Interpretive Study of Acts 13-14

Chapter links: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28; God.

Acts Chapter 13

Chapter theme is: the Start of the First Missionary Trip to Gentiles.

links to sentences in this chapter:

C13-S1 (Verse 1), C13-S2 (Verse 2), C13-S3 (Verse 3), C13-S4 (Verse 4), C13-S5 (Verse 5), C13-S6 (Verse 6-7), C13-S7 (Verse 8), C13-S8 (Verse 9-10), C13-S9 (Verse 11), C13-S10 (Verse 11), C13-S11 (Verse 12), C13-S12 (Verse 13), C13-S13 (Verse 14), C13-S14 (Verse 15), C13-S15 (Verse 16), C13-S16 (Verse 17), C13-S17 (Verse 18), C13-S18 (Verse 19), C13-S19 (Verse 20), C13-S20 (Verse 21), C13-S21 (Verse 22), C13-S22 (Verse 23-24), C13-S23 (Verse 25), C13-S24 (Verse 25), C13-S25 (Verse 25), C13-S26 (Verse 26), C13-S27 (Verse 27), C13-S28 (Verse 28), C13-S29 (Verse 29), C13-S30 (Verse 30-31), C13-S31 (Verse 32-33), C13-S32 (Verse 34), C13-S33 (Verse 35), C13-S34 (Verse 36-37), C13-S35 (Verse 38-39), C13-S36 (Verse 40-41), C13-S37 (Verse 42), C13-S38 (Verse 43), C13-S39 (Verse 44), C13-S40 (Verse 45), C13-S41 (Verse 46), C13-S42 (Verse 47), C13-S43 (Verse 48), C13-S44 (Verse 49), C13-S45 (Verse 50), C13-S46 (Verse 51), C13-S47 (Verse 52)'.

Acts 13:1-3 tells us that God had the church of Antioch send Barnabas and Saul as the preachers of their first missionary team. Others, such as John Mark also went as helpers but they are not named at this time. (Notice that Acts 13:13 says: Paul and his company loosed from Paphos.)

Acts 13:4 tells us that they were sent forth by the Holy Ghost. They preached to Jews in their synagogues at this start of their mission trip. In addition, John Mark was their minister until he saw devils truly affecting this world and he was afraid.

Acts 13:6-12 tells us that they ran into a sorcerer whom Paul cursed because he directly opposed the Gospel. After he was cursed, the deputy of the region believed and Paul and Barnabas continued on their mission trip. However, John Mark returned to his mother's house in Jerusalem.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. The points of Paul's message were:

Acts 13:15 : Paul and Barnabas were invited to speak to the congregation after the reading of the law and the prophets.
Acts 13:16-22 : Paul gives a summary of the history of the Jews up through king David.
Acts 13:23 : Paul tells them that Jesus was the descendent of king David and God's promised Saviour. Also, he told them that John the Baptist first preached repentance to prepare the people for Jesus.
Acts 13:24-26 : Paul told them that John the Baptist gave witness that Jesus was their promised Saviour.
Acts 13:27-29 : Paul tells them that the religious rulers in Jerusalem did not recognize their promised Saviour and they did not know the scriptures. Therefore, the had Jesus crucified.
Acts 13:30-31 : tells us that God raised Jesus from the dead and, through Jesus, promised The sure mercies of David and incorruptible life.
Acts 13:36-37 : says that the Law of Moses could not give forgiveness of sin but that forgiveness of sins, and justification, only came through believing on Jesus. . .
Acts 13:40-41 : tells us that Paul references scripture and warned the Jews of God's promised judgment and that they would not believe even when the Gospel was preached to them.

Acts 13:42 tells us that the Gentiles asked Paul and Barnabas to preach to them the next Sabbath.

Acts 13:44 says: And the next Sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.

Acts 13:45 says: But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. Instead of recognizing the work of God in how many came out, they reacted sinfully.

Acts 13:46-49 tells us that Paul and Barnabas turned to the Gentiles because the Jews reacted wrongly. They did this based upon the call that Jesus gave to Paul when he was first saved. And, when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region.

Acts 13:50-52 tells us the results of their turning to the Gentiles.

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C13-S1 (Verse 1) How God started His missions program.

First Step: the type of people that God chose to work through.

Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers;

Second Step: Whom God chose.

as Barnabas,
and Simeon that was called Niger,
and Lucius of Cyrene,
and Manaen,
which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch,
and Saul.

All of these people named, except Saul, were brought up with Herod the tetrarch. That is, they were in the Jerusalem Church until the persecution by Herod the tetrarch. Then they were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only (Acts 11:19).

Please see the note for 1Corinthians 11:22 about the word church. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'a called out assembly of baptized believers'. Please also see the note for 2Thessalonians 1:4 about the phrase church(es) of God. The commonly accepted definition is 'a called out assembly of baptized believers' with most of the disagreement over people including buildings in the definition and people adding or denying different definitions for a 'universal church'. Please also see the note for Hebrews 12:18-24 about the word churches (plural). Please also note that 1Thessalonians gives us 'The Doctrine of the Church'.

Please see the note for 2Timothy 3:11 about Antioch. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The place of the first missionary church and the church which sen out Paul as a missionary'.

Please see the notes for Luke 1:76; Romans C16S33; Romans C12S5 and Jude about the word prophet. In addition, false prophets are covered in the Study called False things according to the Bible. The most popular religious definition for this word is: 'someone who foretells the future'. However, that definition tends to limit the thinking of people to only those statements when, actually, the majority of their message was doctrinal. Please also see the note for John 1:45 about the phrase law and the prophets. Please also see the links for Prophecies and Prophecies Fulfilled in the Gospel Significant Events Study and the New Testament Significant Events Study.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C12S27 about the word teach / taught. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To instruct; to inform; to communicate to another the knowledge of that of which he was before ignorant'. The word taught is the past-tense form of the word teach. Please also see the note for John 3:2 about the word teacher. Please also see the Study called False things According to the Bible about 'false teachers'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C9S8 about Barnabas. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This man was a peace maker'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C1S3 about the word call. That note has links to notes in every New Testament book where there are links to every place where the particular book uses this word. The New Testament definition is: 'To command another to help or to cry for help, hence to pray (Ge 4:26)'. Please also see the note for Romans 10:13; 2Thessalonians 3:1-LJC; Ephesians 5:8-LJC and 1John 4:14-LJC about the phrase call upon the Lord. The note for Romans 10:13 has links to every place in the Bible where we find the words call and Lord used together, along with a small note on each reference.

The Jews of Cyrene are mentioned in a good way within the Bible. The man who carried the cross of Jesus was from there. His sons were important in the early church. Jews from this region were involved in starting the church of Antioch and in sending Paul and Barnabas on the first missionary journey. Please see the note for Luke 23:26 for links to other places where this region is mentioned.

Please see the note for Matthew 2:1 about Herod. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' the Herods, though aliens by birth, were Jews in faith. they made religion an engine of state policy. Eschewing Antiochus Epiphanes' design to Graecize Jerusalem by substituting the Greek worship and customs for the Jewish law, the Herod's, while professing to maintain the law, as effectively set at nought its spirit by making it a lever for elevating themselves and their secular kingdom. for this end Herod adorned gorgeously the temple with more than Solomonic splendor'. Please also see the note for Mark 3:6 about the word Herodians.

Saul was the name of Paul before he was a missionary. (This is written in Acts 13:9.) Please see the note for 1Corinthians 1:12 for links to where Paul is named within the Bible. Please see the note for Colossians C1S6 for links to every place where the phrase I Paul is used. Please also see the second half of the book called SbS-Preacher Missionaries about how God used Paul to show us how He uses a pastor / missionary to build the ministry.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'in the. Ac 11:22-24; 14:26-27 prophets. Ac 11:25-27; 15:35; Ro 12:6-7; 1Co 12:28-29; 14:24-25; Eph 4:11; 1Th 5:20 exp: Mt 23:34. Barnabas. Ac 4:36; 11:22-26,30; 12:25; 1Co 9:6; Ga 2:9,13 Lucius. Ac 11:20; Ro 16:21 which, etc. or, Herod's foster brother'.

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C13-S2 (Verse 2) What they were doing when God chose them.

As they ministered to the Lord,
and fasted,
The Holy Ghost said,
Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase As they ministered to the Lord means: 'they were busy serving The Lord. God does not call lazy people'.
The phrase and fasted means: 'They did what The word of God says is how we get the greatest spiritual power from God'.
The phrase The Holy Ghost said means: 'God honored their service and fasting with specific instructions for what they were to do'.
The phrase Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them means: 'God chose the best for His work'.

This chapter starts out naming five different prophets and teachers that were in the church that was at Antioch. So when the Lord chose two to send out as missionaries, there were three left to keep the work going in The church that was at Antioch.

Notice that this verse says that they ministered to the Lord, and fasted. In Mark 9:29 Jesus taught that the greatest power requires prayer and fasting, which was what this church was doing. This was a united effort of at least all of the leaders, if not the majority of the church, and it was not just one or two who were doing prayer and fasting. In addition, we have the Biblical principal of greater power when the church unites (Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in Heaven. Forwhere two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them [Matthew 18:19-20 ]).

