THE BOOK OF ACTS: Herod Agrippa II

           Herodians were Jews of influence and standing who were favorable toward Greek customs and Roman law in New Testament times. Herod Agrippa II happened to be the last of the Herodians to rule over the Jews.  He lived for 50 years (AD 50 to AD 100) and was 17 years old when he was set as ruler over the Jewish people. The Herodians were the ruling class of Jews who were pro-Rome. Because of that affiliation with Rome, the Herodians were appointed as rulers over the Jewish peoples who lived in Rome or on its borders.

            The godfather of the Herodian clan was Herod the Great, the king when Jesus was born and one who tried to have Him killed (Matthew 2). Herod Antipas ruled during the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus. He is the one who had John executed (Mark 6) and sat in judgment at one of Jesus’ trials (Luke 23:7–12). Herod Agrippa I was king of Judea for a few years and the one who had James executed. His death is recorded in Acts 12. The only reference to Agrippa II in the New Testament occurs in Acts 25:13 - Acts 26:32, which deals with Paul’s imprisonment in Caesarea. Agrippa listened to Paul’s defense, but the apostle appealed to Rome since while he was a Jew, he was also a Roman citizen. Paul appealed his case to be before Caesar, the Emperor of Rome. Because of this appeal Agrippa could do nothing for him, even though after hearing Paul’s defense he was prepared to release the apostle as an innocent man.

            During Paul’s defense Agrippa heard the gospel. The ruler found it humorous that Paul was trying to convert him to Christianity. So Agrippa II actually heard the word of God presented and made the conscious choice to not respond. This would end up being a tragic mistake. When a person hears the gospel preached and chooses not to accept the message or take it seriously by consciously rejecting it, they are rejecting their only ticket to eternal life in God’s heaven.  The entire Herodian clan had some contact with Jesus, his disciples, and the word of God itself and every one of them rejected God’s forgiveness for sin.  That’s difficult to fathom, but it’s true.

            Up next is the Book of Romans. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; https://www.gotquestions.org/Herod-Agrippa-II.htm; Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary.

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Apollos

             Apollos was characterized by many as a “learned and eloquent Jew from Alexandra in Egypt” and an influential leader in the early church. He was well-versed in the Old Testament. Apollos was a fervent following of John the Baptizer who taught him accurately regarding the things of the Lord. To encapsulate who Apollos actually was, he was a gifted and persuasive preacher and apologist ^[1] in the early church who was more than willing to be taught. Because of his natural talent to communicate, Apollos is thought to be one of the possible candidates as the unknown author of the Book of Hebrews.

            As we’ve already learned, Priscilla & Aquila were strong believers who were followers of the Apostle Paul. Amid fierce Christian persecution the couple fled to Corinth to settle and once again practice their trade, which was tent-making. They happened to hear Apollos preach when he visited Corinth and liked what he had to say. After speaking with Apollos they realized he hadn’t learned the entire story. His ends with John the Baptizer and not Christ. Priscilla & Aquila took Apollos aside and instructed him regarding Christ’s life, ministry, death, and resurrection and exactly what all that meant to mankind. Deeming it as true, Apollos embraced their teaching and adjusted his preaching accordingly. 

            Apollos became so popular with certain members of the Corinthian church that they began to follow HIM, rather than adhere to his teaching. This was none of Apollos doing. He was humble and never accepted any personal accolades. All glory is meant to be for God and Him alone. In an effort to steer the congregation back to godly preaching and teaching, Paul wrote a letter to the four groups that had broken out. They were those following Apollos, those who followed Peter, those who followed Paul and those who followed Christ. Paul deftly explained that he was like the one who planted seeds while Apollos was the one who watered what was already planted. It would appear that this pretty much solved their problem because we don’t hear about this issue rising up again in Corinth.

            In summary, Apollos was a man of letters with a zeal for the Lord and a talent for preaching. He labored in the Lord’s work, aiding the ministry of the apostles, and faithfully building up the church. His life should encourage each of us to “grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord” (2 Peter 3:18) and to use our God-given gifts to promote truth.

            Up next is a look at Herod Agrippa II. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary & https://www.gotquestions.org/who-Apollos.html

^[1] “A person who argues in defense or justification of something, such as a doctrine, policy, or institution.” apologist. (n.d.) American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. (2011). Retrieved January 27, 2024, from https://www.thefreedictionary.com/apologist             

                  

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Aquila & Priscilla

         The story of these two friends of the apostle Paul is told in Acts 18. Aquila, a Jewish Christian, and his wife, Priscilla, first met Paul in Corinth, became good friends of his, and shared in his work. These two remarkable people belong in the pantheon of Christian heroes, and their ministry is both an encouragement and an example for us.

When we first meet Aquila and Priscilla, we are told that they had come to Corinth from Italy as victims of Roman persecution, not for their Christian faith but because Aquila was a Jew. The Emperor Claudius expelled all Jews from Rome, and no doubt Jews deemed it unsafe to remain in any part of Italy. Aquila and Priscilla found their way to Corinth and settled there, pursuing their trade as tentmakers. When Paul, a tentmaker himself, came to Corinth, he went to see them, no doubt having heard of their faith in Christ. Paul lived and worked with them while founding the Corinthian church.

