Dead Or Alive

Acts 4:32-5:11

When the Spirit of God can freely work through a believer, he or she will only seek to do things for the betterment of the church as a whole. For example, when a person truly loves God, their motivations are not only to care for their own needs, but to place the needs of others above their own. If God was willing to give His best to a sinful world, then believers should never hesitate to show sincere love to their fellow man.

Our text gives a wonderful example of how the early church prospered through unity, and togetherness. The texts reads, “And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and one soul: neither said any of them that any of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things in common.” (vs. 32). Can you imagine the state of the church today, if all members shared the same heart, soul, and had all things in common? I believe the church would have a more powerful impact not only amongst the religious community, but around the whole world.

God takes delight in His people, when they do things according to His will, and He blesses them accordingly, but His anger is kindled toward those who appear to do works of righteousness, but have hidden motives that are fueled by pride and selfishness. While the majority of the early church cooperated in bringing all the proceeds from selling their possessions to the apostles, so that everyone could receive distribution according to their need, there were two who decided they would go against the church’s unified efforts, and keep some of the funds for themselves. Ananias and his wife Sapphira found out the hard way, what happens when a person deliberately lies to God. No matter how good things may seem amongst a prosperous church community, there will always be some who will refuse to maintain obedience. This odd couple refused to tell the truth about the total amount they received from selling their possessions. Knowing that their needs would be accounted for, they still stuck to their unwise plan. After being given a chance to reveal the truth, Ananias chose to lie, and dropped dead at the feet of the apostle Peter. Nearly three hours later, Sapphira walked into the church, and was also given a chance to confess the truth. Unfortunately, she chose to lie as well, and fell dead also at the apostle’s feet. The two were carried out of the church, and buried next to each other, which caused great fear to come upon the entire church.

What good is it, to lie to a God who knows all things? I mean, it’s just senseless, and unnecessary. Ananias and Sapphira could have avoided untimely deaths, by simply telling the truth. Besides, all their needs were already met in the first place. Be careful how you approach God, or those He entrusted to lead you. Always be honest in your communication, because while you may be able to convince man, you can never fool God. He’ll always reveal what’s in the heart, especially if it’s intended to hurt the church. God protects His own, and will do what’s necessary to keep them safe, even if He has to cause some to die.

Against All Odds, Be Bold!

Acts 4:23-31

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “Against All Odds, Be Bold!” Starring, Peter, John, the Crippled Beggar, and the Priests and Sadduces. I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Crippled Beggar sits outside the gate called Beautiful, asking for alms)

Crippled Beggar: Pardon me madam, but can you spare a little change… excuse me sir, I am in need, can you… sigh…

(Men pass by the crippled beggar, ignoring his cries for help, but Peter and John now approach)

Crippled Beggar: Excuse me kind sirs, but please, can you help me with a little something… to get food. I don’t ask for much, but please…I am in desperate need.

Peter: Look at us.

(The crippled beggar fastening his eyes on them, expecting to finally receive alms)

Peter: Unfortunately, I don’t have any change to spare, but what I do have, I’ll give to you without hesitation.

(The crippled beggar looks with a gaze of confusion)

Peter: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.”

(Peter reaches to grab the man’s hand, and pulls him up. Immediately, his feet and ankle bones received strength. He jumps up and follows them into the temple, praising God.)

*This miraculous act caught the attention of nearly 5,000 men, many of which knew the man had been lame since birth. Peter wisely took advantage of the opportunity, to preach the Gospel.

Peter: Why do you men look so amazed, as if we did this of our own power? This man was healed by faith in the name of Jesus, who you all delivered up to Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go. But, your ignorance was all a part of God’s divine plan for man’s redemption.

(While he continued to preach, the priests, captain of the temple, and Sadducees came in to see what was going on.)

Priests and Sadducees: Alright, enough of this, bind these men, and take them in hold! It’s already late, so keep them there until tomorrow.

(The Sadducees didn’t believe in the resurrection, so they were no doubt more disturbed of all those who weren’t in favor of the disciples’ message.)

*No matter how hard the enemy tries to hinder the Gospel, it is still powerful enough to change lives. Many of the 5,000 men who heard Peter’s words, believed in them. All your labor in the works of the Lord, are not in vain. When men attempt to silence you for doing good, keep going… don’t stop… don’t give up.

High Priest Committee: “By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?”

Peter: (being filled with the Holy Ghost) “…by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom he crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.”

*Sometimes, a Christian can be intimidated when evil men come together against them, but despite the number of those opposed to your beliefs, trust that God alone is powerful enough to outnumber, and overcome any group of wicked men who desire to hurt or harm your bold faith in God.

