Prayer and fasting bridge heaven and earth (Acts)

Believers all met together constantly united in prayer, asking God for guidance (Acts 1:14,24)
Believers devotion to learning and prayer results in a vibrant, welcoming community (Acts 2:42,43-47)
Ministry happens on the way to prayer with friends (Acts 3:1,4-6)

God's glory through prophetic truth, bold preaching, and miraculous healing
Acts 4:24-31) Sovereign, Lord, Creator (Isaiah 45:12, 51:16), Psalm 2:1-2 - fulfilled in Jesus
 - Threatened to be silenced they asked for great boldness in preaching the word
 - Threatened not to heal in Jesus name, asked for a stretched hand with the healing power in the name of Jesus
 - Result: the meeting place shook and they were ALL filled with the Holy Spirit, preached the word of God with boldness. Acts 4:31, John 21:18

During a time of great growth and needs, the apostles devoted themselves to prayer and ministry of the word Acts 6:4

 - Prayer and physically touching people - Acts 6:6

Jesus-Stephen-Saul

Stephen last words were bold and loud prayers of intercession and forgiveness for his murders - Acts 7:58-60

 - Result: Look at the life of Saul. He authored Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians, Timothy, Titus

Prayers at arrival, for new believers to receive the Holy Spirit - Acts 8:15

 - Jesus teaches love precedes obedience and the indwelling Holy Spirit

 - They were Philip's "church people" baptized in the name of Jesus but not "born-again"- Acts 8:16

 - Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit - Acts 8:17

 - Amazing details here: Philip's Spirit filled preaching results in true faith for many (Acts 8)

Jesus-Ananias-Saul

The Lord gives very specific personal revelation to Ananias and Saul about each other - Acts 9:10-12

 - Result: healing, restoration, and vibrant ministry.

Jesus-Barnabas-Saul-Apostles

 - God converts Saul from murderer to preacher and restores peace in the church (Acts 9)

 - Peter on his knees, prays and Tabitha is raised from the dead - Acts 9:40

Devout, God-fearing, generous prayer-filled family is ready for new birth - Acts 10:2

 - The Lord gives very specific personal revelation to Cornelius and Peter about each other - Acts 10:2-4,9,30-31; Acts 11:5

 - Cornelius proves all people hear God, Peter proves our ministry of reconciliation (Acts 10)

 - Gentile church grows by repentance and grace filled life in the Holy Spirit (Acts 11)

Impossible circumstances overcome to free believers from prison - Acts 12:5,12

 - Angelic touch brings freedom for Peter and death to Herod (Acts 12)

Prayer and fasting build the church - Acts 12:3, 14:23

 - Light to Gentiles to bring salvation to the farthest corners of the earth (Acts 13-14)

■ The Church Crisis – Acts 15
■ The Gospel to Greece – Acts 16-20
■ The Gospel to Rome – Acts 21-28

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Holy Spirit empowers preaching and guidance in turbulent times (Acts 18:23-21:15)

Key verses:
the message about the Lord spread widely and had a powerful effect. Acts 19:20
And now I entrust you to God and the message of his grace that is able to build you up and give you an inheritance with all those he has set apart for himself. Acts 20:32

Acts 18:23-21:15
A) The Holy Spirit gives the power to change lives that impact entire cities
18:23-28) Appolos preaches the partial gospel, Priscilla and Aquila explain God's way fully, many benefit and believe by God's grace
19:1-7) Apollos Corinth, Paul explains Holy Spirit baptism in the name of Lord Jesus
 - alphausa.org Works the Holy Spirit does in the believers life
8-10) Paul preached 3 months about the Kingdom of God, believers left the synagogue, held daily discussions lecture hall Tyrannus 2 years
 - seek first the kingdom and all these things shall be added, God's buy and hold investment strategy (Truth Proverbs 23:23)
11-12) God gave Paul power, unusual miracles, healing, evil spirits expelled by fabric
13-16) Traveling Jewish exorcist used Jesus name "who Paul preaches" evil spirits recognize Jesus and Paul but harm them
17-19) Story spread, name of Lord Jesus honored, believers confessed sins, sorcerors brought $m incantation to burn publicly
20) the message about the Lord spread widely and had a powerful effect.
21-22) Paul felt compelled by the Spirit to  send Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia/Achaia, changed from Jerusalem to Rome
23-27) Demetrius, silversmith Greek goddess Artemis, losing business, and worship/influence/prestige
28-31) They shouted "Great is Artemis Ephesians", city confusion, rushed amphitheater dragging Gaius and Aristarchus (Paul's companions), believers and officials keep Paul out
32-34) Confusion, shouting herd mentality, anti-Jew, two hours
35-41) Mayor "Ephesus, guardian of temple Artemis, let courts handle it, Rome riot charges, disperse"