After a year and a half, Paul left for Ephesus and took Aquila and Priscilla with him. The couple stayed in Ephesus when Paul left and established a church in their home (1 Corinthians 16:19). Then an eloquent preacher named Apollos came through Ephesus. Apollos was mighty in the Scriptures, but he only knew the baptism of John. This means Apollos knew Christ had come and fulfilled John’s prophecies, but he didn’t know the significance of Christ’s death and resurrection, the ministry of the indwelling Holy Spirit, or the mystery of the church containing both Jews and Gentiles. Priscilla and her husband took Apollos aside and explained these things to him (Acts 18:24-26). Both Aquila and Priscilla possessed an in-depth understanding of doctrine learned from Paul, and this husband and wife team was able to pass it on to another Christian and build him up in the faith.

These two remarkable people set an example for us of hospitality, seen in opening their home to Paul and using their house as a meeting place for the church. We are also impressed by their passion for Christ and their hunger for knowledge of Him.

Another hallmark of the lives of Priscilla and Aquila is their desire to build others in the faith. Paul’s last reference to them is in his last letter. Paul was imprisoned in Rome and writing to Timothy one last time. Timothy was pastoring the church at Ephesus, and Aquila and Priscilla are there with him, still faithfully ministering (2 Timothy 4:19). To the end, Aquila and Priscilla were offering hospitality to other Christians, spreading the gospel they had learned from Paul, and rendering faithful service to the Master.

Up next is a look at Apollos, a gifted preacher in the early church. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; https://www.gotquestions.org/Priscilla-and-Aquila.html

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Theophilus

        The fact is that we really do not know who Theophilus was, which is why there are several different theories as to who he might be. No matter how much evidence there may or may not be for each theory, the simple fact is we do not know who Theophilus was because the Bible does not identify who he was.

The name “Theophilus” literally means “loved by God.” This has led some to believe that “Theophilus” is just a generic title that applies to all Christians. However, from the context of Luke and Acts, it seems clear that Luke is writing to a specific individual, even though his message is also intended for all Christians in all centuries. While both the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts have applications for all Christians, they were probably written to a specific individual whom Luke addresses as “most excellent Theophilus” (Luke 1:3).

Since it seems clear that Theophilus was an actual person, we will look at what we do know about him from the Bible and then discuss a few of the many theories as to who he might have been. First, it is important to note that Luke addresses him as “most excellent,” a title often used when referring to someone of honor or rank, such as a Roman official. Paul used the same term when addressing Felix (Acts 23:26; Acts 24:2) and Festus (Acts 26:25). Therefore, one of the most common theories is that Theophilus was possibly a Roman officer or high-ranking official in the Roman government.

Another possibility is that Theophilus was a wealthy and influential man in the city of Antioch. There are second-century references to a man named Theophilus who was “a great lord” and a leader in the city of Antioch during the time of Luke. Such a man would fit the description, as many scholars believe that Theophilus could have been a wealthy benefactor who supported Paul and Luke on their missionary journeys. That would account for Luke’s wanting to provide an orderly and detailed account of what had happened. 

Another theory about who Theophilus was is that he was the Jewish high priest named Theophilus ben Ananus. Theophilus ben Ananus was high priest in Jerusalem in A.D. 37-41. He was the son of Annas and the brother–in-law of Caiaphus. While less popular, this theory seems to be gaining popularity among some groups. Still another theory is that the Theophilus Luke was writing to was a later high priest named Mattathias ben Theophilus, who served in Jerusalem in A.D. 65-66.

Yet another theory about the identity of Theophilus is that he was the Roman lawyer who defended Paul during his trial in Rome. Those who hold this theory believe that Luke’s purpose in writing Luke and Acts was to write a defense of Christianity, somewhat akin to a legal brief. If this theory is correct, Luke’s writings were designed to defend Paul in court against charges of insurrection and, at the same time, to defend Christianity against the charge that it was an illegal, anti-Roman religion.

While each of these theories holds possibilities, it seems most likely that Theophilus was a high-ranking or influential Gentile for whom Luke wanted to provide a detailed, historical account of Christ and the spread of the gospel throughout the Roman Empire. Whether this Theophilus was a wealthy relative of Caesar, an influential government official, a wealthy benefactor who supported Paul or Paul’s Roman lawyer doesn’t really matter. We cannot know for sure who Theophilus was, but we can know what Luke’s intentions for writing were. His stated reason for writing to Theophilus was “that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught” (Luke 1:3-4). Luke wrote a historical account of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and detailed the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire. His intention was to give Theophilus certainty that the “things he had been taught” were indeed true and trustworthy.

Up next we take a look at Aquila & Priscilla, the husband/wife team that ministered in the early church. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; https://www.gotquestions.org/Theophilus-Luke-Acts.html

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Luke

            Little is known about Luke, the author of the books of Luke and Acts in the Bible. We do know he was a physician and the only Gentile to write any part of the New Testament. Paul’s letter to the Colossians draws a distinction between Luke and other colleagues “of the circumcision,” meaning the Jews (Colossians 4:11). Luke is the only New Testament writer clearly identifiable as a non-Jew.