(“And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.”)

High Priest Committee: Give us a moment to talk things over. (Whispering among themselves) What should we do to these men? It’s obvious that a miracle has taken place, and everyone has witnessed it, and we cannot deny it. Let’s threaten them to stop speaking in the name of Jesus, so the people won’t be convinced to believe in Him.

High Priest Committee: Hey, you men come over here. Listen, it’s cool what you guys did for the lame man and all, but we command you not to speak at all, or teach in the name of Jesus.

Peter and John: Whether you think our action was right or wrong, that’s on you guys, but we can only speak the things which we have seen and heard.

*Peter and John would not bend, no matter how much pressure was applied to them by the high priests.

(“So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.”)

(After being released, Peter and John returned to their own company of believers, and shared their experience. They then prayed so intense, that the place they inhabited was shaken, and all were filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of God with boldness.)

*There will be moments in our lives when we be afraid to share our faith in God, because people will make us uncomfortable and try to stop us. But like Peter and John, we must maintain our zeal for the Lord, and boldly confess Jesus before men, and He will confess us before the Father.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “Against All Odds, Be Bold”! Thanks for tuning in.

The State Of The Church

Acts 2:42-47

Early Church vs. Modern Church

Early Church – Continued steadfastly in apostolic teaching
Modern Church- Brainwashed with man’s doctrine and watered down teaching (not all modern churches are corrupt, but a great many are)

The early church prospered in the faith, because they stayed true to following Christ’s doctrine. God’s Word is the only guide to help the church overcome all things contrary to His will. Unfortunately, the modern church has become corrupted with man’s opinions, over what God commanded leaders to teach. If the teaching is corrupt, the people will never grow.

Early Church – Gathered together in fellowship consistently
Modern Church – Finds more pleasure from social media, or online services

The early church was consistent in gathering together for fellowship, and prayer. Being in the company of fellow believers, gives one strength and encouragement, that can not be imparted apart from the body. The modern church has become accustomed to isolation, and lack the strength that comes from a unified gathering.

The early church was massive, yet they were still able to care for each other, so much that no one lacked any necessity. Everyone had food, shelter, and all things required to have a comfortable life. They continued daily sharing the same mind and overall outlook. Today, churches are divided all over the world, and many churches hold an average of 20 to 50 members. As small as the congregations have become, there’s more division and confusion in the few, than there was in the entire early church. When we move God’s agenda aside for our own selfish plans, the church will suffer lack in all important areas, but when God’s goals are the church’s priority, the entire body will prosper, and grow consistently in the knowledge of the Word.

“You can’t have a prosperous ‘New School’ organization, workout a solid ‘Ole School’ foundation.” – Ell

Profile: Stephen

Acts 6:8-15

Pros:
– Man of honest report (good reputation)
– Full of the Holy Ghost
– Full of wisdom
– Appointed as Deacon (to serve daily ministration)
– Full of faith
– Full of power
– Did great wonders and miracles among the people
– The glory of God shined even through his face

Cons:
– His godly favor stirred evil in the hearts of certain of the synagogue
– Men were paid to do underhand work against him
– Men set up false witnesses against him
– Men made false accusations against him

Just because a man or woman willingly chooses to submit themselves to the work of God’s kingdom, doesn’t guarantee they’ll be free from trouble. In fact, the closer a person gets to God, the harder the enemy will fight to pull them away from His hand. Oftentimes, those who will bring you the most trouble in the earth will come from the church. God’s way is right, and when men diligently seek His way, evil forces make it their business to hinder their progression. No matter how hard the devil tries to keep you from growing in God, stand firm in faith, knowing that through Christ, you can do all things, overcome all evil, and endure to a more perfect end.

“Fight the good fight, just because it’s right.” – Ell

They Should Have Picked Me!

Acts 6:1-7

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another exciting episode of, “They Should Have Picked Me!” Starring, The Twelve Apostles, and the group of unnamed Disciples! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Loud, and disturbing crowd chatter amongst the unsettled church members)

One of the 12: Alright, alright, calm down everyone. What seems to be the reason for all this unusual commotion?

Grecian Disciple: Good sirs, we understand that you are busy doing the Lord’s work; preaching, teaching, and healing, but while you are busy doing all those wonderful things, no one is tending to our widows during the time of daily ministration.

Crowd: YES YES, WE DESERVE TO BE TREATED JUST AS FAIR AS THE HEBREWS.

