. 21:28 
• Trying to please the Jews, Festus asks if Paul is willing to go to Jerusalem and be judged there - Acts 25:9 
• Paul appeals to Caesar, which Festus grants - Acts 25:10-12 

[As a Roman citizen, Paul exercised his right to appeal his case before Caesar. Before Festus sends Paul to Rome, the governor takes advantage of an opportunity to have Paul examined by one known for his understanding of Jewish law, King Agrippa II...] 

PAUL BEFORE AGRIPPA 

FESTUS’ CONFERENCE WITH AGRIPPA... 

• King Agrippa II and Bernice visit Festus - Acts 25:13 
• Agrippa II was the son of Herod Agrippa I, who beheaded James - Acts 12:1-2,20-23 
• Bernice was sister to Drusilla, but also to Agrippa II 
• She was first married to a person named Marcus 
• She then married her uncle Herod, king of Chalis 
• Upon his death she married Polemon, king of Pontus and Cilicia, who had to agree to be circumcised 
• She soon left him and began an incestuous relationship with Agrippa II 
• She later became mistress to Titus, Caesar of Rome 
• Festus describes Paul’s case to Agrippa - Acts 25:14-21 
• Felix left Paul a prisoner 
• Jews from Jerusalem wanted a judgment against Paul 
• Roman law required that Paul face his accusers 
• In the trial, it became apparent that the questions involved Judaism and whether Jesus was alive 
• Paul appealed to Caesar rather than be judged in Jerusalem 
• Agrippa desires to hear Paul, to which Festus consents - Acts 25:22 

PAUL’S DEFENSE BEFORE AGRIPPA... 

• Paul brought before Agrippa, Bernice, Festus, and prominent men of the city - Acts 25:23 
• Festus’ introductory remarks - Acts 25:24-27 
• Paul has been accused of being worthy of death 
• Festus had not found him worthy of death 
• Since Paul has appealed to Caesar, Festus will send him 
• But he has nothing sure to write Caesar, and solicits Agrippa’s examination 
• Paul’s defense - Acts 26:1-23 
• Paul’s introductory remarks, grateful to speak before Agrippa - Acts 26:1-3 
• Paul reviews his early life - Acts 26:4-11 
• His youth in Jerusalem, which all knew 
• His religious convictions as a Pharisee, to which they could attest 
• His hope in the resurrection of the dead, a promise all Jews should hope to attain 
• 4) His persecution against the name of Jesus and His disciples 
• Paul recounts his vision on the road to Damascus - Acts 26:12-18 
• The light from heaven, the voice of Jesus 
• The commission was given to Paul 
• To be a witness of what he has seen and heard 
• To turn Gentiles from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to God 
• To offer them forgiveness, and an inheritance among those sanctified by faith in Jesus 
• Paul’s concluding remarks - Acts 26:19-23 
• He was not disobedient to the vision 
• He proclaimed repentance to those in Damascus, Jerusalem, Judea, and then the Gentiles 
• For this, Jews seized him in the temple and sought to kill him 
• Yet with God’s help he simply testifies what Moses and the prophets said would happen 
• That Christ would suffer and be the first to rise from the dead 
• That He proclaim light to both Jews and Gentiles 
• Reaction to Paul’s defense - Acts 26:24-29 
• Festus believes Paul to be mad 
• Paul claims to speak words of truth and reason, of things Agrippa knows well 
• Paul challenges Agrippa 
• To believe the prophets 
• To become a Christian 
• Agrippa’s conclusion - Acts 26:30-32 
• The king, governor, Bernice, and others go aside to discuss the matter 
• They all conclude Paul has done nothing worthy of death 
• Agrippa tells Festus that Paul could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar 

CONCLUSION 

• After three trials and two years of imprisonment in Caesarea, Paul is headed for Rome... 
• As the Lord revealed in a vision - Acts 23:11 
• As Paul wanted to do for some time - cf. Acts 19:21; Romans 1:9-11,15; 15:23-29 
• It may not have been as Paul anticipated, but circumstances gave him the opportunity... 
• To bear witnesses to two governors, a king, two immoral women, and many others 
• To eventually bear witness before the Caesar of Rome 

All this happened, in keeping with the will of God, and courtesy of the Roman government, with all expenses paid! 

