The Biblical Path of Life is a clear and concise study that simplifies the understanding of how the Bible fits together as a whole. The lessons are organized into a few main points, with key verses explained helping one comprehend it better. It compares Scripture to Scripture, revealing that the entire Bible is to introduce one to Jesus and make known the need of Him in one’s life.
In this third year of this three-year study through the Scriptures, we continue our study of the New Testament (having completed the Old Testament in Year Two). After looking at the life of Jesus as recorded in the four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we reach the book of Acts. It is the only book in the New Testament division of History. As we learn about the early days of the church, the spread of the Gospel message is better understood. In those beginnings, thousands were saved at one time becoming disciples of Jesus. Once persecution began and people were killed for their faith, the Gospel message was spread into the known world, and the disciples of Jesus were called Christians. We will witness the great transformation of one of those persecutors as he, himself, became not only a Christian, but in our future studies we will learn that God used him, Paul, to write most of the books in the New Testament.
This study is for:
An individual,
A family,
A small-group Bible study, or
A Sunday School program for all ages.
The Bible is the most important thing we can to know, for it reveals what God expects from His people. In order to know how to live a Christian life that is pleasing to God, we must first understand what His Word says.
A Review for The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Two
“The Biblical Path of Life” brings the Bible to life as you learn how wonderfully everything fits together and how it reveals God’s plan through the ages for man’s redemption. Even though I have taught and/or been a student of this study for many years I am constantly learning new things each time I go through the study. “The Biblical Path of Life” has truly grown my faith and matured my walk with the Lord over the years. The Lord is a rewarder of those that diligently seek Him!
“Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.”
Acts 26:28
The following tells of one time when Paul gave his personal testimony of when Jesus called upon him, and Paul answered that call, trusting in Christ. Recognize a simple pattern.
Paul briefly reminded them of the sinner he was,
He spent time explaining the specific call Jesus made to him,
He told of his personal response,
Then the particular job Jesus gave to Paul to accomplish with his life.
This is a good basis for anyone to use who will give a personal testimony. A personal testimony of when Jesus called upon one’s heart is pivotal in witnessing to someone else.
When given the opportunity, Paul gave his personal testimony before the rulers:
Paul briefly reminded them of the sinner he was:
“4. My manner of life from my youth, … that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. 6. And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers: 7. … For which hope’s sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews. 8. Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead? 9. I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10. Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 11. And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities” (Acts 26:4-11). Paul acknowledged that he was a sinner. He even worked against the spread of the Gospel message.
He spent time explaining the specific call Jesus made to him:
“12. Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests, 13. At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me. 14. And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue,Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. 15. And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said,I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. 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” (Acts 26:12-18). While Paul was yet in sin, Jesus called upon him to be saved (“sanctified by faith that is in me”).
He told of his personal response:
“Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19). Paul was obedient to the call. He was saved.
And then the particular job Jesus gave to Paul to accomplish with his life:
“20. But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. … 22. Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come: 23. That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles” (Acts 26:20-23). Even though many wanted to kill Paul for obeying God’s command to go and tell the Gentiles about Jesus, Paul never quit.
We then read the response of Festus. “24. And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. 25. But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness” (Acts 26:24-25). Art beside thyself means “to be mad; to rave; a person who speaks and acts in such a way that they appear to others as being out of their mind.” Mad means “to rave as a maniac; madness; insanity.” Festus just thought Paul was out of his mind – crazy. Or did he? Festus did not treat Paul as a prisoner who was crazy. It is very possible that Festus felt the conviction of this Truth Paul declared, and he did not want to admit this Truth.
And then Paul invited Agrippa to respond to the Gospel message:
“26. For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. 27. King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. 28. Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (Acts 26:26-28). What was Agrippa’s response? “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (see Acts 26:28). Instead, he rose up and went aside, agreeing that Paul had done nothing worthy of death – or even bonds (means “without freedom”).
Jesus called Paul, he believed and was saved, and then God sent him to preach Jesus – primarily to the Gentiles. He even spoke to rulers. His testimony of believing in Jesus allowed him to be a witness for Jesus so they could know how to be saved. His example is a good formula for anyone to use who will give their personal testimony of the time they trusted in Jesus. A personal testimony of when Jesus called upon one’s heart is pivotal in becoming a witness for Jesus.
Have you ever shared your personal salvation experience with anyone else?
