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What Did What Did JesusJesus Say About Say About Salvation?Salvation?

Judea and Samaria Section

Ch. 9In Acts 9 Saul is converted. The first century gospel was confirmed by miracles. Is there a need for 20th century preaching to be confirmed with miracles? Yes, Their miracles. If we don’t believe their miracles we are hopeless.

Uttermost Parts of the World

Ch. 10-28- 10:1- 16:5 to the Jews first. Until now the gospel had gone only to Jews and Jewish proselytes. The prophets had foretold that gospel would go to all nations (Isa. 2:2; Mt. 28:19).

Uttermost Parts of the World

Acts 20 shows the first Gentile convert (Cornelius). Peter delivers the first sermon to the Gentiles and then the focus of Acts shifts to the apostle Paul. This marks a transition.

New Enemy- Paganism-16:6-19:20

Beginning in chapter 16 the gospel now goes up against paganism and human philosophy. The result: the gospel is heard in these cities: Philippi- 16:14-15; 30-33; Thessalonica- 17:1-4; Berea- 17:10-12; Athens- 17:32-34; Corinth- 18:8-11; Ephesus- Acts 19:1,5.

New Enemy- Paganism-16:6-19:20

What was the result of this bold preaching?Acts 19:20- “the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”

Uproar at Ephesus

19:21-21:6- Paul’s preaching produced anger in the merchants of Ephesus who made a living off of the idol industry. In vs. 28,29 people assemble in the theater for a pro-Diana/anti-Paul rally. History records that Christianity did indeed disturb the economics of the religion of paganism.

Uproar at Ephesus

In Acts 20 we see the doctrine of the Lord’s supper. Vs. 7 tells us the day we are to observe it. We do this because it is rooted in the history of the time as an approved apostolic example. The time is the first day of the week.

Church Organization

In Acts 20:17,28- we see the church at Ephesus had a plurality of elders and they were in charge of the saints at Ephesus and that local church only (1 Pet. 5:21 also).

Church Organization

Chapters 21-28- “Lo I am with you always”- even in Rome. No greater illustration of God’s promise of protection and providence than in the final three chapters. 21:13-14- Paul affirms his determination to preach again in Jerusalem.

Church Organization

21:27-32- This determination almost gets him killed, but he is saved by Roman guards and put under Roman protection where he is allowed to preach first to Jews in general- ch. 22; the Sanhedrin-ch. 23; to Romans governors of Judea- ch. 24-25; and finally to the house of Caesar himself- ch. 28 (this was probably Nero).

Church Organization

God’s promise was “go preach and I will be with you.”

God Is With Us Today

The Lord is behind His truth and those who proclaim it and live it. We too can be victorious. The book of Acts begins with the Lord’s ascension. It continues in victory after victory from Pentecost to Phillipi and from Caesarea to Corinth.


It ends in Victory and some of Caesar’s own household obeying the gospel (Phil. 4:22) as a result of Paul’s preaching most likely.


Acts 16:5- “so the churches were being strengthened in the faith and were increasing in number daily.” Acts 2:42-47- They continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine, breaking of bread and prayer and the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

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The Church Is Scattered

Acts 9:1-31; 22:1-16; 26:1-18; Gal. 1:13-17

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Saul, The PersecutorActs 9:1-19; 22:1-16; 26:1-18; Gal. 1:13-17

Leader in the effort to persecute ChristiansCaused others to blaspheme the name of ChristPut saints in prisonCast his vote to kill ChristiansHad full authority from the SanhedrinExtended his persecution activities well beyond Jerusalem – to Damascus

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Saul, The PersecutorActs 22:4-5

• He admitted his role in persecuting Christians

Acts 22:4-5 (KJV) [4] And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. [5] As 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.

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Saul, The PersecutorGal. 1:13-17

Galatians 1:13-14 (KJV) [13] For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: [14] And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

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Jesus Selects Saul To Be An Apostle

Acts 9:3-7; 22:6-8; 26:12-18

Paul traveled with companionsA great light suddenly shined upon themA voice spoke to Saul:

“Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”“It is hard to kick against the ox-goad”

Saul, “Who are you, Lord?”The reply, “I am the Jesus of Nazareth.”

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Jesus Tells Saul Why...Acts 9:15-16

• To send him to the Gentiles• Jesus said, (Acts 9:15-16) (KJV)

[15] But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: [16] For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.

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[14] And 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. [15] For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.

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[16] But 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; [17] Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, [18] To 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.

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Saul Obtained Mercy1 Tim. 1:15-16

1 Timothy 1:15-16 (KJV)

[15] This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. [16] Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

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Saul’s ConditionActs 9:8-12

• Blinded by the light• Led into Damascus• Was there three days and did not eat

or drink• Was praying• Received a vision about a man who

would come to him and restore his sight

Acts 9:8-12 Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. (9) And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank. (10) Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord." (11) So the Lord said to him, "Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. (12) And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight."

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AnaniasActs 9:10-17; 22:12

• A Jewish disciple at Damascus• Had a good report of all the Jews

which lived there• A devout man according to the law• Knew of Saul’s reputation in

Jerusalem and the “special” authority he had from the chief priests

• Received a vision from the Lord

Acts 9:10-17 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord." (11) So the Lord said to him, "Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. (12) And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight." (13) Then Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. (14) And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name."

(15) But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. (16) For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake." (17) And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit."

