The
Book of Acts 15-28

Acts 15
1And
certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and
said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot
be saved. While Paul and Barnabas were in
Antioch, some men from Judea (Legalist of the old law), arrived and
started to teach the believers that unless one is not circumcised,
they could not be saved. (Colossians 2:8-17). Circumcision of the
heart applies to us today. (It is the spiritual circumcision that is
important for salvation).
2When
therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation
with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other
of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders
about this question. After arguing a while on
the subject, Paul and Barnabas were sent up to Jerusalem to talk
with the apostles about the matter.
3And
being brought on their way by the church, they passed through
Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and
they caused great joy unto all the brethren.
On the way to Jerusalem they stopped by Phenice and Samaria to visit
some of the believers, telling them that the gentiles were being
converted also.
4And
when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church,
and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that
God had done with them. They reported to the
others about what God had been doing through their ministry.
5But
there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed,
saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them
to keep the law of Moses. Some that were
Pharisees before they were converted declared that all gentiles must
be circumcised and follow the Jewish customs and ceremonies. (Follow
the law of Moses).
6And
the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this
matter. They came together for a discussion.
7And
when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto
them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made
choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word
of the gospel, and believe. Peter stood up and
said to the others; God chose me from long ago to preach the Good
News to the gentiles, so that they could also believe.
8And
God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the
Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us. God has
given the gentiles the Holy Spirit, just as he did for us. (We heard
the gentiles speak in the Pentecostal tongue). A language heard in
every dialect that was spoken. "Not an unknown tongue."
9And
put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by
faith. God cleansed their lives through faith
just as He did ours. (No difference).
10Now
therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the
disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?
Don't burden the gentiles with a yoke that we were not able to bear.
(Its not there any longer).
11But
we believe that through the grace of the LORD Jesus Christ we shall
be saved, even as they. All are saved the same
way, by the free gift of God.
12Then
all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and
Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the
Gentiles by them. The discussion was over, and
Paul and Barnabas told them about all the miracles God had done
through them among the gentiles. (Remember it is God doing the
miracles, not man).
13And
after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and
brethren, hearken unto me. When they finished,
James stood up and said; Brothers, listen to me.
14Simeon
hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take
out of them a people for his name. Peter told
you about God visiting the gentiles to take from them people to
honor His name.
15And
to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written.
The fact that the gentiles were converted agrees with what the
prophets predicted. (Isaiah 11:10).
16After
this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David,
which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and
I will set it up. I will renew the broken
contract with David. (Amos 9:11).
17That
the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles,
upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these
things. So that the gentiles (whom so-ever
will), also find the Lord.
18Known
unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.
The Lord revealing His plan right from the beginning.
19Wherefore
my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the
Gentiles are turned to God. Don't insist that
the gentiles who turn to God need to be bothered with our Jewish
laws.
20But
that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols,
and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.
However, they should obey the health laws. (You don't want to eat
unhealthy foods because they are not prepared correctly).
21For
Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being
read in the synagogues every sabbath day.
Speaking of the law of Moses.
22Then
pleased it the apostles and elders with the whole church, to send
chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas;
namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas and Silas, chief men among the
brethren. The apostles and elders along with
the whole congregation sent Judas and Silas to Antioch with Paul and
Barnabas as delegates to report on this decision.
23And
they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and
elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the
Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia.
They took a written letter with them from the apostles and elders at
Jerusalem.
24Forasmuch
as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled
you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be
circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment.
These men who troubled you with their
teachings came on their own accord, they were not sent by us. (Don't
listen to them).
25It
seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen
men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul.
We sent you representatives along with Paul and Barnabas.
26Men
that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus
Christ. They stuck to the Word and risked
their lives for the Lord Jesus Christ. (They were truthful teachers).
27We
have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the
same things by mouth. Sent to confirm what
they have decided about their question.
28For
it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no
greater burden than these necessary things. To
give you no greater burden than these few requirements from the law.
29That
ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from
things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep
yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.
Abstain from food offered to idols, blood or meat from strangled
animals, and from sexual immorality. (Harlotry, adultery, incest,
idolatry). Why? So not to offend the unlearned.
30So
when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had
gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle.
The four messengers went to Antioch, called a general
meeting and gave them the letter.
31Which
when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.
They read the letter and they all rejoiced.
32And
Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the
brethren with many words, and confirmed them.
Judas and Silas were both gifted speakers who preached to the
believers, strengthening their faith.
33And
after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from
the brethren unto the apostles. Judas and
Silas stayed several days and went with the apostles.
34Notwithstanding
it pleased Silas to abide there still. Silas
was against it, but it still pleased him to stay in Antioch.
35Paul
also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the
word of the Lord, with many others also. Paul
and Barnabas stayed at Antioch to assist the others who were
teaching there.
36And
some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit
our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the
LORD, and see how they do. Paul suggested to
Barnabas that they return to Turkey, and visit each city where they
had preached the Word to see how the new believers were doing. (The
Holy Spirit sent them on a mission from God).
37And
Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.
Barnabas wanted to take John Mark with them.
38But
Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them
from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.
Paul didn't like the idea since John Mark deserted them in
Pamphylia. (Mark didn't hang around when the going got tough).
39And
the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder
one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto
Cyprus. They disagreed on this matter and
split up. Barnabas took Mark with him and went to Cyprus. (The Holy
Spirit divided them for a reason).
40And
Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren
unto the grace of God. Paul took Silas with
the blessings of the believers.
41And
he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.
They left for Syria and
Cilicia, to encourage the churches there. (Doing the work of the
Holy Spirit).
Acts 16
1Then
came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was
there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a
Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek.
Paul and Silas went to Derbe and then on to Lystra
where they met Timothy. Son of a Jewish woman and Greek father. (A
Hellenist is of the Greek culture, but still under Roman rule and a
Roman citizen).
2Which
was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and
Iconium. Timothy was well liked by the
brethren at Lystra and Iconium.
3Him
would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him
because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all
that his father was a Greek. Paul asked
Timothy to join them on their mission, and circumcised him because
of the Jews that were present. (They knew that Timothy's father was
a Greek).
4And
as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for
to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at
Jerusalem. They were bringing the Word of God to the
gentiles.
5And
so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in
number daily. The church grew in faith and
numbers. (When you teach the truth of the Word, your ministry will
grow).
6Now
when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and
were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia.
Now when Paul, Silas and Timothy traveled through
Phrygia and Galatia, the Holy Spirit told them not to go into the
Turkish province of Asia (Asia Minor), at the time.
7After
they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the
Spirit suffered them not. Traveling along the
borders of Mysia, they headed north towards the province of
Bithynia, but again the Holy Spirit told them not to go there.
(Bithynia was an ancient region of Anatolia and Roman province in
the northwest of Asia Minor). "Listen to God, He is always in control."
8And
they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. So
they went through Mysia province to the city of Troas. (Paul's
home town).
9And
a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of
Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and
help us. Paul had a vision in a dream and he
saw a man over in Macedonia, Greece, pleading with him to come over
and help them. (It has been suggested that Paul had met Luke, and
that it was Luke that was seen in Paul's vision). Luke was doing
most of the scribing for Paul at this time.
10And
after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into
Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to
preach the gospel unto them. They came to the
conclusion that the Lord wanted them to go into Macedonia and preach
the Good News.
11Therefore
loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia,
and the next day to Neapolis. They took a boat
at Troas, and sailed straight across to Samothrace and Neapolis.
12And
from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of
Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain
days. They finally reached Philippi, a Roman
colony just inside the Macedonian border.
13And
on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer
was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which
resorted thither. On the Sabbath, they went
outside the city to a river bank where some people met for prayer.
(Most of them were women).
14And
a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of
Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord
opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.
One of the women named Lydia, who was a saleswomen from Thyatira,
who sold purple material. She was a worshipper of God and listened
and accepted the teachings of Paul.
15And
when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying,
If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house,
and abide there. And she constrained us. She
was baptized along with her whole household, and asked them to be
her guests; if they agreed that she was faithful to the Lord.
16And
it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed
with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much
gain by soothsaying. This girl was a demon possessed (serpent spirit), fortune teller
(soothsayer), that earned money for
her master.
17The
same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the
servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of
salvation. She followed Paul and the others
shouting. Building them up using scripture, probably a little on the sarcastic side.
(Just as Satan does). Do not be deceived by Satan!
18And
this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to
the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out
of her. And he came out the same hour. Paul
commanded the demon out of her in Jesus name. (We have power over
evil spirits in Jesus name).
19And
when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they
caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the
rulers. Their livelihood was at stake here and
they wanted Paul and Silas stopped.
20And
brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do
exceedingly trouble our city. The whole city
is in an uproar over these Jews.
21And
teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to
observe, being Romans. Their teaching customs that are
illegal for us Romans to practice. (Keep in mind that Paul was of
the tribe of Benjamin "Romans 11:1," and a Roman citizen). It is said that
"Silas" was a Roman citizen
like Paul. (Also known as Silvanus, a Roman cognomen meaning “wood,” and the same name as the Roman god Silvanus).
22And
the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates
rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.
A mob quickly formed and the officials ordered them to be stripped
of their clothes and beaten with wooden rods. "There is a big
problem here." (They broke the law by
beating a Roman citizen without a trial).
23And
when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into
prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely.
They were cast into prison and the jailer was held responsible that
they did not escape.
24Who,
having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison,
and made their feet fast in the stocks. The
jailer put them into the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in
chains. (He did not want them to escape, or it would be his but on
the line).
25And
at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and
the prisoners heard them. They prayed to the
Lord and the other prisoners understood with belief.