As with Joseph in Egypt, Paul’s life is a wonderful illustration of God’s providence. Indeed, Paul could have easily said to his enemies what Joseph told his brothers: 

"But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.” (Genesis 50:20) 

May Paul’s life, along with Joseph’s, encourage us to trust in the wonderful providence of God! 

https://www.youtube.com/c/edmondchurchofchrist

Other Resources:

Psalm 62

 Psalm 62

True Happiness

This psalm expresses confidence in the king and offers prayer for him. The king rests in God despite his difficulties. Although his deceptive and powerful adversaries push hard against him, he remains undaunted. He encourages himself and his people to trust in God and to see their human adversaries from God’s perspective, where they appear frail, fleeting, and deceptive (62:9).

62:1 my soul waits in silence Rather than continually crying out to God (compare 22:2), the psalmist quietly waits for Him, confident that He will bring salvation.
62:2 Only he Asserts trust in God alone-He is the only one who can deliver the psalmist and provide him with safety and security.
is my rock The Hebrew word used here, tsur, describes a secure location and emphasizes Yahweh's protection.
my salvation The Hebrew word used here, yeshu'ah-which may be rendered "salvation" or "deliverance"-refers to the liberation God provides from hazards and problems.
my high stronghold The Hebrew word used here, misgav, describes a high wall or rocky fortress. It emphasizes the stable protection God provides for those in need.
I shall not be greatly shaken The Hebrew verb used here, mot, expresses a lack of security and safety.
62:3 How long will you attack a man? All of you The psalmist addresses his enemies. He describes them as relentlessly attacking him, trying to bring him down as if he were a leaning wall. The enemies desire to topple the king with lies and cunning.
62:4 they are pleased with deception Emphasizes the deceit and hypocrisy of the wicked. Not only are they deceitful, but they enjoy falsehood. They hypocritically pretend to bless people when they are actually cursing them. My high position refers to the royal throne.
62:5-6 The psalmist repeats his opening words (vv. 1-2), declaring his trust in God nearly verbatim. The psalmist encourages himself and others to place their hope in God.
62:7 my glory The Hebrew word here, kavod, can refer to honor or reputation. The psalmist stakes his reputation, as well as his salvation, on his trust in God.
62:8 Trust him at all times, O people The psalmist encourages people in general to trust God at all times. Since God is their refuge, they can be confident as they trust Him.
62:9–12 Unlike God, humans are transient beings. Even when they thrive, their prosperity is fleeting.
62:9 In Hebrew, this verse includes two phrases meaning "sons of man"-bene-adam and bene ish. Many translations understand these to mean two different types of men. However, both phrases could be understood as synonyms, referring to humankind in general. not what they appear to be: People often try to look stronger and better than they are.
Only a vapor are men of low degree Demonstrates the folly of trusting in people, who are all fleeting.
a deception are The Hebrew word used here, kazav, is also used in v. 4 to describe falsehood.
62:10 do not set your heart on it The psalmist warns against trusting in wealth-especially wealth gained illegally by extortion or robbery. The crime of extortion means using intimidation and threats to make others give up what is theirs, while stealing is taking what belongs to others.
62:11 Once God has spoken The psalmist uses a numerical saying-a literary device common in Wisdom Literature-as he looks to God's promises. Strength and unfailing love remain in balance only in God. He cares for his people by ridding the world of evildoers.
strength belongs to God This emphasizes God's power to protect or save.
62:12 you will render to each The psalmist upholds God's justice. He trusts that God will give to each person what they deserve, based on their deeds-and by extension, based on whether or not they repent and turn to God. This type of divine retribution is common in Wisdom Literature (see Prov 24:12; Job 34:11).

Life of Paul - Paul's Arrival & Arrest in Jerusalem = July 10

Paul's Arrival & Arrest in Jerusalem

Series on the Life of Paul

Possible Date: 58 A. D.

Scripture: Acts 21:17-22:21

NOTE: 

#Paul

#Apostle Paul

#Jerusalem

    The prophecy of Agabus is soon to be fulfilled. Upon his return to Jerusalem, Paul now finds himself being arrested and attacked by local Jews who have been stirred up by certain men from Asia. Fortunately, however, Paul is rescued by Roman soldiers acting under Claudius Lysias, the local Roman commander. The historical record sets forth Paul's attempt to defend himself before a mob that is demanding his death and indicates a fair reception to his discourse until he mentions being God's messenger to the Gentiles. The angry crowd's reaction to that assertion forces Claudius Lysias to take Paul into protective custody. 