“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”
2 Peter 3:18
The following is an excerpt from “The Biblical Path of Life – Year Three, Quarter Two” Lesson 6:
“During the time Peter stayed with Simon a tanner, Peter was taking that time of rest and retreat where he prayed. Recognize that God was ready to teach Peter something he needed to learn. While Cornelius’ men were on the way to Simon’s house, where was Peter? ‘… Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour‘ (Acts 10:9b). While Peter was praying, he became hungry, and fell into ‘a trance‘. Trance means “a sacred ecstasy or rapture of the mind beyond itself when the use of external senses are suspended and God reveals something in a peculiar manner.” Peculiar is exactly what we see. Read Acts 10:10-16 where Peter sees a sheet full of animals come down from heaven. God showed this to him three times, telling him to rise, kill, and eat. Nevertheless, Peter argued with God that the animals were unclean. However, God told him not to call common what God had cleansed. ‘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‘ (Acts 10:17). Peter had no idea what this meant, but while he ‘doubted in himself‘, men were at his door, asking for him. ‘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‘ (Acts 10:19-20). Sometimes one does not learn what God wants them to learn – at first.
“See what Peter learned as he obeyed God’s instruction. What did he do? ‘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?‘ (Acts 10:21). Read what they said to Peter. ‘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‘ (Acts 10:22). The men stayed with Peter, and the next morning went together to Caesarea – to see Cornelius. Read what Cornelius had done while he was waiting. ‘And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends‘ (Acts 10:24). Cornelius called is friends and family to his house. Not only would he hear the Gospel message that was promised to him, but his family and close friends would also hear and have opportunity to respond.
“Peter was really a special man used by God, but take note of his heart as you read the following verses. ‘25. 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‘ (Acts 10:25-26). Peter understood, and wanted these people to understand, that it was not Peter who was to be worshiped. God, and God alone, is to be worshiped (see Exodus 34:14).
“Recognize what Peter learned from the vision God had showed him. ‘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‘ (Acts 10:28). That is why Peter went to see Cornelius.
“Cornelius told Peter what had happened to him (see Acts 10:30-33), ending with the following. ‘… Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God‘ (Acts 10:33b). All of the people present wanted to know what they must do to be saved.
“Peter reiterated what he had said before, about God teaching him that Peter was not to call any man common or unclean. You can almost see the light bulb going off in his head, as he was beginning to understand what God was trying to teach him. ‘34. 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‘ (Acts 10:34-35). Worketh means “figuratively, to do, commit, practice.” Righteousness means “that righteousness which has regard to God and the divine law; internal, where the heart is right with God, piety toward God, and hence righteousness, godliness, i.e.: faith acceptable to God.” Peter was recognizing that he was there to tell these people about Jesus. He then proceeded to preach Jesus (see Acts 10:36-42). Specifically read Peter’s final words in this testimony, as from one who was a witness to what Jesus had done. ‘To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins‘ (Acts 10:43). What did it take to be saved? To believe on the name of Jesus, where the heart can become right with God.”
As Peter recognized that Jesus came to save anyone who would believe, by faith, in Him (see Romans 10:8-13), he grew in his Christian life. “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:18). Peter encouraged Christians to continue to grow.
Do you continue to grow in your Christian life?
Do you know one who needs to believe in Jesus by faith?
“Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.”
Romans 6:13
Many people have recognized the sin in their lives, acknowledging the need of a Saviour, and then taken the step of salvation found only in Jesus. That one has then been “born again”, becoming a new creature in Christ. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This is the beginning of a new life found only in Christ.
However, so many Christians never make any progression from that stage of this new life. They have become a Christian, but that is pretty much it. They have taken no steps to grow, becoming that new creation where the old things pass away and all things become new. This is a very sad thing. Understand a picture of this. No one wants their newborn baby to remain a baby forever but to grow each and every day, becoming a child and eventually an amazing adult. God wants each one who becomes a Christian to grow each and every day, becoming a mature Christian. It takes a decision on the part of the Christian as to whether they are willing to grow in Christ or not. There are many pictures of this throughout the Old Testament. A very vivid picture of this is when Moses led the people to the brink of the Promised Land (see Numbers 13).
