Matthew 12:22-32 Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit

The miracles Jesus performed were designed to be signs that he is the Son of David, Son of Abraham, Son of God, the Messiah to come and it was working. After the exorcism of a demon possessed man who was blind and mute, people witnessed that he could speak and see and began to wonder if Jesus was the Messiah to come. Unfortunately, the Pharisees started to discredit Jesus’ miracles as being performed by Beelzebul. Beelzebul means “master of the house” and was used to refer to Satan. Jesus proceeds to prove that this assumption is incorrect appealing to some logic: A kingdom, city, or house divided against itself cannot stand. How can Satan cast out his own demons and stand?

Exorcisms performed by the Spirit of God are a sign that the kingdom of God has come. Using the imagery of the plundering of a strong man’s house, Jesus indicates that he is against Beelzebul and not in cooperation with him. Casting out of demons is not possible unless Beelzebul is bound. What is the blasphemy that will not be forgiven? The blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. The blasphemy that attributes God’s work to Satan. This blasphemy results from a heart that is unable to distinguish God’s work from Satan’s work and is unwilling to give glory to God for what only God can do. It is a heart that is darkened and unwilling to allow God’s light to come in. It is important to note that the blasphemy against the Spirit is not a one time deal of attributing something to Satan that God did, but a lifestyle that refuses to admit God’s work and give him glory.

God wants us to see and live reality. Satan is an expert in deception. If Satan can deceive us to think that what God does is not really his work, then he has a stronghold upon us. To follow Jesus is to perceive his hand at work in the world by the Spirit and to give him glory for his works.

Father, help me see and live in your reality. Deliver me from the evil of blaspheming against your Holy Spirit.

Psalm 24 The King of Glory

The presence of God is a very important subject in the Scriptures. Psalm 24 addresses the issue like this: God is the Creator of all there is in the heavens, on the earth, in the sea, and in the sky, whether things or creatures, all has been created by God. Not only that, but God is the rightful owner of it all including our own lives. So how can we be in the presence of such an awesome God???

The requirements to stand in God's presence are pretty demanding. We must have clean hands, a pure heart, never lift our souls to what is false, and never swear deceitfully. Where are we going to find someone like that? Well the answer is right there in Psalm 24:5-6 "He will receive blessing from the Lord and righteousness form the God of his salvation. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek the face of the God of Jacob." In other words, God himself saves us and makes us righteous transforming us into his people. It is his doing; all we need is to seek him.

This majestic God is not content to remain in the heavens to have us try to reach him. God makes his entry into human time and space to commune with us. The ark of the covenant was for that purpose - that God might dwell in the midst of his people. As the ark was carried through the gates, it was the very presence of God coming in and the gatekeepers would ask who was coming in: The King of glory! The Lord, strong and mighty. The Lord, mighty in battle. The Lord of hosts.

The ark of the covenant was only a shadow of what was to come. God clothed himself in the flesh and made his dwelling among us. Jesus Christ is the Son of God who came to save us and transform us into his people. At his death on the cross, the veil that kept the ark of the covenant separate from people was torn allowing God's presence to be available to all by his grace. And after his resurrection, he sent us his Holy Spirit to indwell us so that his presence might be with us until the end of time. Who is this King of glory? Jesus Christ, the Son of God, he is the King of Glory!

Father, may I never take for granted your presence in my life. You paid a high price to allow me to come near you. May I walk with you every day of my life. Amen.

Acts 16:11-15 The Conversion of Lydia

The Holy Spirit's call to Paul and his team to land in Macedonia certainly had a purpose. It took Paul completely out of his comfort zone. Usually Paul went to the synagogue of the area to begin his ministry among the Jews. In Philippi there was no synagogue. The closest thing was a prayer gathering at the gate of the city. Paul's ministry was mainly among men, but this prayer gathering was made up of women. This is all new to Paul. The Holy Spirit wants to take me out of my comfort zone and challenge me into new directions. Am I open to the Spirit's challenge? Am I too set in my routine as to allow room for God's challenge in my life? Am I listening to the Spirit's whisper?

The woman that responded to the Gospel message was named Lydia. Why did she respond? The Scripture says that the Lord opened her heart to pay attention. Divine appointments begin with the guidance of the Spirit and the drawing of the heart to listen is also the Spirit's work. The preaching of the Gospel is not about human persuasion, but about power to change lives. Do I rely on the Spirit to open people's hearts to pay attention? Do I preach the Gospel out of my own strength?