Further, while this verse says that The Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them, later in this book we learn that several others traveled with them. In particular, John Mark went on this first trip and went home before it was over. Barnabas and Saul had such a strong contention over giving him a second chance that they departed asunder one from the other (Acts 15:39).

In addition, we know that Luke joined them on many of these missionary trips and, later in Acts, we read of others joining them. Further, many places, such as Romans 16; list others who helped Paul in his missionary efforts. Many of these missionaries were non-preachers and many were women, such as Phebe who appeared to be single business-woman and carried the epistle to the church at Rome. The point being that while the Bible only lists Barnabas and Saul we actually have a team of missionaries which include non-preachers and women. (Please see the Book called SbS-Non-Preacher Missionaries for more details about these other missionaries.)

This is considerably different from what we do to send out missionaries today. Those missionary teams started churches which were quickly self-supporting and even sent financial help to the mother church in Jerusalem. In addition, these missionary churches survived and thrived when the mother church stopped sending them preachers and teachers. Today, we are still sending missionaries to the same fields that we have been sending them for over 100 years and there are hardly any surviving missionary churches from earlier efforts.

1Corinthians 12 explains about diversity of spiritual gifts, administrations, operations and manifestations of the Spirit. In particular, 1Corinthians 12:11 tells us But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. It is God who decides who gets spiritual gifts and God does not give all spiritual gifts to a preacher and his family.

This first missionary team, I believe, had all of the spiritual gifts represented in it. We hear all of the time about people saying that the preacher only wants then to give (financially) to the church because the preacher gets paid by the church. However, a successful business man testifying about how the Lord increased his ability to get money because he was faithful in his giving and testifying how his financial success is due to his faithful giving to the Lord's work ends a lot of those arguments.

When they that were of the circumcision contended with Peter (1Corinthians 11:1-2) and he proved that their complaint was with God because it was God that did the act, Peter shut their mouth. Likewise, someone who has the spiritual gift of giving has a lot more authority when it comes to teaching about giving than the preacher has because the preacher gets paid by the church.

The point is that The church that was at Antioch did not send out just a couple of preachers but sent a whole team which was a miniature church that had all of the main gifts of the Holy Spirit represented. This team had to include non-preachers and women. As a result, it was far more effective than our current missionary efforts have.

In addition to those truths, we see that the church leaders were ministering to the Lord but their instructions came from God's Holy Ghost. As explained in the Word Study on Holy Ghost, (use the link in the sentence outline above), God's Holy Ghost delivers the commandments but those commandments are sent from The Lord. The word of God teaches us that all worship is to be directed towards God's role as Lord and we are not to worship God's Holy Ghost, as some, mistakenly, do.

Please see the notes for Romans C13S6; 1Corinthians C3S5 and 2Corinthians 3:3 about the word minister. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The act of performing service as a subordinate agent; agency; intervention for aid or service. --Because their widows were neglected in the daily ministrations. Acts.6. 1. Office of a minister; service; ecclesiastical function. As soon as the days of his ministration were ended. Luke 1'. Please also see the note for Luke 1:23 about the word ministration. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C12S5 about the word administration.

Please see the note for Philippians 1:27-28 about the word fast. The application, in this sentence, is to 'stop eating, eating nothing'. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Literally, set, stopped, fixed, or pressed close. Hence, close; tight; as, make fast the door; take fast hold. When people stop eating that tine is also called a fast'. Please also see the note for Luke 15:22-24 about the word fasten. Please also see the note for Galatians C5S1 about the phrase stand fast. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C15S54 about the word stedfast.

Please see the note for Romans 11:1 about the phrase I say. The New Testament definition is: 'Uttering in articulate sounds or words; speaking; telling; relating; reciting'. Please also see the note for Romans C10S28 about the word gainsaying. Please also see the note for Matthew 26:1 about the word sayings (plural). Please also see the notes for Romans C15S15 and 2Corinthians 2:17 about the word speak. Please also see the note for 2Corinthians 3:12-14 about the word speech. Please also see the notes for Ephesians C4S15 and 1Peter 2:1 about the phrase evil speaking. The words speaketh and saith mean that the person 'keeps on keeping on doing the saying'.

Please see the note for Romans 1:1 about the word separate. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'To disunite; to divide; to sever; to part, in almost any manner, either things naturally or casually joined. the parts of a solid substance may be separated by breaking, cutting or splitting, or by fusion, decomposition or natural dissolution. A compound body may be separated into its constituent parts. Friends may be separated by necessity, and must be separated by death. the prism separates the several kinds of colored rays. A riddle separates the chaff from the grain'. the water of separation was: 'Used for purification in cases of ceremonial defilement, without the re-application of blood. Nu 19:9-21'. the New Testament definition of the word separated is: 'Divided; parted; disunited; disconnected'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C9S8 about Barnabas. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This man was a peace maker'.

Please see the notes for Romans C9S8; 1Corinthians C3S13; 2Corinthians 4:8-12; Galatians C2-S10 and Philippians 1:1 about the word works. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' In a general sense, to move, or to move one way and the other; to perform'. Please also see the note for Romans C11S10 about the phrase works are seen of men. Please also see the note for Psalms 119:23 about the phrase according to works. Please also see the note for Philippians 3:2 about the phrase evil workers. Please also see the note for Hebrews 4:12 about the phrase evil heart. Please also see the notes for Romans 8:1-LJC; Galatians C5-S6 and Revelation 19:2-LJC about the phrase judged by works. Please also see the note for Romans C3S27 about the phrase law of works. Please also see the note for 2Corinthians 6:1 about the word workers. Please also see the note for Matthew 10:9-10 about the word workman.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'they. Ac 6:4; De 10:8; 1Sa 2:11; 1Ch 16:4,37-43; Ro 15:16; Col 4:17; 2Ti 1:11; 4:5,11 exp: Ac 1:24. fasted. Ac 13:3; 10:30; Da 9:3; Mt 6:16; 9:14-15; Lu 2:37; 1Co 7:5; 2Co 6:5; 11:27 the Holy. Ac 10:19; 16:6-7; 1Co 12:11 Separate. Ac 22:21; Nu 8:11-14; Ro 1:1; 10:15; Ga 1:15; 2:8-9; 2Ti 2:2 the work. Ac 9:15; 14:26; Mt 9:38; Lu 10:1; Eph 3:7; 1Ti 2:7; 2Ti 1:11; Heb 5:4 General references. exp: Nu 8:10; Ac 8:29'.

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C13-S3 (Verse 3) the missionary team were sent after the church fasted and prayed.

And when they had fasted and prayed,
and laid their hands on them,
they sent them away.

Our sentence starts with the word and, which means it is added to the prior sentence. In fact, the word and, occurs 79 times just in this chapter. As the Chapter Summary explains, this entire chapter is a single report, which has several incidents reported within it, but it is all one report and the entire chapter is connected and must be considered as a single unit.

Within our single unit of this chapter, the prior sentence, and this sentence, tell us that these church leaders received direct guidance from God when they fasted and prayed. Many people claim that they don't know the will of God but they are ignoring the general instructions found within The word of God. In addition, when people need more specific guidance from God, The word of God, and our chapter, teach us that we can get specific guidance from God if we fast and pray.

With the prior noted, we see that the specific instructions from God were Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. Please note that these two men were the top spiritual leaders of the church. God wants the best to go to the mission field and oo many churches demand that the best stay at homeans send their 'left-overs'. The fact is that when Barabbas and Paul left, the 'second-string' moved up to the primary positions and received experience they would not have any other way. In addition, our chapter tells us that John Mark went on the mission team but left because he was not spiritually mature enough to handle the conditions. And, throughout the ages as well as today, we see missionaries failing for the same reason. At home, they have other people to encourage and help them. But on the Mission field, they only have God and they have devils using people to attack them, as we read in this book. Thus, if their personal relationship with God is not sufficient, then good people fail on the mission field.

Please see the notes for Romans C15S25 and 2Corinthians C1S6 about the word pray. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'talking to God'. Please also see the Doctrinal Study called Pray for links to papers on prayer.

Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C12S12 and Colossians C2S7 about the word hand. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'In man, the extremity of the arm, consisting of the palm and fingers, connected with the arm at the wrist; the part with which we hold and use any instrument. Often used symbolically for ability'. Please also see the note for Matthew 18:28 about the phrase laid hands. Please also see the note for 1Peter 5:6-7 about the phrase hand of God. Please also see the note for Mark 16:19 about the phrase right hand of God. Please also see the note for Luke 1:38 about the word handmaid. Please also see the note for 1John 1:1-3 about the word handle. Please also see the note for Matthew 3:1-2 about the phrase at hand. This phrase is defined as: 'it will happen very soon'. Please also see the note for Matthew 18:28 about the phrase laid hands. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To physically grab with the intention of doing great harm which, usually, ends in death'.