The author of the gospel of Luke and the book of Acts. Luke does not name himself in either of his books, but Paul mentions him by name in three of his epistles. Both Luke and Acts are addressed to the same person, Theophilus (Luke 1:3; Acts 1:1). No one knows exactly who Theophilus was, but we know that Luke’s purpose in writing the two companion books was so that Theophilus would know with certainty about the person and work of Jesus Christ (Luke 1:4). Perhaps Theophilus had already received the basics of the Christian doctrine but had not as yet been completely grounded in them.

Luke was a close friend of Paul, who referred to him as “the beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14). Perhaps Luke’s interest in medicine is the reason his gospel gives such a high profile to Jesus’ acts of healing.

Paul also refers to Luke as a “fellow laborer” (Philemon 1:24). Luke joined Paul in Troas in Asia Minor during Paul’s second missionary journey (Acts 16:6–11). Some scholars speculate that Luke was the “man of Macedonia” whom Paul saw in his dream (Acts 16:9). Luke was left in Philippi during the second missionary journey (Acts 17:1) and picked up again to travel with Paul in the third journey (Acts 20:5). Luke accompanied Paul on his journey to Jerusalem and Rome and was with him during his imprisonment there (2 Timothy 4:11). Luke’s vivid description of his travels with Paul in Acts 27 seems to indicate that he was well-traveled and well-versed in navigation.

Scholars have noted that Luke had an outstanding command of the Greek language. His vocabulary is extensive and rich, and his style at times approaches that of classical Greek, as in the preface of his gospel (Luke 1:1–4), while at other times it seems quite Semitic* (Luke 1:5—2:52). He was familiar with sailing and had a special love for recording geographical details. All this would indicate that Luke was a well-educated, observant, and careful writer.

Up next is an interesting look at Luke’s apparent friend/acquaintance Theophilus, whom he addresses at the very beginning of both his gospel and Acts. Until then, walk with the Kingdom and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; https://www.gotquestions.org/Luke-in-the-Bible.html

* Jewish

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Lydia

            Very little is said in the Bible about Lydia. There are only two mentions of her by name in Scripture—in Acts 16 we find the record of her conversion and her subsequent baptism (Acts 16:11–15). From the story of Lydia we can glean a few useful details about conversion, specifically about the conversion of Jewish believers.

Lydia in the Bible was originally from Thyatira but was living in Philippi when she met Paul on his second missionary journey. She was a seller of purple cloth, which Thyatira was famous for, being a center of indigo trade. Lydia apparently had moved to Philippi to ply her trade in that city. Archaeologists have found among the ruins of Thyatira inscriptions relating to a dyers’ guild in the city. It is possible that Lydia was a member of this guild, but there is no evidence from the Bible to prove that detail.

Lydia was also a worshiper of God (Acts 16:14), and, when Paul found her, she was honoring the Sabbath, which means she was likely a Jew. The account of Lydia’s conversion says that she was gathered with a group of other women on the Sabbath at a place of prayer near the river outside of Philippi. The fact that Paul, Timothy, Luke, and Silas came to the riverside to speak to the women most likely indicates there were not enough Jewish men in Philippi to open a synagogue there.

Lydia heard the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the Bible says that God opened her heart to pay attention to what Paul was saying (Acts 16:14). After she believed, Lydia was baptized, along with the rest of her household. After Lydia’s conversion and baptism, she insisted that Paul and his friends come to stay at her home, if they judged her to be “a believer in the Lord” (verse 15). Luke says that “she prevailed upon us,” which indicates the fervency of her desire to be hospitable. The missionaries did indeed judge Lydia to be a true believer, and they stayed at her home while in Philippi.

Lydia’s conversion marks the start of a new epoch in the Bible. Up to that point, the gospel had not gone further west than Asia Minor. In fact, on this journey, Paul’s original intention had been to stay in Asia, but God had changed his plans. The Lord sent Paul a vision calling him westward across the Aegean Sea and into Macedonia (Acts 16:6–10). Lydia, although a native of Asia Minor, is the first person recorded to have been saved in Europe.

Later in biblical history, we discover there is a church in Thyatira (Revelation 2:18). Paul did not visit that city in any of his missionary journeys, and we have no record of who might have established that church. Could it be that Lydia is the one who brought the gospel to her hometown? It’s possible, but by no means certain for the Bible doesn’t say.

The story of Lydia in the Bible is a great example of God’s providence and His care for believers. Lydia was a worshiper of God but, like Cornelius in Acts 10, had not yet heard the gospel. God rerouted Paul and friends and also ensured that Lydia would be in the right place at the right time to encounter Paul and hear the good news of Jesus. And, as Lydia heard the gospel, God opened her heart so that she received the life-giving message. In this story, so full of divine intervention, we see the sovereignty of God in salvation; as Jesus said, “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them” (John 6:44). We also see the immediate bond that a new believer has with other believers in Christ—Lydia showed hospitality to those who brought the good news, and she wouldn’t take “no” for an answer.

