Ephesians 3

Paul begins saying "For This reason I, Paul the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles---" NIV

He then addresses the 'mystery' that other generations did not understand. Through the 'Gospel' (the good news of Jesus), "The Gentiles are heirs together with Israel....sharers together in the promise of Christ Jesus.". NIV

Understanding that we are Gentiles, the Word gives hope to us who are not the "seed of David"

Paul's humble spirit is shown in verse 8.  "Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ"  KJV

He goes on saying "... to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery... In Him and through faith in Him (Christ Jesus) we may approach God with freedom and confidence...." NIV

The first part of this chapter reminds me that God had a plan from the beginning to make a way for our salvation and a path to commune with a Holy God. He took his greatest apostle and sent him not to the children of Abraham but to the children of nobody.

Then Paul begins a prayer for the Ephesians.  That they would be strengthen with might (power) by Christ's Spirit in their inner man or inner being.

"..so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith... Being rooted and established in love, may have the power (the ability to understand) how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ Jesus" NIV

" ..this love surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God" NIV

He finishes his prayer with a scripture quoted often in our services and in our prayers.

"Now unto Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all than we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us." KJV

Many times we are amiss in fulfilling  the final part of that  verse. "According to the power that worketh in us".

I've summed it up in a biblical algebraic equation.  Not trying disrespect the Word, but just a different way of remembering it.

P = S(man)
EAG = P  or EAG = S(man)

EAG = Exceedingly Abundant God
S(man) = Spirit of God in a Man
P = Power

For those who hate math....

No Spirit means No power, which means we can't experience the Exceedingly Abundant God in His fullness.

Bron Dutton

Ephesians 2

Paul here takes time to reflect on our past failures and how God has so freely redeemed us. He speaks about how we were so dead in our sin. How lost we were. How we used to listen to vain conversations about lust and pleasures. (side note, Many were some of us. I think it is important to see here that even in Paul's day men were struggling with conversations the were ungodly.) But through all of this, we see God's grace!

Through the cross and blood shed for you and I we were raised up and set in High Places! We were Quickened together with Christ! How merciful and graceful He is!. Verse 4 says (NKJV But God, who is RICH in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us. )

We must understand that we are not saved by works ( lest any man boast) but we are saved by the awesome, perfect, and powerful grace of all mighty God! Paul speaks of how the Gentiles and the Jews were brought together in unity through the power of the cross. How until that point there were two different mind sets and no Unity.

At the end of the chapter, after reflecting on our old lifestyle, receiving the grace of God , and seeing  the unity that came with the cross, Paul speaks of Jesus Christ being our chief cornerstone and how through Christ we are fitted together perfectly.

1. Let us NOT forget where we once were, Where we are today by the grace of God and where we are going! ( as leaders of our homes,leaders in worship, and as leaders in the body of Christ.)

2. It is not by the works of our hands but by the awesome hand of God that we are unified through the blood of the Lamb. His Blood washes off every mind set and unifies our hearts for one purpose and that is to do His will and see souls saved.
3. I am so thankful that not only are we brought together in unity but HE is our Chief Cornerstone! So perfect, So righteous, and so willing that all should come.

Chase Potter

Ephesians 1

Ephesians begins with a gracious greeting to those in Ephesus, who have been faithful to the Lord Jesus. Within his courtesies however, Paul is sure to insert reminders of what it means to be a redeemed Christian. Speaking generally, he delivers instruction that we are to be "holy and without blame before Him in love…" After all, these spiritual blessings we've been given are not anything we've earned, or purchased, or deserve. But we are only accepted by glory of His grace, because it pleases Him. And our redemption came at a price much higher than anything in this world could afford – His blood. We were not original heirs but chosen in adoption to be sons by Jesus (vs. 5), and there is an expectation and a privilege to represent our Father in a holy way.

Paul goes on to point out through his prayers that there is always more maturing that we should undergo. God desires that we know him intimately. Do you have a situation for which you wonder if there is a solution? Remember that Jesus sits FAR above all principality, and power, and might and dominion…forever!

In other words, nothing exceeds his power. He rules it all. We should echo Paul's prayers in verses 17 and 18 for the REAL men in our churches – 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened.

Joey Hart

Acts 28

The very first line of chapter 28 verse 1 reads "And when they were escaped"...    Wikipedia defines escape as To get free, or to free oneself.

Over and over again, God has made a way of escape for me even though I thought I had it all figured out on my own.  I am certain some of you can relate. Paul was an example of this type of situation; uncertain of the means of escape or the outcome.  Be it through changes in jobs or unforeseen situations,  God always makes a way of escape for us even though we see no end result in sight.  God has us in His ultimate plan and will always provide a way of escape if we follow after Him.