Please see the note for James 1:10 about the word away. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'Absent; at a distance; as, the master is away from home. Have me away, for I am wounded. 2Chron. 35. 2. It is much used with words signifying moving or going from; as, go away, send away, run away, etc.; all signifying departure, or separation to a distance. Sometimes without the verb; as, whither away so fast. Love hath wings and will away. 3. As an exclamation, it is a command or invitation to depart; away, that is, be gone, or let us go. "Away with him." Take him away. 4. With verbs, it serves to modify their sense and form peculiar phrases; as, to throw away, to cast from, to give up, dissipate or foolishly destroy. to trifle away, to lose or expend in trifles, or in idleness. to drink away, to squander away, etc., to dissipate in drinking or extravagance. to make away, is to kill or destroy. 5. Away with has a peculiar signification in the phrase, "I cannot away with it." Isa. 1. the sense is, "I cannot bear or endure it."'. Please also see the note for Romans C11S19 about the phrase cast away. Please also see the note for Romans C11S1 about the phrase God will not cast away his people. Please also see the note for John 6:67 about the phrase go away. Please also see the note for 2Corinthians 5:17 about the phrase passed away. Please also see the note for Matthew 19:3 about the phrase put away.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'they had. Ac 13:2; 6:6; 8:15-17; 9:17; 14:23; Nu 27:23; 1Ti 4:14; 5:22; 2Ti 1:6; 2:2 they sent. Ac 14:26; 15:40; Ro 10:15; 3Jo 1:6,8 General references. exp: Nu 8:10; Ac 8:29'.

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C13-S4 (Verse 4) Who sent them and where.

First Step: Who sent them.

So they,
being sent forth by the Holy Ghost,
departed unto Seleucia;.

Second Step: their way to the first foreign place.

and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

Acts 13:4-5 tells us that they were sent forth by the Holy Ghost. They preached to Jews in their synagogues at this start of their mission trip. In addition, John Mark was their minister until he saw devils truly affecting this world and he was afraid.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 12:8 about the word depart. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'to go or move from. Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire. Matt. 25. It is followed by from, or from is implied before the place left. I will depart to my own land, that is, I will depart from this place to my own land. Num. 10. 2. to go from; to leave; to desist, as from a practice. Jehu departed not from the sins of Jeroboam. Jehoshaphat departed not from the way of Asa his father'.

Please also see the note for 1John 2:20 about the phrase Holy One. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'our Saviour'. Jesus was in the grave for three days and three nights but thatwas not enough for His dead body to become corrupted. Lazarus was in the grounf four days and his body did become corrupted. Please see the notes for Romans C7S16; 1Corinthians C3S17; Philippians 1:3-7 and Colossians C1S6 about the word holy. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'pure in heart, temper or dispositions; free from sin and sinful affections. Applied to the Supreme Being, holy signifies perfectly pure, immaculate and complete in moral character; and man is more or less holy, as his heart is more or less sanctified, or purified from evil dispositions. We call a man holy, when his heart is conformed in some degree to the image of God, and his life is regulated by the divine precepts. Hence, holy is used as nearly synonymous with good, pious, Godly'. Please see the Word Study on Spirit for links to every place in the Bible where we find the phrase Holy Spirit. Please see the Word Study on Holy Ghost for links to every place in the Bible where we find the phrase Holy Ghost. Please see the note for Matthew 4:5 about the phrase holy city. Please also see the note for John 7:39 about the phrase Holy Spirit, indwelling.

Please see the note for Luke 8:23 about the word sail. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'pp. Passed in ships or other water craft'. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 13:4; Acts 14:26; Acts 15:39; Acts 18:18; Acts 18:21; Acts 20:3; Acts 20:6; Acts 20:13; Acts 20:15; Acts 20:16; Acts 21:2; Acts 21:3; Acts 27:1; Acts 27:2; Acts 27:4; Acts 27:5; Acts 27:6; Acts 27:7; Acts 27:9; Acts 27:13; Acts 27:17; Acts 27:24.

Please see the note for Acts 4:36 about Cyprus. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'one of the largest islands of the Mediterranean, about 148 miles long and 40 broad. It is distant about 60 miles from the Syrian coast. It was the "Chittim" of the Old Testament (Nu 24:24). the Greek colonists gave it the name of Kypros, from the cyprus, i.e., the henna (see Camphire), which grew on this island. It was originally inhabited by Phoenicians. In B.C. 477 it fell under the dominion of the Greeks; and became a Roman province B.C. 58. In ancient times it was a centre of great commercial activity. Corn and wine and oil were produced here in the greatest perfection. It was rich also in timber and in mineral wealth.
It is first mentioned in the New Testament (Ac 4:36) as the native place of Barnabas. It was the scene of Paul's first missionary labours (Ac 13:4-13), when he and Barnabas and John Mark were sent forth by the church of Antioch. It was afterwards visited by Barnabas and Mark alone (Ac 15:39). Mnason, an "old disciple," probaly one of the converts of the day of Pentecost belonging to this island, is mentioned (Ac 21:16). It is also mentioned in connection with the voyages of Paul (Ac 21:3; 27:4). After being under the Turks for three hundred years, it was given up to the British Government in 1878'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'being. Ac 20:23 Cyprus. Ac 4:36; 11:19; 27:4 exp: Ac 21:3. General references. exp: Jer 23:21; Ac 8:29'.

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C13-S5 (Verse 5) the start of their mission work.

Equivalent Section: the first place where they preached.

And when they were at Salamis,
they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews:.

Equivalent Section: the job of John Mark.

and they had also John to their minister.

When I teach a missions class, i emphasize the truth that preachers and church members have different jobs bout both are equally important to God. It is our sinful flesh which values men more than woman. It is also our sinful flesh which values leaders above followers. A leader can not be a leader without followers. And, yes, leaders are more important for accomplishing a given task. However, God values every person according to how well they fulfill the role which God gives to them. An obedient and submissive servant is more valuable to God and the ministry than a rebellious and self-serving leader.

John Mark made a mistake of believing that he was less valuable to the ministry because he was their minister and not a preacher. He left the mission team and, when it was time for the second missions trip, Paul and Barnabas split company because of him and we read nothing further about Barnabas. The point is that very person, especially every saved person, influences others and we will answer not only for what we do but also for our influence on others. John Mark thought that he wasn't important but he had a major influence on one of the two major leaders of the mission team.

Please see the notes for Romans C16S33; 1Corinthians C15S1; Galatians C1-S4 and 2Timothy 4:1-LJC about the word preach. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To pronounce a public discourse on a religious subject, or from a subject, or from a text of Scripture. the purpose of preaching is to get people to obey God's word'. Please also see the note for Romans 10:14 about the word preacher. Please also see the Study called False things According to the Bible about 'false preachers'.

Please see the note for Colossians 2S2 about the word word. The New Testament definition is: 'a single component part of human speech or language'. However, The word of God is the holy scriptures and in the English language, it is only the KJV-1611. Please also see the notes for Romans C10S22 and Word in 1John about the phrase word of God. Please also see the note for John 1:1 for an extensive note explaining the differences, and similarities, between the capitalized and the non-capitalized word word. When a Bible reference uses an uppercase word, it is referring to Jesus Christ. The uppercase makes this a formal name of the Son of God. However, while the exact definition is different, the properties are spiritually similar to the lowercase word. Please also see the note for 1Thessalonians 1:8 about the phrase word of the Lord. Please note that The word of the Lord is a sub-set of The word of God. The word of God contains all of God's written truth including recording the lies of Satan. The word of the Lord is that part of The word of God which will be used to judge us. The lies from Satan are not included within the word of the Lord.

Please see the note for John 6:59 about the word synagogue. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The word synagogue (sunagoge), which means a "congregation," is used in the New Testament to signify a recognized place of worship. A knowledge of the history and worship of the synagogues is of great importance, since they are the characteristic institution of the later phase of Judaism. they appear to have arisen during the exile, in the abeyance of the temple-worship, and to have received their full development on the return of the Jews from captivity. the whole history of Ezra presupposes the habit of solemn, probably of periodic, meetings'.

Please see the note for John 7:3 about the words Jewry / Judaea / Judea / Judah. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'This name occurs in Ezr 5:8 for the territory of Judah; in Da 5:13 the same is called JEWRY. In the N.T. the name at times refers to a much larger district, including all south of about 32 5' N with the plain on the west border of the land to mount Carmel as generally shown on N.T. maps. the land was thus divided by Rome, with Samaria in the centre, and Galilee in the north. In Lu 3:1 Judaea embraces the above and Samaria; but in other passages a smaller area than the above is implied. Ac 12:19 speaks of Herod going down from Judaea to Caesarea, whereas Caesarea would be part of the Judaea of the Romans. Paul, in Ga 1:22; 1Th 2:14, speaks of the 'churches of Judaea' which would seem to embrace the whole of Palestine. the context will almost always show the extent of the district intended. It is called JEWRY in Lu 23:5; Joh 7:1.'. the New Testament definition is: 'The area of land generally associated with the Southern Kingdom and religious control by Jewish rulers but which varies in size from one reference to another'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'in the. Ac 13:14,46; 14:1; 17:1-3,17; 18:4; 19:8 John. Ac 12:25; 15:37; Col 4:10 exp: Ac 12:12; 13:13. Their. Ex 24:13; 1Ki 19:3,21; 2Ki 3:11; Mt 20:26; 2Ti 4:11'.