Up next is a look at Luke, the author of Acts. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; https://www.gotquestions.org/Lydia-in-the-Bible.html

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Silas

             Silas was a leader in the early church, a fellow missionary with Paul, and a “faithful brother” (1 Peter 5:12). He was a Hellenistic Jew who, it seems, was also a Roman citizen (Acts 16:37). 

            When we first meet Silas in Scripture, he is a leader and teacher in the Jerusalem church (Acts 15:22, 32). The majority of early Christians were Jews who realized that Jesus was the fulfillment of God’s OT promises to his people; however, the universal application of those promises had been overlooked. Therefore, many felt becoming Jewish was a prerequisite to becoming a Christian. The idea that God could accept a Gentile pagan was too incredible for them to accept. But as Gentiles began to become saved, accepting Christ as Savior and Lord, the transformation of their lives and the presence of God’s Spirit confirmed their conversions. Some Jews were still reluctant, however, and insisted these new Christians take on various Jewish customs. The issue came to a boiling point at the Jerusalem council but was peacefully resolved. After the Jerusalem Council, Silas was chosen to help communicate the council’s decision to Antioch, along with the apostle Paul. Soon afterwards, Paul set out on his second missionary journey, and he chose Silas to accompany him (Acts 15:40-41).

On this journey, Paul and Silas traveled to Greece. In Philippi, the missionaries were arrested, beaten, and imprisoned. But “about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them” (Acts 16:25). God then miraculously released them, and the jailer, having witnessed their faith, asked them, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Paul and Silas answered, “Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (verses 30-31). The jailer was saved that night, and he and his family were all baptized. The next day, the city officials learned that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens, and they were immediately fearful; their mistreatment of Paul and Silas the day before had violated Roman law. The city leaders immediately released Paul and Silas from custody. The missionaries left town, but they left behind a body of believers—the first church in Europe.

The start of the Philippian church is a great reminder that, even in extremely difficult times, God can bring about great things. God will glorify His name, even though our trials and tribulations. Paul and Silas had this perspective, and that’s why they were able to sing at midnight.

The fact that the prisoners were “listening” to Paul and Silas singing hymns is not a detail to be skipped over lightly. As followers of Jesus Christ, we, too, have people watching how we react to life’s circumstances. If Paul and Silas had been griping or protesting or whining about the injustice of their situation, the jailer would have never been drawn to believe in the Lord Jesus. But they responded to their situation gracefully and with joy—their actions were completely foreign to how others expected them to react. Because they were “salt” and “light” (Matthew 5:13-14), others had their hearts opened to the gospel.

Later, Silas and Timothy ministered in Berea (Acts 17:14), and Silas spent extra time in Corinth, ministering after Paul left that city. Silas served with Peter as well; in fact, he is thought to have delivered the epistle of 1 Peter to its recipients (1 Peter 5:12).

Silas is a great example of someone who used his gifts to serve the Lord and others with all his heart. The apostles called him “faithful,” and he was known as one to “encourage and strengthen the brothers” (Acts 15:32). Multitudes in the early church were blessed by Silas, and Paul and Peter were heartened by his faithful companionship. Silas was “a brother . . . born for adversity” (Proverbs 17:17).

Up next is a look at Lydia, a businesswoman who happened to be the first convert in Philippi. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; https://www.gotquestions.org/life-Silas.html

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Barnabas

            In the book of Acts, we find a Levite from Cyprus named Joseph (Acts 4:36), whom the apostles called Barnabas. That nickname translated “Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36-37) or “Son of Exhortation” was probably given to him because of his inclination to serve others (Acts 4:36-37, 9:27) and his willingness to do whatever church leaders needed (Acts 11:25-30). He is referred to as a “good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith.” Through his ministry, “a great number of people were brought to the Lord” (Acts 11:24). Paul uses Barnabas as an example of one with a proper perspective on money and property. When he sold his land, he brought the proceeds to the apostles and laid it at their feet (Acts 4:36-37).

As the early church began to grow, in spite of Herod’s persecution, Barnabas was called by the Holy Spirit to go with Paul on a missionary journey. Barnabas’ cousin, John Mark, served him and Paul as their assistant (Acts 13:5). During that first missions trip, for an unspecified reason, John Mark left them and did not complete the journey (Acts 13:13). However, Barnabas continued with Paul and was with him when Paul’s ministry was redirected to reaching the Gentiles with the gospel (Acts 13:42-52). 

After that first trip, Paul and Barnabas began planning their next journey. Barnabas wanted to take his cousin, but Paul refused, and a rift grew between them to the point that they parted company (Acts 15:36-41). Barnabas, true to his nickname, took John Mark and spent time discipling him. That ministry was so effective that, years later, Paul specifically asked for John Mark to come to him, as Mark had matured to the point of becoming helpful to Paul in his ministry (2 Timothy 4:11).