When the escape is made and we feel certain that we are in God's will, we may get bitten (verse 3) by one or more of these unforeseen circumstances.  It's at this time that others will be watching to see how we react to the situation.  If we will stay on our knees and ask guidance from the Lord, we will portray God's glory to others. Only through prayer and obedience to Jesus Christ are we able to succeed as R.E.A.L. men.

God is our only escape in these times. Only He can deliver and provide a way of escape.

Darryl McGee

Acts 27

ACTS:27  finds Paul, in chains, being put on a ship by Julius, a centurion of Agustus' band .  From verse 1 thru verse 9 Paul & the other prisoners & the sailors that were in charge of the ship went to various city ports but in verse 10 Paul perceived that there would be hurt & damage to their lives (a warning from God).  The ship owners & centurions did not believe Paul so they sailed away.

In verse 14 here comes the winds  & they were in the storm 14 days.  They tried  throwing cargo over board, letting the ship have its own course, everything they could do to keep the ship upright in the storm.  To their dismay nothing worked.
In verse 21 Paul stood up again and told them they should have listen to him but not to fear for their lives.  They would not be harmed but everything else would be lost. ( for not listening to the voice of God.)

In verse 31 the sailors were close to land & going to leave the ship in a small boat.  Paul told them to stay in the ship & they would be saved.  They cut the ropes & let the small boat fall off.  They had not eaten for 14 days .  Paul blessed the food & thanked God for protection.   They all ate.  There was over 200 men on the ship.  The next day they tried to sail again but they ran aground & got stuck on the rocks.  The ship broke in two.  The sailors wanted to kill the prisoners so they would not escape  but the centurion, willing to save Paul, stopped them and they all swam ashore.

All in all, in the storms of life believe in God.  Trust in Him to bring you thru every trial in your life.  Believe in the leadership of the Church, the pastor And stay in the Ship of God (Church).  He will see us thru.


Kirk Fults

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What a rich chapter of His word!

Here we have Paul delivered to Julius, the Roman centurion who is given charge of making sure he arrives to stand before Caesar in Rome.  Their travels are charted giving us a log of all the places they sailed to on the way to Italy.

When they had reached Crete Paul admonishes them in verse 10 to stay put due the life threatening sailing conditions.  Julius, however, listens to the counsel to the owner of the ship and decides to sail on.  How many times have we seen where one ignores the warnings of preaching and Godly counsel only to listen to themselves or the advice of others who are telling them what they want to hear?  For Julius, the decision caused them to be caught in one of the most violent storms in the Mediterranean Sea, the Euroclydon.  We could end up in a devastating life-changing storm that could have been avoided if we would but listen and follow godly counsel.  Even so, there was hope for all after Paul had heard from the Angel of the Lord. Every man would survive the journey.  This tells us if we repent and heed the counsel of the Lord we all have the hope of making it to heaven together.  God is no respecter of persons.

In verse 30 some of the men had lost faith and were attempting to abandon the ship.

Paul warns them that they must stay in the ship to survive.  This time they listened to the godly counsel and cut the ropes to the lifeboat.  They cut away even the temptation of leaving the main ship.  We must follow our pastors and spiritual leaders in much the same way, cutting away every temptation of the heart that may try to lead us away from God and the church and ultimately destroy us.

Verse 38 reminds us that to stay afloat in the storm, we have no choice but to "lighten" the ship.  This involves getting rid of things that may not necessarily be sinful, but a distraction or enough of a detriment to our spiritual well being, that the "extra weight" will bring our downfall.  We must live by the words of the Lord in Matthew 11:30, "For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

The chapter closes with all the men making it to shore safely even after the ship had ran aground and snapped in half!  They made it because they listened to the counsel of the Lord, stayed in the ship by faith, and lightened their load to stay afloat. When God promises we will make it to heaven if we follow Him and listen to the pastors and leaders he places in our lives, the world can throw its best Euroclydon at us to no avail!

Grace be unto you, and peace from the Lord Jesus Christ!

Dwight Chandler

Acts 26

The scriptures continue with Paul appearing before King Agrippa. At the permission of Agrippa, Paul was permitted to tell his testimony. Paul had an eagerness to tell his testimony as he stretched forth his hand and was "happy" to tell his story. How many of us have a testimony of where we came from and just cant wait to tell others how God has delivered us?

Paul continues explaining that from a youth he was raised in the ways of a Pharisee. A certain faith that he just knew was right because he had been raised in it. How many of us were delivered from secular religion, only to find the way, truth and life.

Vs. 12-23 continues with Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus. I don't think any of us could ever say that we were struck down to the ground by an extreme light in the middle of the road. What a testimony that would be!!  What we can say is that one day we all experienced a light that struck us the first time we understood Jesus name baptism, or the oneness of God, that only the Spirit of truth could reveal to us.

As Paul continued with his speaking in front of Festus and the crowd, he was called "mad" by Festus. Paul quickly turned it around on them by asking them if they believed the prophets? Oh how the wisdom of God is so much greater than the fleshly mind of man. Agrippa, looking for an answer told Paul, you almost had me convinced. How Paul wished that not only the king, but all who were there would have turned to Jesus.