B) Plots against Pual don't discourage his preaching
20:1-3) Paul left for Macedonia encouraging believers, stayed in Greece 3 months, Jews plot to kill him in Syria, goes through Macedonia
4-6) Companions: Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea; Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica; Gaius from Derbe; Timothy and Tychicus and Trophimus from Asia, after Passover ship from Philippi, stayed a week in Troas
7-12) Sunday, Lord's Supper, preached till midnight, Eutychus falls out window, then eat, preached till morning
 - Give your heart to God and let your eyes delight in him (Proverbs 23:26, John 14:6)
13-17) Paul on root to Jerusalem for Pentecost traveled by foot, others by ship - joined later sailed two more days - past Ephesus, but sent word to Ephesus Elders
18-21) Paul's message: "I"ve humbly done Lord's work, endured trials, same message for all: repent from sin, turn to God, have faith in Lord Jesus"

C) Holy Spirit warns Paul Jerusalem will mean suffering, exile to gentiles yet he goes.
22-24) "bound by the Spirit to Jerusalem, who tells me jail and suffering lie ahead - but my life is to finish assigned work (by Jesus) - tell others the Good News, wonderful grace of God.
25-27) You won't see me again, I've been faithful declaring what God wants you to know
28-31) Guard yourself, God's people, Feed and shepherd them purchased by blood, appointed by Holy Spirit - false teachers even from within, distort truth to draw following, 3 years together
33-38)  Never coveted, worked to supply needs of companions, helping by working hard, goodbye
 - Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity - no shortcuts (Proverbs 21:5)
21:1-6) sailing landed in Syria, found local believers to stay with for a week, others prophesied/Holy Spirit not to return to Jerusalem, congregation prayed left
7-12) Many others including Philip (one of seven)'s daughters prophecy not to go to Jerusalem
13-15) yet Paul was determined to go to Jerusalem

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Divine Appointments in life and in Acts

Thinking about faith and hearing God's voice to take action. An action that leads to sharing the gospel (God's good news) with someone specific. 

This happened to me last week when I was doing our last Alpha at Amerirpsie "what about the church?" and I wore a lapel pin of a dove. When I got to work I received an invitation for dinner with colleagues visiting from London. I thought maybe I shouldn't wear this, then I thought maybe I should share why I'm wearing it? 

This led to interesting conversations regarding faith, life, and Jesus. I was able to share why I believe - where my life was before God rescued me and they affirmed my story because they know me now. We had a wonderful evening together sharing about life outside work, family, hobbies. I always enjoy hearing what others believe and how it impacts their life. 

We don't always get to see the result of our sharing like we see it in Acts. However, when we share in love we will see clearly from heaven (1 Cor 13:12). Faith, hope and love last forever but the greatest is love (1 Cor 13:13). 

• Aeneas is healed when Peter shares Jesus Christ heals you Acts 9:32-33
• Agabus shares specific revelations from God, helping others (one of seventy Luke 10:1-24, Acts 11:27-28, Acts 21:10-12)

A great resource to learn more about the people of Acts, I'm excited to learn more about the transition from Barnabas to Silas and Judas (Acts 15:22,27,32) to Timothy (Acts 16:1).

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Light to Gentiles to bring salvation to the farthest corners of the earth (Acts 13-14)

The mission of every Christian church,
Acts 13:47 - Lord gave this command, "I've made you a light to Gentiles to bring salvation to the farthest corners of the earth"
 - Evangelism, Proselytizing, Preaching
 - Singing, praising God, letting the world know his great works
 - Make disciples of Jesus, baptized in the name of God by the Holy Spirit

Guidance, Transformation and Productive Work of the Holy Spirit
Calls us and sets us apart for work (Acts 13:2), Unites us (Eph 4:3-4)

Suffering in Christ, with Holy Spirit brings unfathomable hope (Romans 8:17-30)
belief is a sign of being called (Acts 13:48, Eph 2:8-10), God calls us through his love demonstrated in Christ (John 3:16, Romans 1:7) yet not all accept the gift of God and suffer condemnation instead of justification (John 3:17-21, Romans 8:30). Notice the tension between "those who love him" and "have been called".

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Peter wants us to understand salvation from God through faith (1 Peter 1

I've been seeing God at work in my life through SALT, MNTC/Alpha, BSF, and regular Sunday church. This week has been about prayer. At church, I saw my friend Daniel Henderson and my small group members talking with our marriage mentors. It's a small world when we come together in prayer. I'm excited to look into 1 Peter in the next few weeks and see what differences come about this time as I had already studied Peter last year.

Prayer: Help me Lord, to repent from my sins and never turn back. Be with our group tonight as we talk through how do I avoid evil. Lead us in repentance to you. In Jesus Name.

The Lord is my strength and shield.

I trust him with all my heart.

He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.