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C13-S6 (Verse 6-7) their first opposition from a devil.

Equivalent Section: When and where they met the minister of a devil.

And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos,
they found a certain sorcerer,
a false prophet,
a Jew,
whose name was Bar-jesus:.

Equivalent Section: Where they met him and why.

First Step: he was with the local head of government.

Which was with the deputy of the country,
Sergius Paulus,
a prudent man;.

Second Step: the local head of government called for the mission team.

who called for Barnabas and Saul,
and desired to hear the word of God .

This is the second place where we are told that they preached. And, most places where it is reported that they preached to Jews, we also read about opposition. However, the prior sentence did not report any opposition. It is possible that there was no opposition and it is possible that it was not reported. However, this sentence starts the report of their first preaching to Gentiles and they run into opposition from a minister of a devil (a sorcerer and a false prophet).

We are told that the local head of government (he deputy of the country) was a prudent man. He had the sorcerer and false prophet with him because he displayed some spiritual power. And, he called for Barnabas and Saul because he heard that they also represented a spiritual power. Therefore, he was considering both the discover which represented the truly greatest spiritual power.

We find forms of the word isle occurring 33 times in 32 verses of the Bible and, in the New Testament, in: Acts 13:6; Acts 28:11; Revelation 1:9. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'There are no islands near to Palestine. Cyprus is the nearest, and that is about seventy miles from the nearest point of Syria, far north. So that the term 'The isles' may be used at times indefinitely for places or nations far off. We read of 'The isles which are beyond the sea,' 'The isles afar off,' and 'isles of the Gentiles.' Ge 10:5, etc.; Jer 25:22; 31:10, etc. It is thought that in some places in the prophets the sea-coasts or maritime countries are intended. Definite islands are also mentioned, especially in the N.T. when Paul began his missionary journeys'. Please see the note for Acts 27:16 about the word island.

We find forms of the word sorcerer in: Exodus 7:11; Jeremiah 27:9; Daniel 2:2; Malachi 3:5 ; Acts 13:6 ; Acts 13:8; Revelation 21:8; Revelation 22:15. The American Tract Society Dictionary defines this word as: 'One who practiced sorcery; nearly synonymous with magician, soothsayer, or wizard. this was a class of persons who dealt in incantations and divinations, and boasted of a power, in consequence of their deep science and by means of certain rites, to evoke the spirits of the dead from their gloomy abodes, and compel them to disclose information on subjects beyond the reach of human powers. they pretended also that, by means of certain herbs and information on subjects beyond the reach of human powers. they pretended also that, by means of certain herbs and incantations, they were able to expel demons, Ac 13:6,8. those persons also who devoted themselves to the general studies above mentioned, often abused their knowledge and deceived the common people, by pretending to foretell the destinies of men from the motions and appearances of the planets and stars, and to cure diseases by repeating certain phrases, etc. of this class appears to have been Simon the sorcerer, mentioned in Ac 8:9,11. Females who practiced such arts were called sorceresses and witches, Mal 3:5; Re 22:15. See DIVINATION, ENCHANTMENTS, and MAGIC'. Please also see the note for Acts 8:9 about the word sorcery.

Please see the note for Luke 3:14 about the word false. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Not true; not conformable to fact; expressing what is contrary to that which exists, is done, said or thought'. Please also see the Study called False things according to the Bible.

Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C1S1 and Philippians 2:9-11 about the word name. The New Testament definition is: 'How a person or thing is identified. In the Bible, the power and authority which is associated with the name is always part of the message where this word is used'. Please see the note for 1Corinthians C1S4 about the phrase The name. That note has links to every place in the New Testament where the phrase in the name. occurs along with links to where similar phrases occur in the New Testament. Please see the note for 1Peter 4:14-LJC about the name of Christ. Please see the note for Luke 13:35 about the phrase name of the Lord. Please also see the Summary and verses documents about the use of this word for the Son of God. Please also see the note for Acts 1:23 about the word surname.

We find forms of the word deputy in: 1Kings 22:47; Esther 8:9; Esther 9:3; Acts 13:7 ; Acts 13:8 ; Acts 13:12; Acts 18:12; Acts 19:38. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'n. 1. A person appointed or elected to act for another, especially a person sent with a special commission to act in the place of another; a lieutenant; a viceroy. A prince sends a deputy to a diet or council, to represent him and his dominions. A sheriff appoints a deputy to execute the duties of his office. the towns in New England send deputies to the legislature. In the latter sense, a deputy has general powers, and it is more common to use the word representative. 2. In law, one that exercises an office in anothers right, and the forfeiture or misdemeanor of such deputy shall cause the person he represents to lose his office'. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'In the O.T. governor of a district. 1Ki 22:47; Es 8:9; 9:3. In the N.T. proconsul, one who acted as governor of a Roman province with consular power. Ac 13:7-8,12; 18:12; 19:38'.

Please see the note for Mark 12:1 about the word country. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'An area of land. It can be all the land controlled by a government or the land lying near a city'.

Please see the note for Luke 10:21 about the word prudent. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'a. Cautious; circumspect; practically wise; careful of the consequences of enterprises, measures or actions; cautious not to act when the end is of doubtful utility, or probably impracticable. the prudent man looketh well to his going. Prov.14. A prudent man foreseeth the evil and hideth himself. Prov.22. 1. Dictated or directed by prudence; as prudent behavior. 2. foreseeing by instinct; as the prudent crane. 3. Frugal; economical; as a prudent woman; prudent expenditure of money. 4. Wise; intelligent'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C9S8 about Barnabas. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This man was a peace maker'.

Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C15S54 about the word stedfast. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Stead and fast. Constant; firm; resolute; not fickle or wavering; fast fixed; firm; firmly fixed or established; as the stedfast globe of earth'. Please also see the note for Philippians 1:27-28 about the word fast. Please also see the note for Luke 15:22-24 about the word fasten. Please also see the note for Galatians C5S1 about the phrase stand fast.

Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C12S14 and Galatians C3-S7 about the word hear. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'Perceiving by the ear. This word is often used symbolically for hearing the spiritual message of the word of God, as sound. 1. Listening to; attending to; obeying; observing what is commanded. 2. Attending to witnesses or advocates in a judicial trial; trying'. Please pay attention to the word 'obey' within this definition. That is what most people refuse to do when the Bible says that they do not hear. Please also see the note for James 2:5 about the word hearken. Please also see the note for Mark 4:9 about the phrase He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'certain. Ac 8:9-11; 19:18-19; Ex 22:18; Le 20:6; De 18:10-12; 1Ch 10:13; Isa 8:19-20 a false. De 13:1-3; 1Ki 22:22; Jer 23:14-15; Eze 13:10-16; Zec 13:3; Mt 24:24; 2Co 11:13; 2Ti 3:8; 2Pe 2:1-3; 1Jo 4:1; Re 19:20 whose. Mt 16:17; Mr 10:46; Joh 21:15-17 General references. exp: Le 19:31.
The deputy. Ac 13:12; 18:12; 19:38 a prudent. Ac 17:11-12; Pr 14:8,15,18; 18:15; Ho 14:9; 1Th 5:21 General references. exp: Le 19:31'.

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C13-S7 (Verse 8)

What the sorcerer did.

But Elymas the sorcerer (See Below) withstood them,
seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.

Below is the part of the sentence from the parenthesis.

(for so is his name by interpretation).

I'm not sure why his name is important. Someone why is into the meaning of names will have to explain that. However, what is important here is that he withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith. He deliberately did the work of a devil and deliberately tried to keep this government leader from The faith. Devils will promise people p[personal power and even do miracles for them (he was a sorcerer). But, such people have to serve devils and try to spread evil. In addition, what they receive is only in this life and the payment is eternity in Hell and The lake of fire.

Please see the note for Acts 13:7 about the word sorcerer. the American Tract Society Dictionary defines this word as: 'One who practiced sorcery; nearly synonymous with magician, soothsayer, or wizard. this was a class of persons who dealt in incantations and divinations, and boasted of a power, in consequence of their deep science and by means of certain rites, to evoke the spirits of the dead from their gloomy abodes, and compel them to disclose information on subjects beyond the reach of human powers. they pretended also that, by means of certain herbs and information on subjects beyond the reach of human powers. they pretended also that, by means of certain herbs and incantations, they were able to expel demons, Ac 13:6,8. those persons also who devoted themselves to the general studies above mentioned, often abused their knowledge and deceived the common people, by pretending to foretell the destinies of men from the motions and appearances of the planets and stars, and to cure diseases by repeating certain phrases, etc. of this class appears to have been Simon the sorcerer, mentioned in Ac 8:9,11. Females who practiced such arts were called sorceresses and witches, Mal 3:5; Re 22:15. See DIVINATION, ENCHANTMENTS, and MAGIC'. Please also see the note for Acts 8:9 about the word sorcery.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C10S24 about the word seek. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'v.t. pret and pp. sought, pronounced sat. L. sequor, to follow; for to seek is to go after, and the primary sense is to advance, to press, to drive forward, as in the L. peto. 1. to go in search or quest of; to look for; to search for by going from place to place. the man asked him, saying, what seekest thou? And he said, I seek my brethen. Gen. 37. 2. to inquire for; to ask for; to solicit; to endeavor to find or gain by any means. the young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God. Ps. 104. He found no place for repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears. Heb. 12'. Please also see the note for The S and P's of 2Timothy 1. Please also see the note for Acts 17:24-28 about seek the Lord.