After all that had been said, they still could only come up with one conclusion. Paul had done nothing more wrong than trying to reach for their souls. Keeping reaching men, no matter what status men may have, King or peasant, they all have souls that need God.

Daryl Duke

Acts 25

Acts chapter 25 opens with Paul being falsely accused. Sound familiar? Paul was a threat to the community of un-believers so they wanted him dead. They had been "successful", so they thought, in crucifying Jesus and Paul was next on their list. Festus heard all the accusations against Paul and could find no wrongdoing. Again, sound familiar? I am not comparing Paul to Jesus, only trying to drive the point home that both had false accusers and both stood before a judge that could not find them guilty of the charges.

Today we have an accuser, satan. The Bible calls him the "accuser of our brethren"(Revelation 12:10). I have no idea what the future holds. Will some of us, all of us, be accused by un-believers and find ourselves before a judge? Will the judge find any wrongdoing? I'm not sure. But I do know this, the Bible goes on to say in Revelation that our accuser is "cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."

Paul, in Acts 26, will use his situation of being a prisoner as an opportunity to testify. He overcame his accusers with his testimony. May God give us the strength and courage to do the same at every opportunity. We all have a testimony of God's grace, mercy, goodness, deliverance and the list goes on. Can we, like Paul, look for opportunity to give a testimony? It just may be how we overcome.

Douglas Dunn

Acts 24

Acts chapters 23 – 25 actually go together in that Paul has been put in prison on false accusations and the Jews want him to be put to death for standing up and preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Felix was the governor who had Paul put in prison, and now his successor, Festus, has inherited the case. Paul ends up at a hearing before Festus and King Agrippa so he boldly proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ to them. Both men are more interested in making a name for themselves with the Jews than doing what is right for Paul. They are MORE INTERESTED in their POSITIONS OF POWER than they are their souls.

There are two great lessons that we can glean from these passages.  First, Paul stands strong even in the face of death and proclaims the gospel of Jesus Christ. No matter what our circumstances, we should let our light shine so that the world can see the reflection of Jesus Christ in our lives.

Second, GODLY leaders will never compromise their integrity to protect their power or position in this world. We must be totally submissive to Jesus Christ and His Will for our lives. Remember, "Seek ye FIRST the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness and all these other things will be added unto you."

Billy Potter

Acts 23

Councils, the high priest, and brethren;

Sadducees, Pharisees, and scribes;

Dissensions, strivings, and fighting;

The chief captain, soldiers, and blood thirsty killers;

Conspiracies, plots, and lying in wait;

A concerned nephew, Paul, and an army;

Centurions, horsemen, and spearmen;

A letter, a governor, and a palace;

Questions, accusations, and the law;

The dark night, the anticipation, and the waiting...


    Here, in Acts 23, Paul finds himself, right in the middle of all the confusion, turmoil and unrest.
Can you imagine yourself in this chapter of Paul's life?  What would you be feeling while standing
in front of the angry high priest and the divided council?  Fear, intimidation, apprehension?

    Or what thoughts would have raced through your mind as you were being carried away, by night, in the company a 470 man army;  all to protect you from an angry mob of Jews desiring to see you dead?  Paul was tossed from one powerful leader to another, neither knowing quiet what to do with him.

    There is no doubt in my mind, Paul experienced a full spectrum of human emotions and a whirlwind thoughts, ideas and questions.

    When life takes you on a roller-coaster ride;  when it places you in front of warring factions;  when it chews you up and spits you out;  what are you to do? 
Do just what Paul did:  No matter his circumstances; no matter his trial;  he told people about Christ
and the change He made in his life.  Did he do this all in his own strength?  No, of course not.  And neither do you.
In the damp, cold, darkness of the night, the Lord stood by him, saying, "Be of good cheer, Paul." (v11)

No matter what life throws at you, "Be of good cheer."  Jesus is right by your side.  He said he would never leave you and he would never forsake you.

In your trial; in your turmoil;  He is right by your side!


Ronald Waller

Acts 22

This chapter is about Paul's conversion. Paul states in the first few verses how he was persecuting the church of the living God. But I find it interesting that verse 3 says that he was zealous in serving God. He was just doing all that he knew to do. In my imagination, God looked down and said, "I can use a man like that."

While Paul traveled on the road to Damascus, the Lord shone a bright light out of heaven and asked, "Saul, Saul why persecutest thou me?" Saul answered with a question, "Who art thou, Lord?"

In my opinion, this is a doctrinally sound scripture that is often overlooked. We understand that by this time in the scriptures, Jesus had already been resurrected and taken to Heaven. Notice what the Lord says, "I am Jesus of Nazareth whom thou persecutest."