Lydia was a business woman, a seller of purple goods. She was a very influential person in her time. The fact that she interacted with many people for her business would make her a great ambassador for the Gospel. The Spirit opened her heart so she could take the message later to others. This divine appointment proved to be very strategic for the spread of the Gospel. I should pray that God will grant me divine appointments that are strategic to the taking over of our community with the Gospel. Am I willing to pray in earnest for this?

Lydia's conversion provides a great argument for the believer's baptism. It is important to note that most conversions in the book of Acts are followed by baptism. This is what we call believer's baptism. A person is baptized once they have believed. It is for this reason that infant baptism does not fulfill the requirement of baptism as preached by the Apostles. Infant baptism is the confession of faith of my parents, but my personal confession of faith is only stated by believer's baptism. I must own my faith and make a statement for myself. The preaching of the Gospel is to repent and be baptized - in that order!

Father, guide me to divine appointments that challenge me. Take me out of my comfort zone and help me to welcome it. Holy Spirit prepare my heart and the hearts of those who need to hear the Gospel. Guide me to one person that is strategic in the spread of your Gospel in this community. Empower me to faithfully share your Word. Amen.

Acts 16:6-10 The Macedonian Call

Paul, in his second missionary journey, sets out from Antioch, his sending church. In the beginning of his journey, he visits some of the churches he had already planted in his first journey. What catches my attention is that Paul went back to the place where he was stoned and left for dead. It is a display of courage. Would I have gone back to a place where I had been mistreated? I don't know, but I pray that God would grant me the same courage. Courage is not lack of fear. Courage is the ability to act in the face of fear. Courage is to say "no" to the paralysis that fear wants to impose. Courage is the "stuff" great men are made of. In history, courage has been the main ingredient of great things.

Obviously, Paul's plan was to go to Asia to preach the Gospel, but the Holy Spirit forbade it! Paul's plan was thwarted by the Holy Spirit's plan. I am sure that Paul had it all figured out before he set out on his journey, but he had to make adjustments and adapt to the Holy Spirit's direction. Paul is sensitive to the guidance of the Spirit, not wanting to impose his own plan, but willing to change his plans and adapt to the will of the Spirit. Personally, I'm a planner and don't do very well when someone tries to thwart my plan. But I must make room for the Spirit's guidance in the best of my plans. Am I willing to listen to the Spirit, even if it means setting aside my plans?

Now the Holy Spirit grants Paul a vision in which a Macedonian calls him to help. Paul shares his vision with the team and they all conclude that God called them to preach the Gospel to the Macedonians. Again, there is a sensitivity and a willingness to please the Spirit of God. Paul demonstrates a great desire to please God above all else, no matter the cost. The trip to Macedonia required an additional boat trip that he probably did not have in mind. Paul was willing to do whatever was necessary to please the one who called him. Am I willing to please God at all cost? Would I allow the inconveniences of a change of course to stand in my way of pleasing him?

It is important to note also that Paul was a team player and not a dictator. The response to the Macedonian vision was not just Paul saying they had to go there, but the language used is that of "we" and "us." The other members of the team understood the vision spoke to them as well. They worked together as a unit to bring the Gospel to the Macedonians. They did not resent Paul's vision, but they felt part of the calling as well. It is important to work as a team to achieve a synergy that leads to greater accomplishments than trying to work as a "lone ranger." God uses teams and teamwork.

Father, fill me with courage to lead as I answer your calling. Fill me with your Spirit and help me be sensitive to his guidance willing to trash my plans for yours. Grant me a heart that desires to please you above all things at whatever cost. Teach me to be a good team leader that moves others to fulfill your call as well.

Acts 14:8-18 Paul and Barnabas at Lystra

Signs and wonders continue to accompany Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey. It is very interesting to see how Paul worked in the supernatural realm. The Holy Spirit would enable him to look at someone and "see" if they had faith to be healed. This was the case with a man crippled from birth and Paul commanded him to stand up straight. Paul was in tune with the Holy Spirit. I yearn to walk with the Spirit like Paul; to receive guidance and direction according to God's will every day.

Unfortunately, walking in the Spirit does not prevent people from misunderstanding. Spiritual success comes with its own liabilities. The people from Lystra interpreted the healing as a demonstration of Paul and Barnabas' deity and they called them gods - Hermes and Zeus respectively. And worst of all, they set out to offer sacrifices in worship to them. How do I handle spiritual success? When the Holy Spirit manifests himself through my life, the enemy is ready to attack with pride using people to place me on a pedestal for just being an obedient instrument in his hand.

The Apostles counter with the preaching of the Gospel. They stated that they were human, of like nature with them and called them to turn away from idolatry to the living God who deserves to be worshiped for he is the Creator of all things. They explain that God gave them a witness of himself in his provision of rain and crops for their sustenance. He is the only one that deserves to be worshiped and adored. When people set out to place me on a pedestal, it is an opportunity to share the Gospel. It is an opportunity to exalt my God.