26And
suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of
the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened,
and every one's bands were loosed. Here we
have direct intervention of the Holy Spirit that caused the
earthquake and freed the prisoners.
27And
the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the
prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed
himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.
The jailer woke up and assumed the prisoners had all escaped and
wanted to kill himself. (It would have been a death sentence for him
anyway).
28But
Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are
all here. Paul cried out to him to stop! Don't
kill yourself, we are all here.
29Then
he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell
down before Paul and Silas. The jailer called
for a light to see and entered the jail trembling. (He didn't know
what to expect).
30And
brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?
The jailer brought them out of the prison and asked Paul and Silas
what he must do to be saved. (Sometimes it takes a little shaking up
for one to become a believer).
31And
they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be
saved, and thy house. And so it is; "All who
believe upon the Lord Jesus Christ shall be saved." (John 3:16).
32And
they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in
his house. Paul and Silas shared the Word with
him and his whole family. (The whole family becoming believers and
wanted to be saved).
33And
he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes;
and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.
The jailer cared for their wounds and him and his whole family were
baptized.
34And
when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them,
and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.
The jailer fed them, and they all rejoiced because they all believed
in God. (The whole household converted by the Holy Spirit).
35And
when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying, Let
those men go. The next morning, the officials
sent the police to tell the jailer to let them go. (All arranged by
the Holy Spirit). When God wants to turn heads and change minds, He
does it... "God is in control." (Lets see what happens now).
36And
the keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, The magistrates
have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace.
The officials told me to let you and Silas free. Go in peace.
37But
Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being
Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out
privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.
Paul said; "No way." They broke the law by having us beaten and
thrown in jail without a trial. "We are Roman citizens." Let them come
themselves to release us. Paul knew how the Romans persecuted
Christians (He was a Roman soldier himself), and He wanted to
protect them by not being so quick to judge Christians in the
future.
38And
the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they
feared, when they heard that they were Romans.
When the police became aware they were Roman citizens, they got a
little nerves. (They knew they arrested the wrong guys).
39And
they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them
to depart out of the city. The magistrates came to the
jail and apologized to them and begged them to leave the city.
40And
they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia:
and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and
departed. So, Paul and Silas left the city and
returned to Lydia. There they met with the other believers and
encouraged them once more. Remember, when you are falsely accused,
trust in the Heavenly Father. "He always takes care of His own."
Acts 17
1Now
when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to
Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews.
Paul and Silas traveled through the cities and came
to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue.
2And
Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days
reasoned with them out of the scriptures. It
was Paul's custom to go there and preach on the Sabbath days
teaching the Word.
3Opening
and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again
from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is
Christ. Paul explained the prophecies about
the sufferings of Jesus and His coming back to life, proving He was
the Messiah. (The Anointed One).
4And
some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the
devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.
Many of the Greeks believed and became converts along with many
important women of the city.
5But
the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain
lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all
the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought
to bring them out to the people. Of course the
Jewish leaders were jealous and incited some unbelievers from the
streets to start a riot. Attacking the home of Jason, planning to
take Paul and Silas to the city council for punishment.
6And
when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto
the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world
upside down are come hither also. They did not
find Paul or Silas, so they took Jason and some of the other
believers before the council instead. (They were accusing Paul and
Silas of turning things upside down). They were drawing people away
from the religionist by teaching the truth and they did not like it.
7Whom
Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of
Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.
The religionist were trying to say that Paul and Silas were claiming
that Christ was another earthly king instead of Caesar. "Christ
never claimed to be an earthly king such as Caesar." (Luke 20:25,
Mark 12:17). However, He would become King of King's and Lord of
Lord's. (Revelation 17:14, 19:16, 1 Timothy 6:15).
8And
they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard
these things. The people and the judges of the
city were concerned of these reports.
9And
when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let
them go. They let Jason and the other
believers go after they posted bail.
10And
the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto
Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.
Paul and Silas left for Berea (also known as Beroea), and headed for
the synagogue to preach.
11These
were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received
the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures
daily, whether those things were so. The
people of Berea were more open minded and listened to the teachings
of Paul and Silas. Why? Because they searched the scriptures and
found out what they were teaching was true. "A good lesson for all of
us." (Never believe any man, or women without checking them out in the
Word of God). If they teach a bunch of nonsense and traditions of
men, get away from them.
12Therefore
many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks,
and of men, not a few. As a result, many of
the prominent Greek men and women believed also.
13But
when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was
preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up
the people. But as usual, when the Jews of
Thessalonica heard that Paul was preaching the Word in Berea, they
went to stir up trouble. (You will always have some trouble when you
teach the truth). Most people set in their religious ways will not
except the truth. They have already been deceived and will not
listen to you.
14And
then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the
sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.
The believers acted quickly and sent Paul to the coast, while Silas
and Timothy stayed behind to keep the Word going.
15And
they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a
commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all
speed, they departed. Those who went with Paul
brought him to Athens and then returned to Berea to get Silas and
Timothy because they were needed there.
16Now
while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him,
when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry.
Paul was troubled because of all the idols he saw throughout the
city.
17Therefore
disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout
persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.
Paul went to the synagogues for teaching with the Jews and the
devout Gentiles, and spoke in the public square to all who would
listen.
18Then
certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks,
encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other
some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he
preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.
When Paul met with some of the Epicureans (worldly ones), and Stoic philosophers,
their reaction when Paul told them about Jesus and the resurrection
was; "He is pushing some foreign religion."
19And
they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know
what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?
But, they invited Paul to the forum at Mars Hill to hear more about
this new doctrine. (Here is a place that anything goes when it came
to teaching).
20For
thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know
therefore what these things mean. They never
heard this doctrine before and wanted to hear more.
21(For
all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in
nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)
Everyone here spends their time discussing their new ideas. (Always
some new doctrine of men, never quite getting to the truth of
Christianity). Sound familiar? How is your church doing?
22Then
Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I
perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.
Paul addressed them saying; I see that you are very religious.
(However, Christianity is not a religion, it is a reality).
23For
as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with
this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly
worship, him declare I unto you. I found an altar "To The
Unknown God." One you have been worshipping without knowing who He is.
Now I will tell you about him.
24God
that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord
of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands.
God made the world and everything in it, and is the Lord of Heaven
and earth. However, He does not live in man-made temples. (He is not
an image, or house, He is real).
25Neither
is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing,
seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things.
You can't minister to His needs, for He gives life and breath to
everything.
26And
hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the
face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed,
and the bounds of their habitation. This
should be translated; He created all the nations "mankind" (Genesis
1:27), from the soil (clay) of the earth. God formed man from organic material, not
blood. (Genesis 2:7). (You will not find the word "blood" in the
original manuscripts). God created all the races on the sixth day.
(All the races did not come from Adam and Eve as many believe). Read out study topic
titled: "This Man Adam" for a better understanding.
27That
they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and
find him, though he be not far from every one of us.
His purpose is that they should seek after God. Even
though He is not far away from us.
28For
in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of
your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
For in Him we live and have our being. We are the sons of God! (We
are of His kind), we are made in the image of God.
29Forasmuch
then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the
Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and
man's device. If this is true, we should not
think of God as an image, or idol made from men. (God is real), just
as we are real.
30And
the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all
men every where to repent. God tolerated mans
ignorance in the past about these things, but now He commands us to
put away these man made idols and to worship only Him.
31Because
he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in
righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath
given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the
dead. He has set a day for justly judging the
world through Christ, and pointed Him out by bringing Him back to
life again. (Many of them didn't believe in life after death).
32And
when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and
others said, We will hear thee again of this matter.
When Paul spoke of the resurrection of this one man (Christ), some
laughed at him, while others wanted to hear more later.
33So
Paul departed from among them. So Paul ended
his discussion with them.
34Howbeit
certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was
Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with
them. However, a few joined Paul and became
believers. Dionysius, (a member of city council), a woman named Damaris, and those who were with them.
(Teach the truth and you will
always find believers with the help of the Holy Spirit).
Acts 18
1After
these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth.
Moved on to Corinth. (Capital of Corinthia and a powerful commercial
center).
2And
found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from
Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded
all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.
There Paul met a Jew named Aquila who had recently arrived from
Italy with his wife Priscilla. (Under the order of Claudius Caesar
to deport all Jews from Rome).
3And
because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought:
for by their occupation they were tentmakers.
They were tent makers just like Paul. (Paul earned his keep). Yes,
he had a real job.
4And
he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews
and the Greeks. Paul preached to the Jews and
Greeks every Sabbath at the synagogue.
5And
when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed
in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.
After the arrival of Silas and Timothy, Paul spent his time
testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah.
6And
when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment,
and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean;
from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.
The Jews opposed Paul's teachings and Paul just shook the dust from
his robe and told them that their blood was upon their own heads.
They would not listen to him, so Paul said that from now on he would
preach to the gentiles. (When people do not want to hear the truth
of the Word, don't waist you time with them). There are many people
who are starving for truth that will listen.
7And
he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named
Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the
synagogue. Paul stayed with Titus Justus, a
Gentile who worshipped God and lived next to the synagogue.
8And
Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with
all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and
were baptized. However, Crispus, the leader of
the synagogue, and all his household believed in the Lord and they
were all baptized (as Christians), along with many others in Corinth.
9Then
spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but
speak, and hold not thy peace. The Lord told
Paul in a vision not to be afraid. To speak out with the truth and
don't stop.
10For
I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I
have much people in this city. God was with
Paul, and many people in the city that believed would protect him.
(Paul didn't fear anything because the Holy Spirit was with him).