I am thankful that God has a special way of leading and guiding us into all truth. I also believe that God leads and guides us through people that are obedient to Him. We find later in the chapter that Ananias was moved on by God to go to Saul (Paul) and pray that he might receive his sight. We should always be a witness where ever we go and to whomever God puts in our path.

I hope that everyone has a great day today, and know I am praying for you.

Rev. Chad Mooney

Acts 21

How do you resolve "seemly" different directions from the Spirit of God?

In previous chapters of the book of Acts, Paul had felt the direction of the Spirit
of God to be in Jerusalem by Pentecost.  Pentecost was a time when Jews
from all areas would be gathered together and what better time to address
differences of doctrinal issues concerning the saving grace of Jesus Christ!

Paul was an apostle to the Gentiles and did not want to be misunderstood
by the Church at Jerusalem.

Paul was dealing with three major doctrinal areas of salvation:
       1.  The Gentiles who believed, baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost.
            Paul preached Acts 2:38 but did not command them to be circumcised
            as the law of Moses required.
       2.  The Jew who accepted Jesus Christ as the Messiah but felt that they
            also need to keep the Law of Moses therefore must be circumcised also
            (the Church at Jerusalem).
       3.  The Jew who kept the Law of Moses but did not accept Jesus Christ
            as the Messiah.

Acts21:4.
4And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul
through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.

Acts 21:10-14.
10And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea
a certain prophet, named Agabus.
11And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound
his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall
the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall
deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.
12And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place,
besought him not to go up to Jerusalem. 
13Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart?
for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the
name of the Lord Jesus. 
14And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of
the Lord be done.

Acts 23:11
11And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer,
Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness
also at Rome.

Paul knew God wanted him to go to Jerusalem.  The others through the Spirit
was not forbidding Paul to go but was warning him what we would be facing.
Men, when we know the will of God for our lives and are made aware of the
consequences through the ministry or Word by the Spirit we must stand for
the doctrine for the furtherance of the Gospel!  Paul stood at Jerusalem so
God said you also will stand at Rome (Acts 23:11).

Ephesians 6:12-14.
12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against
powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness
in high places. 
13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand
in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate
of righteousness;

Men - Keep Standing!

Rev Bob Gougler

Acts 20

Verse 1-6

We see Paul leaving Ephesus, bidding farewell, and we see him "encouraging the disciples".

Paul then sets off for Macedonia and to Greece, Again we see him "speaking many words of encouragement to the people" as he travels through this area. Here, this speaks to me, how important it is that we hear the Word, for it will encourage us. And the we should also encourage each other and others in our daily "travels".

Verses 7- 12
 Paul in Troas, breaks  bread, knowing he will be leaving the next day, continues to talk until midnight, and Eutychus sitting in the window,  goes into a deep sleep and falls to his Death! Paul rushes to him throwing his arms around him says "Don't be alarmed, He's alive!". Here, I take from this just how dangerous it is to "Fall asleep" in the Lord's Word, because this can lead to our "Death".

But There is a comforting note here, is that we can be "revived". As I can personally testify to! But don't wait until it is to late.

Verses 13-35
 Paul continues his journey, arrives in Miletus. He calls for the Ephesians Elders for his farewell. In his speech to them, he states how he has been tested, but does not "shrink" from the his task. His only desire is the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. And that they should not shrink from their task as well.

He knows they will be tested themselves and that they will come against many adversities, even from within. That they must be "on guard" and be good Shepherds of the flock! Committing them to God and his Grace, for it will build them up! That it will hard work for them and that they must help the "weak". The Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "
They prayed together and wept, knowing that will not see him again!

  Brothers I think this speech speaks for itself! We must not "shrink" or hesitate to obey the Lord's will.

 In closing here, I thank the Lord for all of the REAL men in my church. I thank all of you for the Daily take away you have sent out, it has "built me up". I thank all of you for the prayers offered up in my time of weakness. For you truly have given selfishly of your yourselves.

Bro. Larry Birchfield

Acts 19

"Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, we adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.  And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.  And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are ye?  And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded." Acts 19:13-16

This man was not anointed of God because the spirit said "who are ye", meaning himself and not Jesus Christ. We need the anointing power of God in our lives and not to get so caught up in ourselves that we forget really who our maker is and who has full control.

We need to put God first in our lives that way when we go to our daily environment that when somebody looks at you they see Jesus and not you. We need to have the anointing to where when we can call on the name of Jesus at any time or place and there is power and its not just some name you heard but it is a name backed up with a supernatural power, the power of Jesus Christ.

Marshall McGee

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Chapter 19 is one of my favorite witnessing tools of baptismal doctrine, Paul asks 12 followers if they've received the Holy Ghost and to what baptism they were baptized. He instructs them to be RE-baptised in the name of JESUS! Titles obviously aren't enough. Then after the Jesus name baptisms the Holy Ghost falls on them all.

