Bible Translations, is there a "perfect one" that I should read? Like many others, I often get asked which Bible translation is the best, or why I preach out of the translation I do (usually NIV). I also have been reprimanded by individuals from time to time when I guest speak at churches for not using "the right translation". It is a great study and will remain a good topic as long as this area grows.
Bible teachers and preachers like to use different translations for different purposes. When I am teaching or preaching I usually use the NIV because it is a good mixture of "word for word" and "thought for thought" but it does have its issues and they frequently change different aspects. I have found it is what most people "in the pew" are using. However, when I am preparing for a sermon/class I try to compare translations. This is very easily done ONLINE now. (If I'm preaching from the New Testament I usually consort a Greek Interlinear Bible, KJV, NASB, NRSV, NLT, NCV, and the NIV.) In some cases, the NIV misses the mark and I will opt for a different translation for a particular text.
There has been a good article written on this topic. I thought you all might find this interesting.
As the article states, all translations have their strengths and weaknesses. So, I thought you all might like to read this article. He makes some good points.
#translations
What is the BEST Bible Translation? Translations Explained!
Discussing Bible translations is a VERY DANGEROUS topic. There are a lot of opinions and emotions around which ones are the BEST. However, understanding how and why each translation was created allows for us to choose the best translation for each of the different ways we use our Bible's.
Bible Translations with Kevin Burr with Wes McAdams - Radically Christian
Many people have asked, “What is the best translation of the Bible?” Some wonder if there are unreliable versions of the Bible that should be avoided. There are also questions swirling around about whether or not modern translations remove verses from the Bible. This episode of The Bible Study Podcast explores how translations work and how to be a better Bible student by understanding translation philosophy.
Wes McAdams and guest Kevin Burr, a Greek and New Testament professor at Harding University, discuss the differences between word-for-word and thought-for-thought translations. They emphasize that no single translation is "the best," but rather that each has strengths and weaknesses. They also explain why some translations exclude certain verses based on older, more reliable manuscripts. The conversation highlights how language changes over time, making updated translations necessary for clarity and accuracy.
Kevin Burr teaches Greek and New Testament at Harding University and previously served as a discipleship minister at King’s Crossing Church of Christ in Corpus Christi, Texas. He has nearly a decade of congregational ministry experience and now equips future ministers in biblical studies.
Resources Mentioned:
Logos Bible Study Software (logos.com/radicallychristian)
From the KJV to the NIV by Jack P. Lewis
Seven Things I Wish Christians Knew About the Bible by Michael Bird
What was your favorite board game as a child? Did it involve luck of the draw, taking risks or strategy? Which is your favorite game now, and why?
Text Graphic
God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
Who was present at this meeting? Read Acts 1:15. Were there only 120 believers who were convinced of Jesus claims? From Mark 3:20-21, 31-35 and John 7:1-5, how do you account for this change in Jesus' "family"? Why weren't "the women" mentioned by name?
How did Judas die according to Acts 1:18-19? What did the Old Testament verses have to do with Judas?
In light of Peter's denial of Jesus, how might the others feel about his leadership? How would the event of John 21:15-19 calm any fears they have?
Given Acts 1:6-8, how would you be praying if you were in this group? What emotions would you express?
What was the role of Scripture, prayer, discussion/conversation, qualifications, and trust in God when the disciples selected a replacement for Judas?
What happened to Matthias after reading Acts 1:26?
I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
What have been the best experiences in your prayer life? How is praying with others for a common mission (one that is beyond your natural ability) different from private prayer about your individual concerns?
How does the pattern of decision-making here compare with the way you, your family or your church make important decisions? Which of the ingredients listed here do you need to utilize more?
You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others by social media links at the bottom of this.
TRUST GOD, PRAYER IS A KEY COMPONENT — “All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers .”Acts 1:14
In Acts 1:4 Jesus told His disciples to remain at Jerusalem until they were clothed with power from on high. They needed God’s power to be effective witnesses. Acts 1:14 states that as they waited, “These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer...” Shortly thereafter on the day of Pentecost, the disciples’ prayers were answered in a big way when thousands came to Christ!
Prayer is central to evangelism. We need to pray for God to open doors of opportunity. We need to ask for wisdom to know what to say and when to say it. We need to ask for sensitivity and boldness. We need to pray for the heart of the hearer to be receptive to the message. We must surround everything we do in prayer!