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Saul’s ConversionActs 9:17-18; 22:12-16

• Ananias found Saul• He put his hands on Saul

– Saul regained his sight, and– Was filled with the Holy Ghost

• Ananias told Saul:– Do not tarry– Arise, be baptized and wash away your sins– Call on the name of the Lord

Acts 22:12-16 "Then a certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good testimony with all the Jews who dwelt there, (13) came to me; and he stood and said to me, 'Brother Saul, receive your sight.' And at that same hour I looked up at him. (14) Then he said, 'The God of our fathers has chosen you that you should know His will, and see the Just One, and hear the voice of His mouth. (15) For you will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard.

(16) And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.'Acts 9:18-19 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. (19) So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.

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Saul’s ConversionActs 9:18-19

• Saul followed the Lord’s instructions• He arose and was baptized• He ate and regained his strength• He stayed several days with the

disciples in Damascus

After Saul’s Baptism…Acts 9:20-31; Gal. 1:13-24

Acts 9:20-31 Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God. (21) Then all who heard were amazed, and said, "Is this not he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?" (22) But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Christ.

(23) Now after many days were past, the Jews plotted to kill him. (24) But their plot became known to Saul. And they watched the gates day and night, to kill him. (25) Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket. (26) And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. (27) But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.

(28) So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out. (29) And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him. (30) When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus. (31) Then the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied.

Galatians 1:13-24 For you have heard of my former conduct in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it. (14) And I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries in my own nation, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers. (15) But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb and called me through His grace, (16) to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood,

(17) nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. (18) Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and remained with him fifteen days. (19) But I saw none of the other apostles except James, the Lord's brother. (20) (Now concerning the things which I write to you, indeed, before God, I do not lie.) (21) Afterward I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. (22) And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea which were in Christ. (23) But they were hearing only, "He who formerly persecuted us now preaches the faith which he once tried to destroy." (24) And they glorified God in me.

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After Saul’s Baptism…Acts 9:19-31; Gal. 1:13-24

• Preached Jesus in Damascus– He amazed everyone– He grew in strength– He proved that Jesus was the Christ

• Went to Arabia– We do not know for how long or why

• Went back to Damascus– Continued preaching and made disciples– Jews plotted to kill him

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Saul Escapes To JerusalemActs 9:23-26; Gal. 1:13-24

• Escaped the plot to kill him– The disciples helped

• Returned to Jerusalem– Three years had passed– Lived with Peter for fifteen days– The brethren were afraid of him

• They did not believe him to be a true disciple

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Barnabas Defends Saul Acts 9:27-29

• Explained to the apostles how Saul was converted

• Saul was then accepted and even preached in Jerusalem

• He debated with the Grecian Jews• They plotted to kill him

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Saul Forced To Flee AgainActs 9:30-31

• Had been in Jerusalem only 15 days• Brethren took him to Tarsus of Cilicia

– His hometown

• The disciples (churches) in Judea, Galilee and Samaria had peace!

• The churches were edified and grew in number

Acts 9:32-35 Now it came to pass, as Peter went through all parts of the country, that he also came down to the saints who dwelt in Lydda. (33) There he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years and was paralyzed. (34) And Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus the Christ heals you. Arise and make your bed." Then he arose immediately. (35) So all who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.

Peter Preaches In Lydda And Sharon

Acts 9:32-35

• The church had a time of peace• Peter left Jerusalem on a tour that

took him to:– Lydda (the Old Testament city of Lod)– All the plain of Sharon– Joppa– And finally Caesarea

• Peter healed a paralytic named Aeneas

Acts 9:36-43 At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. (37) But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. (38) And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them.

(39) Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. (40) But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, "Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up.

(41) Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. (42) And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. (43) So it was that he stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner.

Dorcas Raised From The Dead

Acts 9:36-43

• Dorcas (her Greek name) lived in Joppa– Was rich in good works; did charitable

deeds– became sick and died

• Disciples sent for Peter in Lydda• He raised Dorcas from the dead• Many converted as the report spread

The First Sermon To GentilesActs 10:1-48

• A man named Cornelius lived in Caesarea– A centurion of the Roman cohort

• Cornelius was a deeply religious man:– He feared God with all his house– He prayed continuously– He helped the poor

The Vision of CorneliusActs 10:1-8

• Cornelius was praying at three o’clock in the afternoon

• He saw an open vision (that is, he was awake, not asleep or dreaming)

• An angel appeared to him; he was frightened, saying, “What is it, Lord?”

The Vision of Cornelius Acts 10:1-8

• The angel said, “Your prayers and your good deeds are

observed by God”

• The angel told him to send men to Joppa to bring back Simon who was surnamed Peter

• Cornelius sent three men to Joppa• They arrived in Joppa the next day

Acts 10:1-8 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, (2) A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. (3) He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. (4) And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.

(5) And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: (6) He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. (7) And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; (8) And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.

Peter’s VisionActs 10:9-16

• Peter was staying with Simon the tanner

• He was on the housetop praying• While praying, he had a vision:

– The heaven (sky) opened– A great sheet was lowered by the four

corners upon the earth– In the sheet were all kinds of four-footed

animals, reptiles and birds

Peter’s VisionActs 10:9-16

• A voice commanded, “Get up, Peter: kill one of these animals

and eat it”

• Peter’s reply, “No way, Lord, for I have never eaten

anything common or unclean”

• The voice replied, “What God has cleansed, do not call

common or unclean”

• This happened three times

Acts 10:9-16 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: (10) And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, (11) And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:

(12) Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. (13) And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. (14) But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. (15) And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. (16) This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.

Peter Perplexed At The VisionActs 10:17

• Peter had preached on Pentecost, “The promise is to you and to your children

and to all that are afar off”

• Jesus had commanded, “Go ye into all the world and preach the

gospel to every creature”

• Before Peter’s vision, did he understand who the “afar off” were?