Moses sent twelve spies into the land to bring back a report. Ten of the men brought back a report of fear, declaring they looked like grasshoppers in the sight of the people, for there were giants in the land. “32. And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature. 33. And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight” (Numbers 13:32-33). However, two men brought back a good report. “And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it” (Numbers 13:30). Caleb and Joshua declared that God would bring them into the land. “7. And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land. 8. If the LORD delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey” (Numbers 14:7-8). They went on to remind the people that God was with them; “fear them not” (see Numbers 14:9). Most remember that the people listened to the ten who said “no” instead of the two who believed God.
Many people call this the “Kadesh-barnea” moment in the life of Israel. “Likewise when the LORD sent you from Kadeshbarnea, saying, Go up and possess the land which I have given you; then ye rebelled against the commandment of the LORD your God, and ye believed him not, nor hearkened to his voice” (Deuteronomy 9:23). Because they refused to obey God, entering into the Promised Land, all over the age of twenty, except for Joshua and Caleb, died in the land in which they chose to remain. God allowed the children to grow up and enter the Promised Land. This people refused to grow in their faith and walk with God.
When one becomes a Christian, becoming that new creature where old things pass away, it takes a definite decision to move forward. It is at that point of decision that one becomes more than a new creation, for all things become new (see 2 Corinthians 5:17). A Christian is to begin a new life, putting away the old “conversation” (means lifestyle) which is corrupt. “22. That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24. And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24). One has put off the old life and then be “renewed in the spirit of your mind”.
With this new life, putting off the old and being renewed in the mind, one must remember that they are now dead to sin and alive unto God. “11. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God” (Romans 6:11-13). With this mindset, understanding that we are dead to sin and alive unto God, the decision to change the direction of one’s life occurs. Each person’s “Kadesh-barnea” moment: where one makes the decision to yield to God and His will, denying sin and yielding oneself unto God as members of righteousness.
Have you come to a “Kadesh-barnea” moment where you have decided to fully follow after God and His plan for your life?
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”
Romans 12:1
After the Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry land into the Promised Land, God told Joshua to circumcise all of the men. This was done in front of their enemies. The men remained still for three days healing from that circumcision. This circumcision was an act of obedience to God’s Word (see Joshua 5:1-9). One cannot help but wonder if Joshua considered what had happened to the men of Shechem (see Genesis 34). Nevertheless, Joshua obeyed God’s Word. God then allowed the Israelites to defeat the city of Jericho (see Joshua 6). “So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout all the country” (Joshua 6:27). Joshua then proceeded to lead the people to conquer the land of Canaan (the land promised to Abraham and his descendants). “So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the LORD said unto Moses; and Joshua gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to their divisions by their tribes. And the land rested from war” (Joshua 11:23).
What does this have to do with Christians today?
Consider how this relates to a Christian and their ability to walk a conquered Christian life. First, we are to understand that the Promised Land is a picture of a Christian’s life here on earth. The crossing of the Jordan into the Promised Land, is much like a picture of one’s death, burial, and resurrection when they are saved. “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Just as the Israelites were “dying” to their old life in the wilderness, they were beginning a new life in the Promised Land. One who becomes a Christian must die to their old life of sin, becoming a new creature in Christ. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
When the men were circumcised on the enemies’ side of the Jordan, obeying God’s Word, it was as if they were a “living sacrifice” before God (see Romans 12:1: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service”). This had to be done as a first act of faith before they began the conquering of the land. They had to have wondered if the enemies would come and try to defeat them in a weakened state. It was this act of faith (recognizing God’s protection before their enemies at their weakest point), that enabled them not to conform to the way the world does things. They followed God’s Word, allowing their minds to be “transformed” proving the will of God. “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2).
This is a physical picture of what a Christian must do spiritually. A Christian must present his or her self to God, obeying God’s Word. This act of faith reveals the understanding that obedience to God’s Word is required before one can live a successful Christian life. Remember that Christians’ lives are not their own, for we have been bought with a price! “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:20). It is then that a Christian is enabled to live a life, not like the rest of the world, but different from the world! This reveals the transformation of the mind that is required to “prove” (means “by implication to approve; to allow, discern”) God’s will in one’s life. Once a Christian has discerned and allowed God’s will to guide one’s life, God will help defeat all opposition. Just as God helped Joshua as he led God’s people to conquer the Promised Land. When they failed, they sought God, and God corrected. God will do the same thing in a Christian’s life.
