Scattered Minds

1 Peter 3:8-19

The men and women who make up the body of Christ in these last days, aren’t all on the same page. We are living in a time, when many false doctrines have infiltrated congregations around the globe, causing some to hold fast to the traditions of men, rather than the commandments of God the Father. The apostle Peter teaches in our text, we are all to be of one mind, as we fulfill God’s purpose in our lives. Unity is essential in keeping the body of Christ together, and allowing each member to effectively use their gifts for edification, but where division is present, confusion has the ability to keep many from being their best for God. Not only are the members of Christ’s body commanded to be of one mind, but being meet for the Master’s use also demands that we walk in humility, show compassion toward others, and be willing to extend encouragement to all who need it. When a person’s foundation is built on godly principles and standards, they’ll easily render good for evil, or blessing for persecution. The church today loses its influence on the lost, the more they give in to false doctrine, which causes division. But, when the Lord is once again sanctified in the hearts of men, only then can they truly submit themselves to the truth of God’s word, and easily recognize anything that is contrary to what the Father commanded them to do.

Blessed Redemption

Galatians 1:20-24

20 Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.
21 Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia;
22 And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ:
23 But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.
24 And they glorified God in me.

Everyone deserves a second chance in life, even the man who once persecuted God’s people without hesitation. How do you handle those who were once unruly, but God turned them for good? Do you hold grudges against people whom you once despised, or do you offer a helping hand, to assist them on the path of holy and righteous living?

Just A Touch 2

Matthew 14:34-36

Throughout His ministry, Jesus was constantly on the move, traveling from place to place, doing the works of His Father. His purpose was to reach and teach as many as He could, during the time He would spend on the earth.

After revealing another dimension of His power by way of walking on water, and being acknowledged a second time as the Son of God, Jesus and those who followed Him, went to a land called Gennesaret. This fertile land was north of the shore of Galilee, and was known for producing both temperate and tropical fruits. This particular area was also brimming with people who suffered sickness and disease. So, when the men of the land recognized the man among them was Jesus, they quickly spread word to all the country, to bring all who were diseased to Jesus.

The most interesting point in this story seems to relate to the woman who had the issue of blood. I’m not 100 percent certain there’s a relation with the woman and the people of Gennesaret, but all who came to Jesus, sought only to touch the hem of His garment for their healing, so word of the woman’s story may have spread to this land as well. These sick folk had enough faith to believe, only a touch of Jesus’ clothes, would bring their healing. Mercifully, their faith was in the right place, for all who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment were made perfectly whole. Jesus didn’t perform half healings, but His manifestations were total and permanent.

Jesus healed according to the faith of those who came to Him, so all who desired healing, sought total deliverance and restoration. When you come to God, do you seek partial deliverance, or do you want God to give you a total and complete manifestation of those things your heart desires? Reach out in faith, and touch Jesus, so He can make you whole again.

From Suffering To Praise

Acts 4:13-22

The power of God working through the apostles in the New Testament, was typically accepted by the crowds of onlookers, yet shunned by men who were of distinct sects including Pharisees, scribes, and Sadducees. These men were religious leaders, who held fast to the traditions of men, more than obeying the words of the Lord. Unlike the other heretical groups, the Sadducees did not believe in the physical resurrection of Jesus from the dead, and were vocal (in our text) in acknowledging their distaste with Peter’s teaching through Jesus, and the resurrection from the dead.

In the previous chapter, Peter had healed a crippled beggar who was lame from birth, which caught the attention of many who witnessed the man walking, leaping, and praising God, all the way to the temple. There are many today, who receive a great blessing from God, then turn around and continue in their sin, but the man who was healed, took a straight path to church, after receiving his miracle! Many who heard the words of Peter (while teaching in the temple) totaled nearly 5,000! Wowzer!

After those pesky rulers arrived to the temple, they inquired by what power Peter healed the man. Peter’s response was led by the Holy Ghost, and threatened the religious leaders, who were more concerned with their reputations and positions, than the mighty works of the Lord. Rather than accepting the fact that an obvious miracle had taken place in a man who was lame over 40 years, coupled with the fact this event was also witnessed by many who knew the man, the Sadducees and rulers tried hard to find something to accuse the apostles for. The evidence of a miracle was irrefutable and overwhelming, yet the religious leaders refused to submit to Christ, and continued their efforts to suppress the truth.

How much more evidence does God need to reveal to you, before you surrender your life to Him? The obvious miracle is, we’re still alive, and in decent health, but God has much more in store for those who submit themselves to His will. Don’t be like the Sadducees and religious rulers, who witnessed God’s great work with their own eyes, yet rejected His way. Instead, yield yourselves to the Father, and allow Him to perform great works through you, as you live according to His purpose in the earth.

