Luke, the author of Acts, tells us about Barnabas the encourager. This man’s real name was Joseph, and he was from Cyprus. Yet, the apostles gave him a nickname that told what kind of man he was. It was Barnabas who encouraged Paul in the ministry. Because Paul had persecuted the church, the believers in …
There is something about a generous heart that affects others in a good way. To be generous is a fruit of the spirit that reflected people’s faith as the early church began to grow. Selfishly hanging on to material possessions can chain us to temporal things. When the Lord moves us to give what we …
Peter and John had to decide what is right in the sight of God. Acts 4: 19 But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, 20 for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.[1] What …
Being with Jesus changes us. It is a miracle of faith and the transformation of the Holy Spirit. This transformation is evident in Peter and John’s lives as they pray for a lame man. Later, when confronted by the religious leaders about this healing, they boldly proclaimed the message of Jesus. The healed man was …
Salvation is only in Jesus, who gave His life for us on the cross. This enables us to come to faith and repent of our sins. Yes, Jesus is the only way people can go to heaven. Peter affirmed this truth as religious leaders confronted them. Peter and John prayed in the name of Jesus …
Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says, ‘The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.’ [1] Those listening to Peter would have been familiar with this imagery as it is a direct quote from Psalm 118:22. The Old Testament often refers to God in the image of …
The fact that Jesus heals today is remarkable news for every person of faith. As Peter and John were entering the Temple for a time of prayer, the Lord led them to pray for a man who had been lame from birth. The man looked to Peter and John for money, but they had something …
God’s word and believers are dangerous to the enemy. As a result, our adversary satan and his minions do everything possible to hinder them. Jesus contrasts satan’s purpose with His. John 10:10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. [1] We …
Understanding Temple politics can help us gain insight into what was happening when Peter and John were arrested. Acts 4: 1While Peter and John were speaking to the people, they were confronted by the priests, the captain of the Temple guard, and some of the Sadducees. 2 These leaders were very disturbed that Peter and John …
As Peter preached at the Temple, he told the people to repent and experience refreshing. These are also words for us today! The people had just witnessed the healing of a lame and were astounded. Peter explained to the crowd that Jesus, who was crucified and resurrected, was the Messiah they had waited for. Even …