If Romans 12:1-2 does not happen immediately after one becomes born again, it will be almost impossible to live a successful Christian life.
Have you presented your life to God as a living sacrifice, ready to prove God’s will in your life?
“And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand.”
Genesis 39:3
No matter what happened in Joseph’s life, the presence of God was revealed in his life. The LORD was with Joseph. Remember some highlights from Joseph’s life:
Joseph came from a dysfunctional family – Jacob (his father) was a trickster most of his life (until God got a hold of him).
Joseph’s mom died while he was a teenager.
Joseph was his father’s favorite (probably because he was born of Rachel – his father’s true love).
His father gave him a special coat of many colors.
Joseph had two amazing dreams. God revealed to Joseph that all of the world’s resources would be in his control and all of the world rulers would bow down to him.
His brothers were wicked, ungodly, jealous of Joseph (remember the coat), and resented him (because of the dreams).
Joseph’s brothers stripped him of his coat, threw him into a pit, and sold him as a slave.
When Joseph made it to Egypt, he was bought by Potiphar as a slave. “2. And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man… 3. And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand” (Genesis 39:2-3).
After Joseph became the head over Potiphar’s entire household, Potiphar’s wife began to entice him, falsely accusing Joseph.
Potiphar had Joseph cast into prison. “But the LORD was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison” (Genesis 39:21).
Joseph became the head in the prison. “The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand; because the LORD was with him, and that which he did, the LORD made it to prosper” (Genesis 39:23).
While in prison, Joseph interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh’s butler and baker.
After two years, the butler remembered Joseph in prison when Pharaoh had a dream he needed interpreted.
Pharaoh called Joseph out of prison, Joseph interpreted the dreams, and Pharaoh put him in charge of collecting and storing the grain for the future famine, making Joseph ruler only under Pharaoh. “And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is?” (Genesis 41:38).
Because of the famine, Joseph’s brothers appeared before Joseph, whom they did not recognize, and asked for grain.
Joseph eventually revealed himself to his brothers. Remember what Joseph acknowledged: “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5). Joseph recognized that God had planned all of these things.
Joseph prospered no matter what happened to him, because God’s presence was evident in Joseph’s life. Joseph chose to be different. He told the truth, when his brothers were doing what was wrong (see Genesis 37:1-2). Even when his brothers hated him the more for his dreams and his words (see Genesis 37:5-8). However, Joseph did not conform to the wickedness of his brothers. This was revealed early in his life. As he followed God, living an honest life of integrity, God worked.
We should take note of this. As Christians, Joseph is a great example of allowing God to be revealed in our lives. We should be truthful, not conforming to the wickedness that is around us. We should understand that God has a plan for each Christian’s life. How do you find out what that plan is? Pray and read your Bible. Remember what we learn in Romans. “1. I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2). These verses will help you understand God has a plan for you, and how to find out what that plan is. First, a Christian should present that life to God, allowing Him to work in that life. Pray, asking God to transform your life. You must understand that “be ye transformed” has to come from within. What is the inner nature of a Christian? Because Jesus is in the heart and life, the influence of Jesus is what should come out. Christians are to have the mind of Christ. “For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16). Christians can only have the mind of Christ when we read our Bible. As we obey God’s Word, we find ourselves obeying God’s will. We are to allow God to be real in our lives. Remember what happens to a butterfly. The worm after entering the cocoon, exits a beautiful butterfly. In the same way, as Christians follow God’s Word (by renewing our minds to God’s ways), our lives will become what God wants them to be. Take note, Christians need to refuse the world’s conformity that does not let that new nature (born of Jesus) to come out into our lifestyles. When we refuse that conformity, becoming transformed, it is then that we can begin to see God working in our lives, recognizing God’s will revealed in our lives. This is how we know the will of God for us. Joseph revealed this in amazing ways. Joseph followed God, and God worked in his life. As you follow God, ask Him to continue speaking to your heart through His Word. Understand that the devil does not want you to walk in the paths God has for your life, so it will not always be easy (remember Joseph’s life!).
Joseph did not find God’s will for his life. God’s will found Joseph. Because Joseph willingly trusted God, God was with Him, and God’s plan for Joseph’s life was revealed. This was the plan for Joseph’s life.
Have you trusted God, recognized him working in your life, then seeing His plan to revealed in your life?
“Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.”