Like Barnabas, as Christians we are called to be encouragers, particularly of those who are weak in the faith or struggling. Encouragement is one of the most effective ways to help a situation, because invariably you will always find someone who needs encouragement. Acts 11:23 depicts Barnabas as a man who was delighted to see others exhibiting the grace of God in their lives, exhorting, and encouraging them to remain faithful. In the same way, we should look for opportunities to praise those who bring glory and honor to God through lives that reflect their faith. In addition, Barnabas is an example of a generous spirit when it comes to giving sacrificially to the work of the Lord.

Barnabas’ story is told in Acts 4:36-37; 9:27 - 15:39. He is also mentioned in 1 Corinthians 9:6; Galatians 2:1, 9, 13; and Colossians 4:10.

Up next is a look at Silas, who accompanied Paul on his second missionary journey.

Until that time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; https://www.gotquestions.org/life-Barnabas.html

THE BOOK OF ACTS: John Mark

            John Mark, often just called Mark, is the author of the gospel of Mark. He was a believer in the early church mentioned directly only in the book of Acts. John Mark is first mentioned as the son of a woman named Mary (Acts 12:12), whose house was being used as a place for believers to gather and pray. Later, Mark is mentioned as a companion of Barnabas and Paul during their travels together (Acts 12:25). John Mark was also Barnabas’ cousin (Colossians 4:10).

            John Mark was a helper on Paul and Barnabas’ first missionary journey (Acts 13:5). However, he did not stay through the whole trip. John Mark deserted Paul and Barnabas in Pamphylia and left the work (Acts 15:38). The Bible does not say why Mark deserted, but his departure came right after a mostly fruitless time in Cyprus (Acts 13:4–12). Only one conversion is recorded in Cyprus, but there had been strong demonic opposition. It’s likely that the young John Mark was discouraged at the hardness of the way and decided to return to the comforts of home.

            Sometime later, after Paul and Barnabas had returned from their first journey, Paul expressed a desire to go back to the brothers in the cities they had previously visited to see how everyone was doing (Acts 15:36). Barnabas agreed, apparently upon the provision that they take John Mark with them. Paul refused to have Mark on the trip, however, citing Mark’s previous desertion. Paul thought it best not to have a quitter with them; they needed someone more dependable. Paul and Barnabas had a “sharp disagreement” about John Mark (verse 39) and wound up separating from each other and going on separate journeys. Barnabas took John Mark with him to Cyprus, and Paul took Silas with him through Syria and Cilicia to encourage the believers in the churches in those areas (Acts 15:39–41).

            Barnabas, the “son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36), desired to forgive John Mark’s failure and to give him another chance. Paul took the more rational view: pioneering missionary work requires dedication, resolve, and endurance. Paul saw John Mark as a risk to their mission. Luke, the writer of Acts, does not take sides or present either Paul or Barnabas as being in the right. He simply records the facts. It’s worth noting that, in the end, two groups of missionaries were sent out—twice as many missionaries were spreading the gospel.

            John Mark sails off to Cyprus with his cousin Barnabas, but that is not the end of his story. Years later, he is with Paul, who calls him a “fellow worker” (Philemon 1:24). And near the end of Paul’s life, Paul sends a request to Timothy from a Roman prison: “Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11). Obviously, John Mark had matured through the years and had become a faithful servant of the Lord. Paul recognized his progress and considered him a valuable companion.

            John Mark wrote the gospel that bears his name sometime between AD 55 and 59. There could be a veiled reference to John Mark in Mark 14:51–52. In that passage a young man, roused from sleep on the night that Jesus was arrested, attempts to follow the Lord, and the mob who had Jesus in custody attempts to seize him. The young man escapes and flees into the night. The fact that this incident is only recorded in Mark’s gospel—and the fact that the young man is anonymous—has led some scholars to surmise that the fleeing young man is actually John Mark.

            It should be noted that, 1) Personal maturity usually comes from a combination of time and mistakes, yet the mistakes are not usually as important as what can be learned from them. 2) Effective living is not measured as much by what we accomplish as by what we overcome in order to accomplish it. 3) Encouraging someone can change their life.

Up next is a look at Barnabas. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name &for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; https://www.gotquestions.org/John-Mark-in-the-Bible.html

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Herod Agrippa I

            The New Testament mentions several different Herods from Matthew 1 to Acts 26. Herod Agrippa I is one of the Roman-appointed rulers in Israel from the Herod dynasty.

Herod the Great was “king of the Jews” at Jesus’ birth and tried to have Him killed (Matthew 2). Herod Antipas was king during the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus. Antipas had John executed (Mark 6) and later declined to pass judgment on Jesus, sending Him back to Pilate (Luke 23:7–12). In Acts 4:27, Herod Antipas (simply called Herod) is mentioned as one of those guilty of the crucifixion of Jesus. Acts 12 speaks of Herod as a persecutor of the apostles, but this is a different Herod—Herod Agrippa I.

Herod Antipas was a ruler in Galilee, but Herod Agrippa I, leading the persecution in Acts, is ruling as king in Jerusalem. Luke, the writer of Acts, did not see the need to explain who the Herods were, as that would have been common knowledge to his readers. Also, Herod was a family name almost synonymous with “ruler,” so it could be used in much the same way that today a writer might speak of “the President” or “the sheriff” without stopping to explain each time that he might be speaking of a different person occupying the office.