Paul affirmed the need for prayer, “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.” Colossians 4:2-4
Notice Paul wanted specific prayer for God to open a door for the gospel, and for boldness for him and his companions to share. Even Jesus, prior to Pentecost, stressed the importance of evangelistic prayer. In Matthew 9:37-38 He told His disciples, ““The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” ”
In essence, He was telling the disciples there were myriads of people who needed salvation, yet few people willing to tell them. The disciples needed to ask God to send people into the harvest. They prayed and, a few verses later, became the answer to their own prayers, Jesus sent them out!
Today, the situation hasn’t changed much; the harvest is still plentiful, and the workers are few. We need to keep praying that God would motivate His children to go out into the harvest as workers. The exciting thing is, we can still be the answer to their prayers!
Many believers sincerely want to share their faith but forget the need for prayer. Without prayer they will only minister in the power of the flesh with minimal results. With prayer, they will move in the awesome power of the Spirit and see greater impact!
When you are a Christian, God has called you to share the good news with a dying world. Certainly it is scary, and undoubtedly there will be those who won’t listen. But in spite of fears or discomfort, we must prayerfully press into the task knowing that God is the one who moves hearts.
Footnotes: apostles The men Jesus chose to be his special helpers. Spirit, Holy Spirit Also called the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, and the Comforter. Joined with God and Christ, he does God's work among people in the world. baptize(d) A Greek word meaning to immerse, dip, or bury a person or thing briefly under water. Zealot The Zealots were a Jewish political group. Scriptures Holy Writings--the Old Testament. David King of Israel about 1000 years before Christ. lots Rocks or sticks used like dice for making a choice.
================
JUDAS ISCARIOT
By
Mark Moore
We really know very little about
this man. His name, Judas, was common enough in Jewish circles. His surname,
Iscariot, was not. Some argue that it identifies his hometown, Kerioth in
Judea. That is possible, but it may also be a Hebrew nickname meaning ―the
betrayer.‖ Both suggestions are speculative. What we do know is that Jesus
selected him to be an apostle and that none of his comrades suspected him of
avarice. This colossal villain fit in with God‘s people surprisingly well. In fact,
he was honored among them. He was the treasurer for the group (John 12:6;
13:29) and was granted the most honored seat at the last supper.
Clearly he distinguished himself by
betraying Jesus. In fact, whenever he is included in the list of Apostles, he
is identified as ―the betrayer‖ (Mt 10:4; Mk 3:19; Luke 6:16; Acts 1:16). The real question is, ―Why did he do it?‖
Some suggest that he was trying to force Jesus‘ hand. That is, he wanted Jesus
to boldly declare himself as the Messiah. While this is possible, it hardly
would have done Judas much good. After all, who would make Benedict Arnold the
Secretary of State?! Another suggestion is that Judas was disillusioned with
Jesus. He thought he would overthrow the Romans but Jesus persistently sticks
with this Spiritual stuff and Judas just got tired of it.
Perhaps this is so. But the
Scriptures only give two clues as to Iscariot‘s motive. First, the incident of
Mary anointing Jesus‘ feet with expensive perfume is taken out of chronological
order and placed next to Judas‘ secret meeting with the Sanhedrin. In the first
incident Judas objects to Mary‘s lavish gift to Jesus
(John 12:4–6). In the second, Judas
agrees to betray him for the negligible sum of 30 pieces of silver (Mt
26:14–16; Mk 14:10–11; Luke 22:3–6; John 13:2). This was the price paid for a
slave in the O.T. Somehow
Judas‘ love for money played a key
role in his betrayal of Christ.
The second clue is the sovereignty
of God. The O.T. predicted Judas‘ betrayal (Psa 41:9; 109:8), even the specifics
of thirty pieces of silver and buying the potter‘s field (Zech 11:12, 13).
Jesus also foretold his defection (Mt 26:21–25; Mk 14:18–21; Luke 22:21–23).
John 13:18–26 says this fulfilled Psalm 41:9.