    On the following day, the record reveals that Paul is put on trial before the Sanhedrin Council, in much the same way that Jesus himself had been tried years earlier. By referring to his own heritage as a Pharisee, and to his belief in a resurrection after death, Paul skillfully sets the Pharisees in controversy against the Sadducees, who do not believe in a resurrection. In the debate which ensues, no charges are brought, and Paul is returned to custody. When a plot to kill Paul is uncovered, Paul is secretly taken away by night to Caesarea, where he will later be brought before the governor, Felix. 

    Now, as Luke records Paul's arrival in Jerusalem before his arrest, an effort is made by James and the elders at Jerusalem to calm the anxiety of Jewish Christians, who are uncertain about Paul's teaching. 

Paul’s Arrival & Arrest In Jerusalem

INTRODUCTION

• Paul’s arrival in Jerusalem must have been with some joyful anticipation...
• He had been in a hurry to get there for the Day of Pentecost - Acts 20:16
• He had been delayed right at the last moment, having to wait in Tyre and then Caesarea - Acts 21:3-4,7-10 ...for he was accompanying a contribution for needy Christians in Jerusalem - Romans 15:25-27

• His arrival must have also been with anxious expectations...
• He knew that chains awaited him in Jerusalem - Acts 20:22, 23
• He knew that he would be delivered into the hands of the Gentiles - Acts 21:10-11 ...yet he was willing not only to be bound, but die for the name of Jesus - Acts 20:24; 21:12-14

[With such mixed emotions in his heart, then, we read of...]

PAUL’S ARRIVAL IN JERUSALEM

A. HIS RECEPTION BY THE CHURCH...

• The brethren receive him and his companions gladly - Acts 21:17
• On the next day, he and his companions visit James and the elders - Acts 21:18-21
• He details what God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry
• They glorify the Lord when they hear this news
• They tell Paul what thousands of Jewish Christians have heard about him
• That he teaches the Jews among the Gentiles to forsake Moses
• That he teaches them not to circumcise their children, nor to keep the customs
• They counsel Paul in view of these things - Acts 21:22-25
• To be purified along with four men who have taken a vow (likely the Nazarite vow, cf. Numbers 6:1-12)
• To pay their expenses at the completion of the vow
• To thereby reassure Jewish Christians...
• That what they have heard is false
• That Paul himself was willing to keep the Law
• That Gentiles were not required to do so, but to keep the ordinances from the conference in Jerusalem - cf. Acts 15:20,29

B. HIS INVOLVEMENT WITH THE VOW...

• Paul agrees and the next day enters the temple with the four men - Acts 21:26
• Having been purified with them
• To announce the date on which the days of purification would end and offerings would be made for each of them - cf. Numbers 6:13-20
• There are three views concerning Paul’s involvement with this vow
• Paul acted ignorantly, not aware that the Law of Moses was no longer binding
• Unlikely, since Paul preached “the whole counsel of God” - Acts 20:27
• Unlikely, since Paul had already penned Romans, 1st & 2nd Corinthians, and Galatians, which clearly reveal Paul was not ignorant
• Paul acted hypocritically, like Peter did at Antioch - cf. Galatians 2:11-13
• Unlikely, since Paul had endured so much mistreatment already
• Unlikely, since Paul was willing to be bound and die for Christ
• Paul acted consistently, with what he actually taught (which is my view)
• The Law was no longer in force - cf. Romans 7:1-6; Galatians 3:24-25
• Anyone seeking to be justified by the Law was fallen from grace - Galatians 5:4
• Yet a Jewish Christian (like Paul ) could observe the customs of the Law - cf. Acts 18:18; 1 Corinthians 9:20
• A Jewish Christian could observe elements of the Law provided:
• He did not do so seeking justification & salvation, for that comes only through the sacrifice of Christ
• He did not bind it upon others, especially Gentiles who were never under the Law of Moses

[It was this effort to reassure misinformed brethren that led to...]