Acts 8:21
Satan is very religious. He does not mind if people are religious. He actually uses religion to deceive people. There is a very interesting case in point found in the book of Acts.
Philip had preached Jesus to the people of Samaria (see Acts 8:5-25). He did many miracles, unclean spirits were cast out, and many were healed. Remember that this was the beginning of the establishment of the church, and that was why these special miracles took place. Many people heard Philip’s teachings. “But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one” (Acts 8:9). When he declared himself as “some great one”, many had thought he was the “great power of God” because he had bewitched them with sorceries for so long (see Acts 8:10-11). He had practiced what could be called a “religion.” It is good to understand that Satan comes with power, signs, and lying wonders. Moreover, one day these things will be personified in The Anti-Christ. “Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders” (2 Thessalonians 2:9).
However, when Philip preached Jesus to the Samaritans, they believed upon Jesus (see Acts 8:12). “Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done” (Acts 8:13). We read that Simon believed also. The Apostles came when they heard the people of Samaria had received the Word of God. When Simon saw these Believers received the Spirit of God, he offered the Apostles money because he wanted to be able to do this himself. Nevertheless, Peter understood that Simon thought the gift of God could be purchased with money. Simon did not understand salvation. It is a free gift. “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24).
Peter recognized the condition of Simon’s heart. “Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God” (Acts 8:21). It would be good to remember that Jesus had dealt with this heart issue before. Jesus had done many miracles, and many people believed. Yet read what Jesus understood about those people. “23. Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did. 24. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, 25. And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man” (John 2:23-25). There is a difference in when one believes in the miracles, and when one believes with the heart unto salvation. Remember how Jesus put it: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life” (John 5:24). We remember the importance of belief in Jesus: “And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house” (Acts 16:31). It is not enough to believe in God. One must believe that Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is God. Remember that the devils, too, believe in God. “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble” (James 2:19). However, we know they are not saved. They have remained devils.
How can one tell when one believes in the heart that Jesus Christ, the Messiah, is God come in the flesh to pay the penalty for man’s sin? “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). The heart is changed. There is a complete change – inside and out.
What did Peter understand about Simon, the sorcerer? First, Simon was not a true Believer because his heart was not right, and he needed to repent. “21. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 22. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee” (Acts 8:21-22). In what condition did Peter recognize Simon’s heart was? “For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity” (Acts 8:23). Simon’s heart was not right; therefore, he was in the “gall of bitterness”. Gall here means “poison” and bitterness means “a piercing poison.” The word bond means “the uniting principle” and iniquity means “wrongfulness.” Peter was pointing out that Simon’s heart issue was a piercing poison that was uniting him in wrongfulness. When Simon was confronted with the condition of his heart, we do not read that he repented. “Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me” (Acts 8:24). He just asked Peter to pray for him. Simon recognized that he was a counterfeit Christian. He only had a religion. Yet he did nothing about it. He was content to remain in that condition.
Have you believed with your heart that Jesus Christ is God, becoming a new creature in Him?
Or
Are you a counterfeit Christian whose heart has not truly believed?
“Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.”
2 Peter 1:4
As Peter began this second letter, read how he introduced himself. “Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:1). Also, take note to whom this letter is written: Christians.
Like precious means “equally precious or valuable.”
Faith means “appropriating what God in Christ has for man, resulting in the transformation of man’s character and way of life (a.k.a. Christian faith, Christian doctrine, gospel); meaning the doctrines received and believed; all that Christianity stands for.”
All who become a Christian are saved in exactly the same way – only through faith in Jesus. However, with that faith is to come a transformation of one’s character and way of life. This is what Peter was calling to mind in his readers. He was affiliating himself with them in like faith, character, and lifestyle. This laid the foundation for what he wanted to teach them.
God gives the power to live a Christian life. “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (2 Peter 1:3). According as means “implying quality, character, circumstances as known in any personal thing; something which is a matter of belief or opinion.” By this, we understand that Peter is talking about something Christians have, or they should know they have: that is, God’s divine power that has given us all things we need for the Christian life (“all things that pertain unto life and godliness”). We find the “knowledge of him” in the Bible.
Understand the two things into which God called Christians:
Glory means “spoken of that which excites admiration to which honor is ascribed as in the divine perfections as manifested in the power of God.”
Virtue means “superiority or being pleasing to God; moral excellence; perfection; goodness of action.”