Jesus explicitly states he was
―Doomed to destruction‖ (John 17:12). Apparently God gave him over to the
Devil. Luke 22:3 and John 13:2, 27 identify when Satan actually entered his
heart. This raises more questions than it answers. Suffice to say, he was
clearly predestined by God to this task, and also clearly held responsible for
his own dastardly deed (Acts 1:16–20).
That fateful night Judas led a
considerable company of soldiers to one of Jesus‘ favorite haunts. He knew they
would find him there. Although Jesus first spoke and first identified himself as
the wanted Galilean, Judas still carried through with his treachery. Feigning
friendship he cried out, ―Hail Rabbi,‖ and kissed him profusely (Mt 26:47–50;
Mk 14:43–45; Luke 22:47–49; John 18:2–5).
After Jesus‘ arrest and execution,
Judas felt sorry. He wanted to undo his act. That, of course, was impossible.
But at least he thought he would return the silver. When the chief priests wouldn't accept the blood-money, he threw it into the temple (Mt 27:3–10). This
presented a problem to the priests who had to retrieve their tainted cash from
the holy place. With it they later purchased the field where Judas hanged
himself. Luke, however, says Judas fell and popped open, leaving his entrails
splattered across the steeps of Gehenna. This does not contradict Matthew‘s
rendition, but rather complements it. Judas hanged himself. His bloated body
began to rot in the hot Palestinian sun. Perhaps it was the earthquake that
broke the branch or perhaps a shakily tied knot finally slipped loose. But
somehow Judas fell down the cliffs leaving his mark as he went. Thus the place
was named after him, ―Akeldama‖ meaning ―field of blood‖ (Acts 1:1819)
================
##RESURRECTION APPEARANCES
1. Appearances on the day of the Resurrection:
a Mary Magdalene — Mark 16:9–11; John 20:11–18
b The Women — Matthew 28:9–10
c Two on the way to Emmaus — Luke 24:13–22
d Peter — 1 Corinthians 15:5; Luke 24:36–43; John 20:19ff.
e The Ten — Mark 16:14; Luke 24:36; John 20:19ff.
2. Appearances one week later (the following Sunday):
a The Eleven — John 20:26–31
3. Other Appearances:
a The Seven by the Sea of Galilee — John 21:1–23
b The 500 (Great Commission?) — 1 Corinthians 15:6; Matthew 28:16– 20
c In Jerusalem (Commission Repeated?) — Mark 16:15–18
d James — 1 Corinthians 15:7
e The Disciples (further commission) — Acts 1:3–8; Luke 24:44–49
f The Ascension — Acts 1:9–12; Mark 16:19–20; Luke 24:50–53
g Stephen — Acts 7:54–60
h Paul — Acts 9:1–6
THEOLOGY OF THE RESURRECTION IN ACTS
I.It is the centerpiece of every sermon whether to Jews (2:24–36; 3:15; 4:10–11;
5:30–32; 23:6–8; 26:23) or Gentiles (10:40; 13:32–37; 17:31; 24:15). It was even the normative status reported in a summary statement (4:33).
1. The only exception is with Stephen (who sees Jesus standing at God‘s right hand, 7:55–56) and Paul‘s appeal to the Lystrans not to sacrifice to him (14:15–17) though it is probably presumed
in the faith of the Lame man who heard Paul‘s preaching (v. 9).
2. It is also muted in Paul‘s address in chapter 22:6–9, 18 on the stair-steps, though he was clearly speaking with Jesus who was raised.
3. These two anomalies can be explained by the fact that it is the Twelve, specifically who are witnesses to the resurrection (cf. 1:22;
13:30–31; 5:30–32).
II.The resurrection was a necessity for God‘s plan
1. It was prophesied (2:24–32; 3:25–26; 10:43; 13:30–37; 17:2–3; 24:15; 26:22–23).
2. It is the good news (17:18) and the proof of his divine position (17:31) but also an object of ridicule among the Greeks (17:32; 26:8)
as well as the Sadducees (23:6–8; 24:21).
3. It was Jesus‘ own exaltation (Acts 2:34; 3:13–15; 5:31; cf. 7:56) and established him as judge of all men (10:42; 17:31).
