Chapter 20, Last Conversations

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 20:17-38

Paul's ministry continued to grow. He had raised up churches throughout the region, and here in chapter twenty, we find Paul meeting with the believers at Ephesus. We can sense a certain heaviness in Paul's interaction with those he was discipling. In city after city, Paul had received prophecy that hard times were awaiting him. Though his exact future was still unknown, he was approaching every conversation as though it might be his last.

In Acts twenty, Paul is recollecting his missionary activities to the ones who would eventually go on to continue the work. It was important that they understood the heart behind how he approached ministry. Paul tells the church: "I know that none of you among whom I have gone about proclaiming the kingdom will see my face again." These are effectively his last words to these believers face-to-face. The message he chose to convey was not methodologies or logistical tips for being a missionary, but rather an account that he had given himself to the fullest extent. If they were to have a profound impact on the kingdom as he did, they too, would have to give of themselves deeply.

This is an important part of discipleship. As believers, we can teach what we know, but ultimately we will reproduce who we are. For us, that means that the being is far more important than the doing. Sadly, we can do the work of building ministry while having a heart that is far from God. Paul was intentional during his ministry to keep the main thing the main thing, no matter the cost. His message to them—and to us—is clear: Legacy is not just about the things that you do, but the motive and heart that drove you to do those things.

It is God's will for you to leave an impactful legacy. We cannot rewrite the story of our life once we get to the end. With every day as a disciple, the condition of our heart matters. Our motives matter. When we take care to steward moments well, God rewards our faithfulness over time. However, even if we see no reward in this lifetime, Jesus is still worthy of every ounce of our life that we can give. After all, just as Paul quoted Jesus: "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Reflect on the journey:

If you, like Paul, were having a "last conversation" with someone - What would you tell them mattered most about your life? Is it possible for you to make some adjustments in how you steward your moments to better reflect the legacy that you want to leave?

Through your prayer time today:

Is there an area of your life that you have refused to give to the Lord? Take time today to reaffirm the submission of your heart, your mind, your resources and your life to the Lordship of Jesus.

Chapter 19, Empowered at Ephesus

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 19:1-10

Paul was always on the hunt for people who had a heart to be discipled. The New Testament Church was growing at an exponential rate. Paul left Apollos to continue the work at Corinth while he himself made his way to Ephesus. Upon arrival, Paul cuts directly to the heart of their spiritual experience. His method raises some insight into the process of building a disciple. Specifically, rather than asserting and mandating, a good teacher asks provoking questions. The question, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" gives us as much insight now as it did for him then. There are some important theological implications to the events in the first ten verses of chapter nineteen.

Paul believed that there was more to the Christian experience than just "being a believer." He was pointing them to the same experience that the disciples had on the day of Pentecost. It was also the same empowerment that he experienced at Ananias's house after his conversion, and the same thing that had happened to the Gentiles at Cornelius's house. He knew that these Ephesian believers needed the same baptism in the Holy Spirit that had empowered him. After Paul prayed for them, they too began speaking in tongues and prophesying just as had taken place in Jerusalem in Acts two.

After reading this passage, we can understand a few things. First, we find that salvation, baptism, and Holy Spirit baptism occur here as separate works. These were disciples. They had put their faith and committed their hearts to the Lord. Paul urged them on to follow the Lord in baptism and then prayed that they would receive the Holy Spirit. Secondly, a biblical pattern is happening here. We find that when these disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit, they began speaking in tongues. This was the same indicator that accompanied the Holy Spirit encounter in Acts two and on the Gentiles in Acts ten. Lastly, there is no doubt that Holy Spirit baptism was not intended to be a one-time event on the day of Pentecost. The disciples continually preached the infilling and empowering of the Holy Spirit into each new region they came.

As we consider our current-day Church, we must ask ourselves if these same events are taking place in our lives. Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed? Have you followed the Lord in baptism? Are you operating in the gifts of the Spirit? The New Testament evidence is undeniable - the gifts of the Holy Spirit according to 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 are for current-day believers.

Reflect on the journey:

Have you been filled with the Spirit? Are you operating in the gifts of the Holy Spirit? The Bible teaches that believers are to earnestly seek the gifts and fruit of the Spirit. If you have not had an encounter with the Spirit recently, take some time to invite God to fill you afresh.

Through your prayer time today:

In Colossians 1:9-11, Paul prayed specifically for the work of the Spirit in the lives of the believers at Colossae. Read through that prayer and ask God to accomplish those same things in you, as you make the prayer personal.

Colossians 1:9–11 (ESV)

9 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;

Chapter 18, Gifted People

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 18:5-28

Gifted People

In chapter eighteen of Acts we are introduced to an individual that will go on to make quite an impact on the early Church. Before we get to him, I'm drawn into the descriptives that Luke uses to bring these individuals to life throughout this chapter. Let's take a look at a few of them:

Paul was "occupied with the Word" - What would it look like if we were occupied with the Word? The context of this phrase was that Paul was singularly focused on effectively sharing the Word of God to the Jewish population. I'm convinced that if we are going to be effective in making disciples, we too will have to have a deep-rooted love for understanding, living and sharing the Word of God.

Titius Justus was "a worshiper of God" - We discussed the importance of worship in chapter sixteen of our journey. He had such a reputation in the early church that Paul stayed in his home during his visit to Corinth. We know that the gifts of the Spirit were in full operation when we read Paul's letters to the Corinthians. I cannot help but believe that Titius Justus helped shape the atmosphere of his local church. True worship is contagious. I love being in services with people who are genuine worshipers. Worship always breathes life into situations and circumstances that seem hopeless. When you have a choice, you should worship!