PAUL’S ARREST IN JERUSALEM

A. HIS ARREST IN THE TEMPLE...

• Prompted by Jews from Asia - Acts 21:27-30
• Who stirred up a mob to seize Paul, accusing him:
• Of the same things the brethren had heard - cf. Acts 21:21
• Of bringing a Gentile into the temple (a false presumption)
• Who dragged Paul out of the temple
• Rescued from death by the Roman commander - Acts 21:31-36
• The news came to the commander as they were seeking to kill Paul
• The crowd stops beating Paul when they see the commander along with soldiers and centurions
• After binding Paul with chains, the commander is unable to determine why people are so upset with Paul
• Paul is commanded to be sent to the barracks

B. HIS ADDRESS TO THE JERUSALEM MOB...

• Permission obtained from the Roman commander - Acts 21:37-40
• Paul seeks to speak with the commander, who is surprised Paul speaks Greek
• Paul identifies himself as a Jew from Tarsus
• With permission, Paul begins to speak to the mob in Hebrew
• Paul’s defense to the Jerusalem mob - Acts 22:1-21
• He reviews his early life - Acts 22:1-5
• His birth in Tarsus, and religious training in Jerusalem
• His persecution of the church
• He relates the circumstances of his conversion - Acts 22:6-16
• Recorded by Luke in Acts 9:1-19
• Recounted again by Paul in Acts 26:12-18
• He refers to a vision on an earlier visit to Jerusalem - Acts 22:17-21
• In which the Lord told him to flee Jerusalem
• In which the Lord told him to go to the Gentiles

C. HIS APPEAL TO HIS ROMAN CITIZENSHIP...

• The enraged mob call for Paul’s death - Acts 22:22-23
• Angry at his mention of the Gentiles
• Tearing their clothes and casting dust into the air
• The Roman commander prepares to scourge Paul - Acts 22:24
• Paul is ordered back into the barracks
• To learn why the people are so angry
• Paul is spared because of his Roman citizenship - Acts 22:25-30
• As he is about to be scourged, Paul tells the centurion he is a Roman
• The commander, learning Paul was born a Roman citizen, is afraid for having put him in bonds
• The next day, Paul is brought to appear before the council, that the commander might learn why Paul was being accused by the Jews

D. HIS ADDRESS TO THE SANHEDRIN COUNCIL...

• Paul claims a clear conscience - Acts 23:1
• This angers Ananias the High Priest, who has Paul struck - Acts 23:2-5
• Seeing the council is divided between Sadducees and Pharisees, Paul identifies himself as a Pharisee - Acts 23:6; cf. Philippians 3:5
• A dispute arises between the Sadducees and the Pharisees, with the latter defending Paul - Acts 23:7-9
• Fearing for Paul’s life, the commander returns him to the barracks - Acts 23:10

E. HIS ESCAPE FROM A PLOT TO KILL HIM...

• The Lord reassures Paul that he will bear witness in Rome - Acts 23:11
• Forty Jews bind themselves under an oath to kill Paul, and a plot is formed with the chief priests and elders - Acts 23:12-15
• Paul’s nephew hears of the plot, and is sent by Paul to the commander - Acts 23:16-22
• The Roman commander, Claudius Lysias, prepares an armed guard and a letter to accompany Paul to Felix the governor - Acts 23:23-30
• Paul safely arrives in Caesarea, and is presented to the governor - Acts 23:31-33

SUMMARY OF PAUL’S TIME IN JERUSALEM

• Paul’s time in Jerusalem must have been disappointing...
• He had been in Jerusalem hardly a week
• He was likely sent away before the Day of Pentecost - cf. Acts 20:16
• But the Lord had given him reason to rejoice, for he was going to Rome! - cf. Acts 23:11
• Something he had wanted to do - cf. Acts 19:21; Romans 1:9-11,15; 15:23-29
• Something he had asked brothers and sisters to pray for - cf. Romans 15:30-32
• 3. The Lord had answered the first part of his request (deliverance from those in Judea who did not believe, Romans 15:31), and would answer the second part (go to Rome, Romans 15:32), though not as soon or in quite the manner Paul might have expected!

https://www.youtube.com/c/edmondchurchofchrist

Other Resources:

 Psalm 51

Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God

2 Samuel 11–12, 1 Chronicles 20

2 Samuel 11

David and Bathsheba

2 Samuel 12

Nathan Rebukes David

David's Child Dies

Solomon's Birth

Rabbah Is Captured

1 Chronicles 20

The Capture of Rabbah

Philistine Giants Killed

Life of Paul - The Third Missionary Journey (Part 2)

 Third Missionary Journey

Series on the Life of Paul

Possible Date: 58 A. D.

Scripture: Acts 20:3--21:26

NOTE: 

#Paul

#Apostle Paul

#Missionary Journey

PAUL’S THIRD MISSIONARY TRIP

(Continued)

FROM CORINTH TO JERUSALEM (58 A.D.)