I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:7

1 Peter 1-2
Peter wants us to know salvation is based on God's mercy
1-2) God's choosing, his Spirit has made you holy (Psalm 139:7).
3) God's great mercy, we are born again from above.
4) Spiritually transformed, renewed, set apart for his purpose to an ever-living hope and confident assurance through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Cor 15:14).
5) Our Salvation is protected and shielded by the power of God through your faith, salvation ready to be revealed in heaven to you (Eph 6:16, Gen 15:1, Proverbs 30:1-33, Psalm 28:7).
6-7) Joy results in tested, genuine faith; we look past trials to the Day of the Lord
 - 8-9) Trusting Jesus brings joy, salvation for the soul
 - 10-12) Prophets wondered, now preached in the power of the Holy Spirit, angels eagerly watch

B) Set my heart and mind on holiness because God has a new creation in me
13) Minds alert fully sober, set hope on future grace when Jesus comes
14) Obedient children not conformed to evil desires of ignorance
15-16) God is holy, so I must be holy in all I do
17-19) Call home to God our Father who redeemed me from the empty life with the blood of Christ
 - 20) Chosen before creation of world, revealed in these last times for your sake
 - 21) It's through Jesus we believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, our faith and hope is in God.
22) Now purified self by obeying the truth, sincere love for each other, deeply from the heart
23) Born again from seed, imperishable, living, enduring word of God "grass, glory of flowers, field 25) but the word of God endures forever, preached to you
2:1-3) rid yourself of malic, deceit, hypocrisy, envy and slander of every kind, new-born, spiritual milk, grow up in salvation, now have tasted that the Lord is good.
 - I see the teaching of Jesus, don't worry about today - the flowers are gloriously dressed, not worried but more beatiful than the richest person. (Matt 6:28-30, Luke 12:27)
 - I see the imperishable seed teaching from Jesus and from Isaish (Isaiah 35:1, 40:8) and James 1:9-11
 - I'm reminded of salvation and the word of God from Luke 8:11-15
 - Luke 8:13, joy for a little while but no root (Isaiah 35:1, 40:8), I'm looking forward to study of Isaiah again with a sharper lens on Jesus's interpretation/clarity.

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The Cross for a Believer

Years ago after study of the life of Moses, and I thought about the commandments of Jesus. Yesterday in Bible Study we talked about Jesus the cornerstone the builders rejected and how people stumble (1 Peter 2:6-8) or avoid the difficult teachings of Jesus.

Jesus's call to discipleship is easy (Matthew 11:28-30), yet there is a personal cost (Luke 14:28). To lay oneself down (Romans 12:1-2) and surrender to a life of full obedience and the renunciation of all contrary plans once committed to.  Following Him may mean we lose relationships, dreams, material things, or even our lives.

One way Jesus spoke about this was to talk about the cross, saying, for example, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).

• necessary, not optional (Luke 14:27)
• personal; for you (Matthew 16:24)
• voluntary; not forced, willingly accepted (Matthew 19:21-22)
• mortal; to kill all selfishness
• bears eternal fruit (John 12:24-26)

1 Cor 6:9,11,14,19-20

...do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived... And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God...By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also...Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

https://biblehub.com/1_corinthians/6-19.htm

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Heart application, our motivation for behaviors (Be Holy)

Behavior modification doesn't always lead to spiritual maturity. We should seek heart transformation first and foremost.

Behavior focus:  I need to have better self-control over my anger. Who will I share the gospel with this week?
Heart focus: What does my temper reveal about what I really value? What stops me from sharing the gospel with Nissa? I'm grateful for Rosemary's testimony of Julie's conversion. "God loves you just how you are right now."

Heart Application Starter phrases:

• What does _____ reveal about _______?
• What stops me from _______?
• How does (truth about God) encourage me to ______?

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Angelic touch brings freedom for Peter and death to Herod (Acts 12)

In Acts 12 we see that angels can manifest and interact with people, bringing help in time of need or bringing judgment when a ruler has gone too far. We see divine intervention in Peter and Herod's life based on their character. We've seen the character of Peter living life obeying God and now we see the life of Herod against God. We also see that the prayers of the church matter, even when not everyone praying believes. And that being shrewd involves gaining support around an unreasonable king. I love the faith I see in this chapter, no fighting but trusting in God and witnessing miracles.

AIM: No matter what, the word of God spreads and flourishes

Acts 12
A) Angel frees Peter as people prayed
1-4) King Herod arrests/persecutes the church, James (John's brother) killed by the sword, Peter arrested during Unleavened Bread, public trial scheduled after Passover.
 - 5) Church earnestly prayed to God for Peter.
Principle: Prayer is our best response to any situation.  Intercessory Faith, believe in God on behalf of another
6-7) Night before trial, Peter sleeping between two soldiers, angel wakes him up "get up" chains fell off
 - 8-10) Put on clothes and sandals, follow the angel, they passed the guards at two gates, suddenly the angel left.
11-14) Peter came to himself, went to Mary (John Mark's mom), they were praying, Rhoda "Peter's at the door"
 - 15) they didn't believe her, they thought it was "his angel"
 - 16-17) Peter told them what happened and left
Application: divine appointments should be shared with others in the church.