Then, there's Apollos. Although we get relatively little information about him through the New Testament, it is clear from Paul's writing to the Corinthian church that Apollos was a significant figure in the their development. Here's what Luke said about Apollos: "He was eloquent man, competent in the Scriptures." He was "fervent in spirit" and he taught "accurately" and "boldly" in the synagogues. That is a whole lot of praise for one disciple! He was obviously quite gifted to lead the early church. Though he was doing an incredible job sharing the Gospel, in verse twenty-six we are told that Priscilla and Aquila took him aside and "explained to him the way of God more accurately." This couple was not out on the stage, but they were a powerful force in creating disciples.

Here's the takeaway: No matter how gifted someone is, there is always room to grow in that calling. No matter what part a person plays in the church, it's of utmost importance. Whether you are a worshiper, a scholar, a teacher, a speaker, a singer or a prayer warrior - embrace it and pour your giftings out into the Kingdom of Jesus.

Reflect on the journey:

Has God given you a gift or ability that you are using for the Kingdom? Consider how you can grow in that calling and use that gift to build up the people around you. Don't be limited by things that were listed above.

Through your prayer time today:

Ask God to reveal to you ways that you can use your giftings to build up the people around you. Ask the Spirit to guide you as you seek to increase your capacity to minister.

Chapter 17, Not Far Away

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 17:16-33

Not Far Away

By now we see that the early church is on a constant roller coaster of soaring highs and searing lows. They are seeing the miraculous take place daily, and at the same time, being imprisoned. Early in chapter seventeen, we find a disciple named Jason being drug into a mock hearing befroe the city authorities where they were fined for their crimes. Specifically, they were accused of "Turning the world upside down". I would love to be known as a disciple or a church that could be accused of turning our world upside down!

In each city, these events would replicate. They'd preach, the Holy Spirit would move, and eventually they would be forced to the next city. As repeatable as the scenario is becoming, we will notice a nuance in the presentation of the Gospel in each location. Specifically, Paul was a master at contextualizing the message of Jesus. When he stood before Pharisees, he would recall the events and prophecies of the Old Testament. In today's journey through Acts, we find Paul in Athens, Greece. This city was an epicenter of philosophy, intellect and out-of-the-box thinkers. Luke sums it up in verse twenty-one:

"Now all the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there would spend their time in nothing except telling or hearing something new."

Paul had their number. He was in touch with the Spirit and he had already received the inspiration for his next sermon:

"For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription: ‘To the unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you."

He quickly and effectively articulated the God who they had desperately wanted to know, but had never recognized. Many times I am guilty of this same fault in my life. God is at work. I experience it, and yet I just don't recognize it. That day, as Paul preached, some were convinced, some were converted, some were entertained, and some were indifferent. However, they had all had the Gospel preached to them and been given an opportunity to respond.

I hope that our journey through Acts has given you some inclination to recognize the moving of the Spirit in your life. If not, today is a good opportunity to seek God for the discernment to recognize the activity of God happening all around you. As Paul states in verse twenty-seven, I believe that when we start actively looking for Him we will find that "he is actually not far from each one of us".

Reflect on the journey:

Think back to your prayer time over the recent days and weeks. Do you notice a pattern or consistent area of your life that God seems to be speaking to you about? Sometimes we miss the consistency of what God is saying in individual moments, but when we look back it may be a flashing sign of direction.

Through your prayer time today:

In 2 Kings 6:17 Elisha prays for his servant in the midst of a difficult situation:

2 Kings 6:17 (ESV)

17 Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.

Take a moment to pray that same prayer. Lord, open our eyes so that we can see the work of the Spirit happening all around us.

Chapter 16 - Normal

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 16:25-31

Through your time in Acts, you are probably picking up on some recurring themes. It is amazing to watch the early disciples as they approached their ministry and their world in ways that we don't even consider. Their lives were centered around the proclamation of the gospel—at any cost. Radical commitment was completely normal. In the day and age in which we live, merely attending Sunday services consistently at one's church is deemed going above and beyond.

We’d do well to re-embrace some of the norms found in the early church. Prayer and fasting were normal. Dedication to the discipleship process was normal. Supporting missionaries and being on mission were normal. Specifically looking at Acts 16, a story unfolds that demonstrates that commitment to these normal practices sets the stage for truly supernatural experiences.

As Paul and Silas’s missionary journey unfolds in Macedonia, they find themselves imprisoned - again. In those moments, Paul and Silas did what was normal, even in an abnormal situation. Having been beaten and chained to the floor of the inner prison, they worshiped God. While they worshiped, the ground began to shake, the chains fell off, and the doors of the prison swung open! At midnight, revival fell in the jailhouse! On top of that, the first conversion was the jailer himself.

That night, Paul and Silas had every reason not to worship. They were tired. They had been beaten. They were chained to the floor of a filthy prison cell. For them, the reason to worship outweighed all of the reasons to remain silent—namely, God still deserved to be worshiped.

Their worship was not situationally dependent; worship was simply their normal response. What about you? Is your default response to worship God? Maybe you've developed the habit of complaining and being critical every time the situation is uncomfortable. If what we see in Acts 16 is true, when believers worship, people notice, chains break, and prisons are opened. Maybe Proverbs 18:21 is true in saying that death and life are in the power of the tongue.

Reflect on the journey: You can probably think of countless situations in your life to be discouraged over. Take some time today to write down some things that you are grateful for. Recall the times in your life when God was faithful when it seemed unlikely.