11And
he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God
among them. So Paul remained their for the
next year and a half, teaching the truth of Gods Word.
12And
when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection
with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat.
When Gallio became governor of Achaia, the
Jews rose against Paul and brought him before Gallio for judgment.
13Saying,
This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.
They accused Paul of teaching men to worship God in ways that were
contrary to Roman law. (Not Gods law).
14And
when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the
Jews, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews,
reason would that I should bear with you. Gallio said to the Jews that he would be glad to hear their case, if
it was involving some crime against Paul.
15But
if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to
it; for I will be no judge of such matters. But, don't bother me with your silly Jewish laws.
(The Romans
thought that religion was a bunch of superstition at this time).
16And
he drave them from the judgment seat. Gallio
wanted nothing to do with it and drove them out of the courtroom.
(The Holy Spirit being in control of the situation).
17Then
all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and
beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of
those things. Then the mob took Sosthenes (the new leader of the synagogue),
and beat him outside the synagogue. Gallio didn't care less. (Sosthenes was a good
man).
18And
Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his
leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him
Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had
a vow. After that, Paul said bye to the
Christians and sailed for the coast of Syria, taking Priscilla and
Aquila with him. "Paul had taken the vow of a Nazarite." (Numbers
6). He had to attend the feast of Pentecost.
19And
he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into
the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.
When he came to Ephesus, Paul went to the synagogue for a discussion
with the Jews.
20When
they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not.
They wanted Paul to stay a while, but he felt
that he had no time to lose.
21But
bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that
cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will.
And he sailed from Ephesus. Paul wanted to
arrive in Jerusalem in time for the holiday. But, he promised to
return if it be God's will. (Always do things in God's will when
your working for Him).
22And
when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church,
he went down to Antioch. When Paul reached the
port of Caesarea, he visited the church there and then sailed to
Antioch.
23And
after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all
the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the
disciples. After preaching the Word there for
a while, Paul left for Turkey, going through Galatia and Phrygia,
encouraging the believers to grow in the Lord.
24And
a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man,
and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.
A Jew named Apollos, who was a believer and well equipped in the
scriptures, arrived in Ephesus from Alexandria in Egypt.
25This
man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the
spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord,
knowing only the baptism of John. He was
familiar with the teachings of John the Baptist about Jesus, but
that is all he knew. (Word of mouth took a while to travel in those days).
26And
he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and
Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him
the way of God more perfectly. He preached
boldly in the synagogue that "The Messiah is coming; Get ready to
receive Him!" Priscilla and Aquila heard him preach and after his
powerful sermon, met with him and explained to him what had happened
to Jesus since the time of John.
27And
when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote,
exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come,
helped them much which had believed through grace.
Apollos went to Greece with the encouragement of the
believers. When he arrived he was welcome and was greatly used by
God to strengthen the church.
28For
he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, shewing by the
scriptures that Jesus was Christ. Apollos convinced
the Jews in public debates, and by the scriptures, he showed them
that Jesus was indeed the Messiah. (Refuted all the Jewish arguments
by showing them in the scriptures). The Word of God changes minds
and lives when one hears the truth.
Acts 19
1And
it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having
passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain
disciples. Paul went on the road again to
Ephesus and met up with several disciples.
2He
said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?
And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there
be any Holy Ghost. Paul asked them; Did
they received the Holy Spirit when they became believers? No, they
replied; what is the Holy Spirit?
3And
he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said,
Unto John's baptism. What belief did you
acknowledge when you were baptized? We believed what John the
Baptist taught.
4Then
said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance,
saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should
come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. Paul
explained to them that those receiving his baptism must go on to
believe in Jesus. "John told them that Jesus would be the one to come
later as the Messiah."
5When
they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
Then they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
6And
when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them;
and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
Paul laid his hand upon their head and the Holy Spirit came upon
them. They spoke in other languages and prophesied. (This would be
the same Holy Spirit like on Pentecost day). It was a cloven
(thoroughly distributed) tongue, not an unknown tongue. Everyone
heard the prophecies in their own dialect, or language. (Acts 2:3-8).
7And
all the men were about twelve. Twelve
disciples were present.
8And
he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three
months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom
of God. Paul preached boldly in the synagogue
each Sabbath day for the next three months telling them what he
believed and why. With his boldness (not holding anything back),
Paul persuaded many to believe in Jesus.
9But
when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that
way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the
disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.
Some rejected Paul's teachings and publicly spoke against Christ, so
Paul left and refused to preach to them again. Paul took the
believers and started his own meeting right in the main lecture hall
of Tyrannus.
10And
this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which
dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and
Greeks. For the next two years Paul preached
the Good News to everyone in the Turkish province of Ausia. Both
Jews and Greeks heard the Lords message.
11And
God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul.
God gave Paul the power through the Holy Spirit to
perform wonderful miracles among the people.
12So
that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or
aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits
went out of them. Even when parts of his
clothes were placed upon the sick, they were healed, and demons came
out of them. (Remember it was God doing the healing, not Paul).
Don't listen to these false teachers that think they have healing
power. Their fakes! It is only God that can give you a healing
through the Holy Spirit, not any man.
13Then
certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over
them which had evil spirits the name of the LORD Jesus, saying, We
adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth. Then
certain vagabond Jews (residents of Judah), who were probably Kenites, and
were known for casting out demons, planned to experiment. They were
going to try and use the name of Jesus like Paul. (This is a big mistake for
an unbeliever to try). You can't con God!
14And
there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests,
which did so. It was a Jewish priest that was
going to try an exorcism. However, he really wasn't a believer.
15And
the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know;
but who are ye? When he tried it on a man that
was possessed by a demon, the demon replied that he knew Jesus and
Paul. Then the demon asked; who are you? This demon wasn't afraid of
this priest. We as believers have power over Satan and his demons
(Luke 10:19), but these guys had nothing. Again, they were not true
believes, just a bunch of fakes.
16And
the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame
them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that
house naked and wounded. This demon leaped out
of the man and onto the two exorcist and tore them up, so that they
fled form the house naked and badly injured. (Don't mess with demons
if your not a true believer and have God on your side).
17And
this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus;
and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was
magnified. The story of what happened spread
quickly all through Ephesus to both Jews and the Greeks, and fear
descended on the city. Then the name of the Lord was greatly
honored.
18And
many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.
Many that believed came to confess their deeds.
19Many
of them also which used curious arts brought their books together,
and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them,
and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.
Thos who used black magic also confessed their evil deeds and burned
their books and charms in a public bonfire.
20So
mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.
The whole area was stirred up by the Word of God. (Always teach the
truth of the Word). If a church begins to dry up and fail it is
because there is no truth being taught there. (People are getting
wiser in the end times). Well, at least some of us are.
21After
these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had
passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying,
After I have been there, I must also see Rome.
Paul was impelled by the Holy Spirit to go to Greece, before
returning to Jerusalem. After that he said that he must go to Rome.
22So
he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him,
Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season.
Paul sent his two assistants, Timothy and Erastus ahead to Greece.
Paul stayed a while longer in Asia. (God was needed there).
23And
the same time there arose no small stir about that way.
There was some trouble stirring up concerning the Christians in
Ephesus.
24For
a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver
shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen.
The trouble started with Demetrius, who was a silversmith that
employed many craftsmen. There main product was making silver
shrines of the Greek goddess Diana. (The goddess of hunt to the
Greeks, and goddess of the moon in Roman mythology).
25Whom
he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said,
Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth.
This was their income and they wanted to keep it that way.
26Moreover
ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout
all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people,
saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands.
Paul persuaded many people that handmade gods were not gods at all.
(The goddess Diana was a fraud and just a part of their mythology
and false worship).
27So
that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but
also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised,
and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the
world worshippeth. They were in jeopardy of
the great goddess Dianna losing influence among the people. (A bunch
of false worshippers when they had the true Word right there with
them).
28And
when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried
out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.
They became even more upset when they heard this and started
praising their false god.
29And
the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius
and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they
rushed with one accord into the theatre. The
crowds began to gather and the whole city was in confusion. (A bunch
of babble going on). They took Gaius and Aristarchus into the
amphitheatre for trial.
30And
when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples
suffered him not. Paul wanted to go into the
amphitheatre, but the other disciples would not let him. (The
disciples knew
it was trouble there).
31And
certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him,
desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre.
Even some of the Roman officers that knew Paul sent him a message
not to enter the amphitheatre. (They knew that Paul could be risking
his life if he entered the theatre).
32Some
therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was
confused: and the more part knew not wherefore they were come
together. Inside the theatre was nothing but
confusion; the people did not even know what they were there for.
33And
they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him
forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made
his defence unto the people. Alexander was
spotted by some of the Jews and dragged him forward to speak in his
defense.
34But
when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space
of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.
When the crowd realized that Alexander was also a Jew, they started
shouting and praising the great goddess Diana again for about two
hours.
35And
when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of
Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the
Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the
image which fell down from Jupiter? Then the
mayor came in and was able to calm down the crowd. He told the crowd
that everyone knows that Ephesus is the center of the religion of
the great goddess Diana, whose image fell from Jupiter.
36Seeing
then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be
quiet, and to do nothing rashly. Since this is
a fact among us, you should not let it bother you about what is
said. Calm down and don't do anything rash. (The Romans were nearby
watching).
37For
ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of
churches, nor yet blasphemers of your goddess.
These men did not steal anything from the temple, or say anything
about your goddess Diana.
38Wherefore
if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter
against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them
implead one another. If these craftsmen have
anything against these men, the courts are in session and let the
judges take care of it.