A Church United

1 Corinthians 1:8-25

The moment you begin to put your faith and trust in a man or woman, is the very moment you will begin to have divisions among you: You, meaning, the church. The faith of those who are the church, should be directed toward our Lord Jesus Christ, and the faithful God who made it possible for mankind to enjoy the privilege of fellowshipping with His Son. Unity among believers is where the foundation of their influence resides. When all members of the body of Christ speak the same thing, and operate in their function wholeheartedly, there will be no room for division or discord to take up space.

The church at Corinth had found themselves in contention among the members, thus causing the apostle Paul to reach out to them with strong words of correction and restoration. Paul heard how the church had become divided concerning whom they supposedly joined allegiance to. Some claimed to be of Paul and Apollos, while others took sides with Peter and Christ. I’m uncertain how these people allowed themselves to fall into such an ignorant state, but the Corinthians were known for jumping from fad to fad, so they were undoubtedly influenced by some unhealthy social thing going on during their era.

The apostle Paul wisely distinguished himself from Christ, then proceeded to educate the confused church on the importance of the Gospel, and Christ crucified. When you find yourself among those who give more relevance to a man than God, pray for them, then ask God to open their eyes to see that only through Him, can their lives have meaning, purpose, and reach its full potential. Man can only do so much for you, but God can take your life and make it worthwhile, through His Son, Jesus Christ.

Bring Them In

John 1:37-42

Of all the disciples who followed after Jesus, none were more recognized than Simon Peter. Upon meeting Jesus for the first time, Peter was instantly given the name, Cephas or a stone. In other words, Jesus was actually able to judge a man at first sight, and saw that Peter was strong, firm, and not easily swayed from what he set his mind to. Peter did many great things for the cause of Christ, and a great many people were saved because of his obedience to the will of God. All that Peter did for God’s kingdom was counted as worthy in the eyes of the Father, but what if his brother Andrew never left from following John the Baptist, sought to find him, and brought him to meet Jesus? Andrew could have easily stayed with John or Jesus, and learned from their teaching, but it’s hard for anyone to have an experience with the Son of God, and not run to tell others about it. There’s a song that has the words, “Said I wasn’t gonna tell nobody but I… Couldn’t keep it to myself, what the Lord has done for me.” Reading the words of Scripture are always fascinating, but can you imagine hearing those same words coming from the mouth of the Son of God? Andrew knew, bringing his brother to Jesus would be a great thing, and he was right!

One of the mandates of the Christian is, to go out and make disciples. In the book of Matthew, Jesus said it this way, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” In the books of the Ephesians, the apostle Paul summarizes that God’s purpose is to bring everything into subjection to Jesus Christ through the church. He says that the church is the vehicle the Father wishes to use to subject all things to the Son. Andrew was wise in sharing Jesus words with his brother, and the world was never the same because of it.

How many people have you brought to Christ since you’ve been born again? Do you read, study, and meditate on the Word of God, only to keep it all to yourself? Or, do you willfully share God’s goodness with those you meet? I’ve heard a few cool phrases over the years that are relevant to this lesson: “Each One Reach One”, and “Many Hands For Many Hearts”. God wants all of mankind to subject themselves to His Son, but many had unfortunately chosen the unrighteous path, which led to their demise. For those who remain in the earth, there is still hope, and the church should shift their focus from self and amusement, to diligently winning souls for God’s kingdom.

Wanted: Christians

Acts 12:5-11

When Jesus had finally left the earth, His disciples had set their focus on carrying out His commands without hesitation. The great apostles began establishing the foundations of the first church, and made certain that the message of the Gospel was freely given to the Gentile nations as well. The church had all things in common, and when situations became a bit tense, effective prayer and communication easily resolved all issues.

The early church began to strive and thrive in the name of the Lord, but their zeal for God came at great cost. During the development of the church, not everyone was pleased to see it prosper. Certain of the synagogues were opposed to the teaching of the Gospel, for reasons centered around pride and ignorance, and the best way these men thought to hurt the church was to make an examples of its leaders. Stephen, an outstanding leader, teacher, and full of wisdom and the Holy Ghost, was the first to be martyred amongst the brethren. Soon after this tragic event, persecution against the church, which began in Jerusalem, caused the people to scatter abroad, throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria. The apostles remained in Jerusalem, and made great lamentation over Stephen’s death.

Following Saul’s conversion and acceptance of God’s will for his life, the message of the Gospel was still being preached by the apostles, but after king Herod decided to add his name to the church oppression party, the apostles were listed at the top of his wanted list. In order to please the Jews, king Herod decided to first kill James, the brother of John. The disciples were obviously aware that the days Jesus had spoken of, were now being lived, and they prepared themselves to face what was to come.