B) Herod plays god and Angel strikes him dead
18-19) Herod looked for Peter, cross-examined guards and had them executed, went to Caesarea
20) Herod quarreled with people of Tyre and Sidon got support from Blastus (trusted servant) to seek peace with Herod for food.
21-23) Fancy Herod addresses people who praised him as a god, he didn't praise God, angel struck him down, eaten by worms and died
24)  But the word of God continued to spread and flourish.

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Gentile church grows by repentance and grace filled life in the Holy Spirit (Acts 11)

Acts 11

A) Peter explains how God has granted repentance that leads to life.
1-3) circumcised believers criticized Peter for Gentile conversions
4-9) Peter tells the whole story Cornelius proves all people hear God, Peter proves our ministry of reconciliation (Acts 10)
 - 10) "Don't call anything impure that God has made clean"
 - 11-12) Spirit told him, go with the men
 - 13-14) Angel told Cornelius to send for Simon Peter
 - 15-18) Proclaiming the good news, Peter witnesses the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Matt 3:11, Luke 3:16, Mark 1:8)

B) Church growth happens by grace, truth, the Holy Spirit and faith.
19-20) Believers went to Antioch Greeks telling people the good news about Jesus
 - 21) "The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord."
22-24) News spread, Barnabas went their
 - saw what the grace of God had done
 - encouraged all to remain true to the Lord wholeheartedly
 - a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith
25-26) Barnabas and Saul a year their, Christians ("little Christs")
27-30) Prophets through the Spirit predicted severe famine, disciples provided help as each was able, sending gifts to elders by Barnabas and Saul.

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Cornelius proves all people hear God, Peter proves our ministry of reconciliation (Acts 10)

Key verses

“Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” – Acts 8:4

"Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right." - Acts 10:34-3

AIM: In Jesus, every sin is forgiven, in relationships, we find reconciliation to God.

Acts 10
A) Cornelius a godly man eager and ready to receive the Lord Jesus
1-6) Cornelius devout, God-fearing man, generous to poor, prayed regularly to God and saw an angel in a vision.
received instructions to get Simon
He was missing the message of Good News Acts 10:36-43, that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ
44-46) He was missing the Holy Spirit

B) Peter receives a triple visual reminder to feed the lambs with love
Meanwhile, God gives Peter a vision three times, he thinks it's related to food because of his fasting. However like when Jesus said "feed my sheep" three times. It's meant more than food. God commanded Peter not to call something unclean if God has made it clean. Acts 10:15, Acts 10:19-20 Go with the men sent by God, Acts 10:28-29 tell them what the vision means "I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean" Acts 10:28
How do I interpret what I see in God's word? What actions will I take in faith?

C) Peter's call is confirmed by Cornelius testimony
In Cornelius' testimony (Acts 10:30-33)
three times? Peter must have thought of the other three times. sheet with many things not just Cornielous, it's not what
goes into a man that makes him unclean. Repetitive for a reason.

What barriers in my world could the gospel remove? Work, family, church, community, racial, religious, political, tradition.

In this lesson, I had a vision of creating thanksgiving cards for my guys in Alpha at mntc, and use the same ones for my co-workers.
"Blessings brighten when we count them" on the cover.

Inside share the gospel. "In Jesus Christ, all is forgiven, in relationships, we find reconciliation to God. I count you as a blessing in my life and appreciate our relationship."

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God converts Saul from murderer to preacher and restores peace in the church (Acts 9)

Acts 9: Aim: God changes people's hearts, evidenced by actions
A) Saul's dramatic conversion of faith in Jesus confirmed through Ananias. Acts  9:1-19
1-3) Saul threatens the church, hunting Lord's disciples when Jesus stops him with light
4-6) Jesus says why do you persecute me and commands Saul to go to the city
7-9) others speechless, heard sound but saw nothing, Saul was blind 3 days, didn't eat or drink
 - Three Days, recurring theme in the Bible for changing your heart
10-16) Ananias called in a specific vision about Saul, place hands on him, restore his sight
 - Application: do I have a close connection to God to receive specific calls to action? How can authentic worship bring us close to God to hear him clearly? What sin in my life is blocking my worship of God?
17-19)Ananias went to Saul explained Jesus was who he saw on the road, came to bring reconciliation by the Holy Spirit and see again.