Peter Goes To CaesareaActs 10:17-24

• The three men found Peter• Peter invited them to stay overnight• The next day Peter, six witnesses, and

the three men went to Caesarea• Cornelius was waiting for them with

relatives and friends

Acts 10:17-24 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, (18) And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. (19) While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. (20) Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.

(21) Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come? (22) And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.

(23) Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. (24) And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.

Peter Meets CorneliusActs 10:25-33

• Cornelius fell down at Peter’s feet and worshipped him

• Peter said, “Stand up, I myself am also a man”

• Cornelius explained why he had called for Peter

• He wanted to hear all things commanded by God

Acts 10:25-33 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. (26) But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. (27) And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. (28) And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.

(29) Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me? (30) And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, (31) And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.

(32) Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. (33) Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.

Peter’s SermonActs 10:34-43

• Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no

partiality”

• Peter preached Christ and Him crucified to Cornelius and his family

• In summary,“...everyone that believes on Him shall

receive the remission of sins.”

Acts 10:34-43 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: (35) But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. (36) The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)

(37) That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; (38) How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. (39) And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:

(40) Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; (41) Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. (42) And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. (43) To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

The Holy Spirit Fell Upon GentilesActs 10:44-48

• While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word

• The Jewish Christians were astonished

• The Gentiles were able to speak tongues and magnified God

The First Gentiles ConvertedActs 10:44-48

• Peter answered, “Can anyone forbid water, that these

should not be baptized who had received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”

• He commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Jesus Christ

Acts 10:44-48 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. (45) And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. (46) For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, (47) Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? (48) And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

Peter Defends God’s GraceActs 11:1-18

• Apostles and brethren in Judea heard about the Gentiles receiving the word of God

• The Jews in Jerusalem contended with Peter saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them”

• Peter told them of the vision that he received while praying

• Peter explained to them in detail the events that occurred in Acts 10

Peter Defends God’s GraceActs 11:1-18

• Peter said the Gentiles had the same gift that he and the apostles had when they believed in Christ

• Peter said, “Who was I that I could withstand God?”

• When the Jews heard this they became silent and they glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life”

Acts 11:1-18 And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. (2) And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, (3) Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. (4) But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,

(5) I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: (6) Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. (7) And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.

(8) But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth. (9) But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. (10) And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven. (11) And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me. (12) And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting.

Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house: (13) And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; (14) Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved. (15) And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.

(16) Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. (17) Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? (18) When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

Barnabas And Saul at AntiochActs 11:19-26

• The Jewish Christians scattered from persecution after the death of Stephen (Acts 8:1-4)

• They traveled as far as:PhoeniciaCyprusAntioch

• Preaching only to the Jews at first


• After some time men from Cyprus and Cyrene began to preach to the Gentiles in Antioch of Syria

• As a result of the preaching, a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord

• The church at Jerusalem heard of their success and sent Barnabas to Antioch


• Joses was named Barnabas (son of encouragement) by the apostles in Acts 4:36

• Barnabas saw the grace of God and was glad

• He encouraged them to continue with the Lord

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

• A great many people were added to the Lord

• Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul


• Barnabas brought Saul to Antioch• They continued there for a whole year

– Assembled with the church and taught a great many people

• Disciples were called Christians first at Antioch

• First congregation composed of Jews and Gentiles

• The word Christian means one who pertains to Christ or belongs to Christ

Acts 11:19-26 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. (20) And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. (21) And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.

(22) Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. (23) Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. (24) For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.

(25) Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: (26) And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

Relief To JudeaActs 11:27-30

• A prophet from Jerusalem named Agabus came from Jerusalem to Antioch

• Agabus prophesied that a severe famine would occur during the reign of Claudius (A.D. 41-54)

• Disciples in Antioch individually decided to send relief to the brethren in Judea

• Barnabus and Saul delivered their gift to the elders in Judea


• The disciples in Antioch were composed of Jews and Gentiles

• Their generosity was perhaps greater than those saints on the day of Pentecost

• Jew and Gentile worked together to help needy Jewish brethren in Judea

• There were other churches in Judea besides the church in Jerusalem (Gal.1:22)


• Barnabas and Saul took the gift to the elders where there was a need

• There is no indication that the church in Jerusalem acted in any sort of supervisory capacity in this matter

Acts 11:27-30 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. (28) And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. (29) Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea: (30) Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

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Bringing Us Back Up To Date

• The Work Begins – Acts 1-2– The Day of Pentecost – Acts 2

• 3000 Convicted and Converted• Conflict Begins – Acts 3-7

– Jewish Persecution– Stoning of Stephen

• The Church is Scattered – Acts 8-12– Samaritans converted– Gentiles Converted

94

Roman Emperors• Augusta Caesar – 31 B.C. to A.D. 14• Tiberius Caesar – A.D. 14-37• Caligula – A.D. 37-41• Claudius – A.D. 41-54- HERE at 44 A.D.• Nero – A.D. 54-68• Vespasian – A.D. 69-79

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A New Wave of Persecution

• Herod Agrippa I tried to please the Jews – 44 A.D.

• James, the brother of John, is the first apostle to be executed – Acts 12:2

• Peter was taken prisoner– A miraculous deliverance – the power of

prayer– A comforted group of disciples– A worm-eaten “god” received justice– Victory is with the Lamb of God – The

gospel spreads

Persecution Of The Church By Herod Agrippa I

Acts 12:1 – 19

Acts 12:1-19 Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. (2) And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. (3) And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)

(4) And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. (5) Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. (6) And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

(7) And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. (8) And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. (9) And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.