Please see the note for Acts 13:7 about the word deputy. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'In the O.T. governor of a district. 1Ki 22:47; Es 8:9; 9:3. In the N.T. proconsul, one who acted as governor of a Roman province with consular power. Ac 13:7-8,12; 18:12; 19:38'.

Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C1S3; 2Corinthians C1S17; Galatians C3S27; Ephesians 6:23-LJC; Philippians 1:25-26 and 2Timothy C1S2 about the word faith. The New Testament definition is: 'an action word that is based upon a belief in a promise found within the Bible with the action dictated by the Bible and the understanding that our action does not force God to act nor determines when or how God acts but proves that of our own free will we are giving God permission to act in and through our life to do what He promised within His Word'. Please also see the notes for Colossians 1:1 and Titus 1:1 about the word faithful. The New Testament definition is: 'Firm in adherence to the truth and to the duties of religion. Full of faith, trustful, and not simply trustworthy. being true to oneself, to one's nature, to any promise given, and to any trust committed'. Please also see the note for Hebrews 3:1-LJC about Christ Jesus is faithful. Please also see the notes for Romans 4 and James 2:21-LJC about Abraham's faith. Please also see the note for 2Timothy C1S2 about the phrase faith: unfeigned. Please also see the note for 2Peter 2:3 about the word feign. Please also see the note for Romans C10S12 about the phrase faith makes us not ashamed. Please also see the note for Ephesians C1S2 about the phrase just shall live by faith. Please also see the note for Romans C11S6 about the phrase just shall live by his faith. Please also see the note for Romans C3S29 about the phrase justification by faith. Please also see the note for Romans C3S25 about Law and faith. Please also see the note for Romans C9S28 about live / walk by faith.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C12S8 about the word interpret. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'v.t. L. interpretor, from interpres. 1. to explain the meaning or words to a person who does not understand them; to expound; to translate unintelligible words into intelligible ones; as, to interpret the Hebrew language to an Englishman. --Immanuel, which being interpreted, signified, God with us. Matt.1. 2. to explain or unfold the meaning of predictions, vision, dreams or enigmas; to expound and lay open what is concealed from the understanding; as, Joseph interpreted the dream of Pharaoh. 3. to decipher. 4. to explain something not understood; as, to interpret looks or signs. 5. to define; to explain words by other words in the same language'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'for. Ac 13:6; 9:36; Joh 1:41 withstood. Ex 7:11-13; 1Ki 22:24; Jer 28:1,10-11; 29:24-32; 2Ti 3:8; 4:14-15 General references. exp: Le 19:31; Isa 47:12'.

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C13-S8 (Verse 9-10)

Paul identifies the true nature and purpose of the sorcerer.

Then Saul,
(See Below),
filled with the Holy Ghost,
set his eyes on him,
And said,
O full of all subtilty and all mischief,
thou child of the devil,
thou enemy of all righteousness,
wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord ?.

Below is the part of the sentence from the parenthesis.

(who also is called Paul).

This is the first time that Saul is called Paul in the Bible. We need to be doing the work which God calls us to before we are recognized for it by God.

Our sentence tells us a couple of important doctrines. First, people who pervert the right ways of the Lord are full of all subtilty and all mischief. They are personally (thou) a child of the devil. They are personally (thou) the enemy of all righteousness. Such people pretend to preach The word of God but they do things like use a wrong definition for a critical word or ignore punctuation or take things out of context. In our next sentence we see Paul curse this sorcerer and make him blind. And, as with all miracles (in the Gospels if not the entire Bible), this miracle is a physical example of the spiritual context that it is reported in context with. That is, his physical blindness was a physical example of his spiritual blindness. He had fooled people into thinking that he had the power of God. But, like the Jewish religious leaders, he was truly spiritually blind and only fooling people.

in this sentence, we see Paul use the power of God's Holy Ghost to affect things in this physical reality and to reveal spiritual truth.

in this sentence, Paul is talking to a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew (Acts 13:6). As a Jew, he would understand that Paul is accusing him of being a tool of Satan and that he is challenging the Creator of the Universe in all of His power and authority. Notice that we see a judgment upon this enemy of all righteousness who perverted the right ways of the Lord that we don't see put upon those who taught a false religion. Later, in this same chapter and in further chapters in Acts, we see Jews persecuting Paul and Barnabus and running them out of town and trying to kill them and doing all kinds of terrible things to these men of God. Yet these others don't receive the judgment that this sorcerer receives. The difference is that the others who persecuted Paul and Barnabus honestly believed a lie. If they did not get truly saved then they suffered the consequence of their error. However, no matter how they treated the men of God, they did not pervert the right ways of the Lord. Webster's 1828 defines 'pervert' as:

to turn from truth, propriety, or from its proper purpose; to distort from its true use or end; as, to pervert reason by misdirecting it; to pervert the laws by misinterpreting and misapplying them; to pervert justice; to pervert the meaning of an author; to pervert nature; to pervert truth.
To turn from the right; to corrupt.

The serpent had perverted Eve.

Notice that this definition contain 'To turn from the (right / truth) to corrupt'. In order to do that, you have to start from right/ truth. The men who persecuted the men of God, but did not receive judgment from God, started from error. They did not pervert the right ways of the Lord but fought for the error that they believed in. However, this sorcerer and false prophet had to know the way of righteousness in order to pervert it. So we see a truth here that many would like to deny. First, saved people can turn to doing evil and can serve devils. Secondly, those who know the truth and pervert it receive greater judgment than those who seem to do worse deeds but who have never known the truth.

Notice also that while Paul was filled with the Holy Ghost he said that this man was a child of the devil who was full of all subtilty and all mischief. He was a child of the devil because he had taken on the character of The devil when he chose to learn subtilty and all mischief. This is consistent with the use of child / children / son in the Bible. In the Bible, the child takes on the character of the parent. When we become one of the sons of God (John 1:12-13; Romans 8:14), we take on the character of God. When we receive the truth of God and pervert it, we take on the character of The devil.

in this sentence, Paul challenges this Jew to stop serving a devil and return to doing right. And, our next sentence tells us that Paul cursed him and made him physically blind and not seeing the sun for a season. When we see a miracle in the Bible we need to look at the spiritual meaning of what the miracle is in context with. This miracle was a physical example of the spiritual blindness of this Jew. Jesus said that the Pharisees were spiritually blind. He also said: Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. (Matthew 15:14). When we follow spiritually blind religious leaders we are led into destruction. That was the lesson of this incident.

Please see the note for Romans 1:29 about the word fill. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Properly, to press; to crowd; to stuff. Hence, to put or pour in, till the thing will hold no more'. Please see the note for 4:18 about the word full. The New Testament definition is: 'Replete; having within its limits all that it can contain'. Please also see the note for Colossians 2:9 about the word fullness. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Replete; having within its limits all that it can contain'. Please also see the note for Romans 15:13 about the word fulfill. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'A tautological compound of full and fill. 1. to accomplish; to perform; to complete; to answer in execution or event what has been foretold or promised; as, to fulfill a prophecy or prediction; to fulfill a promise'. Please also see the Studies called Prophecies Fulfilled in the Gospels and Prophecies Fulfilled in the Epistles.

Please see the notes for Romans C7S16; 1Corinthians C3S17; Philippians 1:3-7 and Colossians C1S6 about the word holy. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'pure in heart, temper or dispositions; free from sin and sinful affections. Applied to the Supreme Being, holy signifies perfectly pure, immaculate and complete in moral character; and man is more or less holy, as his heart is more or less sanctified, or purified from evil dispositions. We call a man holy, when his heart is conformed in some degree to the image of God, and his life is regulated by the divine precepts. Hence, holy is used as nearly synonymous with good, pious, Godly'. Please see the Word Study on Spirit for links to every place in the Bible where we find the phrase Holy Spirit. Please see the Word Study on Holy Ghost for links to every place in the Bible where we find the phrase Holy Ghost. Please see the note for Matthew 4:5 about the phrase holy city. Please also see the note for 1John 2:20 about the phrase Holy One. Please also see the note for John 7:39 about the phrase Holy Spirit, indwelling.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C12S13 about the word eye. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The organ of sight or vision; properly, the globe or ball movable in the orbit'. Please also see the note for John 12:45 about the phrase eyes to see.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 11:3 about the words subtilty / subtilly. Both spellings have the same definition in Webster's 1828 . Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word / these spellings as: 'thinness; fineness; exility; in a physical sense; as the subtilty of air or light; the subtilty of sounds. 2. Refinement; extreme acuteness. Intelligible discourses are spoiled by too much subtilty in nice divisions. 3. Slyness in design; cunning; artifice; usually but less properly written subtlety'.