It is important to notice that not all the people understood the message and many continued to worship Paul and Barnabas thinking of them as gods. Paul and Barnabas continued to preach the Gospel and allowed the Holy Spirit to work in people's lives. But they had to endure the attacks of the enemy. Spiritual success brings about much pain. Success in the kingdom calls for more humility before our God and more dependence upon our God. Otherwise, I can spiral out of control by the enemy's whispers that somehow I have anything to do with God's work in people's lives. God is the author and I am a mere instrument in his hands. I must keep that perspective.

Father, teach me to walk by the Spirit day by day. Fill me to overflowing that you may be able to use me as an instrument in your hands. Teach me to overcome the attacks of the enemy that come out of the successes you grant to your servant. Help me to stay humble and dependent on you. Amen.

Acts 11:1-18 Peter Reports to the Church

The Church, though a divine institution, has been plagued with problems since its birth. Within the ranks of the faithful there was already a debate concerning how to deal with Gentiles. Some believed, those of the circumcision party, that Gentiles had to go through the Jewish ritual of circumcision to be accepted even as Christians, but others didn't. I have to fight the tendency to think and expect that the Church has to be perfect upon the earth. When sinners gather I can't expect perfection, but imperfection. We strive for it, but we have not attained it. I also have to fight the tendency to withdraw from the Church, labeling it hypocritical, because people in it don't follow the teachings of Christ perfectly. I am the chief of sinners and I can't follow his teachings perfectly, but that's why I need the Church. The Church is a place for teaching, reproofing, correcting, and training. If the Church were a Perfect Club there would be no need for all that.

These brothers criticized Peter for entering into a Gentile home and eating with them, something no Jew would do in those days and some even still to this day. Peter was following the promptings and guidance of the Holy Spirit and yet, he still encountered criticism. I can't expect the work of the ministry to be criticism free. It is part and parcel of what takes place in the dynamics of the Church. I need to grow up and learn to deal with criticism as unpleasant as it may be. There is no such thing as a criticism free ministry. I realize that criticism is not a fruit of the Spirit as some may think, but I have to accept that the Church is a Rehab Center for believers and the Lord is not done with us yet. If I work in the front line of the battle, I will be shot at - guaranteed! And friendly fire is not excluded!

Peter explained the events that transpired with the Gentiles and taught them what the Spirit had been teaching him through a vision. Moreover, the evidence that God was working among the Gentiles just like among the Jews was the pouring of the Spirit after repentance. Peter remembered the preaching of John the Baptist who declared the promise of the pouring of the Spirit upon all who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ. Peter declared: ...who was I that I could stand in God's way? When God is doing something new, I have to humble myself and accept his ways. True wisdom does not lean on its own understanding, but trusts in the Lord. The Word of God should always be the lamp and guide of my life. Am I listening to God's Word on a regular basis? I should never allow the status quo, even tradition to stand in the way of what God wants to do.

It is very evident that the Apostles were working together and were stationed in Jerusalem. From there, they monitored the activities of the Church as it expanded. The fact that Peter reported back to the Apostles in Jerusalem speaks clearly of an organization that is working to ensure the spread of the Gospel and also learning from the experiences that are taking place in the field. I should not object to the organizational aspects of the Church and its ministries. It is a practical way to stay in touch with what is happening in the preaching of the Gospel and also a way to ensure the proper teaching of the Gospel is taking place. Peter silenced the brothers of the circumcision because the obvious conclusion was that God was working among them as well.

Father, teach me to see the Church as a Rehab Center and not as a Perfect Club. I need your strength to face criticism even as I work in ministry. Help me to seek your Word and be sensitive to your guidance. Amen.

Acts 10:34-48 Gentiles Hear the Good News

Judaism, the religion of the Jews, have different categories to classify the Gentiles (non-Jews) even today. There are those who are "righteous" Gentiles - ethical monotheists, no matter what religion they practice. They are bound by Noah's seven commandments, but these Gentiles are not part of the Jewish "society." Then there are those "righteous" Gentiles who desire to join the Jewish society. These Gentiles go to their court and promise to live by the Jewish Law (613 commandments). The last category is comprised of those Gentiles who are idolaters. They don't care about entering Jewish society and don't care about becoming ethical monotheists. Jews stay away from them and avoid mixing with them.