(10) When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. (11) 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.

(12) And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. (13) And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. (14) And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. (15) And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel.

(16) But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. (17) But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.

(18) Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter. (19) And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode.

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The Death of HerodActs 12:20-24

• Herod Agrippa I had cut off the food supply to Phoenicia– They sent representatives to make peace

with Herod– They made friends with Blastus

• Herod was going to drop the hostilities– Set a date for a hearing– Dressed himself in royal apparel– Made an arousing speech of conciliation– People called him a god, not a man

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The Death of HerodActs 12:20-24

• An angel of God smote Herod– Herod had accepted the glory– He was eaten with worms– He died 5 days later

• The word of God gained many converts

Acts 12:20-24 And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country. (21) And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them. (22) And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man. (23) And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost. (24) But the word of God grew and multiplied.

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Barnabas & Saul Return to Antioch Acts 12:25

• Their mission was accomplished– They had taken the collection from Antioch

to elders in Jerusalem

• When they returned, they took Mark with them– Peter had gone to his mother’s house –

12:12– Mark wrote the book which bears his name

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A Change of Focus...

• From Jerusalem to Antioch of Syria• From Peter to Paul• Chapter 13 is the changing point

And remember...And remember......But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. - Acts 1:8

Saul of Tarsus

• Saul (Paul):– Preached in Syria, Asia Minor,

Macedonia, Greece, Rome– Wrote 13 (maybe 14) of the letters of

the New Testament– Born in Tarsus of Cilicia– Educated in Jerusalem under Gamaliel– A Pharisee– A Roman Citizen

Saul of Tarsus

• Saul (Paul):– Led in the early persecution against

the saints– Got permission from High Priest to go

after Christians in other places– Converted in Damascus– Appointed to be a servant and a

witness for the Lord (especially to the Gentiles)

Saul The Apostle• First three years after his baptism:

– Preached in Damascus– Went to Arabia– Preached in Damascus again– Escaped a plot against his life (now on the

receiving end of persecution)– Returned to Jerusalem– Barnabas told his story of conversion– Preached in Jerusalem until persecuted (15

days)– Escaped to Tarsus

The Call Of Barnabas And Saul

Acts 13:1-3 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. (2) As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. (3) And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

Barnabas and Paul spent a year working in Antioch.

Brethren in Antioch sent relief to poor brethren in Judea by the hand of Barnabas and Saul

AD 44-45

When the task was finished, Saul and Barnabas returned to Antioch

Paul was personally commissioned and qualified by Jesus Christ to be HIS Apostle

Barnabas would be an apostle (one sent) by the church

AD 44-45

Barnabas And Saul Sail To Cyprus

Acts 13:4-12 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. (5) And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.

(6) And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus: (7) Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God. (8) But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.

(9) Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him, (10) And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? (11) And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. (12) Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

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In Antioch of PisidiaActs 13:13-15

• Paul and his companions sailed north from Cyprus to Pamphylia

• From there John Mark returns to Jerusalem

• Paul displeased since Mark “…went not with them to the work”

• Paul and Barnabas travel on to Antioch of Pisidia

• They are there invited to speak in the synagogue

Acts 13:13-15 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem. (14) But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down. (15) And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.

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Paul’s SpeechActs 13:16-41

• Paul’s speech consisted of three sections– Israel’s history led them to the Christ

(vs 17-25)– God fulfilled His promises to Israel by

raising Jesus from the dead (vs 26-37)– In Jesus alone is forgiveness and

justification (vs 38-41)

Acts 13:16-41 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience. (17) The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it. (18) And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness. (19) And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot.

(20) And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet. (21) And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years. (22) And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.

(23) Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus: (24) When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. (25) And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I am not he. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose. (26) Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.

(27) For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day, they have fulfilled them in condemning him. (28) And though they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain. (29) And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre. (30) But God raised him from the dead: (31) And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.

(32) And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers, (33) God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. (34) And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David. (35) Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

(36) For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption: (37) But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption. (38) Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: (39) And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. (40) Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets; (41) Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.

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Impact of Paul’s SpeechActs 13:42-43

• Both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles were in the assembly

• The people were excited and asked Paul and Barnabas to speak again the next Sabbath

• Many of the Jews and devout proselytes followed them, and Paul and Barnabas persuaded them further

• To continue in God’s grace, they needed to believe and obey the message they had heard

Acts 13:42-43 And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath. (43) Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

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Events of The Following Sabbath

Acts 13:44-52

Acts 13:44-52 And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God. (45) But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. (46) Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.

(47) For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth. (48) And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. (49) And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region

(50) But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts. (51) But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium. (52) And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Spirit.

At IconiumActs 14:1-7

Acts 14:1-7 And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. (2) But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. (3) Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

(4) But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles. (5) And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them, (6) They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about: (7) And there they preached the gospel.

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At IconiumActs 14:1-7

• Paul and Barnabas learned of the plot and fled to the province of Lycaonia

• The Romans had divided this region into two parts. One part was made a part of Galatia and called Galactica Lycaonia. This part ruled by Rome. The other part was called Lycaonia Antiochiana and ruled by king Antiochus

• Paul and Barnabas did not go beyond the Roman part of Lycaonia which contained the cities of Lystra and Derbe

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Paul And Barnabas In LystraActs 14:8-20

Acts 14:8-20 And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked: (9) The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, (10) Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked. (11) And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.

(12) And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker. (13) Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people. (14) Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out, (15) And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things?

We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein: (16) Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. (17) Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.