We find forms of the word mischief occurring 50 times in 49 verses of the Bible but only within this sentence within the New Testament. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: ', n. 1. Harm; hurt; injury; damage; evil, whether intended or not. A new law is made to remedy the mischief. 2. Intentional injury; harm or damage done by design. Thy tongue deviseth mischief. Ps.52. 3. Ill consequence; evil; vexatious affair. The mischief was, these allies would never allow that the common enemy was subdued.
MIS'CHIEF, v.t. to hurt; to harm; to injure'.

Please see the note for Galatians C4-S1 about the word child. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Someone who has less physical or spiritual maturity than the speaker. This word has considerable latitude of meaning in Scripture. Thus, Joseph is called a child at the time when he was probably about sixteen years of age (Ge 37:3); and Benjamin is so called when he was above thirty years (Ge 44:20)'. Please also see the note for Galatians C3S9 about the phrase children of Abraham. The New Testament definition is: 'The Jews claimed to be children of Abraham but Jesus said that the true children of Abraham would have his faith'. Please also see the note for 2Corinthians 3:7-8 about the phrase children of Israel. Please also see the note for Romans C8S14; God in Romans : Romans C4S12 and 1Peter 2:1 about the phrase children of God. Please also see the note for Galatians 4:19-20 about the phrase my little children. Please also see the note for Mark 2:19 about the phrase children of the bridechamber. Please also see the note for Colossians 3:8 about the phrase children of disobedience. The New Testament definition is: 'Saved people who live a life of disobedience to God'. Please also see the note for Colossians 3:8 about the phrase children of wrath.

Please see the notes for John 14:6; 1Corinthians C4S17 and Psalms 119 about the word way. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'How we get from our present condition/place in life to the time that we face the judgment of God upon our life'. Please also see the note for Mark 1:3 about the phrase way of the Lord. Please also see the note for Matthew 13:4 about the phrase way side.

Please also see the section called Jesus and Devils; in the Study called Significant Gospel Events, for links to every place where Jesus dealt with devils and separates the references according to how He dealt with them. Please note that there are no 'daemons' within the Bible. That word is doctrinal error deliberately taught by devil-motivated men to cause God's children to ignore or think less about the true danger that true devils are. Please also see the note for 12:9 about the word devil. Please also see the Word Study on Spirit for links to every place in the Bible where we find 'Other Spirits', which are devils. Please also see the note for 2Corinthians 2:10-11 about Satan.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C15S19 about the word enemy. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'n. L. inimicus. 1. A foe; an adversary. A private enemy is one who hates another and wishes him injury, or attempts to do him injury to gratify his own malice or ill will. A public enemy or foe, is one who belongs to a nation or party, at war with another. I way to you, love your enemies. Matt.5. Enemies in war; in peace friends. 2. One who hates or dislikes; as an enemy to truth or falsehood. 3. In theology, and by way of eminence, the enemy is the Devil; the archfiend. 4. In military affairs, the opposing army or naval force in war, is called the enemy'.

Please see the note for Romans C1S10 and Galatians C2-S16 about the words righteous / righteousness. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'doing the right thing, as defined by God, the right way and at the right time with the right purpose'. Please also see the note for Ephesians 4:7-LJC about the phrase righteousness of the Law. Please also see the note for James 3:18 about the phrase fruit of righteousness. Please also see the note for Romans C4S7 about the phrase imputeth righteousness. Please also see the notes for Romans 3:5 and Romans C1S16 about the word unrighteousness.

Please see the note for Hebrews 10:2 about the word cease. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' to stop moving, acting or speaking; to leave of; to give over; followed by from before a noun'. Please also see the note for Luke 9:30 about the word decease.

Please see the note for Galatians C1-S3 about the word pervert. This word was defined above.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'who. Ac 13:7 filled. Ac 2:4; 4:8,31; 7:55; Mic 3:8 set. Mr 3:5; Lu 20:17 General references. exp: Isa 47:12.
O full. Ac 8:20-23; Ec 9:3; Mt 3:7; 15:19; 23:25-33; Lu 11:39; 2Co 11:3 thou child. Ge 3:15; Mt 13:38; Joh 8:44; 1Jo 3:8 will. Ac 20:30; Jer 23:36; Mt 23:13; Lu 11:52; Ga 1:7 the right. Ac 18:25-26; Ge 18:19; 2Ch 17:6; Ho 14:9; Joh 1:23 General references. exp: Pr 24:2; Isa 47:12'.

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C13-S9 (Verse 11) Paul curses the sorcerer and gives him physical blindness as a sign of his spiritual blindness.

And now,
behold,
The hand of the Lord is upon thee,
and thou shalt be blind,
not seeing the sun for a season.

Notice that this sentence starts with and, which adds it to the prior sentence.in this verse, Paul is stating in detail what judgment the Lord will bring. This man was a false prophet; which means that that he was known as a seer and had visions from a god. The true God always matches judgment to the sin. Since his sin was giving false visions, God struck his physical vision so that other men would know that his claimed spiritual vision was not reliable. As noted above, God always does judgment in His role as Lord. .Please see the New Testament Significant Events Study for links to other miracles reported in this book.

Please see the note for Colossians C2S3 about the word behold. Webster's 1828 Dictionary defines this word as: 'to fix the eyes upon; to see with attention; to observe with care. Behold the lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world. John 1. 2. In a less intensive sense, to look upon; to see. When he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived. Num. 21. BEHO'LD, v.i. to look; to direct the eyes to an object. And I beheld, and lo, in the midst of the throne, a lambdas it had been slain. Rev.5. 1. to fix the attention upon an object; to attend; to direct or fix the mind. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. Rev.3.word is much used in this manner for exciting attention, or admiration. It is in the imperative mode, expressing command, or exhortation; and by no means a mere exclamation.' Please also see the note for 2:18-19 about the word holding'.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 3:12-14 about the word blind. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word is: 'Blind beggars are frequently mentioned (Mt 9:27; 12:22; 20:30; Joh 5:3). the blind are to be treated with compassion (Le 19:14; De 27:18). Blindness was sometimes a punishment for disobedience (1Sa 11:2; Jer 39:7), sometimes the effect of old age (Ge 27:1; 1Ki 14:4; 1Sa 4:15). Conquerors sometimes blinded their captives (2Ki 25:7; 1Sa 11:2). Blindness denotes ignorance as to spiritual things (Isa 6:10; 42:18-19; Mt 15:14; Eph 4:18). the opening of the eyes of the blind is peculiar to the Messiah (Isa 29:18). Elymas was smitten with blindness at Paul's word (Ac 13:11)'.

Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C13S9; 2Corinthians 2:17 and Colossians C1S6 about the words see / sight. The New Testament definition is: 'perception of objects by the eye; view. this word is often used symbolically for spiritual understanding'. Please also see the note for John 6:40-LJC about the phrase see the Son. Please also see the note for Acts 2:25 about the words foresee / foresaw. Please also see the note for Romans C11S10 about the phrase works are seen of men.

Please see the note for Matthew 5:45 about the word sun. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Ge 1:14 translated "let there be luminaries," literally, "light bearers". Genesis only tells what the sun, moon, and stars are in relation to the earth'.

Please see the note for Mark 12:2 about the word season. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'A fit or suitable time; the convenient time; the usual or appointed time; as, the messenger arrived in season; in good season'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'hand. Ex 9:3; 1Sa 5:6,9,11; Job 19:21; Ps 32:4; 38:2; 39:10-11 thou. Ac 9:8-9,17; Ge 19:11; 2Ki 6:8; Isa 29:10; Joh 9:39; Ro 11:7-10,25 General references. exp: Isa 47:12'.

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C13-S10 (Verse 11) God proved that He was more powerful than the devil that the sorcerer served.

First Step: God blinded him in a way that others could see.

And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness;

Second Step: He had to have someone lead him around.

and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.

Notice that this sentence starts with and, which adds it to the prior sentence. in this verse, Paul is stating in detail what judgment the Lord will bring. This man was a false prophet; which means that that he was known as a seer and had visions from a god. The true God always matches judgment to the sin. Since his sin was giving false visions, God struck his physical vision so that other men would know that his claimed spiritual vision was not reliable. As noted above, God always does judgment in His role as Lord.

Our First Step tells us that immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness. This means that God made sure that people could see, and understand, the judgment of God. This man, who claimed to be a spiritual guide, was spiritually blind and God showed everyone that he was spiritually blind. In addition, our Second Step tells us that he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. God made it obvious that he not only could not lead but that he needed someone to lead him.