39But
if ye enquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be
determined in a lawful assembly. If there are
other matters, they can be settled at the city council meetings.
40For
we are in danger to be called in question for this day's uproar,
there being no cause whereby we may give an account of this
concourse. We are in danger and could be held
accountable by the Romans for today's riot, since there is no cause
for it. (God is always in control).
41And
when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly.
Then he dismissed them and they all went home.
(Again, God is always in control and knows how to manipulate people
to His advantage).
Acts 20
1And
after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and
embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.
When the commotion was all over Paul called the disciples together
for a farewell message and headed for Greece.
2And
when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much
exhortation, he came into Greece. He preached
in all the cities that he passed through on his way to Greece.
(Bringing them to the truth in the word).
3And
there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he
was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through
Macedonia. After Paul stayed in Greece for
three months, he was preparing to sail for Syria when he discovered
a plot by the Jews to kill him. Paul them decided to evade them and
head north to Macedonia first.
4And
there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the
Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and
Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
These group of men traveled with Paul as they were returning home to
Turkey.
5These
going before tarried for us at Troas. They
went ahead of Paul and waited for them at Troas.
6And
we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and
came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.
When the Passover ceremonies were over, they boarded a ship at
Philippi in northern Greece and five days later ended up in Troas. There he remained for seven days.
7And
upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to
break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow;
and continued his speech until midnight. Paul
preached to the disciples at the Passover meeting.
8And
there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were
gathered together. Teaching under the
flickering lights on the third floor of the building. Three floors
of preaching going on. For the deeper student; Paul also taught on three levels. Paul
preached to the Gentiles, the kings, and to the children. (Acts 9:15).
9And
there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being
fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk
down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up
dead. Eutychus kind of wondered off and fell
asleep while sitting on the window ledge. He fell to the ground from
the third floor to his death.
10And
Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not
yourselves; for his life is in him. Paul raced
down to the man and took him in his arms. He told the crowd that the
man was fine, and he was. (Touched by the Holy Spirit).
11When
he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and
talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.
They all went back up stairs and ate the Lord's supper together,
then Paul preached another long sermon.
12And
they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.
They all rejoiced because the man was brought back to life. Again,
brought back to life by the Holy Spirit.
13And
we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to
take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.
The disciples sailed ahead to Assos and Paul went by foot.
14And
when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.
They joined in Assos and sailed on to Mitylene.
15And
we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the
next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the
next day we came to Miletus. After passing
through Chios and Samos they arrived at Miletus.
16For
Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend
the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be
at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost. Paul didn't
stop at Ephesus this time because he wanted to get to Jerusalem in
time for the celebration of Pentecost. Again, keep in mind that Paul
took the oath of a Nazarite. (Numbers 6:1-21).
17And
from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the
church. Paul sent a message and called the
elders of the church of Ephesus to come down and meet him.
18And
when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the
first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with
you at all seasons. Paul greeted the men form
Ephesus and explained to them about his work for the Lord.
19Serving
the LORD with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and
temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews.
Serving the Lord humbly and with tears, faced danger from the
plots of the Jews trying to kill Paul. (Those who claimed to be
Jews; but were more likely kenites).
20And
how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have
shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house.
Paul never held anything back when teaching
the Good News.
21Testifying
both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and
faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. One
message for Jews and Gentiles alike. Turning from sin to God through
faith in our Lord Jesus Christ was the message.
22And
now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing
the things that shall befall me there. Being
drawn by the Holy Spirit to go to Jerusalem, even though they may
want to kill me there.
23Save
that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and
afflictions abide me. Paul knew that the Holy
Spirit would be with him.
24But
none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto
myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry,
which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of
the grace of God. Life is not worth anything
unless I use it for the work assigned to me by Jesus Christ. The
work of telling others about the Good News. (This is your purpose if
you are a disciple of Christ). Paul was not afraid because God was
with him, just as He will be with us in doing the work of the Lord.
(Acts 18:10). "Have no fear when the Holy Spirit is here."
25And
now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching
the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
Paul knew that he might never see those he taught again.
26Wherefore
I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all
men. No mans blood can be laid on me. (Paul
did it the right way as according to Gods will).
27For
I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
Paul didn't fluff up the message from God to please people, he told it like it was
and told the whole story.
28Take
heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which
the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God,
which he hath purchased with his own blood.
Make sure you "feed" the people the truth of the Word as the
"Holy
Spirit" will hold you responsible. (Those who teach traditions of men
and false doctrine will answer to God). "Judgment begins at the
pulpit."
29For
I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in
among you, not sparing the flock. Paul knew
that after he was gone that false teachers would jump on the flock
like vicious wolves. (Just as it is today, the holier than thou
people spreading the traditions of men and false doctrine).
30Also
of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to
draw away disciples after them. Even some of
you yourselves will fall from the truth and try to draw people to
you. (Always something new and fancy to believe giving people a sense of false
security). Their new doctrine always seems to leave God out of the
equation.
31Therefore
watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not
to warn every one night and day with tears.
Watch out for the troublemakers, like I watched out for you for
three years.
32And
now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace,
which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among
all them which are sanctified. I trust you to
God and His care and His wonderful Word to build your faith. His
inheritance is set aside for those who are sanctified. (The set
aside ones).
33I
have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.
Paul never cared for money or fine clothes.
34Yea,
ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my
necessities, and to them that were with me.
Paul was a tent maker and was self sufficient in his ministry. He
even supplied for those who were with him. He didn't beg for money,
or need to depend on donations. He paid his own way... "That is
why he could teach truth without tradition."
35I
have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to
support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how
he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Paul was an example in helping the poor and lifting people up
sharing the truth. Like the Lord Jesus said; "It is better to give
than to receive."
36And
when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
Then Paul prayed with the disciples to the Heavenly Father.
37And
they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him.
They were all sad that Paul was going away and not coming back.
38Sorrowing
most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his
face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
It was hard for most of them because they knew they
would not see Paul anymore. They all accompanied Paul down to the
ship. These men were chosen scholars of the Word.
According as he hath chosen us in him before
the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without
blame before him in love. (Ephesians 1:4). Chosen by God to go
forth and preach the Good News to whom so-ever will. Are
you a chosen one?
Acts 21
1And
it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had
launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day
following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara.
"Paul sent by the Holy Spirit."
They traveled on to Patara. The city of Patara, with the rest of
Lycia, surrendered to Alexander the Great in 333 BC. During the Wars
of the Diadochi, it was occupied in turn by Antigonus and Demetrius,
before finally falling to the Ptolemies.
2And
finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set
forth. From there they sailed for the Syrian
province of Phoenicia.
3Now
when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and
sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to
unlade her burden. They landed at the harbor
of Tyre, in Syria. Trading place of the kenites. (The name Tyre means "rock").
4And
finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul
through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.
After landing at Tyre, the disciples gathered together and warned
Paul not to go to Jerusalem. However, the Holy Spirit told Paul to
go on this mission.
5And
when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way;
and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we
were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.
When they were ready to leave at the end of the week, the entire
congregation followed them to the boat where they all prayed and
said their farewells.
6And
when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they
returned home again. Boarded the ship and on
their way.
7And
when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and
saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.
Stopped off at Ptolemais and greeted the believers, staying only one
day.
8And
the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto
Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist,
which was one of the seven; and abode with him.
They went on to Caesarea and stayed at the home of Philip the
evangelist, one of the seven to bring forth the truth in the Word. (Acts 6:3-5).
9And
the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
Philip had four virgin daughters that were Evangelist also. (They
taught and preached the word of God).
10And
as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain
prophet, named Agabus. After praying several
days, a man came down from Judea named Agabus, who also had the gift
of prophecy.
11And
when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own
hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the
Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall
deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.
Agabus bound his hands and feet with the belt of Paul, and told them
that teaching this Word would have Paul bound by the Jews in
Jerusalem and turned over to the Romans.
12And
when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place,
besought him not to go up to Jerusalem. They
all did not want Paul to go to Jerusalem (they loved Paul and didn't
want him hurt), but the Holy Spirit had
different plans for Paul. (He was going).
13Then
Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I
am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the
name of the Lord Jesus. Remember that Paul was
on a mission from God, and he was ready not only to be bound, but to die in
Jerusalem if necessary for the name of the Lord Jesus. (Paul wasn't
afraid and knew that the Lord was with him).
14And
when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the
Lord be done. By the will of God. They finally
realized that Paul was going no matter what.
15And
after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.
Packed up and headed to Jerusalem.
16There
went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought
with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should
lodge. When they arrived they were guests of
Mnason (originally form Cyprus), who was one of the early believers.
17And
when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
All the believers at Jerusalem gladly welcomed them.
18And
the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the
elders were present. Paul took them to meet
with James and the other elders of the Jerusalem church.
19And
when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God
had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.
Paul told them of the many things God had accomplished among the
gentiles through his work. Paul being that chosen vessel
commissioned by God. (Acts 9:15).
20And
when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou
seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe;
and they are all zealous of the law. Thousands
of Jews have believed, but they are still insistent that Jewish
believers must continue to follow the Jewish traditions and customs.
"They still didn't get it." (Just as it is today with many Christian
churches who believe, but still follow traditions of men).
21And
they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are
among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to
circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.
They are saying that you teach against the laws of Moses and against
the Jewish customs, forbidding circumcision. (It wasn't necessary
for a Gentile to be circumcised, because now it is the circumcision
of the heart that is important).
22What
is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they
will hear that thou art come. Now what? They
heard that you have come and they are not to happy about it.
23Do
therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a
vow on them. We have four men preparing to
shave their heads and take some vows.