Next we see the awesome healings by handkerchiefs and/or aprons from the Lord through Paul. The seven sons of Sceva who were unable to perform an exorcism and failed to do so and the evil spirit leaped on them and overcame them after mentioning that it Knew Jesus and the apostles but not them.(there are volumes to consider about within this subject)

They had a great book burning which also got a lot of attention in those days which prompted untold numbers of people to come to the saving grace of our Lord. This great gospel that Paul was expounding on the people had caused loss of great income for a lot of the locals who tried stirred up a riot.

How powerful the name of Jesus! We follow his true doctrine that he gives us and it overflows within us, To God be the glory!!! As at Ephasus, we to do a cleansing of evil things from our homes, hearts, and minds and receive his awesome grace in forgiveness and adoption to become heirs of the Kingdom.  praise God!    

Steve Moon

Acts 18

Paul is in the middle of his second missionary journey and to say the least it has been rough. He has already started a riot, been beaten and imprisoned, gone through an earthquake, and had to flee both Berea and Thessalonica.

No surprise when the Jews resisted and testified against the Gospel of Christ he “shook out his garments” This was symbolic in that Jews were taught to shake the dust off of them when returning from Gentile lands, Paul was saying emphatically I’m done with you.

And wouldn’t you guess it: in the midst of such frustration God reaches down to comfort and minister to his disciple. Vs 9,10 And the Lord said to Paul... “Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no man will attack you in order to harm you, for I have many people in this city.”

Don’t be Discouraged!
Don’t be Afraid!
Don’t be Silent!
God is with YOU!
He has many people waiting for YOU.

Jason Ouellette

Acts 17

A Continuation of Pauls Journey

We find Paul's journey toward his goals taking him to Thesalonica, Berea, and to Athens. As his custom was he entered the synagogue, to reach for his own countrymen, the Jews.

His preaching and exhortation caused not only a revival of believers, but also a riot of unbelievers. In all his experience he was not discouraged. His mind was made up. I find in Chapter 17 some qualities of Pauls life that can be beneficial to us in our lifes journey.Paul was dedicated to his calling, fully persuaded to follow the Lord, his passion, burden, zeal, created a fire in him to walk his journey toward his goal in life. At the same time to preach, exhort, persuade as many people as possible to embrace the truth whether Jew or Greek.

Obstacles and opposition did not turn him from his purpose in life. He went to the synagogues, market places, idolatrous places, contending and exhorting and preaching this truth. He won many converts to the faith, the others opposed him. We find Paul exiting Acts 17 continuing his walk to others cities, other people, and new experiences with the purpose in mind to reach his goal.May we as men in our day, culture and lifetime be like minded as this great man and apostle was toward Jesus and His Church.

Bro. C. L. Mooney

Acts 16

After reaching Philippi, being beaten and jailed these two men never gave up, and kept their faith after all the doors being closed and opened. What we have to remember is to keep our faith in good times and bad.

Edward Cumbie

Paul and Silas met Timothy and took him with them on their travels. I'm sure they each were blessed by the other. After reaching Macedonia, they found a prayer meeting and people were baptized. They spent several days with them sharing the gospel. Shortly after they found themselves in prison. Sometimes we find ourselves in unpleasant places. Even in that place there are those that need the gospel, a testimony. Praise and worship always work! Praise and worship not only got them out of prison, but left a testimony with the jailer. Where ever we find ourselves, we can always share Jesus. Sometimes its just being a REAL MAN for God. Be blessed and have a great day!

Steve Mooney

Acts 15

As brothers in Christ we need to daily gaze into the mirror of God's living word, guarding against putting on the mask of Pharisaical tradition and falling into the trap of partiality.

Self-righteous men stand on the water's edge and labor behind crumbling walls of sand in a futile attempt to fight against the rushing mighty wind of heaven, as wave after endless wave of truth strips away another layer of division. Using the most unlikely materials, the Master potter will assemble willing vessels of integrity to carry the letters of freedom to His scattered flock.

Let us become warrior shepherds, wielding divine weapons to break the yoke of oppression and demolish the strongholds from the water's edge, so that all can come and be sanctified by the washing of the word.

Robert MacPhee Jr

Acts 14

After Paul and Barnabas fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe they continued there in preaching the gospel. In their stay in Lystra it didn’t take long until the miraculous began to break out, when a man who was crippled from birth began to walk. However, in the midst of a miracle there quickly came opposition.

Hell doesn’t like it when they see their curse become a miracle, and they try to fight back for it to stop. Even to the point of stoning Paul until they supposed he was dead. Although, they did not realize what Paul had inside of him. “But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city.” (NIV) They didn’t understand that he had that getting up power called the Holy Ghost, and we have that same Holy Ghost in us today.

I am convinced that the miraculous will not stop in Euless despite adversity that may come, because of that getting up power that God put in us. They tried to stop it then and they failed like they will now, for the getting up power can not be stopped.