Please also see the note for 2Peter 2:17, Which also uses, and describes, a mist and a darkness. Symbolically, God was letting people know that he could see something, just not clearly. Lost people can not see any spiritual truth. No, these are saved people who can not see clearly because they hold onto things which oppose the light of God (darkness) and prevent them from seeing spiritual truth clearly (mist). This man was a Jew, and a child of God. However, he let the things of this world (darkness) take away his light of God so that he could not see clearly (mist).

Please see the note for Mark 1:42 about the word immediate. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'Proximate; acting without a medium, or without the intervention of another cause or means; producing its effect by its own direct agency. An immediate cause is that which is exerted directly in producing its effect, in opposition to a mediate cause, or one more remote. 2. Not acting by second causes; as the immediate will of God. 3. Instant; present; without the intervention of time. We must have an immediate supply of bread. Immediate are my needs-- Death--inflicted--by an immediate stroke'.

The words fell and fallen are the past-tense forms of the word fall. Please see the note for 1Timothy 3:6 about the word fall. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'moving from a high position to a low position'. This word is often used symbolically for the spiritual meaning which is: 'To drop from a higher place. Rain falls from the clouds; a man falls from his horse. Apostasy: unexpectedly moving from a high spiritual position to a low spiritual position. I beheld Satan as lightning fall from Heaven. Luke 10'. The word fell. is the past-tense form of the word fall.

We find forms of the word mist only in: Genesis 2:6; Acts 13:11; 2Peter 2:17. The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia defines this word as: '('edh; achlus, homichie): Mist is caused by particles of water vapor filling the air until it is only partially transparent. Mist and haze produce much the same effect, the one being due to moisture in the atmosphere and the other to dust particles. Mist or fog is not common on the plains of Palestine and Syria at sea-level, but is of almost daily occurrence in the mountain valleys, coming up at night and disappearing with the morning sun (The Wisdom of Solomon 2:4). It is nothing else than a cloud touching the land. In the account of creation, "there went up a mist from the earth," giving a description of the warm humid atmosphere of the carboniferous ages which agrees remarkably with the teaching of modern science (Ge 2:6). the word is used figuratively in Ac 13:11 to describe the shutting out of light. those who bring confusion and uncertainty are compared to "mists driven by a storm" (2Pe 2:17). See VAPOR. Alfred H. Joy'.

Please see the note for Romans 13:12; John 8:12 about the word darkness. The symbolic definition for this word is: 'lack of spiritual light and guidance from God including following the guidance of a devil'. Please also see Light and Darkness in 1John. Please also see the Message called outer darkness.

Please see the note for Mark 13:11 about the word lead (verb). The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To go before and show the way'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'a mist. 2Pe 2:17 General references. exp: Isa 47:12'.

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C13-S11 (Verse 12) the deputy understood the difference between The doctrine of the Lord and the doctrine from the false prophet.

Then the deputy,
when he saw what was done,
believed,
being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord .

This sentence says that the deputy was astonished at the doctrine of the Lord. He was being shown the truth as opposed to the lies from the false prophet. One thing that would be different between The doctrine of the Lord and what this false prophet was saying is that the false prophet; like all false religious leaders, would claim that access to God was only possible through him. That preserves his power that he steals from God. However, the true doctrine of the Lord is that we are to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and that He (not some religion or religious leader) is The way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6).

In addition, 1John 2:1 says we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous which means we have only one advocate with the Father and that person is Jesus Christ the righteous. Again, 1John 2:27 tells us But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. We do not need to have some man in order to learn from God if we are truly saved because The same anointing [indwelling Holy Ghost] teacheth you of all things.

Further, we are also warned about men like this false prophet in 1John 2:18; 1John 2:22; 1John 4:3; 2John 1:7 where John calls them antichrists because they are against Christ and claim that they give us an alternative way to spiritual maturity. That is, they claim there is some way to sanctification besides an ongoing personal relationship with the Son of God through His role as Christ. The true doctrine of the Lord is that we must come to God through the personal ministry of Jesus Christ and those who pervert that truth will face judgment by the Lord. The Lord established (made more reliable than laws of nature) one way to approach God and that only way is through the personal relationship with Jesus Christ the righteous which is known as salvation.

in this sentence, we read that The deputy saw what was done. There was no question who had the greater spiritual power, the false prophet or the God Whom Paul represented. And, once he understood who had the greater power, he became astonished at the doctrine of the Lord. As the local head of government, he understood that not all people could talk directly to him whenever they wanted. But that is exactly what God offers to the truly saved. That is what he found to be astonishing.

Please see the notes for Romans C10S15; 1Corinthians C14S25 and Galatians C3-S8 about the word believe. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To credit upon the authority or testimony of another; to be persuaded of the truth of something upon the declaration of another, or upon evidence furnished by reasons, arguments, and deductions of the mind, or by other circumstances, than personal knowledge. When we believe upon the authority of another, we always put confidence in his veracity. When we believe upon the authority of reasoning, arguments, or a concurrence of facts and circumstances, we rest our conclusions upon their strength or probability, their agreement with our own experience, etc. Tocredit upon the authority or testimony of another; to be persuaded of the truth of something upon the declaration of another, or upon evidence furnished by reasons, arguments, and deductions of the mind, or by other circumstances, than personal knowledge. When we believe upon the authority of another, we always put confidence in his veracity. When we believe upon the authority of reasoning, arguments, or a concurrence of facts and circumstances, we rest our conclusions upon their strength or probability, their agreement with our own experience, etc. true Biblical belief causes us to act upon that belief and any claimed belief that does not lead to matching action is a lie. Many people confuse faith and belief. Before people act, they have a belief but that belief does not turn into true faith until the people act upon it. Thus, we need to tell people the true gospel, which requires them to act upon their claimed belief'. Please also see the note for John 3:16 about the word believeth. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'a lifestyle belief. This is opposed to whay people call belief but what they have does not stay with them'. Please also see the notes for John 6:42 and John 12:40 about the phrase believe on / believe in. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This identifies an ongoing spiritual relationship'. Please also see the notes for Romans 3:26-LJC and John 20:31-LJC about the phrase believe in Jesus / Christ. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The start of a spiritual relationship with Jesus and / or Christ'. Please also see the note for John 8:30 about the phrase belief, non-saving. Please also see the note for Romans C10S15 about the phrase belief (true) changes life.

Please see the note for Mark 1:22 about the word astonished. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'mazed; confounded with fear, surprise, or admiration'.

Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C14S6 and 2Timothy C3S10 about the word doctrine. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Literally 'teaching,' usually means the substance of what is taught, but in some passages (as Mr 4:2) it means 'act of teaching,' and in others (Mt 7:28-29.) manner of teaching'. Please also see the note for Lord Jesus Christ Overview about the phrase doctrine of Christ.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'The deputy. Ac 13:7; 28:7 exp: Ac 18:12. when. Ac 19:7; Mt 27:54; Lu 7:16 being. Ac 6:10; Mt 7:28-29; Lu 4:22; Joh 7:46; 2Co 10:4-5 General references. exp: Isa 47:12'.

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C13-S12 (Verse 13) Where the mission team went next.

Equivalent Section: Most of the team went here.

Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos,
they came to Perga in Pamphylia:.

Equivalent Section: John Mark went home to his mother.

and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.

There are, reportedly, a lot of missionaries who do not finish their first term on the mission field an many more who, reportedly, quit after the first term. That is why God calls the most spiritually mature to the mission field. It can be far more difficult to stay focused on spiritual things when you are experiencing unfamiliar and upsetting things in the physical reality. Different peoples and different places have different cultures. And, 'Cultural Shock' is far more real and far more upsetting than most people realize.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians 1:12 for links to where Paul is named within the Bible. Please see the note for Colossians C1S6 for links to every place where the phrase I Paul is used. Please also see the second half of the book called SbS-Preacher Missionaries about how God used Paul to show us how He uses a pastor / missionary to build the ministry.

Please see the note for John 6:5 about the word company. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' Any assemblage of persons or other animals, in a very indefinite sense'. Please also see the note for Philippians 2:25 about the word companion. Please also see the note for Hebrews 6:9 about the word accompany. All of these words have a similar basic meaning while the technical details vary.

Please see the note for Mark 11:4 about the word loose. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'to free from restraint or confinement; to set at liberty'.

There are several men named John in the Bible. This John was John Mark, the nephew of Barnabus and the author of the Gospel of Mark.

Please see the note for Acts 1:12 about the word return. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'v.i. L. torno. 1. to come or go back to the same place. the gentleman goes from the country to London and returns, or the citizen of London rides into the country and returns. the blood propelled from the heart, passes through the arteries to the extremities of the body, and returns through the veins. Some servants are good to go on errands, but not good to return. 2. to come to the same state; as, to return from bondage to a state of freedom. 3. to answer. He said, and thus the queen of heaven return'd. 4. to come again; to revisit. Thou to mankind be good and friendly still, and oft return. 5. to appear or begin again after a periodical revolution. With the year seasons return, but not to me returns day - 6. to show fresh signs of mercy. Return, O Lord, deliver my soul. Ps. 6. Toreturn to God, to return from wickedness, to repent of sin or wandering from duty'. Please also see the note for Matthew 17:1 about the phrase Jesus Christ will return in glory.