24Them
take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them,
that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things,
whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that
thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.
They suggested that Paul go to the temple with the four men and have
his head shaved and also pay for the four men to have their heads
shaved. By this being done, everyone will see that you approve of
this custom and are in line with the Jewish laws.
25As
touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded
that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves
from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled,
and from fornication. The Gentile Christians
are not a problem. We aren't asking them to follow Jewish customs.
Just keep them from eating food from idols, un-bled meat from
strangled animals, and not to commit fornication.
26Then
Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them
entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days
of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every
one of them. Paul agreed to their requests and
attended the ceremony at the temple the next day for the
purification.
27And
when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia,
when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid
hands on him. When the seven days of
purification almost ended, some Jews from Turkey saw Paul in the
temple and rousted a mob against Paul and grabbed him. (The mob
was
breaking the law big time). You were to have sanctuary in the
temple.
28Crying
out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men
every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and
further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this
holy place. This is the man who preaches
against our people and Jewish laws. He even defiles the temple by
bringing in Gentiles. (Remember that God had opened salvation to the
Gentiles as well as the Jews). Salvation was open to all who believe
through Christ!
29(For
they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian,
whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple).
When they had seen Paul before with Trophimus, a
Gentile, they "assumed" that Paul had brought him to the temple.
30And
all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took
Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were
shut. The whole city was upset by these accusations against
Paul. Then they dragged him out of the temple and the gates to the
temple were closed behind him. (The so called legalist
always trying to stir up trouble).
31And
as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain
of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.
They were trying to beat Paul to death and the word reached the
commander of the Roman garrison what was going on. (Nice religious
community; they wanted to kill Paul).
32Who
immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them:
and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left
beating of Paul. When the Romans soldiers saw
what was going on they ran towards the crowd. When the mob saw them
coming, they quit beating Paul. God is in control, Paul was saved by
the Holy Spirit using the Romans. (Remember, Paul was also a Roman
citizen and a Roman soldier before his conversion). I'm sure he even
knew some of the Roman soldiers that came to his rescue.
33Then
the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be
bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had
done. As Paul was bound in chains, the
commander asked; What did this man do to stir up the crowd?
34And
some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when he
could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be
carried into the castle. One said one thing
and one another, so the commander decided to have him taken to the
armory.
35And
when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the
soldiers for the violence of the people. The
crowd became so violent that the soldiers had to lift Paul above the
crowd and carry him in to protect him.
36For
the multitude of the people followed after, crying, Away with him.
They wanted to kill him.
37And
as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief
captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek?
Paul asked the commander if he could have a word with him, and the
commander asked if he could speak Greek. (Remember that Paul could
speak about five languages). He spoke in many tongues (different
languages).
38Art
not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar,
and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were
murderers? Aren't you that Egyptian who led a
rebellion a few years ago, and took 4,000 members of the Assassins
with him into the dessert?
39But
Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a
citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak
unto the people. No Paul replied, I am a Jew
from Tarsus in Cilicia (Paul was also a Roman citizen), and I request to
speak to these people.
40And
when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and
beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a
great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying.
When the commander agreed, Paul stood up and
asked the crowd to be quite; and there was silence. Then Paul
addressed the crowd in Hebrew. (He spoke in Hebrew because of all
the legalist that were present).
Acts 22
1Men,
brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you.
Brothers and Fathers, listen to me as I defend myself.
2(And
when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they
kept the more silence: and he saith). When the
crowd heard him speak in Hebrew, the silence was even greater. (Paul
got their attention then).
3I
am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia,
yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught
according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was
zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. I
am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, but educated here in
Jerusalem under Gamaliel. (Gamaliel was a Pharisee and doctor of Jewish
Law).
4And
I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into
prisons both men and women. I persecuted
Christians, binding both men and women and delivering them to
prison. (Paul was really against Christians before he was
converted).
5As
also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the
elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and
went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto
Jerusalem, for to be punished. It is all on
record, and the High Priest, or any member of the council can verify
this. It was by their letters of instruction that let me do this.
(People he thought were breaking the law).
6And
it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto
Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light
round about me. Paul speaking of his conversion: As I was on the road to
Damascus, a bright light (the Shekinah Glory), shone around me.
7And
I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul,
Saul, why persecutest thou me? As I fell to
the ground, a voice said to me; Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting
me? (Christ speaking to Paul).
8And
I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of
Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. Who is
speaking to me Paul asked? Jesus of Nazareth, the one you are
persecuting.
9And
they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but
they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.
The men with Paul seen the light, but did not understand what was
being said.
10And
I said, What shall I do, LORD? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and
go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things
which are appointed for thee to do. I asked
what I should do. And the Lord told me to go to Damascus and you
will be told there what lies ahead for you. (The Holy Spirit
giving him guidance).
11And
when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the
hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.
Paul was blinded by the light and led to Damascus by those who were
with him.
12And
one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report
of all the Jews which dwelt there. There came a godly man who
was well known by the Jews named Ananias.
13Came
unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy
sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.
Ananias came to Paul and said receive your sight, and in the same
hour Paul could see again.
14And
he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou
shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear
the voice of his mouth. Chosen by God to know
His will, and to hear the voice of Messiah speak.
15For
thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and
heard. Chosen to take the message of Christ
everywhere and telling them what you have seen and heard.
16And
now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy
sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Go and
be baptized, and be cleansed from your sins, calling on the name of
the Lord. What was Paul's sin? Paul always arrested and persecuted
Christians. (This stuck with Paul, even though he was converted).
17And
it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even
while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance.
Fell into a trance while praying in the temple.
18And
saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of
Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.
Paul saw a vision of God saying; get out of Jerusalem, they will not
believe you when you give your message.
19And
I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every
synagogue them that believed on thee. Paul
said; Lord, They already know that I imprisoned and beat those in
the synagogue who believed on you.
20And
when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing
by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that
slew him. I was there when they beat your
witness Stephen and he was killed as I stood by and watched, even
holding his clothing.
21And
he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the
Gentiles. God told Paul to leave Jerusalem and
would send him far away to the Gentiles.
22And
they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their
voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is
not fit that he should live. The crowd
listened to Paul up till he mentioned the word (gentiles) and then
shouted. Away with him... Kill him... He isn't fit to live!
23And
as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into
the air. They just wanted Paul dead.
24The
chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and bade
that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know
wherefore they cried so against him. The commander brought
Paul inside and ordered him to be beaten, to make
him confess his crime. He wanted to find out why the crowd was so
furious with Paul.
25And
as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that
stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and
uncondemned? But, as they tied Paul down to
lash him, Paul said to an officer standing there; "Is it legal for
you to whip a Roman citizen who hasn't been tried yet? (There was no
trial and Paul was not condemned yet). Hmmm... What did we do now?
26When
the centurion heard that, he went and told the chief captain,
saying, Take heed what thou doest: for this man is a Roman.
The officer went to the commander and asked; "What are you doing?
This man is a Roman citizen." We will get in trouble with Caesar.
27Then
the chief captain came, and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a
Roman? He said, Yea. The commander asked Paul,
are you a Roman citizen? "Yes I am answered Paul."
28And
the chief captain answered, With a great sum obtained I this
freedom. And Paul said, But I was free born.
The commander muttered, I am a citizen too, and it cost me plenty.
But Paul answered, I am (free born), a citizen by birth. (The Holy
Spirit protecting Paul from the crowd by using the enemy). "God uses
whom ever He wills." i.e. God will protect you even when you face the
enemy. "Trust in Him!"
29Then
straightway they departed from him which should have examined him:
and the chief captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a
Roman, and because he had bound him. The
soldier ready to whip Paul quickly disappeared when he heard that
Paul was a Roman. The commander was afraid because he had ordered
him to be bound and whipped.
30On
the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he
was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded
the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul
down, and set him before them. The next day
the commander freed Paul form the chains and ordered the chief
priests into the session of the Jewish council. He brought Paul
before them to find out what the trouble was all about. (Remember
the word that upset the crowds was Gentiles, and the Romans were
Gentiles themselves). Kind of got the Jews in a pickle here.
Acts 23
1And
Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I
have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.
Paul, staring the council down, tells them he has always lived for
God.
2And
the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite
him on the mouth. Then Ananias (a fake), commanded those
who were close to Paul to slap him on the mouth.
3Then
said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for
sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be
smitten contrary to the law? Paul said to
Ananias, "God will slap you, you whitewash fraud." What kind of judge
are you that would break the law and have me slapped like that.
4And
they that stood by said, Revilest thou God's high priest?
Is that the way you talk to the high priest? (Ananias was never
chosen by God, he was appointed by the Romans).
5Then
said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it
is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.
I didn't realize that he was the high priest Paul replied. The
scriptures say not to speak bad about any of your rulers.
6But
when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other
Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a
Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the
dead I am called in question. Paul knew that
some of the council were Pharisees (those who believe in the
resurrection), and some were Sadducees (those who do not believe in
the resurrection). Paul shouted out to them that he was of the
Pharisees as were his ancestors. Paul knew just what to say, and
told them that he was being tried because he believed in the
resurrection of the dead. (Now he has both the Romans and the
Pharisees on his side protecting him).
7And
when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees
and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.
They were divided right down the middle.
8For
the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor
spirit: but the Pharisees confess both. Again,
the Sadducees didn't believe in the resurrection of the eternal
spirit within us, but the Pharisees did.
9And
there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees'
part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if
a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against
God. Now the some of the Jewish leaders that
were Pharisees jumped up and said that we find no wrong with Paul.
Maybe an angel did speak with him on the road to Damascus. If
chosen by God, we don't want to go against him.