Through your prayer time today: Honor the Lord by worshiping Him today, regardless of the challenges that you are facing. Profess to Him that He is still worthy to be adored, even in the hard times.

Chapter 15 - Opinions

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 15:19-41

Opinions

We've all got that one friend who we love dearly, but has a pretty strong opinion about everything. If you don't have that friend, chances are, you might be that friend! We live in a world full of opinions. We are now more connected than ever before. Not only are we bombarded by voices, but there is also a pressure to make our opinions known on everything. As a side-note, don't get caught up in the feeling that you have to make your voice heard over every matter - especially on social media. Proverbs 29:11 tells us:

"A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back."

There are two issues that we will look at in Acts fifteen. The first is a matter of opinion over the obligation of the Gentile believers to observe the customs and laws of the Jews. Remember, the early church did not have a printed New Testament like you and I. They were operating by the leading of the Holy Spirit. Some of the new believers were having a hard time letting go of the traditions of Judaism and were set on carrying those customs over to Christianity. The problem was that the message was that the new believers would - as Acts 15:11 states - "be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus". However, some of the leaders had an opinion that they should also add circumcision or other aspects of the Mosaic law.

James, however, had something more than opinion - he had a word from the Lord. Led by the Spirit, the Apostles came to a conclusion for the Gentile believers and wrote them a letter stating:

"For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these requirements: that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from what has been strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.”

In this case, the Holy Spirit gave clear direction so that these leaders would not have to make a judgment call for a critical matter. An important takeaway: The Holy Spirit should have rule and reign over your opinions.

Secondly, is a different matter entirely. If you recall in Acts thirteen, we mentioned briefly the leadership dynamic of Paul and Barnabas. We referenced the "role" of Barnabas and Paul as Batman and Robin respectively. Here in this chapter a shift in dynamic takes place. Here, Paul and Barnabas had very different opinions on whether or not John Mark was ready to join them on mission again. We will drop the Batman analogy here, but it will suffice to say that there were now two separate superheroes in this story. These two high-level leaders actually part ways over a difference of opinion, and it was one of the most profitable things that could have happened for the sharing of the Gospel. I wholeheartedly believe that both of these leaders were being led by the Spirit. God was multiplying their disciple-making capability. The reference in Colossians makes it apparent that at some point Paul resolved his feelings over Mark.

All of this to say, you probably have opinions about most issues. You may have opinions that are supported by feelings, and your feelings may not be right even though they are real. As disciples, we have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us navigate our own emotional biases. Make sure the you check your opinions, desires, and preferences to ensure they fall under the authority of the Word of God and the work of the Holy Spirit in your life.

Reflect on the journey:

Do you have a strong opinion or feeling about something that you know the Holy Spirit has affirmed in you? Double-down and thank God for His leadership in your life. Do you have opinions, feelings or desires that you've not submitted to the Lord? Now would be a good time to take them openly to God.

Through your prayer time today:

Read Romans 8:26–27

Today, allow the Holy Spirit to search your heart, and intercede for you in accordance with the will of God. Praying in the Spirit is one of the most practical things you can do to adjust your life to the will of God.

Chapter 14 - We Must

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 14:8-23

We Must

In their newfound motivation to preach the Gospel to Jews and Gentiles, Acts fourteen opens by telling us that Paul and Barnabas were preaching in such a way that the message was accessible to both the Jews and the Greeks. This truth serves as an important reminder to us who are Christians. If the message that we're sharing is not within reach of the people we're talking to, is it really any benefit to them? Religious words and churchisms are no good if they create distance between the message and the hearer. The longer I've walked with the Lord, the more I've realized that the most important attribute in my relationships and in my prayer life is authenticity, not impressive words. Being open and honest carries so much more weight than being perceived as theologically or intellectually superior.

By now, you may see a pattern developing in Acts. The Apostles show up to a new place, share the Gospel, new believers are added, and then the Jewish religious leaders incite some sort of punishment upon the disciples. People can be fickle, and the Pharisees took advantage of that. In Lystra, one moment the people of the city are literally trying to worship Paul and Barnabas and in the next moment the Pharisees have turned the mob against them. The people of the Lystra turned against the disciples, stoned Paul and left him outside the city supposing he was dead. What happens in the next few moments must have been nothing less than miraculous. Verse twenty doesn't give much detail, but indicates that the disciples gathered around him and immediately after this, Paul gets up and goes back into the city!

That's determination. That's grit! Paul addresses the people shortly after and in verses twenty-one and twenty-two we find where this grit comes from:

“When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.”

We must enter the kingdom of God. We must. Sometimes we live our lives as though we will only do what is absolutely necessary to make it to heaven. I'm often asked "Can I (fill in the blank) and still be ok?" I wholeheartedly believe that question is framed to move away from the Lord. Maybe we should shift our perspective from "What do I have to do to go to heaven?" to ""What can I do while I'm on my way there?" Certainly Paul would have been justified by dusting himself off, and moving to a new town, but instead he returns and disciples. We must determine to do all we can to see the kingdom of God advance.

Reflect on the journey:

Do you view living for Jesus as an obligation or an opportunity? Could a shift in your thinking produce more joy in your life?

Through your prayer time today:

Read through Romans 12:1-2 and ask God to transform you by changing the way you view yourself as a living sacrifice.

Chapter 13 - Pivot

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 13:1-3, 32-52

Pivot

We recognize the Apostle Paul as one of the most influential missionaries of the New Testament. By volume, Luke wrote the largest quantity of the New Testament having penned both the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts, however Paul contributed significantly with his letters to the early churches. We often read every story in Acts with Paul in mind as the hero and the others that traveled with him as his trusty sidekicks. It should be pointed out though, that this was not always the case. In the opening lines of Acts thirteen, Barnabas and Paul are commissioned on their first missionary journey. Notice here the wording of their commission in verse two:

"the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”

They were sending "Barnabas and Saul"  out, not Paul and Barnabas. This context will be valuable in understanding our journey through chapter fifteen of Acts.