In Jesus' day, when the Temple was functional, Gentiles were not allowed to worship together with Jews. They had to gather in a different courtyard altogether. There were different areas of worship and the further away from the ark of the covenant (holy of holies), the less important. The first area was designated for the priests. The second area was for Israel. The third courtyard was for women. And the last and furthest one surrounding all others, was for the Gentiles to worship. The Gentiles were treated like second class citizens even if they converted to Judaism.

Peter's message to Cornelius and his family is that God shows no partiality! That's the message of the Gospel. He explains that the Jesus the Jews killed was the one God sent to preach the good news of the Gospel and God raised him from the dead calling them to continue to preach the good news. This Jesus is the one that the prophets proclaimed. And without exception, everyone who believes in his name is granted forgiveness of sins. And to seal the truth of Peter's preaching, the Holy Spirit fell upon the believers in Cornelius' home causing them to speak in tongues and praise God. The fact that Gentiles enjoyed the same gifts from God was evidence enough to understand that God shows no partiality. Jew and Gentile are to be treated with equality.

In a world filled with prejudice and racism, we make distinctions by ethnicity, skin color, nose size, height, education, socio-economic status, political views, theological views, etc, etc, etc. This is contrary to the Gospel! God is calling people from all nations to come to him and worship him as one, bringing down the barriers that divide us. The Church should strive to be a place of integration for believers coming from all kinds of different backgrounds. There is no room for partiality in the kingdom! The Gospel calls us to renounce prejudice and racism. In the kingdom of God there is no white, black, yellow or brown church. There is only one Church!

I must learn to love my brothers and sisters from all countries around the world as well as my brothers and sisters from around Chicagoland. I should not judge them for their looks or for their past life. Ex-gangsters, ex-addicts, ex-prostitutes as well as the homeless and the poor, no matter their country of origin, should be viewed as brothers and sisters in the family of God.

Father, teach me to love all people. Break down the barriers in my heart that hold me back from loving as you love. Fill me with your Spirit and pour your love in my heart free from prejudice and racism. Amen.

Acts 8:26-40 Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch

The Holy Spirit not only empowered Christians to be bold and courageous to speak the Word, but he also guided them on where to go and what to do even in the midst of persecution. In the efforts to proclaim the good news of the Gospel, God uses even angels to guide his people. Philip is a perfect example of a follower of Christ who was obedient to such guidance. He was told to take a road that led to a desert place and yet Philip obeyed and went. He did not question why would God lead him to a desert place. If the goal was to preach to as many people as possible, why go to the desert? The city is a better choice! Am I open to God's guidance in whatever form it may come? Am I willing to obey even when I don't understand clearly why? If I am going to be effective in the proclamation of the Gospel in this world I must not only understand the message, but I must be obedient to God's directions on where to take the message as well.

Philip's obedience brings him in contact with an Ethiopian eunuch, a very important and influential Treasurer for queen Candace. A eunuch is a castrated man chosen to work in very influential positions in a kingdom. Castration was a means to ensure that the person would not have any family taking away any personal interests or ulterior motives to serve a king or queen. What an opportunity to bring the Word to someone so influential in his time. This was a divine appointment. If I receive and obey God's guidance, I will have divine appointments to share the good news of the Gospel. Am I sensitive enough to perceive God's guidance day by day? I can't obey what I can't hear.

Philip came along side the eunuch's chariot and befriended him before he was invited to get in the chariot to speak the Word. The Ethiopian eunuch confessed that he needed guidance in order to understand what he was reading, but he didn't have someone to help him. The proclamation of the Gospel takes place when a person with a need to understand is met by a person with a desire to explain. Philip's obedience brought him in contact with someone in need, but he first comes alongside and waits for an invitation. Like Philip, I must seize the opportunity of an encounter by coming alongside and showing a genuine interest to help. Only then will I be invited to share the good news. The old saying applies here: "No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care." (Don Swartz)

When the eunuch invited Philip to enter the chariot, he was in for the ride of his life. The eunuch was reading Isaiah 53 and he was wondering who was the prophet talking about. Philip begins with this passage and told him the good news about Jesus leading him to believe and even make a commitment to baptism. Divine appointments require that I be ready to explain the Scriptures leading to the good news of Jesus. If I don't study the Scriptures, how can I lead those who are hungry to understand it? My effectiveness as a witness in the world depends on my ability to convey God's message as it is written in the Scriptures. Do I read the Bible? Do I take time to study it? Do I meditate on it day and night?

Father, make me an obedient messenger of your Word. Help me perceive your guidance in the midst of a noisy world. Empower me to intentionally befriend those who are seeking to understand your Word. Grant me great understanding of your Word and the ability to explain it to others. Amen.