Recognize that God has called Christians, and they are to be excited about the prospect of being able to become more like Jesus, which is pleasing to God. Moreover, Peter called to mind God’s promises to His people. “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (2 Peter 1:4). Christians are to “be partakers” because of these promises. God gave many, but think of two specific promises: His Son, Jesus, who was promised from the beginning of time, and the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, who would comfort and teach Christians until Jesus returns (see John 14:26). Remember what we should have learned in Second Corinthians. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). (See also John 14:21-23). The message has not changed. Christians are compelled to become more like Jesus – not like the world.
As Peter continued, he wanted them to understand that once becoming a Christian, one was not finished – for there is a growing process that must take place. Recall to memory what we should have already learned about Christianity: Paul compared it to a race. See the following to remember this. “24. Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27. But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). Notice that it implies a continual moving forward, striving for the goal at the end. With that moving forward, Paul said he kept his body in subjection. He understood the importance of keeping his life true to the Word of God so that he would never lose that Christian testimony. However, he also understood it took much work, and he knew it was a continual process of moving forward in his relationship with Jesus. See the following to remember this. “12. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:12-14). He continually moved forward in his growth in Christ. Have you ever heard the saying that “if you are not moving forward, you are moving backward”? It is very true. If Christians do not continually read their Bible, pray, and live according to God’s Word, they digress in that growing process, becoming ineffective Christians.
Peter and Paul both recognized the importance of Christians continually striving to become more like Christ.
Have you made a commitment to strive to become more like Christ?
“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21
Paul wrote a letter to Philemon. Philemon was
a Christian and a fellow laborer with Paul and Timothy. “Hearing of thy love
and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints”
(Philemon 1:5). Philemon was a faithful Christian, and Paul acknowledged the
love and faith revealed in his life. Paul prayed for him. “6. That the
communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every
good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 7. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the
bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother” (Philemon
1:6-7). Paul specifically wrote Philemon of the importance not only telling of
others of his faith in Christ, but he also encouraged him to live a life of
faith. By living a life that pleased Christ, he was to understand that it
encouraged other believers. This is important for Christians to recognize
today, too.
Previously, Paul had written words of encouragement to help the church at
Philippi to live more Christ-like. These words are just
as important for Christians, today. “And this I pray, that your love may
abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment”
(Philippians 1:9). Christians are called to love fellow Believers. However, it
is important to understand a few things. The following definitions will help
understand what Paul was trying to help them understand.
Knowledge means “the
knowledge which enables one to avoid error.”
Judgment means “knowledge
based upon experience; to become cognizant of; experiential knowledge which is
or becomes naturally manifold.”
It is important to avoid error, and often times that comes from becoming
aware of situations. He wanted them to know God’s Word and become Christ-like
enough to be able to avoid certain things.
In these things, Paul wanted them to continue growing as they had. Why? “That
ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without
offence till the day of Christ” (Philippians 1:10).
Approve means “to put to the
proof, or examine by examining and judging; to distinguish.”
Sincere means “to discern.”
Paul wanted the Christians at Philippi to
recognize the things that really mattered “things that are excellent.”
By knowing them, they would be able to live more Christ-like, self-checking and
discerning right from wrong, without failing. Because Paul loved them, he
wanted to encourage and teach them. Each Christian is called to continue to
grow in Christ.
Paul understood that the people at Philippi
were concerned for Paul and his safety. The things that had happened to Paul,
although they appeared to be bad, Paul understood that they were actually good.
Remember when Paul was in Philippi: he cast a spirit of
divination out of a young girl, healing her, and it cost him a beating and
imprisonment. Nevertheless, that imprisonment, dealt with in the right spirit,
was beneficial for a man and his family who came to know Jesus. Because Paul
and Silas praised God through song, and the jailer heard, they were able to be
a witness to him. Once the jailer heard about Jesus, he was saved and
his house. Paul wanted the Philippians to recall this event. “12. But I
would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened
unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; 13. So that
my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;
14. And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are
much more bold to speak the word without fear” (Philippians 1:12-14). As we have learned, that was not the
only time Paul was beaten or imprisoned. However, any thing that happened to
Paul that the world would call “bad” or “unlucky,” God used it to further the
Gospel message in the way Paul responded in each situation. Instead of becoming
afraid of what man could, or would, do to him, he became bolder in speaking out
for Jesus – “without fear.”