Regardless of who played the part of Batman, and who was playing the part of Robin, these two were off on their first missionary journey. As we discussed in chapter eleven, missions is the heartbeat of the New Testament church. Sending and supporting missionaries is among the highest of priorities to a healthy faith community. Missional activity is the context of everything that takes place in the Book of Acts.

In chapter thirteen, an important shift happens. In our text, we see Paul delivering another sharp message to the Jewish community. As momentum builds in the growing church, the religious leaders - once again - step in to create obstacles for the missionaries. In verse forty-six, Paul and Barnabas have a revelation - they are about to take this Gospel message to the Gentiles! The following verses confirm - the Gospel was taking root in the Gentile communities. The Gentiles were rejoicing, the Word of God was spreading, and they were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit! This shift was due to the ability of Barnabas and Paul to pivot and step into a new season with fresh direction from God. Don't spend your life doing the same things over and over. The greatest moments of your ministry are not behind you, they are ahead of you. Be open to following the Lord into a new season, even if you're uncertain how it will unfold.

Reflect on the journey:

Do you feel like your faith journey has gotten mundane or boring? This is not God's will for your life. Be sensitive in this moment as you search out how you can get involved with the mission of God. Don't be afraid to pivot or to step out in an area of ministry that you've felt a burden for.

Through your prayer time today:

In John 10:10 Jesus states: "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."

Take a moment today to ask for God to bring abundance in every aspect of your life. Openly invite the Holy Spirit to show you areas in your life that you may need to make adjustments or pivot. The next season of ministry may be dependent on that!

Chapter 12 - Rinse and Repeat

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 12:1–17

Rinse and Repeat

Acts twelve is not the first, and will not be the last, divine jailbreak. We discussed Peter and the Apostles' get out of jail free card in chapter five of our journey through Acts. If nothing else puts how common this sort of thing was becoming into perspective, consider this: Verse six tells us that Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with chains. Peter was so in touch with the faithfulness of God that he was actually able to sleep in those challenging moments.

It is astounding that there was no resistance when the Angel of the Lord showed up in the cell, woke Peter up and led him out of prison. No guards were awakened, nobody met him to challenge the escape. Their departure was so uncontested that the gates of the city opened by themselves. Peter's deliverance was remarkably easy. However, we cannot forget this ease was experienced in one of the most hopeless moments of his life. He was facing execution. Peter was scheduled to be killed first thing the next morning. Judging from James' fate just prior to this - this execution was likely.

This is the dichotomy of the Kingdom. Walking with the Lord brings peace that is intended to be experienced in the chaos. Peter walked out without a fight while awaiting his execution. You may have experienced this in your own life in moments that should go one way, but you end up finding God working out the details in ways you never thought possible. I cannot help but think that this is the way Abraham felt as he trudged up the mountain to sacrifice his son, Isaac, while asserting that "God will provide for himself the lamb" in Genesis twenty-two.

This is precisely the reason why we as disciples cannot afford to be risk-averse. I'm not advocating a recklessly presumptuous faith, but what if your desire to avoid all discomfort or uncertainty has prevented you from seeing the supernatural work of the Spirit in your life? Today, consider that the beckoning in your heart you feel to step out on risky faith may be God's way of bringing you into a place where you see Him do something in your life that is truly God-sized. You may not go to prison, but you may have a scary conversation, or give until it feels sacrificial. Whatever call you feel, take a bold, risky step toward it. While you're there, trust the Lord enough to sleep peacefully until He brings something incredible to pass.

Reflect on the journey:

Think back to a moment in your life when you were sure things were not going to work out but God caused them to work for your good and His glory. Take time to be thankful for God's faithfulness in your life.

Through your prayer time today:

Are you experiencing a circumstance in your life that you need God to move? Read Psalm 124 and be reminded that when you put your trust in Him, he accomplishes what you could not by yourself. Take time to confess your faith that He will work in that situation.

Chapter 11 - New places, new names

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 11:19–30 (ESV)

New places, new names

Stephen's death was still making quite an impact in the early church landscape. Persecution continued to push the new believers into areas farther and farther from Jerusalem. Through this dispersion, the Holy Spirit was bringing to pass the statement from Jesus in Acts 1:8:

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Once again, we are seeing the methodology of the New Testament church as they moved into a new area. As a church planter, it thrills me to see the people of God move into a new place and break ground on a brand new work to share the Gospel. This is exponentially true in areas of unreached people groups. The fundamental calling of the disciple of Jesus is to make sure the Gospel reaches the world, and these early-church workers were definitely doing their part. They understood that the Spirit would empower them, but they would be the laborers tilling this fresh ground. John York, missionary to Africa and author of Missions in the Age of the Spirit, said it this way:

"Let all who contemplate Christ’s mission be filled with the Holy Spirit, be prepared to the fullest extent possible, be confident of divine blessing, and then run to the battle. And, run to win! **

The infilling of the Spirit, the preparation, the confidence, and the charge forward is exactly what is demonstrated here in chapter eleven of Acts. Consider how Luke describes Barnabas in Antioch in verses 23-30. We're told that Barnabas:

• Exhorted them all

• Was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith

• Brought Paul to be an assitant

• They (Barnabas and Paul) sent relief to those struggling through a famine in neighboring regions

The very name that we use today to describe our faith was born right there in Antioch. They were Christians. The work they did there was so impactful that it still resonates today. When God calls you to join Him in His work, you have to assume that it has the potential to impact generations. Is God calling you to be part of His mission? Whether that is in a local context as a missionary to your community, a missionary to a certain group or demographic in your local church or even to the most remote places of the earth, your obedience in that area has the impact to take the name of Jesus into new places and new hearts. Someone may become known as a Christian because of your act of faith.