10And
when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest
Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the
soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and
to bring him into the castle. The shouting
grew louder among the crowd and they began tugging at Paul from both
sides. The commander fearing that they would tear him apart, ordered
the soldiers to take him away and bring him back to the armory.
11And
the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good
cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must
thou bear witness also at Rome. In the night
the Lord came to Paul to comfort him. The Lord told him; just as you
have told the people about me in Jerusalem, you must also go to Rome
with the same message.
12And
when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound
themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor
drink till they had killed Paul. Some of the
Jews banded together and made a vow not to eat
nor drink till they killed Paul.
13And
they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy.
There were more than forty that were against Paul and wanted to kill
him. (Kenites fueled by Satan).
14And
they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have bound
ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we
have slain Paul. The conspirators went to the
chief priest and told them what they had done and that they wanted
to kill Paul.
15Now
therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he
bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would enquire
something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come
near, are ready to kill him. The conspirators
wanted to set up Paul using the commander to bring him back to the
council, then they were going to kill him on the way.
16And
when Paul's sister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went and
entered into the castle, and told Paul. Paul's
nephew got wind of the conspiracy and told Paul what they were
planning.
17Then
Paul called one of the centurions unto him, and said, Bring this
young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to
tell him. Paul told one of the officers to
take his nephew to the commander. He has something important to tell
him.
18So
he took him, and brought him to the chief captain, and said, Paul
the prisoner called me unto him, and prayed me to bring this young
man unto thee, who hath something to say unto thee.
Paul asked us to bring this young boy to you to tell you something.
19Then
the chief captain took him by the hand, and went with him aside
privately, and asked him, What is that thou hast to tell me?
What is it you want to tell me son?
20And
he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest
bring down Paul to morrow into the council, as though they would
enquire somewhat of him more perfectly. The
young boy told him that some of the Jews want you to bring Paul back
to the council pretending that they want to ask him more questions.
21But
do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them
more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that
they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now
are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.
But don't do it the boy said! There are more than forty men hiding
and waiting for Paul to kill him. They made a vow to kill him and
they are waiting for you to agree to their request.
22So
the chief captain then let the young man depart, and charged him,
See thou tell no man that thou hast shewed these things to me.
Don't tell anyone you told me this the chief captain told the boy.
23And
he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred
soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and
spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night.
The commander told two of his officers to get 200
soldiers ready to leave for Caesarea tonight. Also, take 200
spearmen and 70 mounted cavalry.
24And
provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe
unto Felix the governor. Give Paul a horse to
ride and escort him to Governor Felix. (A safe escort by the
Romans).
25And
he wrote a letter after this manner. Claudius
Lysias wrote a personal letter to Governor Felix.
26Claudius
Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.
To his Excellency, Governor Felix.
27This
man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then
came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was
a Roman. This man was seized by the Jews and
they wanted to kill him, but I would not allow it because he was a
Roman citizen.
28And
when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him, I
brought him forth into their council. I took
him to the council to find out what he had done wrong.
29Whom
I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have
nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.
I soon discovered that they wanted to kill him over something about
their Jewish beliefs. Nothing worth killing him over. (The Romans
didn't care about their beliefs).
30And
when it was told me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent
straightway to thee, and gave commandment to his accusers also to
say before thee what they had against him. Farewell.
When I was informed that they wanted to kill him, I decided to send
him to you and will tell his accusers to bring their charges before
you.
31Then
the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him
by night to Antipatris. As ordered, the
soldiers took Paul to Antipatris. (A city built by Herod the Great,
and named in honour of his father, Antipater II of Judea). The city
was destroyed in 363 CE by an earthquake.
32On
the morrow they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to
the castle. They returned with Paul to the
armory leaving him with the cavalry to take him to Caesarea.
33Who,
when they came to Caesarea and delivered the epistle to the
governor, presented Paul also before him. When
they arrived in Caesarea, they turned Paul over to the governor
along with the letter from the commander.
34And
when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he
was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia.
The governor read the letter and asked Paul where he was from. Paul
told him he was from Cilicia.
35I
will hear thee, said he, when thine accusers are also come. And he
commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.
Governor Felix told Paul he would here his case fully when his
accusers arrived. Meanwhile, he ordered Paul to be kept in prison
at King Herod's palace awaiting his trial.
Acts 24
1And
after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders,
and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor
against Paul. Five days later Ananias and some
of the Jewish leaders brought Tertullus (a scripture lawyer), to make
their case against Paul.
2And
when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying,
Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy
deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence.
Terullus addressed the governor with charges against Paul.
3We
accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all
thankfulness. He is praising Felix for
bringing peace and less discrimination against Jews. (We have a real
slick lawyer here).
4Notwithstanding,
that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou
wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.
Now he is going to bring his case against Paul with his lies.
5For
we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition
among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the
sect of the Nazarenes. Here comes the lies. We
found this man to be a troublemaker among the Jews as well as the
Romans. He is the ringleader of the sect know as the Nazarenes. (The
first lie)! He wasn't a ring leader, he was there to fulfill his vow
as a Nazarite.
6Who
also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would
have judged according to our law. He was also
trying to defile the temple when we arrested him. (The second lie)!
We should have killed him then!
7But
the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took
him away out of our hands. Took him out of the
hands of the kenites. (A bunch of phony troublemakers).
8Commanding
his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest
take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him.
Demanding that he be tried by Roman law. Why not... Paul was a Roman
citizen.
9And
the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so.
The Jews that were present (probably all kenites), joined in and
said that everything Tertullus said was true. (All a bunch of lies).
Again, Paul was under the vow of a Nazarite. (Numbers 6:1-21).
10Then
Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak,
answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a
judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself.
Now it was Paul's turn to speak. I know that
you have been a fair judge of Jewish affairs for years Paul
exclaimed.
11Because
that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days
since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship.
It has been no more than twelve days since I had arrived in
Jerusalem to worship in the temple.
12And
they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither
raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city.
I never incited a riot in the city or in the synagogue.
13Neither
can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.
These men cannot prove the things they accuse me of; their lying to
you.
14But
this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy,
so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are
written in the law and in the prophets.
However, I do confess that I believe in the way of salvation, which
they refer to as a sect. I follow the system of serving the God of
our ancestors. I believe in the Jewish law and everything written in
the books of prophecy.
15And
have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there
shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.
I even believe as these men do. "That there is a resurrection of
both the righteous and ungodly."
16And
herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void to
offence toward God, and toward men. I try to
always maintain a clear conscience before God and men. (Paul always
told it like it was with no regrets).
17Now
after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.
Even after I was away for I while, I returned to Jerusalem with
money to aid the Jews, and offerings to God.
18Whereupon
certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with
multitude, nor with tumult. I presented
offerings and obeyed their laws by being purified in the temple,
never starting a riot. (These Jews from Asia were kenites, not
real Jews).
19Who
ought to have been here before thee, and object, if they had ought
against me. They should be here if they had
anything against me.
20Or
else let these same here say, if they have found any evil doing in
me, while I stood before the council. Ask
these men right here today if their council found any wrong in me.
21Except
it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching
the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this
day. I said one thing that maybe I shouldn't
have said. Now I am here before the council to defend myself for
believing that the dead will rise again.
22And
when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that
way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall
come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.
Felix knew that Christians did not go around starting riots and knew
that Paul was telling the truth. Then he told the Jews to wait for
the arrival of Lysias (the garrison commander), and then he would
decide the case.
23And
he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let him have liberty,
and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or
come unto him. He ordered Paul to prison with
all liberties to make it more comfortable for him. (He knew Paul was
innocent).
24And
after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which
was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith
in Christ. After a few days, Felix and his
wife Drusilla (daughter of Herod Agrippa I), sent for Paul and
listened to him about his faith in Jesus Christ.
25And
as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come,
Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have
a convenient season, I will call for thee.
Paul laid the truth on them and reasoned with them about
righteousness, self control, and the judgment to come. (Felix became
a little terrified).
26He
hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he
might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed
with him. He was hoping that Paul would bribe
him to let him free and sent for Paul pretty often. (He really
enjoyed the Word that Paul was teaching).
27But
after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix,
willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.
Two years went by in this manner, until Felix was
succeeded by Porcius Festus. Because Felix wanted to gain favor with
the Jews, he left Paul bound in chains. (I believe Felix liked Paul
because of his teachings and really wanted to protect Paul if he
could).
Acts 25
1Now
when Festus was come into the province, after three days he ascended
from Caesarea to Jerusalem. Festus arrived in
Caesarea to take over his new responsibilities.
2Then
the high priest and the chief of the Jews informed him against Paul,
and besought him. The chief priest and other
Jewish leaders laid their false accusations on Festus about Paul.
3And
desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem,
laying wait in the way to kill him. They
begged Festus to bring Paul to Jerusalem right away. (Their plan was
to kill Paul).
4But
Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he
himself would depart shortly thither. Festus
was returning to Caesarea and suggested that Paul should be kept
there till he arrived.
5Let
them therefore, said he, which among you are able, go down with me,
and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him.
Festus told the others that those with authority should return with
him for the trial to see if the accusations made against Paul were
true.
6And
when he had tarried among them more than ten days, he went down unto
Caesarea; and the next day sitting on the judgment seat commanded
Paul to be brought. Ten days later he returned
to Caesarea, and the following day opened Paul's trial.
7And
when he was come, the Jews which came down from Jerusalem stood
round about, and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul,
which they could not prove. When the Jews from
Jerusalem came down to the trial, they started with all the false
accusations. (Again, most of these Jews were probably kenites).