III.It is the foundation for new life
1. Physical healing (3:15–16; 4:10).
2. Forgiveness of sins (4:10–12; 5:31; 10:43; 13:38–39).
3. Our future resurrection (4:2; 24:15).
=============
CHURCH GROWTH IN ACTS
1:15
120
2:41
3,000 souls
2:47
Adding Daily
4:4
5,000 men
5:14
Multitudes constantly added
6:1
Disciples increasing in number
6:7
Disciples increased greatly with many priests
6:15
Numbers increasing daily
9:31
Continued to increase in peace
11:21
Large numbers believed and turned to the Lord
12:24
The Word continued to grow and be multiplied
16:5
Growing Daily
19:20
The Word was growing mightily and prevailing
21:20
Myriads = 10,000s
28:31
Teaching continued on without hindrance
=================
Casting
Lots
Mark
Scott
I.What is the Casting of Lots?
In evangelistic visitation once I met a man who thought that
the way the 120 chose Matthias to be an apostle was quite tacky. I could appreciate
his wonderment about it all. Is this
some kind of bingo for God? When the lot
fell to Matthias did they all yell, "Yes, lucky number seven!"? It does seem to us like an odd way to get an
apostle.
But God has used casting lots as a way for His people to
discern his will. Literally the text
reads, "they gave lots to them."
It could be done in several ways.
It was not uncommon to put names in a jar and shake the jar until one of
the names falls out. This person was
then chosen. Other methods similar to drawing straws could be used. (See Reese, p.31).
II.Where Else is Casting Lots Mentioned?
Num. 26:55
Land was
distributed by lot.
Josh. 7:14
To discern
who sinned
I Sam.
10:20–21
Selection of
Saul
Lev. 16:8
Selection of
the scapegoat
I Sam.
14:41, 42
To discern
Jonathan's sin
Neh. 10:34f
Who was to serve in the
temple
There are other references, but these at least show that God
used the method of casting of lots to help people discern his will in the O.T.,
no matter how odd it may seem to us. It
is significant to note that this is the last time in the Bible where casting
lots is mentioned. After the significant
covenant change of Acts 2 the leaders and followers had the Holy Spirit to help
guide them.
III.Was This a God-Led Decision?
Luke certainly presents it that way. There is no suggestion in the broader
context, or anywhere else in the Bible, that this was a mistake. Remember that Peter based his message about
Judas in Scripture (Psa 69;25;109:8), and the church bathed this decision in
prayer as they sought the Lord. Prov.
16:33 says, "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from
the Lord." The early church trusted in the sovereignty of God and so must
we. Stott suggests that the church used
Scripture, common sense, and prayer, a wholesome combination (Stott, The Spirit, the Church, and the World,
p. 59).
When you were dating, were you ever dropped for someone else? What did that do to your emotions?
DIG:
To what extent was the Galatians' conversion experience related to observing the Law?
Why would anyone revert from a liberating spiritual life of faith to a legalistic spiritual life of works and performance? When have you gone in that direction? What caused it to happen?
Was Abraham considered righteous by God through his faith or through his works (Galatians 3:6-9)?
Who are the true children of Abraham? Who is eligible to be one?
How does Jesus solve the problem that no one can earn their right standing with God (Galatians 3:10-14)?
REFLECT:
What "additions" to faith might outsiders sense in your Christian circles regarding what they should do to be approved? How can you help break down these barriers?
The
Doctrine Of Justification By Faith In Christ,
3:1-4:31
A.
An Appeal To Experience
And Scripture,
3:1-9
Synopsis:
O
foolish Galatians! Was it by doing what the law of Moses
demanded that you received the Holy Spirit, or was it by believing
and obeying the gospel?
1
O foolish Galatians, who did bewitch you, before whose eyes Jesus
Christ was openly set forth crucified?
The
Galatians were not stupid; however, they were foolish. Paul had
preached to them so plainly about the crucified Christ that they had
a vivid mental picture of his dying upon the cross for their
salvation. For the Judaizing teachers to come in and persuade
them that in addition to obedience to the gospel, they needed to obey
the law of Moses seems they had been bewitched. Did they not
realize a Christ supplemented is a Christ supplanted?
2
This only would I learn from you, received ye the Spirit by the words
ofthe law,
or by the hearing of faith?
The
issues can be settled with one question. Did you receive the
Holy Spirit by obeying the law of Moses, or by hearing, believing and
obeying the gospel? The answer is obvious. The ordinary
gift of the Holy Spirit came when one believed, repented and was
baptized (Acts 2:38; Acts 5:32). They knew this. Paul
taught faith comes by hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17).