Acts 8:9-25 Simon the Magician Believes

The Gospel continues to spread even in Samaria. Its power amazes the Samaritans, even those who were practicing magic to amaze others - like Simon. Simon's magic was not the kind of magic we see in B'Day parties and shows whereby illusions, the magician "makes believe" that he has powers. Magic during the days of the Ancient Church is more like Spiritism today, assisted by demonic powers. It was practiced to heal diseases, bless and curse people, protect oneself from curses, and foretell the future. Its practice frequently used incantations, invoking the powers of some god or spirit, potions, and amulets. This kind of magic is forbidden in the Bible (Read Leviticus 19, 20 and Deuteronomy 18). It is an abomination against our God. But Simon believed the Gospel through Philip's preaching and abandoned his practice of magic.

Though Simon had stopped the practice of magic, he still thought and felt like a magician. It is easier to get the person out of magic than to get magic out of the person's heart. Peter and John were sent to review the work done in Samaria and they found that they had been baptized in the name of Jesus, but the Holy Spirit had not fallen on them. So Peter and John pray for them to receive the Holy Spirit and Simon, observing the power of God unleashed upon these new believers, wants to buy this ability to pray for people to receive the Holy Spirit. Simon is used to bargaining with spiritual powers for personal gain. But Peter condemns his desire and motivation. Thankfully, Simon repents.

The Lord saved me from sin and the world, but it is necessary now to get sin and the world out of my heart. The work of the kingdom is not completed at conversion. Conversion is only the beginning of a long journey. Spiritual growth is absolutely necessary to free the soul from the clutches of sin and the world. I must seek the filling of the Spirit. I must meditate on the Word day and night. I must pray to God in repentance for my sins seeking his forgiveness and grace. The transformation of my soul is a process that I must commit to realizing that I have no power to change myself, but I submit to the mercy and power of God to change me. Like Simon, I have believed and I have been baptized, but my heart wanders and at times is not right; wickedness still finds its way to manifest itself in my life.

Simon thought that the power of the Holy Spirit could be bought with money. He was so used to dealing with the spiritual world in terms of personal gain. He was in it for the power, prestige, even fame. He craved the attention; he loved the adulation of his fans. The kingdom of God called Simon to abandon all that. It calls me to leave all of it behind too. The kingdom of God is not about me and what I can do to impress people, but it is about God and what he has done for me. And most certainly, what God has done is enough to amaze us all.

Peter saw Simon in "the gal of bitterness and the bond of iniquity." Practicing sin as a Christian has dire consequences. Bitterness and bondage were awaiting to capture Simon's life if he did not repent. If I don't repent of my sin and continue to live a life of sin, practicing sin on a regular basis, I will also experience bitterness and bondage in my life. Sinning against the Holy Spirit without repentance on a regular basis will produce resentment in my heart. And if I continue the practice, it will lead to bondage. The kingdom of God is about freedom! Why would I choose to submit myself to bondage once again after he has freed me from it? I must repent! I must seek the fullness of his Spirit!

Father, shine your light upon my heart and don't let any dark corner have the upper hand. Fill me with your Spirit and help me shake off sin and the world from my heart. May I serve you to give you glory and not to advance my own agenda. Amen.

Acts 7:54-60 The Stoning of Stephen

If Stephen's sacrificial service at the tables, Scripture knowledge, ministry with signs and wonders, and preaching are not impressing enough, let's take a look at how he handles his final moments of life on this earth before he falls asleep. His message caused a mass rage that moved the whole council to walk him out the door and outside the city to stone him. This reaction should not surprise me because Jesus told us that the world would hate us. More and more brothers and sisters in the faith are losing their lives in countries around the world for the message they preach. The Gospel message is certainly not a people pleaser. Why do I think that I have to please people with the Gospel to be able to win them over for the kingdom? Am I willing to preach the truth at the cost of my own life?

Stephen is able to remain calm in his final hour because of the power of the Holy Spirit upon him. The Holy Spirit enabled him at that moment to see the glory of God. Everything I do should be motivated by a heartfelt desire to see God glorified - ...whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1Cor.10:31). I am not in the kingdom and do not work in the kingdom to satisfy my personal needs of security and significance. Just like Stephen, if my life on this earth is necessary to pave the way for the advancement of God's glory, so be it! My security and significance are in Christ and I will enjoy their fullness in his presence, not on earth.

The Holy Spirit also enabled Stephen to see Jesus standing at the right hand of God. If I am to give my all for the kingdom, I must not only be motivated properly, by God's glory, but I must fix my eyes on Jesus - Jesus only. His life is my model; his body is my bread; his blood is my drink; his Word is my daily sustenance. Jesus lived his life for the glory of the Father. Jesus is standing because he is still active; he is not done; the best is yet to come. He is at the right hand of God because he is an essential figure in God's reign and dominion. Jesus should be my all every day of my life.