Following the death of James, the wicked king sought to kill Peter next, so they arrested him, threw him in prison, and waited to bring him before the people to be executed. The church in America today, complains that times are hard for them, but they’ve never faced persecution as the disciples did. While in prison, Peter being placed between two soldiers, fell asleep. How could one sleep, knowing they would soon be executed? The Bible mentions that prayer was made without ceasing of the church that God deliver Peter, and He did! The same night Peter was asleep, an angel appeared, released him of the chains that bound him, then led him safely away from the prison. Peter thought he was seeing a vision, and didn’t realize until after his escape, he was set free. Wow! The Bible explains it like this, “And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.” (vs. 11). Jesus had told Peter before, how he would die, but this was not his time.

Persecution is inevitable for the children of God, and we must be prepared to stand strong when that time comes. The devil hates God, and those who follow Him because we remind him of what he once had, and lost; fellowship and unity with the Father. Bible times are long gone, and the men who left us the example to follow already fulfilled their purpose, but now we must live ours, and hope to be as bold and firm as the men of old were.

The Right Side Of The Ship

John 21:15-19

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “The Right Side of the Ship”! Starring, Peter, the Other Disciples, and the Risen Savior! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

Peter: Brethren, it’s been a good while since we left this place of hiding, after our Lord was crucified and risen. It was an amazing experience to see Him miraculously enter our dwelling, even while the doors were locked, to breath on us, and give us the Holy Ghost.

Other Disciples: Yes, it was uplifting and life-changing to be in the presence of our risen Savior again. It was even more touching to see doubting Thomas believe, after our Master revealed to him His wounds.

Peter: Indeed our Savior has risen, and graced us with His resurrected body, but we must not abide behind these walls for too long, or our food and supplies will run out. I will go fishing, and bring back food, so that we may eat.

Other Disciples: That’s a good idea. We will come also.

Peter: Alright. Grab all your tools and supplies, then meet me by the shore.

(Peter and six of the disciples set out to go fishing)

Peter: (Shouts out orders to the other disciples.) Let’s get ready to sail gentlemen! You two, perform a detailed inspection of the ship and all the equipment! James and John, inspect all the standing rigging and the turnbuckles and cotter pins! Nathanael, point the ship toward the wind! Now turn the ship to the starboard side so it’s about 90 degrees off the wind!

(The men set out, in hopes of bringing in a decent catch.)

(After hours of fishing, night came, yet the disciples caught nothing. All of a sudden, a voice cries out from the shore.)

Mystery Man: Hello out there! Have you children caught anything yet? If not, try casting your net on the right side of the ship, and you’ll catch as many as you desire.

Other Disciples: Who is that standing on the shore?

Peter: I’m uncertain.

John: Hey, Peter…I think that’s Him!

Peter: Who John?

John: It’s Him Peter! It is the Lord!

(Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he quickly put on his clothes, then dove into the water to meet the Risen Savior.)

*How prepared will you be to meet Jesus when He comes? Will you tell Him to wait a minute, while you get things in order? Or, will you dive into the water, as Peter did, in haste and excitement?

Peter: Master! You come again unto us! It is a blessing to be with you again!

(The Other Disciples arrive on shore to greet the Lord also.)

Risen Savior: As you can see, I have already prepared the table for you to dine with me tonight, but bring the fish you caught also, so we can set them over the coals as well.

(The disciples enjoy a yummy dinner with the Lord, then the focus is centered on Him and Peter.)

Risen Savior: Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me more than these?

Peter: Yes Lord, you know I love you.

Risen Savior: Feed my lambs.

(Peter holds a look of confusion on his face.)

Risen Savior: Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me?

Peter: Yes Lord. You know I love you.

Risen Savior: Feed my sheep.

(Peter continues to hold the gazed look of confusion.)

Risen Savior: Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me?

(Peter was grieved because the Lord asked three times if he loved Him.)

Peter: Lord, you know all things; you know I love you.

Risen Savior: Feed my sheep.

*This story brings to remembrance, the moment when Peter denied Jesus three time. In the time when Jesus needed the most support, His most loyal follower denied Him. It’s one thing to say you love the Lord, but it’s another thing to prove it through your actions. Although he was forgiven of his error, Jesus reassured the disciple that his life still had purpose and meaning.

*If you feel down and in the dumps for not living according to God’s expectations, repent, and allow this story to reenergize and spark the flame of your purpose. Don’t let your past mistakes keep you down, no matter how severe, because God is love, and His forgiveness is certain. Peter had to face his true feelings and motives when confronted by Jesus. How would you respond if Jesus asked do you love Him? What side of the ship are you fishing on?

This concludes the exciting episode of, “The Right Side of the Ship”! Thanks for tuning in.

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.