Herod Agrippa I was the king of Judea from AD 41 to 44. He was a grandson of Herod the Great and nephew of Herod Antipas. A series of prefects (of which Pilate was one) had governed Judea as a Roman province for over 30 years. Rome placed Agrippa I on the throne as a client king* for about 3 years. Agrippa had spent time in Rome where he developed a friendship with the emperor Tiberius and the future emperors Caligula and Claudius. These friendships helped him secure his ruling position. After Agrippa’s death, he was replaced with a Roman procurator.

As a client of Rome, the king of Judea’s job was primarily to keep the peace. Herod Agrippa I knew that, if anything was troubling the Jewish population, appeasing them was in his best interest. Apparently, keeping the peace was Agrippa’s reason for persecuting the church. Acts 12:1–3 reports, “King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also.” Luke specifically attributes Peter’s arrest to the fact that it pleased the Jews.

Peter did not die at Herod Agrippa’s hands but was miraculously rescued from prison (Acts 12:5–17). When it was discovered that Peter had escaped, “there was no small commotion among the soldiers” (verse 18). Herod Agrippa was frustrated: “After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed. Then Herod went from Judea to Caesarea and stayed there” (verses 18–19).

It was in Caesarea that Herod Agrippa I met his demise. “[Agrippa] had been quarreling with the people of Tyre and Sidon; they now joined together and sought an audience with him. After securing the support of Blastus, a trusted personal servant of the king, they asked for peace, because they depended on the king’s country for their food supply. On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. They shouted, ‘This is the voice of a god, not of a man.’ Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died” (Acts 12:20–23). From the information Luke gives, one might expect that Agrippa was suddenly overpowered by worms that consumed him in a matter of seconds, and one can envision how this might be portrayed gruesomely in a Hollywood movie. But Luke does not say that Herod died immediately, only that he was “struck down” immediately. According to Josephus, Herod Agrippa I was immediately incapacitated by a severe pain his stomach; the pain lingered for five days before he died. The book of Acts tells us that the cause of death was worms (parasites, probably) directly from the hand of God.

The fate of Herod Agrippa I is a graphic reminder that it does not pay to fight against God (see also Psalm 1). While Herod the king is writhing on a bed of pain with worms in his gut, Peter the apostle is free to spread the gospel and serve the Lord. Herod died, “but the word of God continued to spread and flourish” (Acts 12:24).

Up next is a look at John Mark, aka**, Mark.  Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible; https://www.gotquestions.org/Herod-Agrippa-I.html

* “Client kings” is the modern English term commonly used to describe monarchs who were bound to Rome in an asymmetrical relationship and/or unequal alliance and whose rule depended on Rome’s continued approval. Client rulers enjoyed relative freedom in internal affairs but were strictly limited in all matters of foreign policy. Client kingdoms and principalities were often situated on the periphery of the Roman empire.

** “also known as”.

Word for the Day

 

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Cornelius

        Cornelius in the Bible was a centurion, a commander in the Italian Regiment of the Roman military. He lived in Caesarea. He was very much a God-fearing man who had been strongly attracted to the Jewish teaching of monotheism (the belief in one God) as opposed to pagan idolatry and immorality.

Because there were frequent outbreaks of violence, Roman soldiers had to be stationed throughout Israel to keep the peace. Although most Romans were hated by the Jews as their conquerors, Cornelius was respected by the Jews since he had the reputation of being a godly man who put his faith into action. 

God sent an angel to Cornelius telling him that the centurion’s prayers and gifts to the poor had been noticed by God and were received as an offering. The Lord told Cornelius that he should meet the apostle Peter. Obeying his vision, Cornelius sent some of his men to Joppa, roughly 36 miles south of Caesarea to find Peter so he and his family could hear him preach. Peter also received a vision from God telling him it was alright to eat of food that Jews had previously deemed unclean. As he came out of his trance the Holy Spirit told Peter that there were three men who have come looking for him and that he was to go with them without hesitation. So Paul obeyed his vision and went with Cornelius’ men to where the centurion was. When Peter arrived at Cornelius’ home and greetings had been exchanged, he began preaching to everyone in the household. While preaching the Holy Spirit fell baptizing the soldiers entire family. Peter then commanded them all to be baptized in the name of the Lord.

Cornelius’ story in Acts 10 is important because it was in Cornelius’ household that God publicly opened the doors of the church to the Gentile world. He was the first gentile to become a Christian. The apostle Peter was present to see it happen, just as he had been a witness to the opening of the doors to the Samaritans (Acts 8) and the Jews (Acts 2).     

Up next is a look at Herod Agrippa I. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: https://www.gotquestions.org/Cornelius-in-the-Bible.html; The New Illustrated Bible Dictionary; The Life Application Study Bible.      