B) Saul's powerful preaching, sends him city to city
20-22) Saul spent several days, preaching in synagogues the Jesus is Son of God, growing powerful, baffling Jews proving Jesus is Messiah
23-25) Jews conspire to kill Saul at city gates, Saul escapes in a basket through opening in wall.
 - 2 Cor 11:33, Paul talks about this event
 - Rahab, spies, Jericho Joshua 2:15, Michal aided David's escape (1 Sam 19:12)
 - Jesus advice "when persecuted in the city, flee to the next" Matt 10:23
 9:19b-30
26-30) Saul in Jerusalem, disciples feared him, Barnabas bridges the gap with apostles, preached, talked, debated - they tried to kill him, believers sent him to Caesarea, then Tarsus

C) Church prospers through fear of the Lord, encouraged by Holy Spirit
31) church throughout Judea, Galilee, Samaria enjoyed peace, strength, fear of Lord, encouraged by Holy Spirit, increased numbers
 - Application: How does fear of the Lord get linked with peace and encouragement? Do I see this in my life and my church?
32-35) Aeneas of Lydda, paralyzed 8 years, healed immediately when Peter says "Jesus Christ heals you, get up, roll your mat" - everyone saw him in Lydda and Sharon turned to the Lord.
36-42) Tabitha/Dorcas (Greek), good person dies, Peter on knees prayed, turned to her and said "Tabitha get up" and she came to life.
 - Application How do I show my hope for those dead to God? Will I pray on my knees for them? will talk to them, encourage steps of faith (that only God can do in them?).

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Philip's Spirit filled preaching results in true faith for many (Acts 8)

In Acts 8 we see the fulfillment of prophecy from Jesus (Acts 1:8). The resurrected Jesus said, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria...". I love that we see Philip, a regular believer, not one of the twelve, demonstrate signs, miracles, and healing. We see Simon desire Godliness for personal gain and fame. Then we see Saul get transformed by his encounter with Jesus, from religious to relationship with God. And Ananias demonstrates listening to God in prayer and obedience.
 
A) Persecution brings preaching to Judea and Samaria, fulfilling Jesus' prophecy - Acts 8:1-8
 - 2) Godly men buried Stephen, mourned deeply for him
 - I envision prayer and fellowship that inspires Philip to go. Whoever would draw near to God... those who seek him (Why we pray).
 - 3) Saul began to destroy the church, house to house dragging family's to prison
 - 4-6) Philip proclaimed the Messiah in Samaria, performing signs resulting in people listening closely.
 - whoever has ears to hear let them hear, Never underestimate the power of God’s Word to change a person’s heart
7-8) impure spirits came out of many, paralyzed or lame were healed resulting in great joy.
 - evil spirits were cast out (NLT) of people "possessed" (NKJ) they were "healed" (CEV)
 - Jesus called his disciples and gave power against unclean spirits, to cast them out and heal sickness and disease (Matthew 10:1), now he has been given all authority and charges us to go make disciples, teaching them to obey everything he commanded (Matthew 28:20).
Application: Have I understood the commandments of Jesus? What evidence in my life points to this reality?

B) Simon the sorcerer wants power for himself  Acts 8:9-25
9-10) Simon, local celebrity at sorcery thought to had "Great Power of God"
 - 11) amazed followers with sorcery - illustration: today we have DJs and stadium concerts.
12-13) They believed Philip's good news of kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ and were baptized
14-17) Peter and John came because they believed the word of God, prayed that might receive the Holy Spirit, laided hands-on and they did.
 - Did Simon believe? Yes, like the jews in Romans 10:2, people can have a zeal for God but if it's not based on knowledge,
 -18-19) Simon offered his money, "I want what you have",
 - Simon wanted to be the guy in front, to continue Romans 10:3 he wanted the righteousness of his own. Isomorphic mimicry; invisible habits and behaviors that undermine change
20-23) money can't buy God, or ministry, your heart must be right before God, repent, pray as of now your FULL of bitterness and captive to sin
 - Debug your heart, don't make mistakes permanent
 - 24) Simon's response, "Pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you said may happen to me" - wow, wrong response.
 - 25) Peter's response, further proclaim the word of the Lord and testified about Jesus, preaching the gospel
 - Fools make fun of guilt, but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation (Proverbs 14:9)

C) Philip is sensitive to God's call, showing obedience bears fruit. - Acts 8-26-40
26-29) Philip hears an angel of the Lord give specific instructions and obeys, on the way the Spirit instructs him
30-33) leads to a friendly encounter with a person wanting to understand God and Philip explaining.
 - Isaiah 53:7-8 "oppressed, afflicted, yet silent, taken away and killed for the transgression of my people he was punished."
 - 34-40) it's about Jesus, the eunuch asks to baptized and was, Philip leaves but the eunuch rejoices
Application: sometimes it's the journey not the destination. Notice others on the way and add light and understanding for them.


Doctrine: Humanity
 - Image bearers of God, uniquely given a spirit for relationally bear fruit, rule and subdue.
 - Distinct from other created beings, God's representatives
 - Made for fellowship with God, everlasting friendship

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How to fight sin in your life

For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live.