God bless!
Mike Creel

Acts 13

For this is what the Lord has commanded us: "'I have made you a light for the
Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'" Acts
13:47 (NIV)

Amidst the economic and morale decline in our country there is a cry that can be heard. Many people are searching and hungry for something that cannot be obtained by driving the nicest car or living in the most elegant house. It is a cry for rescue, a deep longing in the hearts of men, women, and in many young people. We as Holy Ghost filled, Jesus name baptized Christians have been called to respond, and to answer that cry. As Luke says in chapter 4 verse 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.”

We have the power and the anointing through the Holy Spirit now it is up to us to step out of our comfort zones, to put away the weights that would so easily beset us, and to invest in a cause that is so much greater than anything we have ever known. I wonder what would have happened if Paul after being stoned, whipped, and imprisoned would have said I’m through, I give up, I’m not going back to preach to those people. But that is the amazing thing about Paul he refused to quit and throw in the towel when things got hard. He persevered in the midst of persecution.

"Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, whom shall I send, and who will go
for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me" Isa 6:8

SEND EULESS!!

Ryan Denard

Acts 12

When the Lord is not done with you

But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him,
they were astonished. But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their
peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he
said; Go show these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and
went into another place. Acts 12:16,17

Peter’s name is mentioned 57 times in the book of Acts. But after this last reference in Acts chapter 12 where he is set free from jail, there is only one (1) more reference to him in Acts.

In chapter 15, Peter stood up to remind them the way in which he was instructed to go to the Gentiles. He then explained the Lord had shown him that the Gentiles also were to have this same experience. He also wanted these new convert’s to not be saddled with a burden that the entire nation of Israel could not get their arms around.

That is one important reason that Peter was delivered from prison; to bear witness of how important this salvation is to all of us. When you see great miracles in your life; when your name is on everyone’s lips and all men speak well of you - remember the Lord may be keeping you around for a reason that you have never even thought of. Maybe to let others see how very important THEY are to the LORD.

When the Lord “sends you to another place” remember, “It’s not all about you; it is always all about HIM.”

Bro. Detar

Acts 11

When the Jewish believers heard that Peter had ministered to Cornelius, their first reaction was of prejudice. It should have been thankfulness and rejoicing. Peter then explained his visions and instructions from God. They then rejoiced.

Revival in the Church brings us in contact with all types of people. When we pray for and then enter into a great Harvest, the hurting, hungry, desperate and destitute flood our doors. They may be dirty or stink when we rub shoulders with them. When they come to church, they may not understand our traditions and etiquette. This is no cause to shun them, instead we should open our arms and homes to them. Show them the love and the way of Christ. After all, what God has cleaned, we cannot call unclean. (Verse 8) We must view them with God's eyes; through the veil of the Blood.

Verse 26 refers to the first time believers were called Christians. I find it interesting that believers were not called Christians, meaning "followers of Christ" or "Christ-like", until they had moved beyond their prejudices. Let us all strive to be true Christians and welcome with open arms the souls that He brings into our influence.

Keith Mathews

Acts 10

Cornelius, a devout man, and one that feared God, prayed to God always. In prayer he saw a vision, an angel telling him that his prayers and alms had come up as a memorial before God.

Oh how many times have we been spared things or blessed because of our prayers that are bottled up in Heaven. Our faithfulness honored by God. And when we obey Him as Cornelius did here, God will always send a man into our lives to preach his word to us for the saving of our souls.

With the obedience of Peter as well, not judging, he used one man to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles and bring salvation through faith. We can be that man, obedient to God making a difference in our family, church, and our world. Prayer, obedience, and faith, a great formula for great success!! Have a blessed day!!

Joe Crosson

Acts 9

Saul receives the revelation of Jesus Christ. The scales that fell off Saul's eyes were the traditions of men that kept him from seeing the Truth about the identity of Jesus Christ.

Flesh and blood cannot reveal this to man, but it can only be revealed by the Holy Ghost. Saul brought letters with him to bind those teaching in the name of Jesus. Saul came away from his Damascus experience bound by the Truth and forever the prisoner of Jesus Christ. Do you remember the day the scales came off your eyes and this Marvelous Truth was revealed to you? What a wonderful day! Remember dear brethren you are a chosen vessel, hand picked by God to bear the name of Jesus to a lost world.

Mike Green

Acts 8

Acts 8:26-28 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Phillip saying “Arise, and go South unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert”. And he arose and went: and, behold a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Cadace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, was returning and sitting in his chariot reading Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, “Go near, and join thyself to this chariot”

One of the many things I learned while reading this chapter is the value of one soul. God sent Philip to a desert road for one lost soul. A desert road doesn’t seem a likely place to find a convert, but Philip did not question God. He simply obeyed. As Christians, it is our duty to share the gospel with everyone we meet. When witnessing, we tend to choose those that we think would be likely candidates (i.e. the nice looking, the well dresses, the more distinguished, those who are in our age group or are our friends), but God does not have preferences. We must remember that we are all born in sin and shapen in iniquity, and it is only the blood of Jesus Christ that saves us. So weather God wants to send us to a rich neighborhood or to a desert road, we must be willing to obey.