8While
he answered for himself, Neither against the law of the Jews,
neither against the temple, nor yet against Caesar, have I offended
any thing at all. Paul denied the charges and
replied; "I never opposed the Jewish laws, desecrated the temple, or
rebelled against the Roman government."
9But
Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, and said,
Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things
before me? Festus asked Paul if he was willing
to go to Jerusalem and stand trial before him. (They are trying
to set him up here).
10Then
said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be
judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest.
No way! Paul replied. You know very well I am not guilty. "I
demand a hearing before the Emperor himself!" (Appealing to the highest
court).
11For
if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I
refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof
these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto
Caesar. If I had done something worthy of
death, then I will not refuse to die. But I am innocent, and neither
you, or anyone else has the right to turn me over to these men so
that they can kill me. "I appeal to Caesar!"
12Then
Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, Hast thou
appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go.
You want Caesar? Then to Caesar you will go.
13And
after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to
salute Festus. A few days later, King Agrippa
came with Bernice to visit with Festus.
14And
when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause
unto the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by
Felix. During their stay, Festus discussed
Paul's case with the king.
15About
whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of
the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him.
These accusers of Paul wanted me to kill him.
16To
whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any
man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face
to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime
laid against him. Roman law does not convict a
man unless he faces his accusers and has a chance to defend himself.
17Therefore,
when they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow I sat on
the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth.
When the accusers came here for the trial, I called the case and
brought in Paul.
18Against
whom when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of
such things as I supposed. But the accusations
against him were not what I supposed they would be. (They were all
lies).
19But
had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of
one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.
It was something about their religion and someone called Jesus who
died, but Paul insists that He lives. (Teaching the resurrection).
20And
because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether
he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.
I asked him if he would go to Jerusalem to have his case tried.
21But
when Paul had appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus,
I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Caesar.
But, Paul appealed to Caesar! So I kept him in jail until I could
arrange to get him to the Emperor.
22Then
Agrippa said unto Festus, I would also hear the man myself. To
morrow, said he, thou shalt hear him. "I'd
like to hear the man myself," Agrippa said to Festus.
23And
on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp,
and was entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains,
and principal men of the city, at Festus' commandment Paul was
brought forth. The next day king Agrippa
entered the courtroom and Festus had Paul brought in. (All were
present at court).
24And
Festus said, King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with
us, ye see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Jews have
dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying that he
ought not to live any longer. This is the man
that the local Jews and those in Jerusalem want to kill.
25But
when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and that
he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him.
But, in my opinion Festus said; Paul has done nothing worthy of
death. However, Paul appealed his case to Caesar, so I have no
alternative but to send him.
26Of
whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have
brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king
Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to
write. Now what? Festus had no charges to send
to the Emperor against Paul and became a little nervous. (He was in
a little trouble now trying to please the kenites). They were the
enemy! So Festus figures he can tell king Agrippa to examine him and
asks him what to do. (Just trying to pass the buck).
27For
it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to
signify the crimes laid against him. It
doesn't seem reasonable to send a prisoner to the Emperor without
any charges. (If he did, he would be the one in trouble). Festus
just wanted his hands clean of the matter.
Acts 26
1Then
Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself.
Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself.
Paul will now tell the true story.
2I
think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself
this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of
the Jews. I will clear this matter all up for
you Paul said to king Agrippa.
3Especially
because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which
are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
Paul knew that king Agrippa was familiar with not only roman law,
but also the Jewish laws and customs.
4My
manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own
nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews. The
Jews are aware I had thorough Jewish training since I was a child in
Tarsus, then Jerusalem, and lived accordingly.
5Which
knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the
most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.
They know that I was always the strictest of Pharisees. (Paul
was very strict; following their laws and persecuting the church and Christians
to the max).
6And
now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God,
unto our fathers. Their real argument with me in
their accusations is because I am looking forward to the fulfillment
of God's promise made to our ancestors.
7Unto
which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and
night, hope to come. For which hope's sake, king Agrippa, I am
accused of the Jews. The twelve tribes of
Israel believe the same as I do about this fulfillment of God's
promise; but for me they say it is a crime.
8Why
should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should
raise the dead? Is it a crime to believe in the resurrection
of the dead? Does it seem incredible to you that God can bring men
back to life again? (You see, the Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection and were upset
that Paul was teaching this).
9I
verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary
to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. I used to
believe that I should persecute the followers of Jesus of Nazareth.
10Which
thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up
in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and
when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.
I brought many Christians to prison and testified against them.
Casting my vote when they were brought to death.
11And
I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to
blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them
even unto strange cities. I tortured them and
tried to make them curse against Christ. I even hounded them in
distant cities when I could.
12Whereupon
as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief
priests. I was on a mission to Damascus armed
with authority by the chief priest to destroy the church.
13At
midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the
brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which
journeyed with me. One day around noon, I seen
a light from heaven shine down upon me and my companions. (The Shekinah Glory).
14And
when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto
me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest
thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
Paul heard the voice form Heaven. Why are you persecuting me? "You
are only hurting yourself." (When you persecute the church, you
persecute Christ and the plan of God).
15And
I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou
persecutest. Who are you I asked? I am Jesus,
the one you are persecuting the Lord replied.
16But
rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for
this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these
things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will
appear unto thee. The Lord told me that I was
to be His servant and witness. To tell the world about this
experience and about many other experiences when the Lord appeared
to me.
17Delivering
thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send
thee. The Lord told me He would protect me
from my own people as well as the Gentiles whom He will send me too.
18To
open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from
the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of
sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that
is in me. The purpose is to open their eyes to
the truth so that they may repent and live in the light of God,
instead of Satan's darkness. So that they may receive forgiveness
from God for their sins and receive God's inheritance along with all
people everywhere whose sins are cleansed.
19Whereupon,
O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision.
I embraced that vision from Heaven and was not disobedient.
20But
shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout
all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should
repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.
I taught about Jesus Christ to the Jews and the Gentiles, and that
all must come to repentance for their sins and turn to God by doing
good deeds.
21For
these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to
kill me. This is why the Jews arrested me in
the temple and tried to kill me. For teaching the truth!
22Having
therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing
both to small and great, saying none other things than those which
the prophets and Moses did say should come.
God protected me so that I could tell these facts to everyone. I
taught what the prophets and Moses taught.
23That
Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should
rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to
the Gentiles. That the Messiah would suffer
and be the first to rise form the dead. "To bring the light to the
Jews and Gentiles alike."
24And
as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul,
thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.
Are you insane Festus shouted out? All this studying has made you
mad.
25But
he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words
of truth and soberness. Paul replied, I am not
insane, but speak only words of truth.
26For
the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely:
for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him;
for this thing was not done in a corner. King
Agrippa knows about these things. They were not done under wraps and
these events should be familiar to him.
27King
Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.
Paul asked king Agrippa if he believed the prophets; then replied, I
know you do.
28Then
Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.
Agrippa said to Paul; Do you expect me to become a Christian with
trivial proof like this? (They knew what was going on and knew
about Christianity).
29And
Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that
hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am,
except these bonds. Paul replied, whether my
arguments are trivial or strong, it is God's will that both you and
everyone hear become the same as I am, except for these chains.
30And
when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and
Bernice, and they that sat with them. They all
stood up and left.
31And
when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying,
This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds.
They all talked it over afterwards and came to the agreement that
Paul had done nothing wrong worthy of death or imprisonment.
32Then
said Agrippa unto Festus, This man might have been set at liberty,
if he had not appealed unto Caesar. But,
Agrippa said to Festus, "this man could have been set free if he
hadn't appealed to Caesar." (They knew Paul was innocent, but Paul
was going to Rome anyway, just as the Lord said).
Acts 27
1And
when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they
delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a
centurion of Augustus' band. On their way to
Rome, Paul was placed under the custody of an officer named
Julius, a member of the imperial guard.
2And
entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by
the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica,
being with us. As they left for Rome by boat,
there was a Greek from Thessalonica named Aristarchus that was with them.
(Aristarchus was a Greek astronomer and mathematician).
3And
the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated
Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh
himself. While docked at Sidon, Julius let
Paul have some liberties and he went ashore to visit with some
friends. (Julius probably knew Paul when Paul served as a Roman
soldier). Keep in mind that our Heavenly Father is in control.
4And
when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because
the winds were contrary. Headed north of
Cyprus between the island and mainland.
5And
when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to
Myra, a city of Lycia. They landed in Myra in
the province of Lycia. In early Christian times, Myra was the
metropolis of Lycia. The town is traditionally associated with Saint
Paul, who changed ships in its harbor. (Also the earliest church of
St. Nicholas at Myra was built in the 6th century).
6And
there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy;
and he put us therein. Then they boarded an
Egyptian ship that was bound for Italy.
7And
when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over
against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete,
over against Salmone. After several days of
rough sailing (no wind), they came across to Crete, passing the port of Salmone.
(With no winds, this took them a while to get there).
8And,
hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair
havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.
As they moved along the southern coast, they arrived at "Fair
Havens" near the city of Lasea. (Modern name is Kali Limenes,
meaning "Good Harbors," "Fair Havens" is a natural port near the
southernmost point of Crete).
9Now
when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous,
because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them.
The weather was becoming a little dangerous and Paul
spoke to the officers about it. (Things were changing now with the
weather).
10And
said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt
and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our
lives. Paul warns them that they could ship
wreck with loss of cargo and even their lives.
11Nevertheless
the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more
than those things which were spoken by Paul.
The officer didn't listen to Paul and listened to the captain and
the owner of the ship instead.