(18) And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them. (19) And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. (20) Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

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Paul And Barnabas Return To AntiochActs 14:21-28

Acts 14:21-28 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, (22) Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. (23) And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

(24) And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. (25) And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia: (26) And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled. (27) And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. (28) And there they abode long time with the disciples.

143

Paul And Barnabas Return To AntiochActs 14:21-28

• from Attalia Paul and Barnabas sailed back to Antioch ending their first journey

• Here they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done with them

• They reported that God had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles

• They stayed here a long time with the disciples

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Points To Remember

• The churches needed qualified men to serve as elders (pastors, shepherds, bishops, presbyters)

• Elders were appointed in every church• These men could be qualified quickly because:

• Of being a faithful Jew• The miraculous gifts of the Spirit

• Each church had its own elders (plural)• Each church was self-governing• Elders are to oversee onlyonly that flock among

which the Holy Spirit has made them shepherds

The Conference in Jerusalem

• Trouble Arises From Within– Jewish Christians Began Teaching That

Gentiles Must First Enter A Covenant With God By Circumcision

– Gentile Christians Were Challenged On The Issue of Their Salvation in Christ

– Is Circumcision Essential To Salvation?• This issue is the focus of the great

discussion in Acts 15

Acts 15:1-29; Gal. 2Acts 15:1-29 And certain men came down from Judea and taught the brethren, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved." (2) Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and dispute with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this question.

(3) So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the Gentiles; and they caused great joy to all the brethren. (4) And when they had come to Jerusalem, they were received by the church and the apostles and the elders; and they reported all things that God had done with them. (5) But some of the sect of the Pharisees who believed rose up, saying, "It is necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses."

(6) Now the apostles and elders came together to consider this matter. (7) And when there had been much dispute, Peter rose up and said to them: "Men and brethren, you know that a good while ago God chose among us, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe. (8) So God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us, (9) and made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

(10) Now therefore, why do you test God by putting a yoke on the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? (11) But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved in the same manner as they." (12) Then all the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles. (13) And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren, listen to me:

(14) Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name. (15) And with this the words of the prophets agree, just as it is written: (16) 'AFTER THIS I WILL RETURN AND WILL REBUILD THE TABERNACLE OF DAVID, WHICH HAS FALLEN DOWN; I WILL REBUILD ITS RUINS, AND I WILL SET IT UP; (17) SO THAT THE REST OF MANKIND MAY SEEK THE LORD, EVEN ALL THE GENTILES WHO ARE CALLED BY MY NAME, SAYS THE LORD WHO DOES ALL THESE THINGS.' (18) "Known to God from eternity are all His works.

(19) Therefore I judge that we should not trouble those from among the Gentiles who are turning to God, (20) but that we write to them to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from things strangled, and from blood. (21) For Moses has had throughout many generations those who preach him in every city, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath." (22) Then it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas who was also named Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren.

(23) They wrote this letter by them: The apostles, the elders, and the brethren, To the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Greetings. (24) Since we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, "You must be circumcised and keep the law"—to whom we gave no such commandment— (25) it seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, (26) men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(27) We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who will also report the same things by word of mouth. (28) For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: (29) that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.

Galatians 2:1-21 Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and also took Titus with me. (2) And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to those who were of reputation, lest by any means I might run, or had run, in vain. (3) Yet not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised.

Galatians 2:(4) And this occurred because of false brethren secretly brought in (who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage), (5) to whom we did not yield submission even for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. (6) But from those who seemed to be something—whatever they were, it makes no difference to me; God shows personal favoritism to no man—for those who seemed to be something added nothing to me.

(7) But on the contrary, when they saw that the gospel for the uncircumcised had been committed to me, as the gospel for the circumcised was to Peter (8) (for He who worked effectively in Peter for the apostleship to the circumcised also worked effectively in me toward the Gentiles), (9) and when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that had been given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised.

(10) They desired only that we should remember the poor, the very thing which I also was eager to do. (11) Now when Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed; (12) for before certain men came from James, he would eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. (13) And the rest of the Jews also played the hypocrite with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy.

(14) But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all, "If you, being a Jew, live in the manner of Gentiles and not as the Jews, why do you compel Gentiles to live as Jews? (15) We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, (16) knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.

(17) "But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister of sin? Certainly not! (18) For if I build again those things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. (19) For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. (20) I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (21) I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain."

Possible Chronology of Acts 15 And Galatians 2

• The Meeting About The Issue of Circumcision– Paul and Barnabas attended together –

(Acts 15:2; Gal. 2:1)– They Were Accompanied By Others – (Acts

15:2; Gal. 2:1)– They Traveled From Syria – (Acts 14:26-

28; Gal. 1:21– They Went To Jerusalem For This Meeting

– (Acts 15:2-4; Gal. 2:1)


Meeting About The Issue of CircumcisionPaul Faced Opposition From Jewish Christians At Jerusalem – (Acts 15:5; Gal. 2:3-5)The Apostles Met – (Acts 15:5-29; Gal. 2:6-10)A Prominent Part Was Taken By Peter – (Acts 15:7-11, 14; Gal. 2:7-9)James Also Took Part – (Acts 15:12-21; Gal. 2:9)

Paul Reported on His Mission to Gentiles and defends it – (Acts 15:4, 12; Gal. 2:2)Much Discussion Ensued–(Acts 15:6-7; Gal. 2:6, 7)


• The Meeting About The Issue of Circumcision– The Apostles Drew A Necessary Conclusion –