Received
ye the Spiritreferred
to the ordinary gift of the Holy Spirit for all Christians. This was
obvious because it was by hearing and obeying the gospel (the hearing
of faith) that one received the Holy Spirit. Christians received the
ordinary gift of the Holy Spirit when they were baptized (Acts 2:38;
5:32). Some Christians received spiritual gifts by the laying on of
the apostles’ hands (Acts 8:14-19). Spiritual gifts ceased
after the death of the apostles; however, the ordinary gift of the
Spirit continues throughout the Christian age.
3
Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now
perfected in the flesh?
The
Galatian Christians had begun their spiritual life in Christ by
believing, trusting and obeying the gospel of Christ. Now they were
trying to grow spiritually by the law of Moses. This was foolish. The
gospel was much better than the law of Moses in every way, as the
writer of the epistle of Hebrews taught. The spirit referred
to life in Christ. The flesh referred to
living by the law of Moses without Christ.
4
Did ye suffer so many things in vain? If it be indeed in vain.
Had
the suffering they had undergone as Christians been in vain? They
were saying by their actions their suffering as Christians had been
in vain. The last clause showed Paul hoped they would turn from
the Judaizing teachers back to Christ and the gospel realizing faith
in Christ was not in vain.
5
He therefore that supplieth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles
among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of
faith?
He
that supplied the Spirit and worked miracles among them was God. Paul
asked did God do this because they obeyed the law of Moses, or
because they obeyed the gospel of Christ. The answer was
obvious. They received the Spirit because they believed in Jesus
Christ and obeyed the gospel. How foolish they were to turn
from Christ and his gospel. The Spirit referred
to the indwelling Spirit as noted in verse two. The miracles
referred to the spiritual gifts of I Corinthians 12.
6
Even as Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned unto him for
righteousness.
The
Galatian Christians were justified in the same way Abraham was
justified. Paul quoted Genesis 15:6. This thought was
repeated in Romans 4:3, 9, 21, 22. See Romans chapter four for
a fuller explanation. Hebrews 11:8-9 and James 2:21-23 showed
Abraham trusted in God and obeyed his commandments.
Justification by faith did not exclude obedience. It did
exclude works of merit or works of the law. This was the point
Paul was making. Abraham was not justified by works of the law.
He was justified by an obeying faith. The Galatians were saved
just like Abraham. People today are saved by an obeying faith just
like Abraham.
7
Know therefore that they that are of faith, the same are sons of
Abraham.
In
the Christian age, the true children of Abraham are those who live by
faith in Jesus Christ rather than those who have physical lineage
from Abraham. Jesus taught this also. Jesus taught that the
sons of Abraham were those who do the works of Abraham (Luke 19:9;
John 8:39-40; Matthew 8:11-12).
8
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles
byfaith,
preached the gospel beforehand unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall
all the nations be blessed.
Justification
means right standing with God. Justification means God treats
sinners as though they had never sinned when they believe and obey
the gospel. Gentiles are justified by faith. This was
God’s plan when he spoke to Abraham saying, "In thee shall
all the nations be blessed." They would be blessed in
Christ. Christ was the seed of Abraham. Men today are justified
by the same principle by which Abraham was justified. The
term nation and Gentile are the
same word in the Greek. Therefore, God said the Gentiles would
be justified by the seed of Abraham. Gentiles can be true
children of Abraham by faith in Christ. They could not be
children of Abraham in the flesh. Gentiles do not need the law
of Moses. The law of Moses will not save them.
9
So then they that are of faith are blessed with the faithful Abraham.
The
ones who are blessed with Abraham are those who are men of faith, who
have believed and obeyed the gospel. No other men including
fleshly Jews are blessed with Abraham in the Christian age.
The
Curse And The Blessing,
3:10-14
Synopsis:
The
law pronounced a curse upon the disobedient (Deuteronomy 27:26).
Christ redeemed man from the curse of the law when he was crucified
by bearing this curse (Deuteronomy 21:23). Men are saved
through faith in Christ. No man was saved by the law.
10
For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse: for it
is written, Cursed is everyone who continueth not in all things that
are written in the book of the law, to do them.