One of the 12: Hmm… I understand, but we must continue doing as God leads us, and it would be unwise for us to stop teaching, in order to partake of the daily ministration, so to avoid this problem again, we will allow you to select seven men with good reputations, and full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, to manage daily ministrations.

Crowd: Yes, that’s a great idea. Who should we choose?

(The seven that were chosen were Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, Nicolas)

One of the 12: Alright, now that we have that situation under control, we will continue in prayer and ministering the Word to all men. To the seven who were chosen, we lay hands on you, and pray that God use you to do His will, and that you fulfill your duties to the best of your ability.

Crowd: Amen. Amen. Amen.

(Crowd disperses, except one ungrateful disciple)

Ungrateful Disciple: Hey!! Wait!! Why wasn’t I selected to be chosen to serve the people? I’ve been faithful since I gave my heart to God?

One of the 12: Calm down young man. What is your problem?

Ungrateful Disciple: What’s my problem? What’s my problem? Do you know who I am?

One of the 12: Umm… not really, sorry

Ungrateful Disciple: I deserve to be among the seven selected to manage the daily ministration.

One of the 12: And why do you feel this way?

Ungrateful Disciple: Well, because I think I meet all the qualifications. And, I’ve served as a faithful disciple consistently.

One of the 12: Although you may meet the qualifications, shouldn’t you be in support of your fellow brethren who were selected, and continue doing those things pleasing to God from where you currently stand?

Ungrateful Disciple: Yeah, well, I guess you’re right, but I feel like I could do the job.

One of the 12: I understand son, but the fact that you weren’t selected doesn’t mean you can’t do the job. In fact, maybe God has something else He wants you to do in the church. Have you considered that thought?

Ungrateful Disciple: Now that you’ve mentioned it, maybe you’re right. Instead of getting frustrated with the fact that I wasn’t chosen to serve in that area, I should be happy for the men who were, and offer all the support they need to be successful. And, if God selects me to do something else, I’ll want the brethren to have my back as well.

One of the 12: You got it son. Well done. Now, keep that positive attitude, and go serve the Lord.

Ungrateful Disciple: Thank you sir, I most certainly will.

*We won’t always be selected to do special jobs in the kingdom, but we should not faint, nor lose heart when others are chosen, instead of us. God can get the most of us no matter what position we hold in His kingdom. Be grateful wherever God places you, and work diligently to see that His purpose is fulfilled in your life. Never hate on those who God calls to do special assignments, rather support them and keep them encouraged, because the work they do always comes with hard challenges.

“Stay in your lane, and let God bless you from there.” – Ell

Huddle Up!

Acts 5:12-16

One of the hardest things to do on this planet is, get a group of people to agree on the same ideals, required to reach a unified goal. Many sports teams fail to win the coveted championship trophy, because certain members of their team aren’t in sync with the coach’s gameplan. We often see how certain individuals act out of character, when their team is on the verge of winning a game, thus causing them to suffer a loss. Even when playing a game of tug-of-war, if all members on a team aren’t working collectively as a group, they’ll easily be pulled over to the other side. Teamwork really does make the dream work, especially when all who are joined together share the same mindset, and one goal. This same concept can be applied to an individual, and their body. When the natural body is healthy, one can easily accomplish those things the mind is set to achieve. Unity is the key ingredient to any collective group, seeking to achieve success.

In our text, the apostles of Jesus were responsible for doing many signs and wonders among the people of the early church. Their miraculous manifestations would not have been made possible if confusion and ill will was among them, but their minds were set on being obedient to God, and fulfilling His command to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The body of Christ consists of many members, all who may be affiliated with different denominations, but if all have their minds and hearts set on fulfilling God’s will, then God can do great things through His people, no matter who they are affiliated with. The truth will indeed stand forever, so when the church collectively spreads the truth of the Gospel to all men, God will reveal His awesome power through all who are of one accord.

“Unity is what makes success a reality.” – Ell

Check Your Resume

1 Timothy 3:8-13

Searching for a job can oftentimes be a frustrating experience. This is mostly due to reasons like either the position you desire isn’t in demand, the company isn’t willing to compensate you for your worth, or you don’t meet all the qualifications for the position. Certain job titles require specific qualifications, in order for one to even be considered for a position. For example, to become a doctor, a person must have a five-year degree in medicine, be recognized by the General Medical Council, a two-year foundation course of general training, two to three years of core medical training, and other extensive training and education. Yeah… that’s not a career for the average Joe. Other professions including police, lawyer, or even paramedic, all have strict requirements associated with its coveted position. While intense qualifications such as these, may seem overbearing, all training and education are important, to ensure that a potential candidate will prove successful in their desired field or career.