(Acts 15:25-29; Gal. 2:7-10)– Paul and Barnabas Continued Their Work –

(Acts 15:27-29; Gal. 2:7-9)– A Few Requirements Expounded For Gentile

Converts – (Acts 15:28f; Gal. 2:10)– Paul and Barnabas Returned To Antioch – (Acts

15:30; Gal. 2:11-13)

Summary

• The Reason For The Circumcision Meeting– Weigh The Judaizer’s Claim Against The Evidence

of Confirmed Gospel and O.T. Prophecies

• The Reports During The Meeting– Paul and Barnabas’ work among Gentiles never

revealed it as being necessary– Peter’s door-opening experience among the

Gentiles did not require it– James’ look at predictive prophecy in Amos

Summary

• The Reason For The Circumcision Meeting• The Reports During The Meeting• The Resolution From This Meeting

– Circumcision cannot be forced upon anyone for salvation

– There were immediate moral issues that should concern Christians

Paul And Barnabas And Their Companions Return To

Jerusalem Acts 15:30 – 35

Acts 15:30-35 So when they were sent off, they came to Antioch; and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter. (31) When they had read it, they rejoiced over its encouragement. (32) Now Judas and Silas, themselves being prophets also, exhorted and strengthened the brethren with many words.

(33) And after they had stayed there for a time, they were sent back with greetings from the brethren to the apostles. (34) However, it seemed good to Silas to remain there. (35) Paul and Barnabas also remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.

Dispute Between Paul And BarnabasActs 15:36-41

The date is A. D. 50/51

Acts 15:36-41 Then after some days Paul said to Barnabas, "Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing." (37) Now Barnabas was determined to take with them John called Mark. (38) But Paul insisted that they should not take with them the one who had departed from them in Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work.

(39) Then the contention became so sharp that they parted from one another. And so Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus; (40) but Paul chose Silas and departed, being commended by the brethren to the grace of God. (41) And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Paul Asks Timothy To Accompany Them

Acts 16:1-5 Then he came to Derbe and Lystra. And behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a certain Jewish woman who believed, but his father was Greek. (2) He was well spoken of by the brethren who were at Lystra and Iconium. (3) Paul wanted to have him go on with him. And he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in that region, for they all knew that his father was Greek.

(4) And as they went through the cities, they delivered to them the decrees to keep, which were determined by the apostles and elders at Jerusalem. (5) So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily.

Paul Sees A Vision Acts 16:6-10

• A vision appeared to Paul in the night• A man prayed him, saying, “Come to

Macedonia and help us.”• Immediately, they left Troas, went

through Samothracia, Neapolis, then to Philippi

• Philippi was the chief city in that part of Macedonia

Acts 16:6-10 Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, (7) After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. (8) And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. (9) And 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. (10) And 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.

Lydia And Her Household Are

ConvertedActs 16:11-15

Acts 16:11-15 Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; (12) And 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. (13) And 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.

(14) And 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. (15) And 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.

Lydia And Her Household

• HEARD - Paul and his companions preached (16:13)

• BELIEVED - Lydia opened her heart, believed (16:14)

• BAPTIZED - She and her household were baptized (16:15)

• REMAIN STEADFAST - Luke stayed behind with this group (16:40), Paul visited again (20:1-2,6), and wrote them a letter

The Opposition At PhilippiActs 16:16-24

Acts 16:16-24 And 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: (17) The 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.

(18) And 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. (19) And 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, (20) And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, (21) And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.

(22) And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. (23) And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely: (24) Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

The Jailer Is Converted Acts 16:25-34

Acts 16:25-34 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. (26) And 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. (27) And 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. (28) But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.

(29) Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, (30) And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? (31) And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. (32) And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. (33) And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. (34) And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.

The Jailer Is Converted Acts 16:25-34

• He Hears Two Men Singing• He Knows They Have Something Special

Within• He Gives Himself A Death Sentence When

He Thinks The Prisoners Escaped• He Gives Himself A Chance At Eternal Life

When He Asks “What must I do to be saved?”

• He Heard The Gospel and Was Baptized With Urgent Desire (Compare the Great Commission to This)

• As A Servant of Jesus Christ, He Helps Paul and Silas

Paul and Silas Are ReleasedActs 16:35-40

Acts 16:35-40 And when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying, Let those men go. (36) And 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.

(37) But 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. (38) And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans. (39) And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city. (40) And 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.

Paul and Silas Are ReleasedActs 16:35-40

• The Authorities’ Fear– They learn that they have mistreated

Roman citizens

• The Christian’s Freedom– They take advantage of physical freedom– They return to Lydia’s house– They meet with other believers before

leaving town– Next Stop: Thessalonica– Make note that Luke stays behind

At Thessalonica Acts 17:1-9

Acts 17:1-9 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews: (2) And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures, (3) Opening 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.

(4) And 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. (5) But 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.

(6) And 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; (7) Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus. (8) And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things. (9) And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.

The Opposition At Thessalonica

Acts 17:5-9• Jason’s house is stormed in search of

Paul and Silas• Jason is taken before the city council• The accusations:

– Paul and Silas are charged with troublemaking

– Jason is charged with allowing them to stay in his home

– Paul and Silas are also accused of treason: “They profess allegiance to another king, Jesus”.

• The release on bond and invitation to get out of town– The brethren there knew it was not

safe for Paul and Silas to stay

Paul And Silas Go To Berea

Acts 17:10-15 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. (11) These 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. (12) Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.

(13) But 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. (14) And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still. (15) And 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.