Stephen was able to emulate Christ's behavior in his final moments because the Holy Spirit enabled him to see God's glory and Jesus standing at his right hand. Stephen is able to have mercy and compassion upon his executioners, just like Christ while he was on the cross. Christianity is not to be cool, calm, and collected in my own power, but in God's power. The Holy Spirit lives the life of Jesus in me and through me. I pray that my motive and goal will be the same as Stephen's: God's glory and God's Son Jesus. Stephen even emulates Jesus with his final words in giving his spirit.

Father, fill me with your Spirit to follow you with all my heart. May I be motivated by your glory, not my security and significance. May I see your Son Jesus as the goal of my faith and life. Empower me to live a Christ-like life even unto death. Amen.

Acts 5:12-16 Many Signs and Wonders Done

A sign is an event that points to the reality, presence, and power of God especially as it is related to the Gospel. A wonder is an unexpected, remarkable event that causes admiration in those who witness it. So when the Scripture speaks of signs and wonders, it is speaking of supernatural events that clearly testify to the reality of God and his kingdom causing admiration in those who either experience or witness them. Signs and wonders were never a goal or achievement to pursue. Signs and wonders are the means to preach the Gospel to an unbelieving world. It is a means to convince them of the reality of God and his Son Jesus as the one who died and was raised from the dead and ascended to heaven. Signs and wonders are not human accomplishments, but they are manifestations of God's power in the name of Jesus.

The impressive part of all this is that signs and wonders were "regularly done" by the apostles. I somehow thought that signs and wonders were supposed to be a rare occurrence, but it was not during the days of the apostles. It was a regular and common experience among them. Have I settled for a Gospel that lacks signs and wonders? Am I supposed to believe that signs and wonders were reserved for the Apostolic era and not for the rest of Church history? Why is my expectation so low when it comes to the move of the Spirit among God's people? Isn't the same Spirit who filled the Apostles living in us today?

The phrase "none of the rest dared join them" is not describing the fears of the other believers who were not apostles. It is describing the fears of the people who would not dare join lest they truly believed. The testimony of the Book of Acts as a whole teaches us that the power to perform signs and wonders was not just on the Apostles, it was operative in the disciples as well. The Apostles may have been the center of attention for signs and wonders, but it was not exclusively upon them. My preconceived notions of signs and wonders get in the way. I must set them aside and open my mind and heart to the reality of God working among unbelievers. But I must believe! It begins with me. If I think it is a thing of the past, how can I minister to those who are in need?

Wow! Peter's shadow was used as a means for the Spirit to heal people. That is amazing! I believe God moves according to need and according to faith. These people were coming out in faith seeking a healing. You don't see that today. Maybe there is the issue of why there isn't healing today like in the days of the Apostles. God has not changed, but the Church has and also the unbelieving masses of today. In those days, due to need, people had no other options for healthcare and therefore, were more open to the healing ministry of the Church. But also, I have to admit that the Church's expectations concerning healing have changed. We don't pray as much for healing anymore.

Father, fill me with your Holy Spirit. Help my unbelief. May I open my heart to what you can do among the unbelieving people of this world. May I make myself available to be a conduit of your power to operate in people's lives to promote your kingdom. Amen.

Acts 2:14-41 Peter's Sermon at Pentecost

Peter takes the lead to explain what is going on. It is not that the people are drunk! It is the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy (Joel2:28-32) right before their eyes. Joel spoke of the pouring out of the Spirit upon all flesh with evident manifestations of prophecy, visions, and dreams. The second part of his prophecy speaks of the day of judgment with wonders in the heavens and signs on the earth. Some of these are: blood, fire, vapor of smoke, the sun turning into darkness and the moon turning into blood. These are all literary devices to express the coming of the day of the Lord, or Judgment Day. The Spirit is here! I am living the end times!

Then, Peter presents Jesus as the man God delivered up according to his plan and foreknowledge. At the same time, he accuses the crowd for crucifying and killing him. Many books have been written about the reconciliation between God's sovereignty and Human responsibility. The Scriptures teach both. Whatever philosophical system we devise to explain the interaction of these two perspectives cannot lose sight that both need to be upheld. My God is sovereign! From the little sparrow to the hairs on my head, he has dominion over it all. I am responsible! God will hold me accountable for my thoughts, words, and actions.

