Back to Peter in the Book of Acts as he being prepared (one step at a time) to encounter Gentiles. Peter now heads into Lydda and Joppa to heal both Aeneas and Tabitha. Oh, to be in the room where it happens!
After his baptism, Paul's life is a bit of mystery, but by piecing together his writings from Galatians 1 and 2Corinthians 11 and 12, we find a remarkable connection to Jesus.
A "dried tree no more", this African Finance Minister finds God in a most unlikely manner and place.
After Stephen's stoning scatters the believers, they first encounter Samaritans who receive the Gospel of Jesus.
An excursus on the Holy Spirit referenced these Scriptures: John 7:38-39, John 3:3-5, Titus 3:5, Acts 2:38, Judges 15:14, 1Chronicles 12:18, Ezekiel 11:5, Psalm 51:11, 1Samuel 19:23-24
From busboy to courageous catalyst for world missions, Stephen preaches a brilliant and bold sermon in crucible of contention, that is, the Sanhedrin. While Stephen reminds the Sanhedrin that they are "Just Like Your Fathers", he is unmistakably "Just Like Your Jesus."
Acts 6:1-15 reveals a community that responds to growing pains with unity and love
We need a hero. Peter preached about our Hero and Savior, Jesus Christ. The Sanhedrin speculated about self-proclaimed yet failed Heroes, including Theudas and later Judas the Galilean. Our Hero has not failed us. Our Hero cannot fail. Thus, in Him we cannot fail.
While Barnabas provides a beautiful example of a believer on whom was "great grace", Ananias and Sapphira contrast his Authenticity of Great Grace with the Duplicity of Dys-grace. Authenticity vs Duplicity; Generosity vs Complicity.
The disciples of Jesus were bold in the face of opposition because evidence was clear, irrefutable, and on their side. Plus, these men had been with Jesus!
One of the most controversial aspects of Christianity is its exclusive claim that there is no other way to God except through Jesus. How will Peter, who had recently shrunk back in cowardice, handle this difficult doctrine in front of all the most intimidating men in Jerusalem? Acts 4:1-12