In Berea• We Find A Contrast With The Previous

Experience at Thessalonica – Acts 17:10-15– There is Openness– There is Eager Listening– There is Honest Research

• Converts To Christ Result From Honest Investigation Into The Evidence

• Jews From Thessalonica Come To Stir A Riot – 17:13-15

Paul Reasons With Jews And Gentile Philosophers In

Athens

Acts 17:16-21 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry. (17) Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

(18) Then 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. (19) And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?

(20) For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean. (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.)

Paul’s Speech On Mars Hill Acts 17:22-31 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. (23) For 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. (24) God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;

(25) Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; (26) And 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; (27) That 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: (28) For 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.

(29) Forasmuch 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. (30) And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: (31) Because 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.

Paul Preaches About The True God

• The Idolatry of Athens – 17:16-17• The Philosophical Groups: Epicureans and Stoics –

v. 18• Talk About “The Unknown God” – v. 22-23• The True God:

– Created all things – v. 24-29• Even their poets said, “We are His Offspring”

– Expects People to Seek Him Desperately – v. 27– Expects All Men To “Repent” – v. 30– Will Judge All By Jesus Christ Who Was Raised –

v. 31

The Results Of Paul’s Speech

Acts 17:32-34 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter. (33) So Paul departed from among them. (34) Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

201

Historical Facts About Corinth

• About 40 miles west of Athens• Corinth was destroyed and sacked by

the Roman general Mummius in 146 B.C.• 100 years later it was rebuilt by Julius

Caesar and given the status of a colony• The old city had a temple to the goddess

Venus, or Aphrodite• In the new city, a new temple was built

to Aphrodite

202

Corinth was well known for:

1. Its industry• Corinthian brass was highly prized

and famous over the Roman world

2. Its trade• Corinth commanded the trade routes

of the Mediterranean

3. Its immoral vices• A “Corinthian” came to mean a

playboy without morals

203

Paul traveled from Athens to Corinth, Paul traveled from Athens to Corinth, the capital of Achaiathe capital of Achaia

Paul met a Jewish man named Aquila Paul met a Jewish man named Aquila and his wife, Priscillaand his wife, Priscilla

Aquila and Priscilla had lived in RomeAquila and Priscilla had lived in RomeEmperor Claudius expelled all Jews from Emperor Claudius expelled all Jews from

Rome in A.D. 49Rome in A.D. 49Claudius ruled from A.D. 41-54 Claudius ruled from A.D. 41-54

Aquila and PriscillaAquila and PriscillaActs 18: 1-4Acts 18: 1-4

204

Paul Arrives In Corinth Acts 18:1-4 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; (2) And 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. (3) And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers. (4) And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

Aquila and PriscillaActs 18: 1-4

• Paul lived with them for a period of time• They shared a similar occupation of

being tentmakers• Every Sabbath Paul reasoned in the

synagogues– He sought to persuade Jews and Greeks

• It was not known whether Aquila and Priscilla were Christians before Paul met them

205

206

Paul Teaches Jesus Is The Christ

Acts 18:5-6Acts 18:5-6 And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ. (6) And 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.

207

Paul Converts Many At CorinthActs 18:7-8

(7) And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue. (8) And 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. (rf. Mark 16:16)

208

Paul’s VisionActs 18:9-10

9 Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;

10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.”

209

Paul Stays Awhile In CorinthActs 18:5-11

• Paul remained at Corinth for 18 months, teaching the word of God among the people

• Remember, these Corinthians had to change their unrighteous ways to become Christians (1 Corinthians 6:9-11)

210

Paul Before GallioActs 18:12-15

Acts 18:12-15 And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat, (13) Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law. (14) And 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: (15) But 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.

211

Paul Before GallioActs 18:12-15

• Gallio - proconsul of Achaia– He ruled in A. D. 52

• Claudius was the ruling Caesar in Rome• Unbelieving Jews made an accusation

against Paul -“This man persuades men to worship God

contrary to the law.”

• Gallio refused to hear their case– Did this government official act properly?

212

The Jews Were HumiliatedActs 18:16-17

Acts 18:16-17 And he drave them from the judgment seat. (17) Then 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.

213

The Jews Were HumiliatedActs 18:16-17

• Gallio ordered the Jews out of the courtroom

• In the process, guards beat Sosthenes (probably for protesting and not leaving)

• Sosthenes was the chief ruler of the synagogue in Corinth

• Gallio ignored the beatingNote: This Sosthenes is not the same man mentioned in

1 Corinthians 1:1 unless he was converted after this event.

214

Paul Leaves CorinthActs 18:18

• After a good while, Paul left Corinth and sailed to Syria

• Priscilla and Aquila went with him– No mention of Silas or Timothy

• When he reached Cenchrea, the seaport for Ephesus, he had cut his hair for a vow.

Do we know for sure who had the vow or the type of vow?

215

Paul Goes To Ephesus

Acts 18:19-21 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews. (20) When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not; (21) But 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.

216

Paul Returns To AntiochActs 18:22

• Paul “went up” to Jerusalem– He saluted (greeted) the church there– He kept the feast

• Then he “went down” to Antioch• He no doubt gave a report of his

activities to both congregations

His second journey was over!

217

Periods of Bible History

• Creation• The Flood• Scattering of

People• The Patriarchs• The Exodus• Wandering• Conquest of Land• Judges

• United Kingdom• Divided Kingdom• Judah Alone• Captivity• Return• Years of Silence• Life of Christ• Early Church• Letters to Christians

218

“Go Tell The Good News”Part 1- Review

Acts 1:1 – 18:22

219

The Book of Acts

• Luke: Physician/Historian– Wrote Gospel of Luke – 58-60 A.D.– Wrote book of Acts – 61-64 A.D.