Jordan Mills

Acts 7

Acts 7 is Stephen's response to the accusation that he had blasphemed Moses and Jesus. He starts his answer by referring to Abraham when God told Abraham to get out of the land of Haran (Gen 12:1). From there he talks about their time in Egypt and then talks about Moses from verse 20-40. He then ask why do they keep rejecting the Holy Spirit just like their forefathers did when they persecuted/killed the prophets (verse 51-52). After they had heard enough to be even madder at Steven, they took him outside the city to stone him. He proceeds to make them even angrier when he tells them that he sees the Son of Man. Yet while they were stoning him, he prays the same exact prayer Jesus did as He was dying on the cross - Lord, do not hold this sin against them. He then fell asleep.

It appears that Stephen died for the truth and his words did not have any effect on the Sanhedrin judges or the crowd that day. However there was one man among them that must have kept hearing/replaying Stephen's words and action as this man kept persecuting the church. Could it have been that what Saul saw and heard on that day helped lead to his conversion? I do not see where anyone witnessed to Saul since everyone was afraid of him. (I understand that God does not need people to carry out his plan but over and over in the scriptures he does use people.) How did Stephen know that the way he responded that day could have led to thousands being saved? We must be willing to let God speak through us and we need to live a godly life because we never know the effect that we may have on the people watching us. We may never see the results because of life events that take place in our lives. I am reminded of a verse to Ray Boltz'z song "Thank You":

One by one they came
Far as your eyes could see
Each life somehow touched
By your generosity
Little things that you had done
Sacrifices you made
They were unnoticed on the earth
In heaven now proclaimed

Are you willing to sacrifice your life just to reach another person?

Randal

Acts 6

After hearing the murmurings of the people, the Disciples stated that they should not leave the ministering of the Word to serve tables. They appointed faithful men to see to the business of the church.

This is true even today. Our Pastors cannot "DO IT ALL". Thank God for those that oversee the variety of ministries in our church. From the Nursery to the Golden Heirs. From Kid-Zone to the Choir. We cannot all be Pastors but we can all have a ministering spirit and the church will prosper.

Verse 7 of Chapter 6: And the Word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly;and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Bro Morrison

Acts 5

The chapter begins with Ananias and Sapphira lying to the Holy Ghost. Keeping back part of the price of the land for themselves and being buried beside one another, bringing fear to all who heard. But reading on, we see the continued power of God working thru Peter, sign and wonders done among the people. The sick laid on beds and couches in the streets just to be in the path of Peter's shadow that they might be healed.

Prison followed, then freedom again. The Apostles are put on trial and set free again on the advice of Gamaliel to the council.Though beaten and commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, they went to the temple daily and ceased not to teach and preach Jesus as the Christ.

What a lesson we can take heed to. Honor the Holy Ghost and do not lie. Believe that miracles will happen and God will bring it to pass. Hold on to our faith, God will bring us thru the trials if we cease not to proclaim Jesus as the Christ.

I love you all and hope this is a blessed day.

Joe Crosson

Acts 4

As men and leaders of the church we are always being watched. We are watched by our co-workers, our neighbors, our friends, and most of all the ladies and younger ones of the church. There are times when things will come against us and eyes will watch to see what our reaction will be and the direction we will take. Let us remember Peter and John. Let us remember our cause, which is to do the work of God. Let our first reaction be to get alone with God in prayer. Most of all let our Genuine, BOLD, and Godly actions show to everyone that we have been in the presence of JESUS CHRIST!

Chase Potter

This chapter starts mid-story of Peter and John teaching in the Temple after the lame man was healed in chapter 3, where Peter and John began to tell that through the Name of Jesus Christ this man was healed. Imagine the victory that Peter and John felt when this man was healed, which opened up the door for the Gospel to be preached! A revival of 5,000 believed.
After a great victory, then opposition came.

Verses 1-3 states that the captain of the Temple guard and Sadducees were greatly disturbed that Peter and John were teaching and proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. And they placed Peter and John into prison. "Then being brought before the high priest, they were asked (I love this part) by what power or what name did you do this?" Peter said "It is by the Name of Jesus Christ whom you crucified and God raised from the dead that this man stands before you healed." Then Peter boldly schooled the high priest and preached the Gospel. "Salvation is found in no one else for there is no other name under heaven given unto men by whom we must be saved."

Surprised by these unschooled ordinary men, the high priest considered that these men had been with Jesus. When we pray and read His Word, people can tell that we have spent time with Jesus. Our walk and talk and the way we respond to situations will show it.