Now he turns to the Psalms (16:8-11) to prove that Jesus' resurrection was prophesied by David and links the pouring of the Spirit with the resurrection and ascension of the Lord. Finally, he states that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ. The title of Lord implies that Jesus has power, authority, and influence over his people. The title of Christ identifies him as the promised one to Israel, the Messiah, the King to come, the Savior. I have to come to grips with who Jesus is in my life. Is he my Lord? Is he my Savior?

The people's response to Peter's sermon was that they were cut to the heart. It was devastating! It hit them really hard. Now what? What to do? Peter points the way with repentance and baptism so they can enjoy the promised Holy Spirit. It pains my soul to see many people today in our churches without making a commitment to the Lord through baptism. I will never forget my baptism. Mom and Dad did not like it. My friends then, told me I was crazy. Baptism is the confession to the world that Jesus is my Lord and Savior. The message continues to be the same: Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins and you will receive the promised Holy Spirit.

Father, thank you for giving your Son Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of my soul. Thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to fill me and guide me day by day. May I keep Christ as the center of my life to live in the fullness of your promise all the days of my life. Amen

Acts 2:1-13 The Coming of the Holy Spirit

Finally, the day of Pentecost arrived and with it the promised Holy Spirit. The arrival of the Spirit is characterized by supernatural phenomena. First, there was a sound like a mighty rushing wind that filled the house where they were. Second, there were tongues of fire that appeared and rested on each one. My imagination sees it as if the people were human wicks with a flame on top of their heads. Thirdly, they spoke in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. The arrival of the Spirit was announced with auditory, visual, and verbal signs. It was impossible to miss it if you were there. The blind and the deaf would know something was going on.

Even language was no barrier to understand because their languages were being spoken. Many different ones according to their country of origin. The content of the message spoken was the mighty works of God. So many people understood that God was up to something, but unfortunately, some attributed the phenomena to drunkenness - "filled with wine." Supernatural manifestations by themselves don't guarantee that people will understand God's message. The spiritual blindness is such in some people that the most spectacular of signs would be misinterpreted and misunderstood.

The arrival of the Spirit begins a new era in Church History. The body of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, would now begin to march forward to conquer the world by proclaiming the mighty works of God. The Spirit of God brought people from many nations together overcoming even language differences. Many scholars see a parallel between the coming of the Spirit and the Tower of Babel. In the former, languages are given so people may understand and unite. In the latter, languages were given so people wouldn't understand and scatter. The Tower was being built as a human feat challenging God's glory. The Spirit has come to bring unity to build the kingdom of God for the glory of God.

I can't understand how many believe that supernatural phenomena has ceased when the giving of the Spirit, the inauguration of the Church under the new covenant, is mingled with so many supernatural events. There is no indication anywhere in the book of Acts of a slowing down of the Spirit's manifestations. Quite the contrary, the book takes us on a journey in the supernatural manifestations of the Spirit as the Gospel is preached.

Father, thank you for sending the Holy Spirit who empowers me to preach the Gospel and guides me through this world. Fill me today to live for you. Amen.

Acts 1:6-11 The Ascension

While Jesus was dedicated to teaching about the kingdom of God, the apostles were concerned about the kingdom of Israel and its restoration. What God is going to do with Israel and when should not be the focus of their attention. Jesus was clear: "It is not for you to know..." In recent years, there has been an increased interest in the nation of Israel. While some are interested in evangelizing Israel, others are interested in their role in the current political world. The former deserves my attention, but not the latter.

Politics is a topic of great interest to me and I believe that Christians should participate of the political life of their countries. But politics must be viewed for what it is. Politics, for the Christian, is nothing more than a tool to communicate the message of the Gospel and an opportunity to voice for justice and against evil. But politics is not the savior and should never be viewed as the means to solve all my problems. Ultimately, my problems stem from the heart and it requires a heart change to be a virtuous and moral citizen. On the other hand, if I am a Christian and stand apathetic to politics, how can I bring change to society if I don't participate in the public affairs of the society in which I live? How can I bring the message of the Gospel to bear on issues if I don't stand up and speak up?

What is important for the apostles to know, in contrast with the political status of the kingdom of Israel, is that the Holy Spirit will grant power to make them witnesses. This is a central truth in the kingdom of God! The promised Holy Spirit will empower them to be witnesses. A witness is one who is willing to give a testimony of what they have experienced for others to know. The apostles were witnesses of the life, ministry, teaching, death, and resurrection (and pretty soon his ascension) of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit will empower them to give that testimony. They should seek and wait for that empowerment. Am I seeking the filling of the Spirit to be empowered to witness? Is witnessing central in my life? Or am I distracted playing politics in the world, even in the Church?