12And
because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part
advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to
Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth
toward the south west and north west. Fair
Heavens was an exposed harbor and winter was moving in so they
decided to go further up the coast to Phoenix (the palm tree), that
had less exposure to the winter.
13And
when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained
their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete.
They had a light wind and it seemed like a nice day for sailing.
They pulled up anchor and sailed along close to shore. (Things look
pretty good so far).
14But
not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called
Euroclydon. A heavy wind came up called a
Euroclydon, also known as a gregale (a Greece gale or northeaster),
of typhoon strength.
15And
when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we
let her drive. Not having control of the ship,
they let the ship run before the gale.
16And
running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much
work to come by the boat. They sailed behind a
small island called Clauda. (Now called Gozzo).
17Which
when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and,
fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and
so were driven. They banded the ship with
ropes to strengthen the hull and lowered the top sails. They didn't
want to enter the quick sands of the African coast and cast upon the
Syrtis. (Two shallow sandy gulfs on the coast of Libya).
18And
we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they
lightened the ship. The seas grew higher and
they began to through the cargo overboard.
19And
the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the
ship. The following day they threw the tackle
and anything else they could find overboard.
20And
when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small
tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken
away. The storm lasted many days, until at
last all hope was gone. "They were in some trouble now."
21But
after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and
said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed
from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.
Paul called the crew together and told them that they should have
listened to him and not left fair heavens. They would have avoided
all the injuries and loss if they would have listened to Paul.
22And
now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of
any man's life among you, but of the ship.
Paul told them to cheer up! The ship may go down, but not one of us
will lose their lives. (Paul knew it would be alright; he was on a
mission from God). "Remember that God let Paul know what would go
down."
23For
there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom
I serve. I received a message from an angel of
God Paul told them.
24Saying,
Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God
hath given thee all them that sail with thee.
The angel assured me that I would surely stand trial before Caesar
and not to worry.
25Wherefore,
sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as
it was told me. Have courage! I believe what
God told me and it will be just as He said. (Paul had the faith in
our Heavenly Father). How is your faith in God?
26Howbeit
we must be cast upon a certain island.
However, we will be shipwrecked on an island.
27But
when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in
Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that they drew near to some
country. After fourteen nights of being driven
up and down the Adriatic sea, the crew suspected that land was near.
28And
sounded, and found it twenty fathoms: and when they had gone a
little further, they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms.
They sounded and found 120 feet of water below, then a little
further they found 90 feet of water below. (They were getting close to land
now).
29Then
fearing lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four
anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.
To avoid the rocks below, they anchored ship and waited for
daylight. (I'm sure their was a little praying going on that night).
30And
as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let
down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have
cast anchors out of the foreship. Some of the soldiers wanted
to abandon ship and take their chances in the lifeboat, so they
started to lower it down. (Not a good idea).
31Paul
said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the
ship, ye cannot be saved. Paul told them they
would all die unless they stayed aboard.
32Then
the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.
When the soldiers heard this, they cut the lifeboat free and let it
fall.
33And
while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat,
saying, This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and
continued fasting, having taken nothing. Paul
wanted everyone to eat because they have been fasting for fourteen
days.
34Wherefore
I pray you to take some meat: for this is for your health: for there
shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you.
Eat for your health, and not a hair on your heads will be touched.
(Luke 21:18). "Serve God and listen to Him and no one can touch you."
35And
when he had thus spoken, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in
presence of them all: and when he had broken it, he began to eat.
Giving thanks to God before them all. (Always thank God when he
pulls you out of trouble, or provides for you).
36Then
were they all of good cheer, and they also took some meat.
They all felt better now and began to eat.
37And
we were in all in the ship two hundred threescore and sixteen souls.
276 people were aboard the ship.
38And
when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, and cast out
the wheat into the sea. They threw all the
wheat overboard to lighten the ship and get out of the storm.
39And
when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a
certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it
were possible, to thrust in the ship. They
didn't recognize the coastline, but noticed the bay. (They were
near St. Paul's Isles, which are situated in St Paul's Bay). The
Maltese people believe that it was St. Paul who laid the foundations
of Christianity on the island.
40And
when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto
the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoised up the mainsail to
the wind, and made toward shore. Raised
anchor, hoisted the main sails and headed for shore.
41And
falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground;
and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder
part was broken with the violence of the waves.
But, the ship hit a sandbar and ran aground. The bow of the ship
stuck, while the stern of the ship began to break apart.
42And
the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them
should swim out, and escape. The soldiers
wanted to kill the prisoners so they would not swim out and escape.
43But
the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose;
and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves
first into the sea, and get to land. Julius
the centurion told them no because he wanted to spare Paul. Then he
ordered all the men who could swim to jump overboard and head for
land.
44And
the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And
so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.
The ones who could not swim were told to head for
shore on planks and other debris form the ship. They all escaped
the rough seas and
safely made it ashore.
Acts 28
1And
when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called
Melita. Also known as Malta.
2And
the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled
a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and
because of the cold. The people of the island
were kind and built a bonfire on the beach to welcome them in the
rain and cold.
3And
when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the
fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
When Paul grabbed for some sticks to throw on the fire, a poisonous
snake latched onto his hand. A deadly viper. (Sign of Satan).
4And
when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they
said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though
he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
The people of the island thought that Paul was a murderer and that
the snake would kill him.
5And
he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
But Paul just shook of the snake into the fire and was unharmed.
(This was a little strange to the barbarian people on the island).
He just shook of a deadly snake and was not harmed. (God protected
him). Why? "To show you we have power over Satan through the Holy
Spirit."
6Howbeit
they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead
suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm
come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.
After waiting a while for Paul to start to swell up and die, the
barbarians changed their minds and called Paul a god.
7In
the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island,
whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days
courteously. A man named Publius (the
govenor), had an estate on the island and put them up for three
days.
8And
it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and
of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his
hands on him, and healed him. The father of
Publius was very sick with fever and dysentery. Paul went in and
prayed for him, and laying hands on him, healed him. Was it Paul who
did the healing? No... He prayed to God and He did the healing.
(Paul
never took credit for what God allowed).
9So
when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island,
came, and were healed. So all the other people
that were sick on the island came to Paul and were healed. (God
touched the people of this Island with the Holy Spirit).
10Who
also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded
us with such things as were necessary. The
people of the island showered them with gifts they would
need for the trip when they left.
11And
after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had
wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.
After three months on the island they set sail again on another
ship. The Twin Brothers of Alexandria.
12And
landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.
First stop was Syracuse where they stayed three days.
13And
from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after one
day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli.
After a day or so they ended up in Puteoli. (Pozzuoli is a city and comune of the province of Naples, in the Italian region of
Campania). Christ told Paul he was going to Rome and hear we go.
14Where
we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days:
and so we went toward Rome. They found some
believers their that they stayed with for seven days before they
headed for Rome.
15And
from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as
far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he
thanked God, and took courage. When the
brothers in Rome had heard they were coming they met them at the
forum on the Appian way. Others joined them at the Three Taverns.
(Better known as The Three Shops). The general store, the
blacksmith's, and the refreshment-house. (Kind of a reception area
for travelers).
16And
when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the
captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with
a soldier that kept him. When they arrived in
Rome, Paul was permitted to stay anywhere he wanted as long as a
guard was with him.
17And
it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the
Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them,
Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the
people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from
Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. Paul
spoke to the local Jewish leaders and told them that he was arrested
by the Jews in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans for
prosecution. Paul explained to them that he had harmed no one, nor
violated the customs of their ancestors.
18Who,
when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was
no cause of death in me. The Romans wanted to
release me Paul told them, because they found no cause for the death
sentence demanded by the Jews.
19But
when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto
Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.
When the Jews protested the decision, I felt it necessary to appeal
to Caesar.
20For
this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak
with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this
chain. Now I come to you to tell you why I am
bound with these chains. It is because I believe that the Messiah
has come and for teaching the truth of His Word.
21And
they said unto him, We neither received letters out of Judaea
concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or
spake any harm of thee. The local Jewish
leaders told Paul that they have had no letters, or reports from
Jerusalem that were against him. (There were no Kenites who were the
accusers here).
22But
we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this
sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.
We want to hear more of what you believe they said to Paul. The only
thing we know about these Christians is that they are denounced
everywhere.
23And
when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his
lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God,
persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and
out of the prophets, from morning till evening.
They appointed Paul a day for teaching and he told them about the
Kingdom of God and taught them about Jesus from the Scriptures. Paul
taught them from the five books of Moses and the books of prophecy.
(Paul knew the Word, especially the books of the law and prophecy).
24And
some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.
Some believed and some didn't. (So it is today when you teach the
truth of the Word).
25And
when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that
Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the
prophet unto our fathers. They argued among
themselves about what they had heard. But, the one thing they left
with ringing in their ear is when Paul said: The Holy Spirit was
right when He said through Isaiah the prophet.
26Saying,
Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not
understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive.
(Isaiah 6:9).
27For
the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of
hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with
their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their
heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
(Isaiah 6:10).
28Be
it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto
the Gentiles, and that they will hear it. Paul
wanted them to realize that this salvation from God was available to
the Gentiles too, and that they would accept it.
29And
when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great
reasoning among themselves. They left talking
all about God.
30And
Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all
that came in unto him. Paul lived in his
rented house for the next couple of years and welcomed all who would
visit him. (Kind of like being on house arrest).
31Preaching
the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord
Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
Paul continued teaching with boldness about the
Kingdom of God and about the Lord Jesus Christ; with no one trying
to stop him. "THANKS BE TO GOD." Then the Apostles continued with
great acts, such as Paul's citizenship as a Roman.
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