Though the high priest tried to squelch the fire of revival that was birthed, due to this miracle, by commanding Peter and John not to speak or teach in the Name of Jesus, it was too late. For they admitted themselves that everybody living in Jerusalem knows that an outstanding miracle had happened. But Peter and John again boldly said "we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard".

After being released, they witnessed to their own people of what had happened...which started a mighty prayer/praise meeting! They prayed that God would enable them to speak with great boldness.

Men of God, may the spirit of this story embolden us to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every person that God opens the door and puts in our path. For we have the message that the whole world needs. Let us not be ashamed or intimidated by anything. Sometimes we want to just blend in with everybody around us. But Jesus said "Ye are the light of the world, a city on a hill that cannot be hidden." So men let your light shine for Jesus.

I think of those that have gone through great persecution for Jesus' Name sake. Even today people in other countries risk their lives for Him. So let us be bold and tell others as Peter and John did here in Acts 4 about God's saving grace.

God bless,

Cecil E. Houston, II

Acts 3

By Peter's touch, the lame man received strength in his body to become a "walking witness".

By faith in the name of JESUS, we can all receive the strength needed to become the "walking witnesses" which God needs us to be for others!

Bro. Don Pemberton


In reading Acts Chapter 3, I am reminded once again about the apostolic power that we, as believers, possess. We all know the miracle that occurred with the lame man at the gate. However, as I reviewed this passage today I was drawn to a different perspective. 2 key points that I see:

* The lame man was looking for temporary gratification through his daily collection of alms.

It is so easy for us to be so caught up in the mundane (daily activities), that we can miss miracle opportunities that surround us. We are surrounded by a world in need (spiritually, morally, and physically lame) or may be in need our self, but can easily be distracted by temporary gratifiers.
Peter's initial command was "look on us". As I look to the new year, I pray that God will shake me from my mundane focus and help me to turn my eyes to the miracle worker. I can hear him speaking to me "look on me".

* The people that gathered at Solomon's porch looked to Peter and John as the source of the miracle.

There is so much static in the world that it is easy for us to be distracted from the true source of miracles. The crowd marveled at Peter and John as the miracle worker and so often we take credit for miracles in our lives (success, health, family). Peter rebuked the crowd and issued a call to repentance.

The chapter started with a miracle, but ended with a call to repentance. I pray that all of us can be free of the distractors and self appreciation as we move into the new year and focus our attention on the one that gives the miracles. I am looking forward to great things happening this year. With miracles come opportunity. As God continues to smile on us, we must take the opportunity to share the message of his power, forgiveness, and healing.

Jeff Mcgee

Acts 2

Jesus Christ awoke and ignited the faith and passion in the ones who responded to His call, the Apostles, and the recently added 3,000. They, the Apostles and believers, were once scattered in different locations but when the Word was made flesh and dwelt among them He brought the scattered together.

Acts 2:42-47, in my opinion, became the precursor and summation of Philippians 2:1-11. The church body was united in Christ Jesus. Acts 2:42-42 (NIV) "They devoted themselves to the Apostles teachings (filled with the Holy Spirit) and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe..." Their identity was Christ. They where seen as Christ-ians by the general public they re-presented Christ through their devotion and obedience to Christ and one another.

Acts 2:44, 46(NIV) "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts." An additional characteristic that reflected Christ was their devotion to one another, (v 46) they dwelled and shared together by eating at each others homes, broke bread, "with glad and sincere hearts". The result, (v 47) "praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people". Net effect, (v 47) "the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved". They did the things mentioned all in the name and for the name of Jesus Christ who was shed abroad in the hearts.

Thank you Lord for the promised gift that was given in Acts 2 and that is made accessible for all the people you are calling, (v 39 -NIV) "The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off - for all whom the Lord our God will call".

It would be really cool if Gamaliel (Acts 5:34-40) could see how the story has lived on, based on his advice to the Sanhedrin, that it was not of man but it is from God.

Dwell in unity and have a blessed day.

Very Respectfully,

Bro Eric Mock

Acts 1

Like a Maze full of twists and turns, God guides but men must be willing to follow. Luke greets Theophilus in verse one, his name means "Lover of God." Some say it is plural and means "Lovers of God," and Luke is addressing many. Either way, the book begins with Men in love with Jesus Christ.

In verse 12 many wind their way into the upper room and things are going well. I come to an abrupt stop as I follow them because I want to avoid the Field of blood (v. 18). It is the location of confusion for a man who never made it out of the maze after taking a wrong turn. One wrong turn led to another and another and another. The only thing I will remember is the man had no guts and could not get on the right track...he lost them in this field of blood. His name, Judas.

Matthias steps out of the shadows to assume a ministry role in the church. God always has leaders being developed in the shadows and we must never fear what will happen to the church. Refusing to tarry long in the mental "Field of Blood," all take their place in the Upper Room, waiting to see what God will do next...just as I am in 2009. It will be miraculous!


Pastor
Carl McLaughlin