Romans 8:13 NLT

Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires.

Romans 6:12 NLT

Sin displaces God in our lives
 - lack of conformity to God
 - fleeing from God
 - ends in death (rage), Romans 8:13

God gives grace to overcome sin
 - forgives us, enables forgiveness of others
 - live life with God, Romans 8:13

Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God.

Romans 6:13 NLT

How?

 - Declare sin a legit enemy 

 - Don't let sin bully you 

 - Declare allegiance to Jesus

 - Don't open any doors to sin

Make no provision for sin Romans 13:12,14

Develop mental habits to renew your mind Romans 12:1-2

Be part of a church community Heb 10:24-25

 - helps me and helps those who Christ died for 

Decide to fight your sinful impulses 

 - not resigning to "God made me this way"

 - don't be sloppy and undisciplined 1 Cor 9:27, 2 Tim 4:7

By the power of the Spirit, kill the sin in your life 

 - Christ in us overcome sin

 - trust Jesus, he'll give power to overcome sin

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Satanic conspiracy against God can't stop God's Word (Acts 5-6:7)

Key verses:

"...Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit...You have not lied just to human beings but to God.”Acts 5:3-4 NIV

“How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.” Acts 5:9 NIV

"apostles performed many signs and wonders... sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed." Acts 5:12-16

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. - Acts 6:7

Unity, generosity, and bold witness motivated by love not compulsion - Acts 4:32-37
Satan fills their hearts, having them lie to God - yet they were responsible because they agreed and conspire against God. Acts 5:1-10
   - Satan comes to steal, kill and destroy John 10:10
   - God is consistent: Deut 17:7,12, 1 Cor 5:2,13
   - Jesus taught about this, the parable of the barn builder who's life was demanded that very day.
Personal Application: God has numbered our days. How do you want to be remembered?

Fear spreads, yet the gospel is preached and miracles continue. 5:11-16
 - Effective ministry is highly regarded by people, healing and delivering people from evil spirits
 - Evil spirits = impure, tormenting

When folks come against a Spirit-filled group of believers there's rejoicing, not resentment. This is Christ working in and through us. Acts 5:12-42
 - Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. Heb 12:3-4
 - Phil 2:8, wisdom and humility as we're remembering God's faithfulness in our past Heb 10:32-33.
 - God exalted Christ to bring us to repentance - Acts 5:31

Complaints bring dangers of disunity, discontent, and distraction (6:1), but God gives his Spirit and wisdom enabling loving leadership - Acts 6:2-7

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How the Holy Spirit arrives and transforms our lives making us ready for heaven (Acts 2)

Earlier this year I began the study of Acts with my wife as she was preparing to teach the evening women class in Burnsville. In the study of Acts 2 I recognized that The Holy Spirit brings new communication and community. Now in reading the BSF notes for Acts 2, I rediscovered these wonderful verses in the "going deeper" section and added my own thoughts having read the verses.

When the Holy Spirit arrives our lives are forever, noticeably changed.  
Calls: John 3; Ephesians 2:4-5, 8
 - Jesus tells us about the coming Holy Spirit and his impact being like wind, being like birth. We don't choose it but it's unmistakable.
 - Even our faith, it a free gift of God - not something we do. What we do is receive the gift.
Indwells: Philippians 2:1
 - United with Christ, sharing the Spirit gives us encouragement, compassion, tenderness, and love for one another.
Deposits: Romans 5:5
 - God's love is poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

The Holy Spirit brings continual change and guidance to us every day.
Counsels: John 16:13; Acts13:2; 16:7
 - As a guide, the Holy Spirit gives us a clear "yes" and "no"
Renews: John 14:26;1 Corinthians 2:11-13
 - God knows our thoughts and teaches us everything we need to know about Jesus and how to follow him.
Transforms: Galatians 5:22-23
 - He produces the best in us, love patience, gentleness, self-control. People know we are Jesus disciple by our love (John 13:34-35)
Empowers: Philippians 2:13;1 Corinthians 2:4
 - It's God at work in our lives, giving us the life-changing good news for others.
Comforts and convicts: John 16:7,8-11
 - Thank God that He accepts us where we are but doesn't leave us there.

The Holy Spirit prepares us for eternity with God
Holy: 2 Thessalonians 2:13;1 Peter 1:2
 - By the Holy Spirit at work within us we understand the truth and are obedient to God.
Grieves: Ephesians 4:30;1 Thessalonians 5:19
 - Yet we fall short and grieve the Holy Spirit. obedience comes from our desire to please God, not appease Him.
Seals: Ephesians 1:13-14
 - And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.