Reflect on the journey:

Have you ever considered yourself a missionary? If you're a follower of Jesus, He considers you as one. Take some time to look back at your faith journey and reflect on the moments you've felt called or compelled to join the mission of God. Were you obedient to that call? What can you do today to join God in His mission?

Through your prayer time today:

Would you take some time to pray for missionaries today? If you don't know any missionaries personally, THIS is a great resource to spend some time praying for missionaries around the world.

**John V. York, Missions in the Age of the Spirit, ed. Stanley M. Horton (Springfield, MO: Logion Press, 2000), 250.

Chapter 10 - Peter Crosses The Line

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 10:24–48 (ESV)

Peter crosses the line

On Day Two of our Journey Through Acts we discussed the unifying nature of the Holy Spirit. In chapter ten, we watch that concept become solidified. Earlier in Acts ten, Peter has a transformational moment with God. As Peter was praying, God gave him a vision. In this vision, various animals and birds were lowered down from heaven on a sheet. Many of these were things which were not customary for Jews to eat. In this vision, God instructed Peter to kill these animals and eat them. Not wanting to violate his own customs, Peter refused. Here was God's response in Acts 10:15:

"And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.”

As you may have gathered from today's excerpt, God was not actually talking about food. Peter was being taught to love people like God loves people. The association of Jews and Gentiles was not something that was normal. Peter had a prejudice against Gentiles and had been taught his entire life that he was of the lineage of God's chosen people and they were not. But, as Peter shared the Gospel message, the Holy Spirit fell in Cornelius's home just as it had in the upper room on the day of Pentecost. Peter was beginning to understand that God had not sent his son for a select few. Jesus had come for whosoever. He had given his life for both Jew and Gentile. The blood of Jesus was shed for the young, old, men, women, the rich and the poor. Peter saw firsthand that God wasn't concerned with race or lineage, but interested in reconciling all.

We would quickly admit that we know that. We understand that Jesus came for all. You have likely watched God reconcile people who were like you as well as those who are completely different from you. Today though, we should be reminded the phrase that God gave Peter. This was not just a phrase that meant to love everyone regardless of race, though it certainly encompasses that. The message from God to Peter was : What God has made clean, do not call common.

Has God made you clean? You are not common. Has God began a work in your family or friends or workplace? That's not common. You may have believed a lie that you, someone you love or a situation in your life is hopeless, but I would challenge you today to reconsider. Is God at work in your life? Know that there is no higher honor. Is God breaking you out of prejudice, anxiety, worry or addiction? It's all the same - it's an uncommonly Holy work. When the Holy Spirit speaks to you today, whether in encouragement or conviction - that's a Holy moment. What God is making clean is the farthest thing from common.

Reflect on the journey:

Is God at work in you or around you? That work of the Spirit is an incredible honor. Take a few moments to reflect on the times God has challenged you, convicted you, or drawn you to Himself. Thank God for the incredible honor of being cleansed and made pure.

Through your prayer time today:

One of the greatest takeaways from today is that as disciples we must be free from prejudice. Take some time today to ask the Spirit to search your heart and reveal to you ways that you might be carrying prejudice against people.

Chapter 9 - Who Are You, Lord?

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 9:1-22 ESV

In the previous two chapters, we have watched as seeds began to fall onto unlikely soil. Jesus told His disciples in John 12:24:

“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.”

The stoning of Stephen set the stage for life change that the early church could not have seen coming. The grain of faith had fallen and died, and a harvest was just around the corner.

Chapter nine begins with Saul continuing to escalate the persecution of the church in Jerusalem. Armed with permission from the local religious authorities to bring believers bound back to Jerusalem, Saul did not realize that the Holy Spirit was about to launch His own mission—one that would apprehend Saul himself. As Saul traveled toward Damascus, he encountered a voice and a light shining from heaven. The experience was so powerful that it left Saul lying on the ground, blinded by the light. In that moment, Saul asked a question that could serve as the foundation of every prayer a believer might pray: “Who are you, Lord?”

This question became the basis of Paul’s missionary life. Before chapter nine ends, even while the church was still wary of his intentions, verse twenty-two tells us that Saul “increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.”

Paul was, day by day, learning who the Lord was. He was learning to desire the things the Lord desired. He was learning to invest his life for the purpose of the gospel. Sometimes, as people who have been disciples for a long time, we lose sight of how powerful this prayer can be. I encourage you today to spend time learning the character, the heart, and the will of Jesus. As you learn who He is, you will also, in turn, learn a great deal about yourself.

Reflect on the Journey

Paul’s experience was both real and radical. He recounted that encounter repeatedly throughout his missionary journeys. Take some time to reflect on your own encounter with Jesus. Write down your testimony, and consider how you might be prepared to share it with the people you interact with.

Through Your Prayer Time Today

Pray the same prayer Paul prayed: “Lord, who are You?” Ask God to reveal Himself to you. As you grow in your understanding of God’s nature, you will have the opportunity to adjust your life to more closely resemble that of a disciple of Christ.

Chapter 8 - The dispersion

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 8:26–40 (ESV)

The Dispersion

As our journey through Acts moves into chapter eight, it's always surprising to watch the most difficult times that the early church faced were also the most fruitful. Verse three tells us that Saul was ravaging the church. The new believers were facing persecution like never before, and as a result of the increasing pressure, the believers began to disperse into surrounding regions.

When we come together as a church, we experience a richness that cannot be replicated anywhere else. I can recall so many church services where the Holy Spirit had been present in the room and moved in powerful ways. Although the final prayers had been prayed and the church service had long been dismissed, people would continue to linger - talking, laughing and enjoying the peace and unity of their faith community.

Like the early church, it's God's will for us to disperse. Thankfully, we are not facing persecution, but the Gospel always benefits when believers disperse. Due to the dispersion in Acts, one disciple - Philip - found himself in a divine appointment with a traveler from Ethiopia. Led by the Spirit, Philip took an opportunity to make a friend, and was invited to come sit with him. Verse thirty-five tells us that Philip began at the very scripture his new friend was reading and shared the story of Jesus. Moments later a new creature was born in Christ, and they found the first available water to hold an impromptu baptismal service!

When you finally break away from the post-service fellowship at the next church service that you attend, know that you have been sent like Philip. As believers, Sunday after Sunday we disperse to our communities. We disperse to our jobs or schools. We disperse to have our very own divine appointments with someone hungry for a real relationship with Jesus. Today, there are a few reminders from this passage for those who are being sent:

1. Verse 29 - Philip was listening to the Holy Spirit.

2. Verse 30 - He was bold enough to begin a conversation.

3. Verse 35 - Philip began right where the Ethiopian was at.

As we continue our journey, I pray that you sense the invitation to join God as He is at work in the people around you. When the Spirit nudges you, be bold enough to begin a simple conversation. Remember that it is not your job to fix anyone or save anyone. Sit with someone right where they're at, and watch the goodness of Jesus transform their life.

Reflect on the journey:

Are there people in your life that you sense God might be drawing unto himself? Would you be willing to write their name down and be faithful to pray for this person?

Through your prayer time today:

Do you remember who first shared Jesus with you? Maybe you can remember someone who was faithful in demonstrating the love of Jesus to you. If so, take some time to thank God for that person, and ask God's blessing over their life or the lives of their family. Secondly, take some time to ask God to allow you to be that person for someone else.

Chapter 7 - No choice but to choose

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 7:48–60 (ESV)

No choice but to choose

Immediately after being chosen as one of the deacons of the growing church, we pick up in chapter seven with Stephen preaching a pretty fiery message to the priests of the city. Beginning in Genesis, Stephen unpacked the story of God's redemption plan to the people of Israel. He asserted that the rebellious nature that had ignored the prophets had also ignored, and subsequently killed, the Messiah. Those assembled were outraged by his message. Rather than submitting to their conscience, they allowed the condition of their heart to dictate their response.

The Gospel of Jesus requires a choice. An active choice. We will not find ourselves accidentally following the plan of God. If you are living in the abundant blessings of God, you know the moments where you chose obedience over convenience or preference. Jesus had encounter after encounter with these religious leaders, and time and again they chose their pride and self-sufficiency over humility and submission to Christ. In this moment, they once again chose to reject the message.

Stephen's final days were days of choice. He had chosen to accept the responsibility that came with his calling. He had chosen to affirm the Lordship of Jesus in his life when it was called into question. In his final moments, he chose to speak truth even when it wasn't celebrated. Even unto death, Stephen chose to remain faithful.

The Kingdom of God advances when the people of God choose to be faithful. We make this choice over and over in our lives. You've not chosen to accept martyrdom for the sake of Jesus. You did, however, make a choice in submission to the Spirit. Even today, you've chosen how to spend your time. You've chosen how to steward your resources. In every area of our lives, we have no choice but to choose.

Like Stephen, life is not always going to reward us with comfort for making the right decisions, but God always keeps good records. In his last minutes, Stephen looks up and sees Jesus standing at the right hand of God. He had an intercessor pleading for him, and Stephen breathes his last breath with visions of glory.

Stephen gave his life that day. He had no idea that the choice that he was making was about to set fire to the single greatest missionary the New Testament church has ever seen. No matter the choice in front of you today, when you commit it to God, he has a way of bringing the very best out of it.

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28 (ESV)

Reflect on the journey:

If you're facing a choice or decision in your faith-life today, think back to the times when God has proven Himself faithful in your life.

Through your prayer time today:

Take some time to pray that God would condition your heart to be indifferent to fleshly desires and to grow in you a heart that desires His will in your life.

Chapter 6 - The Church is on the rise

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 6:1–15 (ESV)

The Church is on the rise

As believers, we pray for God to add souls to the Kingdom. We ask diligently for growth, but sometimes the very thing that we are asking for will bring the next challenges. In Chapter four, we find that the number of disciples is increasing at what could only be described as a supernatural rate. Adding new believers to the church was not just creating opportunity, but a need for an increase in discipleship and leadership.

This idea is pivotal in understanding your part in the New Testament Church. Becoming a believer is only the beginning of the process. Discipleship is a journey that allows you to give back to people the same love and guidance that you received when you first started your walk with Jesus.

To respond to the arising needs for ministry, the Apostles appointed other leaders to serve alongside them. Upon the selection of new workers, they immediately began to see the fruit of that decision. Verse seven tells us that: "the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem".