Paul was a mighty example. Read what he not only believed, but also lived: “20. According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. 21. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:20-21). Instead of choosing what he wanted for his life, he chose to live his life for Jesus.
Have you chosen to live for Christ, that in nothing you shall be ashamed?
“17. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:17-18
Paul loved the church at Corinth
and poured his heart and life into them as he taught them how to live
faithfully, pleasing Christ. We found that Paul taught each Christian to be an
ambassador for Christ, representing Him to the world (see 2 Corinthians 5:20-21). Paul continued teaching the
Corinthians by reminding them that it is an individual choice as to how to
live. He challenged the Corinthian Christians by bringing further instruction
on how to live a Christ-like life.
Christians must separate from things contrary
to God. “14. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what
fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath
light with darkness? 15. And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part
hath he that believeth with an infidel?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15).
Righteousness means “the
state commanded by God and standing the test of His judgment; God’s uprightness
or standard to which man is expected to conform.”
Unrighteousness means “lawlessness;
the violation of God’s divinely instituted Law; sin; iniquity; although there
may not be a specific law against depraved or lustful desires, they are still
sin.”
Communion means “fellowship
with; participation.”
Paul began by encouraging each Believer to understand that they were to
not fellowship with, or even participate with, those who live contrary to God’s
Word (this includes friendships with, business partnerships with, or even
marriage to, unsaved people). Christians must recognize that there is no common
ground between them and the lost. Instead, see what Paul wrote they were to do.
“17. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord,
and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18. And will be
a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord
Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17-18).
Come out means “to depart from someone’s presence, the intimacy.” Touch not the unclean thing means “to have no dealings with the heathens
(non-believers).” The message had not changed – for just as in the Old
Testament God called for His people to separate from the nations around, God
calls for Christians to separate from the lost world around. Did you notice the
promises God gave? “… and I will
receive you, 18. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and
daughters…” (2 Corinthians 6:17b-18). Father
means “God as the creator, preserver,
governor of all men and things, watching over them with paternal love and care.”
Understand that Christians are the children of God. He is able to be a loving
Father to us when we live right, but He must be a disciplining Father when we
choose to live contrary to His Word (see Hebrews 12:5-8).
What is a Christian who lives here in this world to do? Cleanse and
eliminate. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse
ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in
the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1). First, understand the promise God
gave: He will be a Father, the one who protects and watches over Believers with
love and care. That should give any Christian the courage to choose to do what
is right: “cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit.”
Cleanse means “to purify from the pollution and guilt of sin – in a spiritual sense.”
Christians are to remember that once Jesus has entered into the heart, “filthiness
of the flesh and spirit” must be eliminated. Filthiness means “anything
that defiles (to make unclean or impure).” Any sin is unacceptable.
Christians must correct their lives. Paul
understood this would be difficult (see 2 Corinthians 7:4).
Is correction necessary?
Does correction often go unheeded?
Does anyone really like to be told they are
doing something wrong?
Paul had a difficult decision – allow sin to
continue, or confront the problem and encourage the people to eliminate the sin
that separates from a right Christian life. Paul had great confidence that the
church at Corinth would receive
this instruction, living a better life before God – as ambassadors representing
Christ. He also understood their initial reaction would probably be anger, but
once they understood and repented, they would be better Christians. “For
behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what
carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what
indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what
zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved
yourselves to be clear in this matter” (2 Corinthians 7:11). Use the following definitions to help you
understand this verse:
Carefulness means “earnest
effort; diligence.”
Clearing of yourselves means “to
give an answer or speech in defense of oneself.”
Indignation means “to be
under a great burden which results in indignation (holy displeasure in oneself
for sin).”
Fear means “reverence;
respect; honor.”
Vehementdesire means “strong affection; to desire earnestly.”
Zeal means “used in a good
sense means to be hot or fervent.”
Revenge means “penal
retribution or vengeance to the evildoer.”
Approved means “to make
known; declare; to show.”
Clear means “innocent;
blameless; pure.”
Matter means “the thing being
done or to be done; matter; business.”
These things are what the Corinthian Christians achieved because they received and obeyed Paul’s instruction of how to live a Christ-like life.
Are you willing to obey God’s Word, putting away sin and the unclean thing, choosing instead to become Christ’s Ambassador?