Thought for the Day

 

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Philip, the evangelist

            The final command Jesus gave to his followers was to preach the gospel throughout the known world, but they seemed reluctant to migrate from Jerusalem. It took intense persecution to move them out into Judea and Samaria, where the Lord had instructed them all to go. 

            Philip is a good example to all believers who are willing to wholeheartedly obey.

He was one of the men charged with handling food distribution to the poor and elderly among them. Then he suddenly left for Samaria. Because of Israel’s checkered past with Samaria, it was likely the last place a Jew would want to go preach, but that is exactly where Philip headed. The Samaritans responded favorably, and large numbers were added to the kingdom at that time. 

            During the height of his ministerial success, the Spirit led Philip out into the desert for what I refer to as a “divine appointment”. He was to meet a foreigner, a eunuch from Ethiopia, who happened to be reading Isaiah 53 during his travels. He needed someone to explain the meaning of the statement, “by his stripes we are healed”. Philip boarded the Ethiopian’s carriage and explained the text. The foreigner understood and immediately sought to be baptized. So when they came to some water, the carriage was stopped, and Philip went about baptizing him. “When they came out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away. The eunuch never saw him again but went on his way rejoicing.” (Acts 8:19)

            Next Philip ended up in Caesarea where he eventually became a host to the former persecutor of Christians, Saul of Tarsus. It’s ironic that Philip should be linked to the individual who was largely responsible for his leaving Jerusalem to begin with, but that’s what happened. Philip was the one who began the conversion of Gentiles, which was continued throughout the entirety of the Roman Empire by the Apostle Paul.

            It’s important for current day believers to not only KNOW scripture but understand WHAT IT MEANS. The gospel is universal Good News, “for EVERYONE has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” (Romans 3:23 NLT) Since everyone in creation has sinned, everyone needs a savior and there is only ONE savior, Jesus Christ. 

            Up next is a look at Cornelius, who was a gentile Roman army officer. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.

THE BOOK OF ACTS: Stephen

            Stephen was one of the first seven deacons of the early church and was the first Christian martyr. His story can be found in Acts 6:7 - 7:60. 

            Following Pentecost there was a surge in growth within the community of believers. Palestinian Jews as well as Greek Jews were being converted to Christianity. Once a Jew accepted Jesus as the Messiah they were typically ostracized from their families and cast out. The new Christian community became known for the way they cared for one another, but their increasing numbers began to be a slight problem. This is when seven “good and worthy men” were chosen to provide relief to their needy brethren. While these men were not called “deacons”, they are considered to be the forerunners of the office of deacon within the church. Stephen, in particular, was known for his spiritual qualities of faith, wisdom, grace and power; he was also known for the Spirit’s presence in his life.

            Following Christ’s example Stephen was critical of the OT system of laws, claiming they had already lost their effectiveness because of their fulfillment in Christ. Stephen was not only a wonderfully skilled administrator; he also was a convincing orator. He debated the powerful religious leaders deftly and thus brought out their full ire against him. 

            When brought before the Sanhedrin (a Jewish high council of religious leaders), Stephen gave a lengthy speech summarizing the OT teachings. He reviewed Israel’s history in such a way that he essentially replied to all the charges that had been brought against him. This acted as a denunciation of the Sanhedrin itself. Stephen went on to criticize the leaders themselves by calling them “stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears”. With this denunciation it became personal. He also accused them of resisting the Holy Spirit.  Stephen went so far as to accuse the leaders of killing Jesus and failing to keep their own laws. Attacking a school of thought is one thing but criticizing those who follow that school of thought is quite another. It was at that moment that Stephen was given a vision of Jesus sitting at the right hand of God. He shared his vision with his enemies, thus sealing his own fate. The present crowd rushed him, dragging him out of the city where they stoned him to death. As he was being stoned, he was praying for his murderers that this act not be held against them. 

            Following Stephen’s death persecution of Christians intensified, forcing the disciples to leave Jerusalem in favor of the outlying areas. This scattering led to the gospel being preached first to the Samaritans, then to the Gentiles (non-Jews) in the nations surrounding Palestine. Stephen’s death was not in vain, as it spawned Philip’s evangelistic tour (Acts 8:4-40), Saul’s (Paul’s) conversion*, Peter’s missionary tour (Acts 9:32 - 11:18), and the founding of the Antioch church in Syria.

            Up next is a look at Philip. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary. 

* Saul was present overseeing the stoning of Stephen.

THE BOOK OF ACTS: The Mega-Themes Part 2

Theme: Church Growth

 

Explanation: The Book of Acts gives us the history of a dynamic community of believers who stretched from Jerusalem to as far as Syria, Africa, Asia, and Europe. Christianity spread from believing Jews to non-Jews in 39 cities and 30 countries.

 

The Importance of church growth:  When the Spirit works, there is movement, excitement, and growth. He gives us the motivation, energy, and the ability to get the gospel to the whole world. Are you an active participant in this movement of God?

 

Theme: Witnessing

 

Explanation: The likes of Peter, John, Philip, Paul, Barnabas, and thousands more bore witness to their faith in Christ. They told their personal salvation story with boldness and courage thru personal testimony, powerful Holy Spirit led preaching and even by defending themselves standing before the authorities of the area where they were speaking. 