Jesus leaves the world escorted by "men in white robes," probably angelic beings. His ascension is a sign of how his return will be. In the same manner in which he was taken, he will return. When he shows up, he will show up in the skies escorted by angelic beings and everyone will see him. I must not forget his return. I must remember his promise: He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” and the desire of my heart should be "Come, Lord Jesus." Is it my expectation and desire to see the return of my Lord?

Jesus, come soon! Give me the power through your Spirit to be a witness and testify to the whole world about you. Don't let me be distracted by politics or anything else. Amen.

Acts 1:1-5 The Promise of the Holy Spirit

Theophilus must've been a good friend of Luke and very interested in Jesus and his ministry. Luke's two volume work (the Gospel and Acts) seems to have been a response to Theophilus' questions about Jesus. I like Luke's diligence in researching answers for his friend. It speaks volumes of the importance to convey the message as clearly as possible to those who don't know. Am I diligent in researching answers for my friends about Jesus?

The central theme of Luke's writings is about what Jesus did and taught. The centrality of Christ in Luke's message to Theophilus is worthy of note. There are many things to talk about in life, but Jesus' ministry and teaching should be at the center of what I communicate to those seeking to know him. Jesus only! I should not water down the message of the Gospel with other matters of secondary importance. My message, like Luke's, should be Jesus.

Now, at the center of Jesus' teaching is the kingdom of God. Luke records that Jesus spent 4o days after the resurrection to talk about it. The greatest obstacle to the reality of the kingdom of God is Jesus' suffering. How can there be a kingdom when the so called King has been killed?

Jesus presented himself alive with many proofs. Jesus' appearance was not an isolated incident, but he appeared to the apostles and other disciples to calm their fears and eliminate their doubts. The message of God's kingdom has Jesus alive at its center as the King of kings. The reality of God's kingdom in my life depends on this issue. Do I believe that Jesus is alive? His life and ministry have no meaning to me unless he is truly alive today.

Finally, Luke highlights the Holy Spirit, the Father's promise. Jesus instructs them to wait until they receive the promise. The parallel made here is with baptism in water. Baptism is a public proclamation of faith that signifies the cleansing of a believer's sins. It is an essential step in the life of a believer. The promised baptism in the Spirit is also an essential part of a believer's life in the new covenant. All followers of Jesus will receive the promised Holy Spirit. I am grateful for the provision God has made for me to be dwelt, empowered, and guided by his Spirit in this world.

Father, may your Son Jesus Christ be the center of my own life. May I be willing to share his life, ministry, and resurrection with others. Thanks for the Holy Spirit who dwells in me and guides me in my faith journey day by day. Amen.

Matthew 12:22-32 Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit

What exactly is the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, the unforgivable sin? Let's follow the story and we will find out. A demon possessed man who was blind and mute is exorcised by Jesus. Exorcism is one of the signs of the coming of the kingdom of God and the Messiah. Signs are meant to point to a reality and compel people to believe. That's why some raised the question: "Can this be the Son of David?" The Pharisees accuse Jesus of performing the exorcism by Beelzebul. Beelzebul is a term derived from an ancient pagan god Baal and used by the Jews to refer to Satan or a demon.

Christ's argument against such a thought is that a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand. He also points out that some Pharisees, in the past, had attempted to exorcise though without success - he questions by whom or in whose name did they try to exorcise. The only way to cast out demons (plunder the house) is by binding the devil (strong man) first. And to be able to bind the devil there must be faith in Jesus; there must be an allegiance to the Messiah and his kingdom. So the unforgivable sin, the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is to continually refuse to make an allegiance with the Messiah despite the display of signs by the Spirit. It is unbelief in the face of the Spirit's call, through signs, to believe.

I wouldn't limit the work or signs of the Spirit to an era of miracles in Jesus' time and later the apostles'. The Spirit is alive and continues to work even today until the Lord's return. There are signs all around me. God is at work every day. The proclamation of the Gospel must be followed up by signs to drive people to believe. I must pray to my God to manifest himself in ways that serve to point people to the reality of the kingdom. I must pray that God will lift the blindness of this world so they may see Jesus. 

My emphasis on intellectual proof alone is not going to cut it. I need to believe that God will intervene in people's lives and pray to that end to see it become a reality. Arguments alone will not bring people into the kingdom. We need the demonstration of God's power in people's lives. Many times we think this must be a demonstrable miracle, but God can break through into people's lives in so many different ways. Do I believe? Am I praying for it?

Lord, grant me a passion to see you at work in people's lives. Move me to pray for signs in our day so people can me moved to believe. Help my unbelief. Open my eyes to see the splendor of your work as you give signs of the reality of your kingdom.