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Indwelling Holy Spirit empowers loving witness to Jesus

Indwelling Holy Spirit empowers our lives with love as a witness to Jesus

Acts 1:4-8;Romans 8:9, 14-16; 2 Corinthians 1:21-22; Galatians 5:22-23

Jesus left to send the promised Holy Spirit, and prepare a place for us. We believe he'll return as we've received the Holy Spirit and are changed.
Acts 1:4-11, John 14:1-3, 16-18; 16:12-15

What comfort and assurance might the apostles have received through the promises of this passage?
Resurrected Jesus giving instructions must have been awesome. When he was like people recognized his authority but now they respected his authority over their lives wholeheartedly. What shall I do Lord? How long do I wait upon the Lord? How well do I listen and obey?

Review Acts 1. How has this week’s study impacted your thinking and trust in the Lord’s will and timing?
 My commitment made to the Lord in prayer matters the most for everything else in my life. 

The Holy Spirit empowers joyful obedience.  There is a continual in-filling. We receive grace power through faith.

Only the Holy Spirit transforms our work into eternal Spiritual "fruit"

What makes me aware of doing work on my own strength. 

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Luke's faith in Jesus happened through people

Luke authored the Gospel of Luke and the Acts. He was Paul's friend, well-educated, yet was not an apostle. His writings were well researched and we see a few themes and people he writes about. Themes of prayer and praise, when the Holy Spirit comes God's people immediately praise Him and His great works. Generosity and greed; selfishness brings spiritual downfall, but joyful sacrifice grows the church. About women, God's sovereignty and the church growth by His Word and Spirit.

Big leaders
Peter’s Acts – Acts 1-12
■ Growth in Jerusalem – Acts 1-7
■ Growth through Persecution – Acts 8-9
■ An Open Door to Non-Jews – Acts 10-11
■ God’s Word Flourished – Acts 12
Paul’s Acts – Acts 13-28
■ The Gospel to Asia – Acts 13-14
■ The Church Crisis – Acts 15
■ The Gospel to Greece – Acts 16-20
■ The Gospel to Rome – Acts 21-28

Churches other leaders praise him together
- who followed Jesus from the beginning, and those who rejected him 
- John and James, Jesus brother James, husband and wife Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish believers including Barnabas, Philip and Stephen, Apollos, Lydia and others from Greek, Roman and African backgrounds.

Luke's faith

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Resurrected Jesus engages his followers

Jesus engaged with his followers in the following ways
Acts 1:1-4; Luke 24:13-49
 - Gave instructions through the Holy Spirit, presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He ate with them and spoke to them, giving clear instructions (don't leave Jerusalem, wait for the gift my Father promised...)
 - He came to people where they were (7 miles from Jerusalem, Cleopas and another on the road to Emmaus)
 - Asked questions to understand what they think (what are you discussing... what things)
 - He rebuked them for being "slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken", proclaiming the Messiah had to suffer these things then enter his glory
 - Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself
Genesis 3:15
And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will...
Numbers 21:9
So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and...
Deuteronomy 18:15
The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your fellow...
Isaiah 7:14
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a...
Isaiah 9:6
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders....
Isaiah 40:10
See, the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is...
Isaiah 40:11
He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to...
Isaiah 53
Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? He grew up...
Ezekiel 34:23
I will place over them one shepherd, my servant David, and he will tend them; he will tend them...
Daniel 9:24
“Seventy ‘sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put...
Micah 7:20
You will be faithful to Jacob, and show love to Abraham, as you pledged on oath to our ancestors...
Malachi 3:1
“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are...

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ACTS Prayer: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplications

Enjoying the new https://bsfprayer.org/weekly-prayer-guide/#intro and reminded on be

Focus verse:

“Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.” – Acts 1:4b 

Adoration: Your plan alone, Lord, is complete. From the beginning of time, You ordained Your Son to be the Savior and the Holy Spirit to be the Advocate. You alone are all-knowing and all-seeing. (Acts 1:1-11)

Confession: So often I lose sight of Your power and purpose in my daily activities. Forgive me for taking You for granted and help me to treasure the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Thanksgiving: I thank you, Lord, for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Just as the disciples were baptized in Your Spirit at Pentecost, I too am filled with the Spirit that unites me with Christ and other believers forever. (Acts 1:4-5)

Supplications:
Global: Unify Your Church, just as the earliest Christians, to be “joined together constantly in prayer.” (Acts 1:14)

Local: You alone, Lord, “know everyone’s hearts.” Give us wisdom as we appoint local authorities, and guide those who lead our churches, BSF classes and communities. (Acts 1:24)

Personal: The same Holy Spirit that empowered the apostles is alive in me through Jesus. Help me to value that gift as I seek to be a witness “to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:6-8)

Whoever would draw near to God... those who seek him (Why we pray)
Jesus teaches about our role and God's role in Prayer (Luke 11:1-13,John 16:16-33)
Know that prayer changes things
God's sovereignty and our hope and faith in Jesus (Psalm 2-4, Matthew 2-4)

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Unstoppable: Resurrected Jesus taught them about the kingdom of God

Holy Holy Holy

The first year, multi-year, new role. Support the next group of leaders
Acts 1:1-11, doing things on our own doesn't work very well.