• Acts 1-12 covers Peter’s activities• Acts 13-28 covers Paul’s activities

220

The Great CommissionMark 16:15-16

• Jesus to His apostles:“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.”

• The work begins with two results:– Obedience to the terms of salvation– Persecution by unbelievers

221

The Work BeginsActs 1-2

• Jesus ascends• Matthias chosen• On Pentecost:

– Apostles filled with the Holy Spirit– Peter’s sermon– First offering of “The Plan of Salvation”– 3,000 souls added to the church

• The church of Christ was established

222

Conflicts BeginActs 3-7

• Peter and John performed a miracle and was taken into custody– Why? They preached Jesus – His death,

His resurrection, His promise of salvation

• The church still grew in number and the shared their possessions

• Ananias and Sapphira lied to God– Cost them their lives

223

More ConflictsActs 3-7

• Preaching and healing continued• The apostles were arrested but said,

“We must obey God rather than men.”

• Upon release, they– rejoiced, – felt honored to suffer persecutions, and – kept on preaching

224

Severe Persecutions BeginActs 3-7

• Murmuring within the church:– The Grecian Jews complained about their

people being neglected– Seven men selected to resolve the problem

• Stephen: – Worked miracles and preached their history– Accusations against him caused a stir

• Stephen stoned to death – 1st martyr– The young man Saul approved

225

The Church Is ScatteredActs 8-12

• Severe persecutions continued• Next step in God’ plan:

“...and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

• Philip preached in Samaria – Many accepted the Word by being baptized– The Holy Spirit given to others in Samaria

226


• Philip converted the Ethiopian eunuch– The Word went beyond Judah and Samaria

• Saul was converted in Damascus– Made a special apostle

• Peter’s first sermon to Gentiles– Cornelius and his household believed and

was baptized– The Holy Spirit came upon them

227


• The gospel spread to Antioch• The name “Christian” first used• The church at Antioch sent relief to the

saints in Jerusalem because of a famine• James, brother of John, put to death• Peter jailed but released by an angel• God struck Herod (eaten with worms)

for accepting honor as a god

228

The First Missionary JourneyActs 13-14

• God called Barnabas and Saul for a preaching tour of lower Asia Minor

• Saul’s name changed to Paul on Cyprus

• They preached in many cities– Jews and Gentiles converted– Fierce opposition arose from unbelievers– Paul stoned at Lystra– Elders appointed in every church

229

The “Conference” in JerusalemActs 15:1-35

• Many Gentiles had been converted• Jews insisted on circumcising them• Paul and Barnabas met with the

apostles and elders at Jerusalem– Peter defended Paul’s position that they

did not need to be circumcised– James, brother of Jesus, and the church

agreed and sent a letter to Antioch– Judas and Silas confirmed the letter

230

The Second Missionary JourneyActs 15:36 – 18:22

• Paul took Silas as his companion– Started through Syria and Cilicia

confirming the churches– Then to Derbe and Lystra

• Timothy joined them at Lystra• Paul saw a vision

– A man from Macedonia called for help

• Luke joined them at Troas

231


• At Philippi– Lydia and her household converted – Paul cast a demon out of a girl– Paul and Silas beaten with rods and jailed– Jailer and his household converted

• On to Thessalonica and Berea– Started churches but opposition was great

232


• At Athens, – Idolatry and philosophy rampant

233


• At Corinth– Many converted from paganism

• Paul wrote his first epistles from Corinth– Letters to the Thessalonians

• Paul brought before Gallio– “This man persuades men to worship God

contrary to the law.”

234


He then went to Ephesus, Jerusalem and back to Antioch

235

Introduction To Acts Part 2 • The Third Missionary Journey

– Started about A. D. 54– Route similar to the second journey

• Nero was the Roman Emperor• During this time books were written

• Galatians• 1 Corinthians• 2 Corinthians• Romans

236

Introduction To Acts Part 2

• Paul returned to Jerusalem – arrested– Unfounded accusations made

• After two years, he was taken to Rome• Paul remained a prisoner in Rome for

two years• From there, he wrote:

– Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians– Two letters to Timothy and one to Titus

• Paul’s work was finished

Conversions In ActsExamples Heard Believed Repented Confessed Baptized

Pentecost 2:14-41 2:27 Implied 37,38 Implied 38,41

Samaria 8:5-13 2:6 12 Implied Implied 12,13

Simon 8:13 8:6 13 Implied Implied 1

Eunuch 8:35-39 8:35 36,37 Implied 37 38

Saul 9,22,26 22:16 Implied Implied Implied 9:18

Cornelius10:25-48 33 43 Implied Implied 48

Lydia 16:13-15 13 14 Implied Implied 15

Jailor 16:30-34 30, 31 31 Implied Implied 33

Corinthians 18:8 8 8 Implied Implied 8

Ephesians 19:1-5 5 Implied Implied Implied 5

239

A Change In Commitment United with Christ in His

death – (Romans 6:3-6)

Submitting to the authority of Christ -(Receiving the remission of sins – Acts 2:38)

Becoming a child of God by faith – (Gal. 3:26,27)

Cleansing the conscience – (1 Peter 3:21)

Added to the church- (Acts 2:40)

We Meet At: 656 St. James Church Rd.

Newton, NCRegular Assembly Times :

Each Sunday: Bible Study 9:30 AM,

Worship 11:00 AMWednesdays: Bible Study 7:00 PM

By Mail:By Mail:P.O. Box 893P.O. Box 893Newton, NC Newton, NC

2865828658

By Phone: 828-465-3009By Phone: 828-465-3009

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