 

The Importance of Witnessing: If saved, we are then selected to be God’s mouthpiece regarding His plan to reach the world. It is by love and faith that we utilize the Spirit’s assistance as we share our testimony and preach. Witnessing is beneficial to the believer as well as it causes our faith to growth as we confront those who come against our faith. Having said that, everyone doesn’t have the same spiritual gifts. Mine are writing, speaking, and praying for others. Some have the gift of evangelism. Others the gift of comfort and compassion and so on. God will always equip His children to do that which He desires us to do. However, we are to always be ready to share with others that which has altered our thoughts, words, actions, and demeanor. Only God can do that with permanent results.

 

Theme: The Opposition

 

Explanation: Imprisonment, physical beatings, plots against them and riots involving them, represented persecutions against the believers by both Jews and Gentiles. The apostles went where they were led by the Spirit and found that their opposition became a catalyst* for the spread of Christianity.  Growth despite times of oppression proves that Christianity was not the work of humans, but rather of God.

 

The Importance of Opposition: Opposition doesn’t frighten or stop God from accomplishing that which He intends to accomplish. The devil doesn’t bother those who are doing nothing for God’s Kingdom; however, those who are busy doing the Lord’s work shall be persecuted and opposed in many various ways.  Worry not, for God has placed a hedge of protection around His children. Opposition helps strengthen a believer’s resolve to stand tall for what they believe.

 

Up next is a look at the Apostle Stephen. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible

* A person or thing that causes change.

THE BOOK OF ACTS: The Mega-Themes

Theme: Church Beginnings

 

Explanation: This book chronicles the founding of Christianity, how it was organized and how they solved their problems. It all started with a community of believers who placed their faith and trust in the risen Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. This power, in turn, enabled them to witness regarding God’s love for His creation. It also gave them what was required to love and serve others within and outside the body of Christ.

 

Why was this important?  After Christ ascended, new churches began to pop up throughout the regions that Paul and Peter had visited and preached. It started in Jerusalem and spread out from there. With the use of faith in Christ and the Holy Spirit’s power, the church was and still can be a vibrant agent for change. As a modern day church encounters new problems, they can read thru the Book of Acts to help them solve those problems with important spiritual remedies. 

 

 

Theme: The Holy Spirit

 

Explanation:  The first churches didn’t start and grow by its own power or zeal. The disciples were empowered by God’s Holy Spirit. He was the advocate and guide promised by the Lord, that was sent to them in the Upper Room on Pentecost after Jesus went from whence He came.

 

Why was this important?  The work of the Spirit showed both believers and non-believers that Christianity was other-worldly (supernatural). Because of this the church became more Holy Spirit conscious, rather than focusing on their problems. By faith and trust in God’s power thru the Spirit, any believer can claim for themselves that power to do Christ’s work.

 

... to be continued tomorrow.

 

Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible

THE BOOK OF ACTS: The Spiritual Blueprint

A. Peter’s Ministry (Chapters 1 thru 12)

 

                  1. The establishment of the church ...

2. The expansion of the church ...

 

The Apostle Peter preached with boldness & performed many miracles after Christ’s resurrection. Peter’s actions clearly demonstrated the source & effect of spiritual power.  God’s people were able to accomplish their God-given tasks because of the power of His Holy Spirit who resides within the believer. The Holy Spirit is still available to empower believers today. It’s a matter trusting God that He is able to do all that he says He is able to do throughout scripture. We must accept that we are unable to do anything of any heavenly value by ourselves. The full power of God is available to us anytime as long as we believe it’s real. We need to turn to the Holy Spirit to give us the strength, courage, and insight to accomplish our work for God.

 

B. Paul’s Ministry (Chapters 13 thru 28]

 

                  1. 1^st Missionary Journey

                  2. The council at Jerusalem

                  3. 2^nd Missionary Journey

                  4. Paul on trial                                                                                                                                                                                                        

                  Paul’s missionary adventures show us the progress of Christianity. The gospel could not be confined to one corner of the world. This was a faith that offered hope to all humanity. We, too, should venture forth and share in this heroic task to witness for Christ in all the world. 

 

                  Nearly one fifth of Acts consists of speeches, primarily from Peter, Stephen, & Paul. All their speeches had one common thread and that was to be a basic framework of a gospel proclamation. Their basic outline may have looked something like this:

 

                  1. The promises of God in the OT were now fulfilled.

                  2. The long waited Messiah had at last come in the person of Jesus of Nazareth.

                                    a. Christ did many good & mighty works by the power of God.

                                    b. He was crucified according to the purpose of God.

                                    c. He was raised from the dead by the power of God.

                                    d. He now reigns by the power of God.

                                    e. He will come again to judge and restore all things for the purpose of God.

                  3. All who hear should repent and be baptized.

 

This basic outline is our earliest example of the gospel proclaimed by the early church. It is the “foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone (Eph. 2:20), upon which the church is built.”

Up next are the “Mega-Themes” found in Acts. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; The New Illustrated Bible Dictionary.