Resurrected Jesus taught them about the kingdom of God, he opened their hearts and minds. I believe this impacted the accounts written in the gospels. I receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon me, to be Jesus witnesses, telling people about Him everywhere.
Luke 24:45

Acts 4:13, People see our courage, yet ordinary unschooled men and take note that we've been with Jesus. I'm an "unremarkable guy" yet God has called me to do remarkable things.

Our classes are not a meeting, they are a place people can see God at work
 - What do you see as Gods' desire and design for your leadership?
My relationship with Jesus to impact every other relationship.

 - What is unique about your community, and how might God want your class to intersect with it?
Invite younger people into a relationship with Jesus and with us.

Acts 5:41-42, 2:41-42, 4:4, 10:39-43
Prayer
 - personal refreshment despite hardship, boldness for Jesus
 - spiritual and physical growth
 - Revival to sweep our nation
 - Spirit units his church

Doctor Bryan Charter, Board of Directors of BSF
Unstoppable church: Purpose, Problem, Perseverance
 - Purpose: Called out ones, Harrold - good news. Receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you. Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:18-20. Authority to make disciples, teaching them to obey everything Jesus commanded in the power of the Holy Spirit.
 - the church is birth, we are the body of Christ.
 - devoted to the apostles teaching

The problem of sin: Acts 5, judgment and fear. sin must be addressed in our local congregations.
 - Acts 6, disunity, complaints, racial issues. disunity cannot be tolerated. Address it and correct it.
 - Legalism shows up. Extra requirements as an effort of unity.
 - Acts 12-13, Persecution from preaching Jesus. Jail, beatings. 1 Cor 11 in danger all around
 - "You cannot preach the name of Jesus"

Perseverance: progress reports throughout acts
 - numbers added daily
 - word is preached
 - miracles happen

Problems propel the church in God's direction. As we heard about the problems I was reminded about the plagues of Egypt.

Mark Baily, BSF board member
Proclaiming the truth in a compromising culture
Burden: WE need a generation of Christians who have a troubled spirit, willing to engage a conflicted culture with truth in spite of a range of responses.

Acts 17:16 "his spirit was being provoked within him"
 - he had eyes to see and a heart to understand

He engaged, as he said "I believed God so I spoke"
 - Acts 17:17-18, apologists handles objections to Christianity and enables people to see the full wonder of Salvation, gifts, and glory of God. Helping people who may recognize the words but not the reality.

Hedonistic = less pain, more pleasure
Stoic = "Whatever will be will be" - i.e. "what-evs"

We've become a culture of "consumer of beliefs" where beliefs merchandise for people to pick up

Atheism, pluralism. Acceptable but it's mutually exclusive yet currently acceptable.

Christianity is exclusive and at enmity with other philosophies
 - no other name but the name of Jesus

Some people worship in ignorance a "higher power" but we can help them understand our holy, creator God and Lord of all Acts 17:22-34
 - Today is the day of salvation Heb 4
 - everybody, everywhere - repentance is urgent, Jesus is the judge (Acts 17:31).
Dionysius, the guy on Mars hill (Acts 17:34).

Susie Rowen, BSF director
60 years ago. From 1 person with 5 others.
Founding-era 1959-1980
 - Tech printing machines
 - Men, pre-school
Global growth, 1981-2000
 - 23 countries added
 - Call to prayer for leaders, established in capital cities around the world
Stability Era, 2000-2009
 - more than 1,000 classes, website
 - 8 more countries added
People over procedure era, 2009-2015
 - Satellite groups
 - 13 more countries
 - double growth
Bridge era, expansion 2016-2021
 - Online groups, new websites
 - shorter classes
 - conversational
 - wordgo mobile app
 - totally open to all countries online
1 Cor 9:22, all things to all people in order to save some.
 - get on the level less familiar with the Bible
 - reach younger adults and kids so they engage with God through his word

Spirit-empowered Leadership. Holy, distinctive, loving welcoming.
Strategic prayer, "come hungry" - realize your hungry. When I was a smoker I mistook my hunger for food with the desire to smoke. Our world is like this, we are hungry but eating the world and devil's garbage, junk food.
 - Pray for God to bring hungry people every week
Strategic stability,  pause, solidify changes. Get better at hospitality. Discussion deep in the word of God rather than just giving the answer.
Strategic mission, single focus on serving God in the Spirits power.
 - How do we remain in-depth when younger people's learning style is changing? We'll get it out in every way we can.
 - Stay in God's word, mirror a lifestyle. Be Bereans that serve Corinthians.

Get down on the floor to reach the little ones.

 

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