A. BY WAY OF MACEDONIA...

1. Paul’s plan to sail straight to Syria was spoiled by a plot against him - Acts 20:3
2. Paul decides to go through Macedonia, joined by seven companions - Acts 20:4
• Sopater of Berea - Romans 16:21
• Aristarchus (Acts 19:29; 27:2; Corinthians 4:10; Philemon 24) and Secundus of Thessalonica
• Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy - cf. Acts 16:1
• Tychicus (Ep 6:21; Corinthians 4:7; 2 Timothy 4:12; Timothy 3:12) and Trophimus (Acts 21:29; 2 Timothy 4:20) of Asia
3. These seven go on to wait for Paul at Troas, while Luke evidently joins Paul at Philippi and sails with him to Troas - Acts 20:5-6 (note the use of “we”...)

B. BY WAY OF TROAS AND MILETUS...

1. Paul and his companions assemble with the disciples at Troas - Acts 20:6-12
• After waiting seven days - Acts 20:6
• On the first day of the week - Acts 20:7; cf. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2
• For the purpose of breaking bread - Acts 20:7; cf. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; 11:23-33
• Paul speaks until midnight - Acts 20:7
• Eutychus falls from the third story, and is presumed dead; Paul reassures them otherwise - Acts 20:8-10
• Paul breaks bread, talks until dawn, and then departs - Acts 20:11-12
2. Paul goes to Miletus, where he meets with the Ephesian elders - Acts 20:13-38
• On the way to Miletus...
• Paul walks to Assos, and the others take the ship - Acts 20:13
• Paul joins them at Assos, and sails to Mitylene - Acts 20:14
• They sail past Chios, on to Samos, Trogyllium, and finally Miletus - Acts 20:15
• Paul’s plan is to bypass Ephesus to reach Jerusalem in time for Pentecost - Acts 20:16
• At Miletus Paul talks to the Ephesian elders...
• Reviewing his work with them - Acts 20:17-27
• Warning them of dangers within and without - Acts 20:28-31
• Commending them to God and His Word, reminding them of his own example - Acts 20:32-35
• Parting with prayer and great sorrow - Acts 20:36-38

1.

C. BY WAY OF TYRE, PTOLEMAIS, AND CAESAREA...

1. Sailing to Cos, Rhodes, Patara, catching a ship on the way to Phoenicia - Acts 21:1-2
2. Passing by Cyprus, sailing to Syria, landing at Tyre - Acts 21:3-6
• Staying with disciples for seven days
• Paul warned not to go to Jerusalem
• Parting with prayer on the shore, sailing on to Ptolemais
3. Staying at Ptolemais one day with the brethren - Acts 21:7
4. Arriving at Caesarea, where they stayed “many days” - Acts 21:8-15
• Staying at the house of Philip the evangelist - Acts 21:8-9; cf. Acts 6:5; 8:5-13,26-40
• Agabus prophesies of Paul’s impending imprisonment - Acts 21:10-11
• Over their objections, Paul is determined to go to Jerusalem - Acts 21:12-14
• They leave Caesarea, along with some of the disciples including Mnason, with whom they would stay in Jerusalem - Acts 21:15-16
• They arrive in Jerusalem, warmly received by the brethren - Acts 21:17

1. CONCLUSION

1. Paul’s arrival in Jerusalem must have been with mixed emotions...
• He was accompanying the contribution for needy Christians in Jerusalem - Romans 15:25-27
• He had intentions of going to Rome, and then Spain - Romans 15:28; cf. Acts 19:21
• He knew that chains awaited him in Jerusalem - Acts 20:22,23; 21:11-14
2. Yet Paul could consider his third missionary journey a success...
• Strengthening churches in Galatia, Phrygia, Asia, Macedonia, Syria
• Three years in Ephesus, from where all of Asia heard the Word
• Encouraging the churches in Macedonia, with likely excursions into Illyricum
• Dealing with the problems at Corinth, with evident success
• Writing letters, including Galatians, 1st and 2nd Corinthians, Romans
• Motivating Gentile Christians to assist their needy Jewish brethren in Jerusalem
3. A study of Paul’s life reveals more than just the life of one man, it reveals much about the life of the early church; we learn of...
• Its worship, its dedication to evangelism, edification, and benevolence
• The love and hospitality of the early disciples which made such things possible  

May the example of Paul and the disciples in the early church inspire us in our service to the Lord today!

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Other Resources: