Introduction

Our last study saw the new believers selling their properties and bringing the proceeds to the apostles. A sense of awe is resting upon everyone. But something happens that is going to bring a new dimension to the new covenant community, and to Jerusalem at large. Satan is going to make an appearance, and he will attempt to do it from within the ranks of believers. Let's see what effect this will have on the furtherance of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Let us continue with our Acts studies. This next study is going to have its serious side.

Ananias and Sapphira

Vs. 1,2: "But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, and kept back some of the price for himself, with his wife's full knowledge, and bringing a portion of it, he laid it at the apostles' feet."

Why did Ananias and Sapphira decide to involve themselves in a deception? It may be that the esteem given to Barnabas caused envy to rise up in their hearts. Notice that Ananias did exactly what Barnabas did, "He laid it at the apostle's feet."

As we look at the Scriptures under study, I want to share two considerations with regard to this issue of deception. One will address whether Ananias and Sapphira were ever believers. The other will address the issue of how Satan tries to plant among believers, someone who is actually working for him.

Vs. 3,4: "But Peter said, 'Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back some of the price of the land? While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not under your control? Why is it that you have conceived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God."

Some Powerful Lessons

Let deal with our first consideration as to Ananias and Sapphira being believers. There are some powerful lessons to be had here. Notice.

(1) It is Satan who has filled Ananias heart to lie. James tells us how a temptation works in a believer's life. In reading what James has to say, I will provide some fill in with the use of brackets [ ]:

James said, "Let no one say when he is tempted [a solicitation to evil], 'I am being tempted by God' [Or, God is in this]; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone [with evil]. But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. [personal sinful longings.] Then when lust [personal sinful longings] has conceived [the temptation is in full control], it gives birth to sin [sin is acted on]; and when sin is accomplished [completes its act], it brings forth death [something always dies where sin gives birth]. Do not be deceived [don't be fooled. It works this way, every time], my beloved brethren [addressed to believers]." (James 1:13-16)

What James says may fit Ananias and Sapphira. With this couple, the sinful leaning appears to be envy, or pride. But any sinful leaning can become an opportunity for Satan to gain an advantage over that area. This is why believers should not flirt with sin. And as for temptation, we are told both to flee from temptation, but also to pray that we not enter into temptation. 1 Thessalonians 5:22, Matthew 26:41

Listen again to what Peter says to Ananias; "Why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit ... Why is it that you have conceived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God." Do you see it? This is exactly the way James lays it out.

Here's the crux. If a temptation can gain full control over a believer, that person loses all sense of moral bearing. The believer's discernment gets muddy. White becomes black. Evil becomes good. And who is going to be hurt doesn't become part of the picture. In fact in a temptation of this sort, Satan paints a picture of everyone ending up happy. So while Ananias was thinking about how to get honour from the apostles, the idea of death and destruction, or the idea of actually lying to God didn't enter the picture.

Planted By Satan?

Now let's take the second consideration, in which Ananias and Sapphira were never true believers to begin with, but had been planted by Satan.

When Peter said that Satan had filled their heart. The Greek term for filled is 'pleroo', which means to make full. It carries the idea of totality. It can only mean that their entire inner being had been filled with a lie. This speaks of Satan being fully in charge.

Is this a case of a sinner being empowered by Satan in an attempt to destroy the work of God? John seems to think so. He says, "By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does not love his brother. (1John3:10)

Notice the language used of Judas:

"The chief priests and the scribes were seeking how they might put Him to death; for they were afraid of the people. And Satan entered into Judas who was called Iscariot, belonging to the number of the twelve. And he went away and discussed with the chief priests and officers how he might betray Him to them." (Luke 22:2-4)

The scene appears much the same. But what is the lesson we need to learn? The lesson is that the greatest damage Satan can afflict among believers will always be to get someone into a position or leadership. This is true whether it is be someone he is able to plant, or if he somehow can get a believer misled in this area. In any event, Satan has made an intrusion.

The Judgment of God

Vs5: "And as he heard these words, Ananias fell down and breathed his last; and great fear came over all who heard of it."

Notice that it doesn't say that Peter pronounced a death sentence on Ananias. This was God's doing. But Peter took his cue from the Holy Spirit, and did pronounce the death sentence on Sapphira.

Let's take verses 6-10 as a whole. There is little comment to be made.

Vs. 6-10: "The young men got up and covered him up, and after carrying him out, they buried him. Now there elapsed an interval of about three hours, and his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. And Peter responded to her, 'Tell me whether you sold the land for such and such a price?' And she said, 'Yes, that was the price.' Then Peter said to her, 'Why is it that you have agreed together to put the Spirit of the Lord to the test? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out as well.' And immediately she fell at his feet and breathed her last, and the young men came in and found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband."

Very often we as believers are unable to conceive of God bringing such an awesome judgment upon anyone. We are so use to preaching love and grace. But keep in mind that Satan is always looking for a place to work among God's people. And in this case it was crucial that such a serious offence be dealt with quickly. And this judgment would ultimately serve to advance the gospel.

Bad Things ... Good People?

Note: There is a form of teaching today that leaves the impression that if anything bad ever happens to a believer, it has to be Satan's doing, and the believer simply needs to rebuke the enemy. Not only is that form of teaching none Biblical, it can do damage to the walk of a believer. It allows for the no true repentance.

The fact is that because God does love us so much, He will introduce a punitive judgment in our life to bring about a correction or repentance where it is needed. The apostle carefully spells this out. Paul says ...

"For this reason many among you are weak and sick, and a number sleep. But if we judged ourselves rightly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are disciplined by the Lord so that we will not be condemned along with the world." (1Co11:30-32)

What is the result of this incidence of Ananias and Sapphira? Note:

Vs11: "And great fear came over the whole church, and over all who heard of these things."

Now a new element is involved. Not that this will take away from the joy and rejoicing of believers. Rather, it will help produce the true fruit of repentance, both among believers who may be erring, and among those who are turning to the Lord.

In completing this portion of our studies, I want to point out something about the fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord refers to an awesome respect and love for our heavenly Father, and for His truths. It is a healthy fear. When the prophet describes the attributes of Messiah, this is what is said,

"And He will be the stability of your times, a wealth of salvation, wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is his treasure." (Isaiah 33:6)

How about it? Would you not like to have the same treasure? Think about it.

Apostolic signs and wonders

Vs12: "At the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were taking place among the people; and they were all with one accord in Solomon's portico."

The word sign 'semeion' speaks of something that serves as a pointer or an aid in perception or insight. Semeion carries the idea of a distinguishing characteristic, such as a miraculous event that serves to confirm something. In this case the 'signs' confirmed the apostolic ministry.                                                                The word wonders 'teras' is similar. It speaks of something that is so unusual that it causes wonderment among the peoples. The purpose of these would be to establish the spiritual authority of the apostles of the Lamb. The apostles are the witnesses of Jesus.

 Vs13: "But none of the rest dared to associate with them; however, the people held them in high esteem."

Who are these who dare not associate themselves with the apostles? These are Jewish people who have not come to the place of accepting Jesus openly, or fully as Messiah. Why are they so fearful of associating with the believers? There could be multiple reasons, but one reason would simply be to recall the story of Ananias and Sapphira.

Vs14: "And all the more believers in the Lord, multitudes of men and women, were constantly added to their number ... " We might have expected a decrease among believers after Ananias and Sapphira, but the ranks of believers are swelling. God is pulling to Himself a people. And the apostles of the Lamb are ministering right under the nose of Caiaphas and the high priestly authorities.

The Shadow of Peter

 Vs15,16: "... to such an extent that they even carried the sick out into the streets and laid them on cots and pallets, so that when Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on any one of them. Also the people from the cities in the vicinity of Jerusalem were coming together, bringing people who were sick or afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all being healed."

Notice that these awesome healings and miracles are taking place through the apostles. Some are being healed when Peter's shadow passes over them. We didn't even see this with Jesus. Perhaps these are some of the 'greater things' He said the disciples would do. Have you seen anything like that? Have you even heard of anything like that?

 These awesome miracles are for one purpose --- not only the spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, but they served to validate the apostles of the Lamb as His witnesses. And to give them their rightful place in laying the foundation for the Church. (Remember people taking handkerchiefs or aprons from Paul's body and demons and diseases left the peoples.)

Also keep in mind that it is these apostles alone who have the full right to determine what true doctrine is to be. They had particular authority that would be given to no other person. And this is why that any Church tradition that disannuls the writings of the apostles is a tradition that can be considered a false doctrine.

This brings is to a most important Scripture. Paul said, "So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God's household, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord..." (Eph2:19-21)

A Second Encounter With Temple Authorities.

Vs. 17, 18: "But the high priest rose up, along with all his associates (that is the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with jealousy. They laid hands on the apostles and put them in a public jail."

Notice that the driving force is jealousy. The high priest and his associates was use to receiving honour as the highest authorities in Israel. Now the honour is passing to the apostles. You see, jealousy is never rational. It is a consuming power that destroys anything that gets in its path.

The Ministry of Angels

Vs. 19-20: "But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the gates of the prison, and taking them out he said, 'Go, stand and speak to the people in the temple the whole message of this Life. Upon hearing this, they entered into the temple about daybreak and began to teach. Now when the high priest and his associates came, they called the Council together, even all the Senate of the sons of Israel, and sent orders to the prison house for them to be brought. '"

Angels are servants of the kingdom. And they have special concern for believers.  Heb1:14. You can be sure that the angel who was sent to release the apostles, came directly from the throne of God. What was the message to be given? The angel said, "Go, stand and speak to the people in the temple the whole message of this Life." And so the apostles head right back to the temple. The message of eternal life in Jesus Christ to be spoken to the heart of the Jewish nation.

  In conclusion Sign and wonders are to confirm the message of the kingdom, but we must understand that the enemy will always be upset with anything that glorifies the name of Jesus Christ. In the face of any opposition to the preaching of the gospel the Angels of the Lord are always available to help us as we trust in the Lord always.

Introduction

Last week, we studied from Acts 4:1-22. We saw the first persecution of the Church as a result of the healing of a certain man lame from his mother's womb in Chapter 3. Peter preached a message which led to the salvation of about five thousand souls in one day. This led to their overnight detention. We saw the boldness of Peter in the face of opposition from the council of religious leaders.

1. Their response to Persecution.  Acts 4:23, 24 (And being let go, they went to their own company, vs. 23)

     The Church must have been concerned about the fate of Peter and John in the hand of the highest religious court in the land, the same court that condemned Jesus to death. The moment they came out of detention, they met with the rest of the Church. Persecution or adverse situation should unit us with our brethren rather than isolate us.

* The reaction of the Church: When they heard this, they raised their voices to God with one mind . Vs 24

    The Church did not react to the report of persecution with fear and perplexity but resorted to prayer.           A major challenge of the Church of today is the Prayer life of the Church. Persecution and every other problem within and without the Church will melt away as the temperature of prayer rises in the Church.                                (The incident of praying Christian in Westford in 1793)

2. The Prayer Focus of the Church: Acts 4:24-30

  A. They declared the sovereignty of God over all .Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth...vs. 24

       The praise offered up by the church is grounded in Scripture. They cite from two of the Psalms. The church first praises God as the Creator in Psalm 146:6. The primary biblical truth that sustains them is a realization that God is sovereign, even in their suffering.

B. They quoted the scripture in prayer ..Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage... Vs. 25-28

They quoted from Ps.2: 1-4. The saints spoke of Jesus as God's "servant" (Acts 4:27). Surely this is a reference to Him as the "Suffering Servant" of Isaiah. Once again the opposition of wicked men to Jesus is seen as part of God's sovereign plan, accomplishing what He had foreordained long beforehand (Acts4:27,28).

C. They expressed overwhelming desire to preach the word of God despite the threatening. And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word.vs 29

The saints did not ask for God's vengeance upon their opponents. Neither did they ask to be delivered from all suffering and adversity. Instead, they prayed for boldness to proclaim the gospel. We must never be vengeful in our reaction to opposition, but rather pray for our enemies. Matt. 5:43-48

d. They asked for the manifestation of signs, wonders and healing in the name of Jesus. .By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus. Vs 30

Signs and wonders are normal in the preaching of the gospel. Mark 16:17, 18. We must place a demand on heaven like the apostles for the manifestation of sign and wonders.

3. The Result of prayer.. And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.Vs 31

a. The Holy Ghost manifested among them; they were all filled with the Holy Ghost vs 31

b. They spoke the word of God with boldness vs 31

c. There was uncommon unity, sacrifice and love among them vs 32

d. They gave witness of the Lord Jesus' resurrection with great power vs 33

e. Great grace was released upon all of them. Vs 33

f. Every need among them was met by uncommon giving. Vs 34

g. Submission to the Apostles' leadership vs 35

In conclusion, there was the story of a Church in America that was on the decline when the leaders no longer see the importance of prayer meeting and giving the word their priority.

Suddenly, thing began to change for the better, the pastor was asked about his secret for such turn around.

He said; "BENT KNEES"

               "WET EYES" and

               "BROKEN HEARTS"

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."  2 Chron. 7:14

If we come together to pray as a Church, the Enemies will never be able to stop the advancement of the Church.

Introduction

In  the  past   few   weeks  of  our  studies  of  the book  of  Acts,  we  have  seen  a catalogue  of  fulfilled  prophesies.  Pentecost came, and the Spirit came in great power.  Peter's   preaching in Acts 3, produced 3,000 converts.  As  a  result  of  the  healing  of  the  man  who  was  lame  from  his  mother's  womb, Peter  took  the  opportunity  to  preach  the gospel  to  those  who  gathered.  

Content  of  Peter's  message:  (a) Evidence  of the miracle  (b)Preparation  of  their  hearts  (addressing their ignorance) (c)  The  suffering  of  Christ  (d) Their  roles  (e)  The  need  for  repentance  and  conversion  (f)  The  impact  of  the  blood  (g)  The  hope  of  resurrection  and  the  lifting  of  the  risen  Lord.

Acts 4:  1-4 (As they spake unto the people ...)

Peter filled with the Spirit.  His  message  as  usual,  was  always  characterised  with  facts  from  the  scripture  with  simplicity  and  boldness,  not  of  fables  and  endless  genealogies.  He did not preach a message of condemnation.  He  recognised  the  fact  that,  what  Christ  suffered  was  as  a  result  of  ignorance  of  the  people  and  as  well  as  their  leaders,  Acts 3:  17-19.  He  pointed  it  out  painstakingly  that  God  Has  revealed  it  through  the  mouth  of  the  prophets  that  Christ  should  suffer;   However,  he  didn't  indulge  them  with  subtlety,  that  ignorance  was  an excuse.  His  message  was  "Repent  and  be  converted  that  your  sins  may  be  blotted  out".  Similarly,  he  reminded  them  of  their  heritage  in  Abraham ,  Acts 3: 25. This  is  hope,  and  God's  prerogative  of  mercy  placing  them  first  in  blessing  that  will  come  through  the  risen  Saviour. Therefore,  it  was  very  important  for them  to  turn  from  their  iniquities  if  they  have  thoroughly  repented. 

The  results  of  the  message - (Audacity  of  faith  and  hope  of  resurrection):

Generated  greater  conversion  of  5,000  souls  in spite  of  opposition  against  3,0000  souls  without.

Unruffled by the animosity of the religious leaders (the Sadducees came upon them)

Acts  4  begins  with  a  strong  and  sudden  reaction,  especially  from  those  who  were  Sadducees.  This  is  the  first  instance  of  opposition  and  persecution  in  the  book  of  Acts.  It  should  not,  however,  come  as  a  surprise,  to  us  or  to  the  apostles.  Jesus had forewarned the disciples that persecution was coming.  Men  would  react  to  the  apostles  and  their  teaching  because  they  had  rejected  Jesus  and  His  teaching  in;  John  15: 18-21;  Luke  12: 11-12;21: 12-15

 The  Priests,  the  commander  of  the  temple  guard  and  the  Sadducees  all  ?'came  up  to  them''   ?'greatly  annoyed  because  the  apostles  were  teaching  the  people  and  proclaiming  in  Jesus  the  resurrection  of  the  dead''. The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection of the dead.

Two things ?'greatly annoyed'' these Sadducees: 

(i)                 Unauthorised men were teaching the people in the temple precincts. 

(ii)    They  were  distressed  because  the  resurrection  of  the  dead  was  being  taught.  The implication  of  this  was  staggering  to  those  Sadducees  who  had  rejected  Jesus  and  taken  part  in  His  death.  Consequently, Peter and John were jailed.

 A  challenge  and  a  Bold  Response  in  the  face  of  Opposition.

Acts 4:  5-12

In  Acts  2  and  3,  the  gospel  was  proclaimed  in  the  open.  In  chapter  4  it  was  a  closed  door  confrontation  (Acts 4: 15-17).  Here  Peter  and  John  are  brought  before  the  Sanhedrin  to  give  account  for  their  preaching.  Peter spoke boldly regardless of the calibre of people present.  These  are  the  very  same  men  who,  just  a  couple  of  months  earlier  had  Jesus,  tried  and  demanded  that  He  be  executed.  (Mat 26: 57-59; Mark 15: 1; Luke 22: 66-23:1; John 18: 12-28

Peter's  preaching  was  so  powerful  and  so  skilful  that  they  would  not  have  known  he  was  not  trained  in  a  religious  school.  They seemed shocked to learn who Peter and John were.

Power of Religion; Approach and Antics

(i)The religious leaders had greater authority. Therefore,  to  maintain  their  statuses,  they  tried  to  intimidate and  threaten   Peter  and  John  so  as  to  silence  them  permanently.  As they did in John 7:  11-13; John 9:20-23; John 12:  42; John 19:38.

(ii)Carefully  crafted  Questions- ?'(By  what  power  or  by  what  name  did  you  do  this?'' (Vs 7). 

They  carefully  avoided naming  the  miracle  or the mention of Jesus  (vs. 14-16)  with  the  hope  that  Peter  and  John  will  get  the  message  of  keeping  silent,  thereby  killing  their  mission.

(iii)Why the fear?  The  link  between  the  power  of  the  Apostle,  healing  of  the  lame  man  in  the  name  of  Jesus  and  that  Jesus  had  been  raised  from  dead.

Boldness and Wisdom of God Exemplified.  Acts 4: 10- 22

Fear was dismantled.  Courage turned the table in favour of the Apostles.  Peter  identified  the  incongruity  between  their  actions  and  the  religious  leaders'  reaction.  "When did it become a crime to do something kind for one in need?"  "Why  the  need  to  be  brought  for  trial  before  an esteemed  group?"  In vs.  8  Peter  acknowledged  they  were  leaders,  to  make  their  guilt  greater.  They  rejected  Jesus  as  the  Messiah  and  saw  to  His  death. 

Vs 10-11.  Peter draws upon the prophecy of Psalm 118:22.  This  Jesus  is  the  stone  that  was  rejected  by  you,  the  builders,  that  has  become  the  cornerstone.

Mission  Accomplished;  Vs. 12  ?'And  there  is  salvation  in  no  one  else,  for  there  is  no  other  name  under  heaven  given  among  people  by  which  we  must  be  saved''.

Truth or Consequences? Vs. 13-22; Peter and John had no intention of being silent.

CONCLUSION:  ?'Men  don't  fail  to  believe  for  lack  of  evidence;  they  refuse  to  believe  in  spite  of  the  evidence''.  Rom 1:  18-23. ?'But  if  our  Gospel  be  hid,  it  is  hid  to  them  that  are  lost:  In  whom  the  god  of  this  world  hath  blinded  the  minds  of  them  which  believe  not  lest  the  light  of  the  glorious  gospel  of  Christ,  who  is  the  image  of  God  should  shine  unto  them''.2 Corinthians 4: 3-4.

Introduction:

Last week's study titled: "Let the Acts Begin" taught us lessons in the lives of Peter, John and the crippled man. We learnt that we should develop the lifestyle of seeking His face in prayers and fellowship, consider it an opportunity for great joy when we go through troubles, and we should act in faith.

Today, we shall be looking at Peter's second sermon (quite like deja vu), the circumstances surrounding his message and the make-up of the message. A popular proverb says:

"Four things come not back: the spoken word, the shot arrow, the past life and the neglected opportunity."

Things to learn from these verses

• Don't share the glory

The first thing Peter did was disabuse the people's mind; if you notice in verse 11b,

". . . All the people ran together to them in the porch which is called Solomon's, greatly amazed."

They were amazed, what usually follows next is some sort of reverent awe for the "miracle worker" but Peter checked that immediately before it goes to his head, he gave the glory to God. That's a check for every one of us. How do we respond when people walk up to you and say "that message was powerful", "praise and worship" was awesome, etc.? See

"When Peter saw this, he said to them: "Fellow Israelites, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?" Verse 12 (NIV)

"It is Jesus' name (not his) and the faith that comes through him (not his own power or ability) that has completely healed him, as you can all see. "Verse 16b (NIV) (Emphasis mine)

• Seize opportunities as they come

"Our man Peter" seems to have the knack for seizing opportunities. Let's cast our minds back to Acts 2:14-41; there was an opportunity to preach and Peter seized it!

Here again in verse 12a, we read

"Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd." (NLT). Read Matt. 26:41

He first made sure the people were not going to idolize them and then straight into the message. He wasn't going to miss it. Peter must have been born ready!

• Be consistent with your message

"What is good for the goose is good for the gander". Matt 5:37, Proverbs 11:1

A close look at Peter's message (though short this time) will reveal absolute consistency.

1.    He preached the Word of God; not fables or stories

He referred to the prophets:

"But those things which God foretold by the mouth of all His prophets, that the Christ would suffer, He has thus fulfilled." Verse 18

2.    He preached Jesus!

The Crucifixion, Resurrection and the Power of the Risen Lord Verses 14-15

He referred to Jesus with names the people would identify;

(a)   As "His (God's) servant Jesus" (vs. 13) see Isaiah 42:1-3.

(b)    He is "The Righteous One" (vs.14) see Isaiah 9:7 and Jeremiah 23:5

(c)    "The Prince of Life" (vs. 15) see Isaiah 9:6; Daniel 9:25

3.    He offered direction (solution);

"And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all." Verse 16

4.      He was not diplomatic or apologetic; Peter was not afraid, he accused the people of doing worse than Pilate. They handed Jesus over to Pilate, and then when Pilate wanted to release Him they had demanded His death (vs. 13).

5.      He supported his message with the scriptures: He quoted the scriptures:

 "The LORD your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your midst, from your brethren. Him you shall hear," (Verse 23). See Deuteronomy 18:15

"And in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed." (Verse 25b) see Genesis 22:18; 26:4; 28:14

Conclusion

Peter was alert! He would be someone who prays but also watches out for opportunities. He showed consistence in his message which was relevant, delivered without fear or favor. He was careful not to take or share God's glory and once again, his message offered solution to the hearers.

Introduction:

Last week, we all saw and gained insight into the power of the fellowship of like-minded believers, having all things in common. Steadfastness and continuity became their watchword and constant practises. They just couldn't imagine a life without each other anymore. Though with different backgrounds (since some have just been added to the 120 that tarried in Jerusalem in Acts 2:1), they have become inseparably united in purpose, vision and zeal.

Today, the journey takes an interesting turn as we examine the very first physical manifestation of God's healing power in this book of study (".....Signs on the earth beneath" - Acts 2:19) that He has pre-ordained for this particular time in the life of the Apostles, at the particular place and the particular time in the life of the receiver!

Practical Application:

The book of Acts is a record of practising Christianity under the power of the Holy Spirit. It teaches believers how to live together in meaningful Christian fellowship, sharing freely with one another. Conversely, Acts also shows that Christians inevitably will have disagreements (As we will see in subsequent chapters), but that God gives wisdom and grace to settle differences in order to remove any impediment to the flow of His power through unity. Even though the early church had its share of strong personalities (Peter and John for example), there was still a willingness to listen and to submit to one another. Probably the most prominent characteristic of the early Christians was their spiritual power. They fasted and prayed fervently and their faith released miracle-working power of God.

In today's reading, we trust God by His grace for boldness to be able to do what Peter and John did at the Beautiful Gate. Remember, Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is (always) the same, yesterday, today, (yes) and forever (to the ages). Heb 13:8

Lessons and Wisdoms from the Lifestyle of the Apostles (Acts 3:1-10) & The Man at The Centre of This Verse

Enters Peter and John (Acts 3:1)

Last week, we read in Acts 2: 46 that the believers have developed a very strong habit of regularly assembling in the temple with united purpose. So, Peter and John were observing this culture and lifestyle of seeking His face in prayers and fellowship. Another lesson in this verse is that they were going at the hour of prayer. Little did Peter and John know that God has specially prepared the day for them. This prayer meeting was not going to be as usual. God is set to bring his word in Mark 16:17 to pass in their lives. Let's prologue John (1 John 1: 1-4) and Peter (Matt. 16:18, John 21: 3, 7, 15-17)

And The Man That God Created To Show Forth His Glory (Acts 3:2)

Great timing! This man, who has been crippled from birth was being carried along, who was laid each day at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful. The man in question had not walked for over 40 years (Acts 4:22) of his life! Knowing this informs us that he was a young lad when Jesus was born. It's amazing though that he never got his healing when the Lord walked through the face of the earth. God must have reserved him for this day for His works to be revealed in him (John 9:3). You know, that situation and mountain that has lingered thus far may be for His works to be revealed in you so that His Glory may be manifested through you! This man's state of health is the direct opposite of his location. This doesn't matter to God; after all, his state was going to finally agree with his location. Patience is key (James 1: 2-4)

And their Paths finally crossed........ (Acts 3:3)

So when he saw Peter and John about to go into the temple...... This man has been diligent in going to the Beautiful Gate. I can imagine the people who have been carrying this man to this gate. They must have been his friends, maybe family members. May have been a combination of both doing shifts between themselves. Same with Peter and John. If they have been lazy (Rom 12:11 NLT), they would have missed the opportunity to make history! (2 Tim 2:15).

His Experience Has Taught Him (Acts 3: 4-5)

Years of begging has taught the man to expect to get something! This man must have been tired of his pitiful situation and life at some point in time. He never knew that he has become a master in expecting to get something! This is key to his receiving his miracle. That is why James encourages us to consider it an opportunity for great joy when we go through troubles! (James 1:2b NLT)

They must have remembered (Acts 3:6)

Peter and John must have remembered the very words of Jesus in Mark 16:17 as soon as they saw the man. Remember, this is the very first miracle of its kind recorded in the book of Acts. Can you imagine us doing same in Clanbrassil? Peter (as usual) must have spoken with boldness. Gen 1: 1-3 comes to mind. He spoke light into the dark world of the man!

They Dared to Go Further (Acts 3:7)

Let me mention that the Book of Acts is otherwise called the Book of The Acts of The Holy Spirit. Everything was made possible by the power of the Holy Spirit. These believers have been filled and they continued to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Believing in the power and the anointing of the Holy Spirit, Peter took hold of the man's right hand with a firm grip and raised him up! By this Act of Faith in both the giver and receiver, immediately his feet and ankle became strong and steady!

Mission Accomplished (Acts 3:8-10)

He had never walked for over 40 years and can now do for the first time in his life. Can you imagine how happy this man would have been? He was not learning to walk, he was leaping!(Isaiah 35:3-6). He must have been doing his leaping in a very profound way so much that all the people saw him leaping and praising God!!!. This is exactly why this man has been healed (through the working of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Peter and John) at this time by the sovereign God. All the people recognised him. Can you imagine the multitude of people that witnessed this first hand? No one could doubt the miracle. It happened right there while people were by the Beautiful Gate! There must have been commotions everywhere. He has stayed begging at that spot too long for him not have been noticed! Our God is awesome. Through this single miracle, all the people gathered to hear Peter's preaching in the subsequent verses.

End of the beginning

Many opportunities like the one described above still abounds all around us. Little did Peter and John know that this was not going to be the "usual" prayer meeting. They have been diligent and consistent in what they were doing and God decided to honour their commitments. That service that you have been rendering selflessly that seems not to be noticed is someday going to be rewarded with the Mighty Acts of the Holy Spirit that nobody can deny. However, for this Acts to be experienced in our time, we need to move into the neighbourhood just like Peter and John (And the rest of the believers) did. They were merely doing what their Master did;

"The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighbourhood...."John 1:14a (The Message)

The neighbourhood is where the opportunities abound. There are many lame men out there waiting for the earnest manifestation of the sons of God. Can God count on you?

Contributor: Leye Olayiwola

Introduction

Last week, we saw the potency of the endowment of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. An ashamed, confused and fearful Peter before Pentecost delivered an authoritative sermon engrafted in the Word of God unprepared. Though being an uneducated fisherman, he expounded the scriptures in a relevant and unapologetic manner. His message, eloquently supported with scriptures, has nothing to do with his personality but the unseen Power (the Holy Spirit) who took charge and brought conviction to the hearts of the hearers (John 16:8). From the lesson, as believers we must ensure that our message (preaching, etc) must be relevant, delivered without fear or favour, offering solutions to life's questions and most importantly this message must be preached by our own very lives. Today, we will look at the beautiful beginning of the Christian church and her effect on both the church and participating members.

From the Church (group of believers) point of view - Vs 40 - 41

Definition of Growth: An increase in some quantity over time

There were about 120 believers gathered in the room before Peter's sermon but after the discourse, the hearts of many hearers had been so pierced that they gladly received the message and about 3000 souls were added to them.

We must note from the passage that it is God's desire for His church to increase in number (Numeric growth). Just after empowerment of the disciples, the next notable ?miracle' of the Holy Spirit was to convict the heart of men, not leaving them to themselves but adding them to the church. A vital church grows!!!

It is the responsibility of EVERY believer to work out this God's desire. Adams Clarke's Commentary puts it this way: ?These 3000 were not converted under one discourse, nor in one place, nor by one person. All the apostles preached, some in one language, and some in another; and not in one house-for where was there one at that time that could hold such a multitude of people? For, out of the multitudes that heard, 3000 were converted; and if one in five was converted it must have been a very large proportion. The truth seems to by this: All the apostles preached in different parts of the city, during the course of that day; and in that day, 3000 converts were the fruits of the conjoint exertions of these holy men"

From the believer (each person) point of view Vs 42-47

Definition of fellowship: Friendly association with others: companionship

It was just after their conversion that they were said to be added to the church. We may have heard it that we are all God's children but the truth is that we are not considered added by God's standard until we are genuinely repented and converted, through faith in Christ.

Vs 42 - Steadfast (fixed in intensity or direction, unwavering or determined in purpose) continuity (an uninterrupted flow) in the Word, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers.

The quality of this fellowship is determined by the quality of the supply of individual component (Eph 4:16). Let us all ensure that we contribute our continued ?supply' (spiritual in this sense - place of prayers, study of the Word, etc on individual basis) for growth of the whole fellowship.

Vs 43 - The power of the Holy Spirit move freely via the Apostle to do many wonders, signs and awesome things because of the dedication of everyone in the ?fold'. (Note the word ?then' at the beginning of the verse)

Vs 44 - Like-mindedness: Being in company of people who think like you do is very critical to your growth and survival as a Christian. "When the devil wants to deal with a Christian, he will try to isolate him from brethren, from church, from the bible then from fellowshipping with God. As long as he is in broken fellowship, there will not be counselors to guide him in the right path" Pastor EA unpublished. Heb 10:24 (Amp)

Vs 45 - No one should be in need (not want) amongst a community of believers.

Question: Is this reproducible in the present day church? Hint: Connect with what happened later and suggest possible cautions to your answers.

Vs 46 - Continuity in the temple (house of God) with one accord is a pillar for successful Christian experience here on earth Heb 10:25 (Amp). There is joy in doing things together whether holy communion, eating together from house to house, visiting, etc. They all have significant impact on the growth of the involving individual.

Vs 47 - The ?force' of love existing amongst them made it possible for them to receive favour from all the people. It inspired and convicted many to salvation and eventually led to numerical increase in the church.

Conclusion

The importance of Christian fellowship can not be over emphasized especially in the present day church. It is natural for anyone to want to be around people like him/her. In fact, one of the early signals of being in a backsliding state is the absence of desiring the companionship of fellow believers under any disguise. It is a good litmus test that every believer must note. Each believer must ensure his/her part in the fellowship is not lagging. We must all contribute our quota to the spiritual, numerical and financial growth of the local church (Miracle Land Dundalk) with steadfastness and unwavering loyalty.

Introduction

The stage was set; the Disciples had been endued with power, a substantial crowd had gathered. There was not a better time for the Pentecostal Sermon orchestrated by the Master Himself. The timing was perfect, the preacher was Peter! The Holy Spirit had come in a new way, not upon men as in the days of old but into men. Peter was a real man, a saved man, a changed man, filled with the Holy Spirit; his message was authoritative because it was scripturally correct. Tag along; let's delve into the next few verses.

The Preacher; before and after the empowerment

Peter was afraid and ashamed before Pentecost (Matthew 26: 69-75), but after the empowerment he was no longer afraid but became bold! Just hear him out.

"Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you, who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say" Acts 2: 14

What he said and how he said it

1. Just like his Master, he spoke with confidence and authority

Acts 2: 14c ". . . listen carefully to what I say"

Acts 2: 22 "Fellow Israelites, listen to this:"

Only a confident person with authority can speak like this; that is what the Holy Spirit can do to a man.

He expounded the scriptures; Read Acts 2: 16-21 this scripture refers to Joel 2:28-32

If it was Jesus Christ, after the verses, He would have said (and may I add?)

"This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears."

[See other scriptures he quoted; Psalms 16, 110, and 132]

3.    He preached the Word of God; not fables or stories (II Timothy 4:2). A standard of how messages should be - an inspiration from God's word. Obviously, this was not the Peter the Jews knew; the skill, wisdom and bravery he displayed was a sure sign that a change had taken place in his life. Peter was not eloquent; remember he and a few other disciples were unlearned fishermen but he was able to interpret the scriptures in relation to what had just happened.

4.    His Message was relevant; it was an answer to the heart cry of the people. They wanted to know what the meaning of the noise and speaking in tongues was.

¹² Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?"

5.    He was not diplomatic or apologetic; he did not care if what he said was politically correct or not. He did not preach to please: Acts 2: 22-23. He corrected the falsehood of the Jewish leaders who claimed that Christ's body had been stolen by His disciples  Acts 2: 24, 32-33

6.    He supported his message with the scriptures: He quoted David from the Psalms. David said,  ²⁷ "Because Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption"

The Results

There were results; but note that the results of Peter's sermon was not as a result of his personality or eloquence but the unseen Power who took charge - the Holy Spirit!

 ³⁷Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

When the Holy Spirit is allowed, He convicts people of sin. When our Lord promised the Holy Spirit, He said, "When He is come, He will reprove (convict) the world of sin" (John 16:8).  The preacher cannot convict of sin apart from the Holy Spirit, nor, will the Holy Spirit do it without us, the Spirit convicts sinners through Spirit-filled and Spirit-used lives. Unfortunately, these days, the sinner does not feel that he is a sinner because he sees us, (who profess to be Christians), living no differently from himself.

There was Solution

 ³⁸Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

 ³⁹For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the LORD our God shall call.

Conclusion

We see the transformation that can happen to an ordinary person filled with the Holy Spirit. It therefore follows that every one of us can change for the better by the help of the Holy Spirit. We also have seen how we should deliver the message of hope to the world (everyone of us have been called to reach out to the world one way or the other - Matt.28:19); by preaching the Word, not telling tales, a message that is relevant, delivered without fear or favor. A message that offers solution to life's questions; preached by our very lives!

Introduction:

The study of the next twelve verses will not make much meaning without a brief reference to the preceding verses. Verse 15 says: "Now on one of those days Peter arose among the brethren, the whole number of whom gathered together was about a hundred and twenty." AMP

What days is this verse referring to?

You see the days referred to in Acts 1:12-14

What were they doing?

Verse 14 says: "They all joined together constantly in prayer"

·         The first and very important observation was "Unity"; the Bible says they all joined together. Gen. 11: 1-6 teaches the power of unity

·         The second was that they were obedient; they were obeying the divine com­mand, instructions given by Jesus Christ (Acts1:4).

·         The third was they prepared their hearts for ten days "They all joined together constantly in prayer" (1:4). (Luke 11:13), (John 14:26), (John 16:7).

Now with all these in place, Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about 120 people) and spoke.

What can we learn?

Peter drew strength from the unity of the believers - There's strength in unity Eccl. 4:12

Remember the disciples at the crucifixion? They were scared and ran, Peter denied Christ three times. After the crucifixion, "the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews" (John 20:19).

But they were in obedience, in unity and in prayer in the upper room. It was in this process Peter drew strength to address 120 people

Secondly, Peter called the disciples to do what they needed to do. Stop licking your wounds, pointing accusing fingers or playing the blame game. It was time to put their house in order for what they were expecting. Everything had to be done right.

Remember Elijah on Mount Carmel in 1Kings 18: 30

"Then Elijah said to all the people, "Come here to me." They came to him, and he repaired the altar of the LORD, which had been torn down."

Verses 16 - 20: Peter called for the fulfilment of scripture - Judas had to be replaced according to the scriptures, Psalm 69:25,109:8

This would serve to clear the air of any possible misgivings, tussle for power or position. He created a criterion (21-22). They were to:

Choose one of the men who have been with them the whole time the Lord Jesus lived among them, beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up

So, they nominated two people (Barsabbas & Matthias), they prayed, they cast lots & Matthias won.

Following from last week's teaching, one of the lessons was that we should learn "what not to do from the apostles" - paraphrased

As an aside, is the issue of casting lots: Casting lots is quite Biblical. The word "lots" appears a number of times in both the Old and New Testaments. A few are: Lev 16:8, Num 26:55, 1 Chronicles 24:5, Jonah 1:7, and Acts 1:26. However, take notice that none of the Biblical illustrations of casting lots had to do with games of chance. Every time it was used, the Israelites depended on the Lord 100% to reveal to them His will. It was an impartial way to find God's will when choices had to occur. Proverbs 16:33 "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD."

Also notice that despite the fact that lots were cast in the New Testament, it was before the advent of the Holy Spirit. Compare the selection of Matthias (Acts 1:23-26) and the election of Deacons (Acts 6:1-6). The difference was the presence of the Holy Spirit in the latter scenario.

Conclusion

We can experience Pentecost and the workings of the Holy Spirit as it was in the days of the early church. But we have to be prepared for it; not just in words of mouth but in the things we do. We have to put our house in order - let's do what is right whatever it takes! Psalm 15, 1 Sam 4:9, 1Cor 16:13

We have to, work in unity (agreeing to the fundamentals) Amos 3:3, live in obedience (absolute obedience to the word of God; not tradition and religion), pray in righteousness (effectual and fervent).

Contributor: Isekhua Evborokhai

Introduction

The word "Act" by definition means the process of doing something or the performance of a deed or action. The Acts of the Apostles or the Book of Acts therefore means the acts or actions or deeds carried out or performed by the Disciples of Christ.

As we attempt a telescopic analysis of this very important book; we are confronted with certain realities; realities that magnify themselves as the Holy Spirit takes us on a spiritual journey into what lies beneath and within the compilation of this historical phenomenon. The "Logos" of the ?Book of Acts' makes it a compelling read, a block-buster that holds you enchanted from the very start to the finish. But when confronted with the "Rhema" of the ?Book of Acts' we are then confronted with certain undeniable examinations of ourselves in light of the characters within this odyssey. 

Facts to address as we study this book

1.      Who were these men and women?

Importance of who they were: that we might look at their background, pedigree, beginnings and be assured that our lives can also be significant. Acts: 4: 13, 1 Sam22: 1-5, 1Cor1: 22-25

2.      What were their accomplishments?

Importance of their accomplishments; given their peculiar circumstances and situations they succeeded.  We also can excel regardless of our circumstances.

3.      What were their failures?

Importance of knowing their failures; that we might avoid their pitfalls and also realise their humanity.

4.      How did they end?

Importance of knowing how they ended; one can only be successful at the end of one's journey. Were they successful despite all the odds and contentions?

5.      What are we to do?

Importance of our actions: to appreciate their efforts, empathise with their pains, recognise their frailties, aspire to their accomplishments, and yearn to leave our footprints in the annals of history. Acts: 2

The challenge that this book presents

Would our lives be worthy of being chronicled as theirs was? What would we leave posterity and the writers of history to judge us by when our time effluxes?

(Verse: 1) A reference to Theophilus; (Loved by God), of former treatise (book of Luke) to which Jesus' life bore testament to His preaching. Romans: 2:13, James: 1: 22-25

(Verse: 2) still a reference to Jesus up until His ascension Matthew: 28: 18-20, Luke: 24: 50. Mark: 16: 15-20, by the commandment of the Spirit, to His apostles; a command which He extends still to His chosen. John: 15: 16

(Verse: 3) Acts: 9: 3-7, John 21: 6-10, 15-17, Luke: 24: 13, 31.

(Verse: 4) John 16: 7, 13-15. No wise master sends his servant anything of importance without the necessary tool for accomplishment. The Holy Spirit is the tool of the believer; because He's too important for the assignment the apostles were to undertake. If Jesus could not evangelise without the Holy Spirit neither can you. Matthew: 3: 14-16. The Holy Spirit is the power house of the believer you cannot afford to be without Him. Luke: 24: 47-49.

(Verse 5) Joel: 2: 28-30, Jesus clearly indicates and differentiates the baptism of John with that of Christ. John baptises with water Jesus baptises with the Holy Ghost and fire. Acts 19: 4-7

(Verse: 6) the apostles talked about a physical kingdom; they didn't understand that they were about to embark on a spiritual journey that will birth in them the greatest kingdom that ever will be. Luke: 12: 32. Little did they know that the kingdom of Israel will be destroyed completely 70 years AD. God will ensure our restoration for we are His kingdom.

(Verse: 7) God has time and season for everyone and every nation. Israel was restored in 1948 as a nation. Eccle3: 11 Psalm: 31: 15.

(Verse: 8) the purpose of tarrying at Jerusalem and establishing God's kingdom can only be done through the arrival of the Holy Spirit. When the power of God comes it will enable us to witness to families, our societies, communities and the world. The Holy Ghost is to help us to witness Christ with power and authority. Luke: 10: 1, Matthew: 10: 1

(Verse 9) this clearly gives further assertion to the ascension of Christ before so many witnesses illustrating the reality of Jesus' ever abiding presence with us.

(Verse 10) there are many heavenly beings with us; assuring us of the reality of angelic beings. Luke: 24: 4, Psalm: 91: 11-12, Hebs1:14

(Verse: 11) Jesus is coming back just has he departed; 1Thessa4: 15-19, Matthew: 24: 26-28.

(Verse: 12) they began a journey to the place of encounter, in obedience to Christ.

(Verse: 13) Role calls of those original apostles that Christ chose still waxing strong awaiting the promise of the father. One name was however missing; Judas, at the verge of a new day for the apostle the same Judas who had laboured with them was nowhere to be found. The devil used him and discarded him.

(Verse: 14) they didn't go to sleep waiting for the promise of the Father; they prepared themselves in unity, prayer and worship; awaiting the arrival of the Holy Spirit. Their minds were focused on one singular purpose the advent of the Holy Spirit.

These seemly insignificant men and women were to begin a revolution, the kind the world would never recover from. From that gathering in that obscure place their story has travelled across the world proclaiming the everlasting truth of the King whose throne and Kingdom rules over all; and to whom all must bow.

Contributor: Paul Thomas