We must understand that an increase in ministry requires an increase in laborers. Jesus told his disciples in Matthew 9:37–38:

37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 

38 therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

Sometimes we assume that we will pray and God will send others out to the harvest. If we aren’t sensitive to the Spirit we will miss the understanding that we are also the answer to that same prayer. No matter where you are in your relationship with Jesus, the plan of discipleship is that you are moving toward being a mature believer, who is then working to make other disciples as well. Like the Church of Acts, we will only be able to accomplish more ministry when believers are moving forward in their spiritual growth. However, when we participate in that process, we will see the same thing that the Church of Acts saw: An increase in the sharing of the Gospel and a multiplying of the number of disciples.

Reflect on the journey:

Where are you in your journey of discipleship? How would you describe your growth as a disciple? Take some time to consider how you would like to be known as a disciple.

Through your prayer time today:

Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you how you can be more intentional in becoming a mature disciple and how you can be more intentional in helping those around you to become mature disciples.

Chapter 5 - Get out of jail free

Today’s Journey Through Acts excerpt is:

Acts 5:12–32 (ESV)

Get out of jail free

You've probably played the board game Monopoly. You may have even had a nearly catastrophic family feud over it. In that game, time spent in jail means wasting precious opportunities to buy and develop property. As such, having the beloved "Get out of jail free" card is a treasured addition to anyone's holdings.

The Apostles went to jail. They went to jail often. The authorities knew that they had no real reason to have the disciples detained, but as long as they were locked away, the Gospel was not causing quite as much of an uproar in the city. The religious figures would go to any length to find a reason to cast the disciples into prison, but there was one thing that the jealous Sadducees did not take into consideration: They did not have a single lock that the Angel of the Lord did not already have a key to.

The Apostles did not have a "get-out-of-jail-free" card in their tunics, but they quickly learned that when they made God's mission their mission he opened every door that they needed - right on time.

Most of us will never experience imprisonment for preaching the Gospel, but too many people are living bound in spiritual prisons. You may be battling anger, bitterness, anxiety, addiction or any number of other strongholds in your life. Be encouraged today - He is faithful to make a way where there seems to be no way. He will bring peace and liberty to those who have surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus and have made His mission their highest priority.

Reflect on the journey:

Is there an area of your life that you feel is holding you back from complete obedience to Christ? Confess that to the Lord and invite the Holy Spirit to give you freedom today.

Through your prayer time today:

Meditate through Psalm 20:1-9. As you read, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit as he speaks to you through this passage.

Chapter 4 - They had been with Jesus

Today's Journey Through Acts Excerpt is:

Acts 4:13–31 (ESV)

They had been with Jesus

As our journey continues into chapter four, the recently healed lame man was not the only one whose life was impacted that day. Peter and John had caused quite an uproar among the religious crowd with the events that unfolded at the temple. The disciples were arrested and brought before the council to be questioned concerning the healing of this man. As they retold the story it was evident that there was something quite different about Peter and John.

The council of the elders and scribes made an assessment to Peter and John's response in verse thirteen. Their verdict: It was evident that these men "had been with Jesus".

What a statement. It was recognizable that they had been with Jesus. This may have been a simple acknowledgement that these men had physically been with Jesus during his ministry, but I cannot help but believe it was deeper than that. Something about Peter and John exuded a Christ-likeness. As we read on through chapter four, we see a few characteristics of disciples who could be recognized by their relationship with Jesus.

They were people of perspective

In these trying moments, they did not allow the immediate situation to dictate their dedication. What was their response? "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.” They had kingdom perspective. So much kingdom perspective that when they were released, they asked God to empower them to continue speaking his word with boldness. They were people of perspective because....

They were people of prayer

There is no way to separate the events of Acts from the disciples' attention to prayer. Verses twenty-three and twenty-four demonstrate that this was the response of the early church.

Someone needed healing? They prayed. Disciples were arrested and questioned? They prayed. They feel the city still needed the Gospel? They prayed. As a product of being people who prayed....

They were people of power

They walked day by day in the supernatural overflow of their relationship with the Holy Spirit. Jesus had transformed their lives and the fruit of that relationship was transforming lives all around them. They were quick to tell you as Peter did in verses eight, nine and ten - that this was all due to the power of Jesus.

"Acts 4:8–10 (ESV)

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, 9 if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed, 10 let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well.

Reflect on the journey:

What changes could you allow God to make in your heart and life to make you look more like someone "who has been with Jesus"?

Through your prayer time today:

Take a moment today to ask God to transform your perspective of a situation in your life that is challenging. Be sensitive to the Spirit as you go through your week to see the changes in your heart and mind.

Chapter 3 - Holy Interruptions

Today's Journey Through Acts Excerpt is:

Acts 3:1-16 (ESV)

Holy Interruptions

The New Testament Church of Acts was faithful to prayer. They also faithfully attended the temple to pray and worship together. As a result, they were seeing an incredible revival. Souls were being added to the kingdom daily as the community around them experienced the life-changing power of the Spirit. One such occasion is documented in Acts chapter three as Peter and John have an encounter with a man who we only know as "a man lame from birth". This man had been laid daily at the gate of the temple for the majority of his life. There is no doubt that Peter and John had passed by this man countless times before. One could probably assume that Jesus himself had passed right by this man during his time on earth.

The fact that he had been there for that long allows us to understand two things: First, Jesus had left this man in his current condition. Jesus might have passed right by this man, knowing that his healing was coming, but it was not quite time. The moment his healing would come would be the moment that it would have maximum impact on the community around him. Secondly, this man was a familiar sight for the disciples. They had no other reason to stop that day other than the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

As believers, so many times we find ourselves on both sides of this story. As people who have real needs, we can be reminded that no matter how long the situation has lasted, there is hope that a breakthrough moment could happen at any time. When it does, it's going to be an incredible testimony of God's goodness. Romans 8:28 reminds us "we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."