Paul
taught salvation was by faith. Now Paul expressed this teaching
in a negative sense. The law did not bring a blessing. The law
brought a curse. Paul quoted Deuteronomy 27:26 to prove this.
If one did not do all that the law demanded, it was a curse. No
one could do all the law demanded; therefore, the law was a curse.
11
Now that no man is justified by the law before God, is evident: for,
The righteous shall live by faith;
Paul
quoted Habakkuk 2:4 (Romans 1:17) to prove that men are justified by
faith, not by the law of Moses. A man can not earn or merit
salvation.
12
and the law is not of faith; but, he that doeth them shall live in
them.
The
law of Moses was not a system of faith. The law of Moses was a
system of works as Leviticus 18:5 states. Works of the law are
meritorious works whereby one trusts in himself and his goodness.
The faith system means believing on Christ while trusting in him and
obeying his will. These are two different systems.
13
Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse
for us; for it is written, Cursed is everyone that hangeth on a tree:
Man
was under the curse of the law and was unable to save himself.
However, God provided the remedy. God brought man back from the
sentence of condemnation by the payment of a ransom, the precious
blood of Jesus (I Corinthians 6:20; Revelation 5:9; I Peter 1:18-19).
Jesus became a curse for men. Christ did no sin. God laid
men’s sins on Jesus (Isaiah 53:6). His curse bearing was
vicarious (II Corinthians 5:21). Deuteronomy 21:23 does not
refer to death by crucifixion. It referred to the custom when
the wrong doer had been executed; his dead body was "nailed"
to a tree. He was hanged because he had broken the law and this
brought both curse and punishment. The hanging of a living body to
die was indeed a curse.
14
that upon the Gentiles might come the blessing of Abraham in Christ
Jesus; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
The
promise to Abraham was fulfilled with the death of Jesus on the cross
(I Corinthians 15:3). The promise was that through the seed of
Abraham all nations of the earth would be blessed. By the death
of Jesus on the cross, the curse of the law was removed and salvation
came to both Jews and Gentiles. The blessing was
salvation from sin. Salvation was not through the law. Salvation was
through the blood of Christ (Romans 5:9). One received
salvation by one’s obedience of faith.
How Law and Faith Work Together (Galatians 3) | Mike Mazzalongo | BibleTalk.tv
In this lesson, Paul establishes the main argument of his letter to the Galatians, that spiritual blessings have always been obtained through a system of faith and not through a system of merit. (Galatians 3:6-22)
"Faith
Alone"
“Are you so foolish? After
beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human
effort?” (Galatians 3:3)
“Pity me for
making a mistake once, but stupid me for doing it twice.” Can you remember your
life before Christ when you struggled and erred while seeking satisfaction in
life on your own?
No matter what
the activity, there was a hollow, empty spot in your spirit that could only be
met by the living Christ. Now as sweet and powerful as your new life in Christ
is, human tendency is to take charge by pushing God off of the throne of your
life.
This is like
repeating your first mistake when you did not know Christ as your Savior by now
ignoring Him even though you are His child in the Kingdom of God. Your human
nature wants to be in control, while God requires you to release control to Him
by trusting Him with your life.
Philippians
2:12-13 describes this tension, “Continue
to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in
you to will and to act according to His good purpose.”
Being in
control appears to create some certainty, while trusting God leaves the result
open and in His hands. You receive the Holy Spirit through your spiritual
rebirth In Christ; through the Holy Spirit, you live each day drawing upon
God’s wisdom, presence, peace, and power to complete the work He started in
you.
Philippians
1:6 expresses your walk in Christ, “Being
confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to
completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Turning to your own
ways through your own strength will only achieve earthly results; living by
faith in God through the constant work of the Holy Spirit will produce God’s
perfect and pleasing work in your life!
James 1:17-18 “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down
from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting
shadows.”
Philippians
3:14 “I press on toward the goal to win
the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Paul’s plan to sail straight to Syria was spoiled by a plot against him - Acts 20:3
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
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...
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
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...
Sailing to Cos, Rhodes, Patara, catching a ship on the way to Phoenicia - Acts 21:1-2
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
Staying at Ptolemais one day with the brethren - Acts 21:7
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
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
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
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!
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!