For the church, God set up positions, by which the works of the ministry can be more effective. Aside from preaching and teaching, the administration of church business was not to be ignored, therefore, the position of deacon was established. According to Acts 6:3, deacons were required to first be men of honest report, full of the holy ghost, and wisdom. Before reading the rest of the deacon application, those three requirements alone, are beyond impressive! Turn back to 1 Timothy, and we see that potential deacons must also be grave (honest), not doubletongued (saying one thing with one person, and something else with another, with the intent to deceive), not given to much wine (drunkard), not greedy for money, and study God’s Word with pure intentions.

To work in the ministry, a man must have good character, morals, and live by God’s standard. This way, his actions and judgments will be set on fulfilling what God expects for the church, and not his selfish motivations. There are many snares and traps set by the devil, to cause the church to fall, so walking in the Spirit, will allow for a man in any position or office in the church, to avoid what’s been set to make them sin.

Be mindful of your heart’s desire for wanting a position in the church. Not only must you be filled with God’s Spirit, but you must prove that you are capable of holding such a position, by the way you live on a daily basis. All God’s people are equipped to do great things for the church, but we must all submit ourselves to what He commanded us to be, and do for the kingdom.

Enduring Love

1 John 3:11-24

No matter what comes against you in this life, love one another… regardless of who despitefully uses and persecutes you, love one another… when your money starts to act funny, love one another… when your family turns against you, love one another… when friends are nowhere to be found when you need them most, love one another… when you have questions that no one can answer, love one another… when men hate you without valid reasons, love one another… when the wicked seem to prosper and the good seem only to suffer, love one another… when your test never seems like it’ll become a testimony, love one another… when people on your job misunderstand your righteous lifestyle, love one another… when it seems like God is ignoring your desperate cries for help, love one another… when men even try to kill you for doing only what the Bible teaches, love one another… when you lay in bed at night, wondering what’s the reason for living, love one another… when it seems like all your good works and deeds are going unnoticed, love one another… when you’re up worrying how the bills will get paid, while everyone else is sleeping peacefully, love one another… no matter what comes against you in this life, you are still commanded to love one another, because God is love, and He never stops showing love towards His people.

In all that you go through in this life, be sure to keep your conscious clear, heart pure, and motives set on keeping the commandments of God. In due time, God will reward the diligent for their labor.

“Love all men the same way you want God to love you.” – Ell

The Hard Side Of Love

3 John 1:9-12

How do you hug a porcupine, without getting poked with its pointy needles? It’s virtually impossible to come away injury-free when dealing with a porcupine, because he’s primed and always ready to poke anyone who gets too close. There are men and women in churches around the world, who are similar to porcupines. Rather than get along with brethren, they prefer to pick and poke at all that get too close, who try and correct their ways. The children of God were called to live by godly standards, and that includes behaving with the fruit of the Spirit, on a consistent basis, but how do you handle a person who seeks only to put themselves before others, and slander those who call them out for their wrongdoing? In the same way it’s difficult to hug a porcupine, it’s even more difficult to love an unruly church member. The flesh side of a man desires to slap good sense into those who refuse to humble themselves before the mighty hand of God, but the Spirit won’t allow them to give in to temptation. Instead, we are to continue to show love to those who are prideful and unruly, while making sure the body of believers isn’t affected by their evil doings. “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32 KJV)

“What’s love got to do with it? Everything!” – Ell

Joy Down In My Heart

3 John 1:1-4

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (vs. 4). Wow! What a feeling it must be, to have all your children living according to the righteousness of God, in this fallen and sin-sick world. Men and women today get overly excited and pumped up when their favorite sports team wins a game, or if their favorite actor wins a coveted award, but all the worldly things we get amped up for, pale in comparison to knowing that someone you love, has given their life to God. Do you remember the day when you gave your heart to God, and the warm, bubbly feeling you felt inside? It’s almost as if everything looked brand new from your eyes, and you developed a totally new take on life. Imagine how others feel, when they grow weary of living in shame and misery, then wisely submit to their intended purpose in God. While it’s nice to support a team or person of interest, when compared to living for God, all that stuff is counted as pure poo-poo. Take joy and delight in knowing that your eternity is safe and secure in God, because you made the choice to walk in truth, and shun those things that can do absolutely nothing to help you grow spiritually. Then, support those who have also committed their lives to God, and encourage them to stand firm, and fight well.

“Happiness fades, but joy lasts forever.” – Ell