As disciples, we find ourselves in common moments that can turn into Holy interruptions at any time. That was the promise of Acts 1:8. The Holy Spirit would empower us to become the witnesses of the life-changing power of Jesus. This week, be ready for Holy interruptions. Pray that the Holy Spirit makes you sensitive to the needs of those around you as we join God in his mission.

Reflect on the journey:

Do you have a need in your life that has felt hopeless? Take a moment and ask God once again to meet your need.

Through your prayer time today:

Ask the Holy Spirit to make you sensitive and give you the gift of discernment to see the ordinary moments that could become holy interruptions.

Chapter 2 - Power for a purpose

Today’s Journey Through Acts Excerpt is:

Acts 2:1-21

Power for a purpose

These first two chapters of Acts set the stage for explosive growth in the New Testament Church. Understanding Acts one and two brings the entirety of the New Testament into perspective. The disciples and apostles were shifting from working alongside the ministry of Jesus to a life of empowerment from the Holy Spirit to carry out the great commission. The lens that we see the New Testament through is shaped by what we believe about the words of Acts two. If we believe that this was a one-time occurrence meant solely as an initial empowerment for the Church as a whole, then the following chapters of Acts become a collection of stories about a group of believers whose lives are something entirely different than ours. However, if we understand that the empowerment that the disciples received in Acts two is for each and every one of us, we will also see the same power alive in us. Peter told them in verse thirty-nine:

“For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.”

If the empowering of the Holy Spirit is for us just like it was for Peter and John, then we must understand the purpose for which he came. After all, the purposes of God have not shifted. When we take note of the purposes of the Holy Spirit in Acts two, we may also see the purposes of the Holy Spirit in our lives. While not exhaustive, here are three important aspects:

One - The Holy Spirit came to unify believers

I love the parallel of Acts two and the story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis eleven. In Babel, humanity had conspired a plan to exalt themselves. God stated that because of their unity, they would be able to accomplish almost anything (Genesis 11:6). They showed up that day, but because of God’s judgement on sin, they left with division and diversities that they could not overcome. In Acts two, there were people of every nation with so many backgrounds. They had arrived in Jerusalem with diversities of all kind, but on the day of Pentecost they were united by the same Gospel being preached in every language. Even today, the empowering of the Spirit brings together people of different backgrounds, experiences, races, ages and genders. The Holy Spirit still brings unity today. Psalm 133 tells us that where Holy unity is, God commands a blessing!

Two - The Holy Spirit came to bring power

Jesus declared in Acts 1:8: “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you…” Understanding the purpose allows us to understand that this power was not to perform a set of spiritual tricks, but rather to live overcoming lives. The Holy Spirit was sent to give us power over our desires, our addictions, sickness, fear, and faithlessness. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live fruitful and practical lives. Romans 8:26-28 tells us that the Holy Spirit helps us in our weaknesses, sees my heart, intercedes for me and ultimately works all things together for our good. We need his power at work in our lives.

Three - The Holy Spirit was sent for more

Joel prophesied the coming of the Holy Spirit. He said that when the Spirit came, young men would see visions, old men would dream dreams, men and women of all ages and backgrounds would have an inner sense of the prophetic. The context of these prophecies, dreams and visions were not of what once was, but rather what would be. The working of the Spirit points to the days ahead. Jesus told his disciples in John 16:12-13:

“I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”

Put simply if we are going to walk out the purpose of God in our lives, we need the infilling of the Holy Spirit. You’ve not exhausted the plan of God for your life. When we commit to abiding in the Spirit we will without doubt see more of his power working through our lives.

Reflect on the journey:

Paul told Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:7: “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” Is there an area of your life that you could invite to replace feelings or thoughts that are causing you to feel stuck?

Through your prayer time today:

We will see in days ahead that the infilling of the Spirit was not a one time occurrence, but rather a continual renewal. Take some time today to ask the fulness of the Spirit to abide in your life. Invite the Holy Spirit to fill you afresh.

Chapter 1 - Wait

Today's Journey Through Acts Excerpt is:

Acts 1:1-11

Wait

How many times have you been reminded to wait on the Lord? The advice may have even been accompanied by a righteous quoting of Isaiah 40:31 to you. Those reminders were surely given from a well meaning friend or loved one who may not have even known exactly what you were waiting on. Hopefully you found the verse in Isaiah to be true and you "mounted up on wings like eagles", but possibly you were just left feeling weak and alone.

This is what happened to the disciples here in Acts 1. In their case, the friend who gave them that advice was Jesus, and He did know what they were waiting on. They were waiting for the promise. It was a promise he had already told them about. Jesus went on to identify that promise: It was the Holy Spirit. He would be their source of strength and boldness as they carried out the great commission and navigated the challenges of their new life as disciples.

Over the next several weeks, I want to challenge you to do more than just read through the book of Acts. Prayerfully attend the pages. Wait in those Words. As we wait on the Lord together, my prayer is that He will meet you in impactful moments to empower you to fulfill the calling on your life. In Matthew 28, Jesus gave his disciples The Great Commission and told them to GO. Now, immediately before his ascension to Heaven, he instructs them to WAIT.

This is your reminder to wait on Him. No matter the pressing challenges of the day or the week ahead of you - I can confidently assure you that it will be better after time spent with the Spirit.

So before you rush off to tasks or apps. Just wait. He will meet you there.

Reflect on the journey:

Is there a promise from the Lord that you’re waiting on?

Through your prayer time today:

Invite the Holy Spirit to make you a bold witness and to live a Spirit-empowered life.