Please see the note for Galatians C1-S12 about Jerusalem. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The central place of worship of the true God'. Several Bible dictionaries have quite large entries about Jerusalem because it is so important within the Bible and within world history outside of the Bible.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'loosed. Ac 13:6; 27:13 Perga. Ac 2:10; 14:24-25; 27:5 John. Ac 13:5; 15:38; Col 4:10; 2Ti 4:11 exp: Ac 12:12; 15:37'.

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C13-S13 (Verse 14) the next place where they preached to the Jews.

But when they departed from Perga,
they came to Antioch in Pisidia,
and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day,
and sat down.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. This sentence tells us where they went next after John Mark left them. This sentence tells us where Paul preached this message.

Please see the notes for Matthew 12:8-LJC and Colossians 2:16-17 about the word sabbath. The New Testament definition is: 'a day to rest from our work and fellowship with God'. Please also see the note for Matthew 12:8-LJC about how Jesus dealt with the sabbath in the Gospels. That note has links to several places in the Gospels where Jesus did things on the sabbath day which went against the religious rules of the Jews. That sentence, in Matthew, tells us For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day, which means that He was the one to determine what could or could not be done on the sabbath day. The religious leaders did not have that right. In addition, Mark 2:27-28 tells us: And he said unto them, the sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. Further, Mark 2:27-28 tells us: And he said unto them, the sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. Please also see the Luke 5 Summary for a note on the doctrinal dispute over the sabbath which occurred between Jesus and the Jewish religious leaders.

Please see the note for Luke 1:5 about the word day. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'The Jews reckoned the day from sunset to sunset (Le 23:32). It was originally divided into three parts (Ps 55:17). "The heat of the day" (1Sa 11:11; Ne 7:3) was at our nine o'clock, and "The cool of the day" just before sunset (Ge 3:8). Before the Captivity the Jews divided the night into three watches, (1) from sunset to midnight (La 2:19); (2) from midnight till the cock-crowing (Jg 7:19); and (3) from the cock-crowing till sunrise (Ex 14:24). In the New Testament the division of the Greeks and Romans into four watches was adopted (Mr 13:35). (See Watches.) the division of the day by hours is first mentioned in Da 3:6,15; 4:19; 5:5. this mode of reckoning was borrowed from the Chaldeans. the reckoning of twelve hours was from sunrise to sunset, and accordingly the hours were of variable length (Joh 11:9). The word "day" sometimes signifies an indefinite time (Ge 2:4; Isa 22:5; Heb 3:8, etc.). In Job 3:1 it denotes a birthday, and in Isaiah 2:12; Acts 17:31; 2Timothy 1:18; the great day of final judgment'. The New Testament definition, of the phrase last day is: '(end of the) Church Age. However, in the life of the individual, it can be used for the day that he dies'. Please see the note for Hebrews 3:13 about the word today. The New Testament definition is: 'obey immediately'. Please also see the note for Matthew 26:55 about the word daily. Please also see the notes for Philippians 1:6-LJC and 1Thessalonians 5:2 about the phrase day of. Please also see the note for 1Thessalonians 5:2 about the phrase day of the Lord. Please also see the note for John 20:1 about the phrase first day of the week.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'A.M. 4050. A.D. 46. Antioch. Ac 14:19,21-24 went. Ac 13:5; 16:13; 17:2; 18:4; 19:8'.

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C13-S14 (Verse 15) the rulers of the synagogue opened the floor to let visitors speak.

And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them,
saying,
Ye men and brethren,
if ye have any word of exhortation for the people,
say on.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. This sentence tells us that they were invited to speak.

Paul and Barnabas were invited to speak words of exhortation, which is reported that Paul did. Notice that even though Barnabas was the pastor, God has pushed Paul forward as the leader of the mission team.

Please see the note for 1Timothy 4:13 about the word read. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Getting the meaning of what was written into the mind. this can be done orally or silently'. Please also see the note for Luke 6:3 about the phrase have ye not read.

Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C6S1; Galatians C2-S10 and Psalms 119 about the word law. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The set of written or commonly understood rules for acceptable behavior and which can be used by a legal system for punishing offenders'. Please also see the note for Galatians 3:10 about the phrase book of the law. Please also see the note for Revelation 13:8-LJC about the phrase book of the life. Please also see the notes for Romans C3S31 and 1Corinthians 9:21-LJC about the phrase kinds of laws that apply to us tday. Please also see the note for Romans C3S27 about the phrase law of works. Please also see the note for Romans C3S25 about the phrase law and faith. Please also see the note for Galatians C3S22 about the phrase Mosaic Law added. Please also see the note for Hebrews 10:28-29 about the phrase New Testament replaces only the religious part of the Mosaic Law. Please also see the note for Hebrews 19:29-LJC about the phrase religious part of Mosaic Law. Please also see the note for Ephesians 4:7-LJC about the phrase righteousness of the Law.

Please see the note for John 7:26 about the word ruler. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'One that governs, whether emperor, king, pope or governor; any one that exercises supreme power over others. 2. One that makes or executes laws in a limited or free government. thus, legislators and magistrates are called rulers. 3. A rule; an instrument of wood or metal with straight edges or sides, by which lines are drawn on paper, parchment or other substance. When a ruler has the lines of chords, tangents, sines, etc. it is called a plane scale'.

Please see the note for Matthew 1:2 about the word brethren. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Spiritually used for God's people: the Jews and the people are saved, baptized and active members of the church'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C14S3 about the word exhort. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'n. the act or practice of exhorting; the act of inciting to laudable deeds; incitement to that which is good or commendable. 1. the form of words intended to incite and encourage. 2. Advice; counsel'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'The reading. Ac 13:27; 15:21; Lu 4:16-18 the rulers. Ac 18:8,17; Mr 5:22 Ye men. Ac 1:16; 2:29,37; 7:2; 15:7; 22:1 if. Ac 2:4; 20:2; Ro 12:8; 1Co 14:3; Heb 13:22'.

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C13-S15 (Verse 16) Paul started his message..

Then Paul stood up,
and beckoning with his hand said,
Men of Israel,
and ye that fear God,
give audience.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. This sentence tells us that Paul got their attention before speaking. Please note that the format of his message is similar to that of Stephen in Acts 7; where Paul agreed that Stephen should be killed for his message.

Here, we read that Paul opened with the attitude which the men needed to have in order to truly understand what he would say. He first identified his audience as Men of Israel. Therefore, he is reminding them of their spiritual heritage and of the scriptures which they should be familiar with. Next, he identifies them as ye that fear God because not all Jews truly feared God and there might be some non-Jews in the audience who did truly fear God.

Lastly, Paul says give audience ('Pay attention and think about what is said').

Please see the notes for Romans C14S5 and 1Corinthians C15S1 about the word stand. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'to be upon the feet, as an animal; not to sit, kneel or lie'. Please also see the note for Philippians 1:18 about the word notwithstanding. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C14S2 about the word understand. Please also see the note for Galatians C5S1 about the phrase stand fast.

Please see the note for Luke 5:7 about the word beckon. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To make a significant sign to'.

Please see the note for Luke 1:16 about the word Israel. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The name for Jacob when he was acting spiritual and the name for his descendants'. Please also see the note for 2Corinthians 3:7-8 about the phrase children of Israel. Please also see the note for Romans C11S30 about the phrase all Israel shall be saved.

Please see the note for Romans C11S25 about the word fear. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'A painful emotion or passion excited by an expectation of evil, or the apprehension of impending danger. Fear expresses less apprehension than dread, and dread less than terror and fright. the force of This passion, beginning with the most moderate degree, may be thus expressed, fear, dread, terror, fright. Fear is accompanied with a desire to avoid or ward off the expected evil. Fear is an uneasiness of mind, upon the thought of future evil likely to befall us. the saved are commanded to "fear the Lord"'. Please see the Study called The Fear of the Lord. Please also see the note for Matthew 10:26 about the phrase fear them not. Please also see the note for John 6:19 about the word afraid.

There is an extremely popular doctrinal error which claims that the fear of the lord means 'deep abiding respect'. The true Biblical definition is: 'The absolute assurance that God will hurt us more than we can imagine if we continue in sin'. This doctrinal error causes many of God's children to suffer the wrath of God in this life and to lose many everlasting rewards. Please also see Colossians 3:8 about children of wrath.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 5:5 about the word give. The New Testament definition is: 'ppr. Bestowing; confering; imparting; granting; delivering. GIV'ING, n. the act of confering'. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:8-11 about the words gave and given. The New Testament definition for the words gave and given are: 'the past-tense form of the word give'. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:7 about the word giving. The New Testament definition of giving is: 'the ongoing form of the word give'. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:7 about the word giveth. The New Testament definition of giveth is: 'a life-style of giving'. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:7 about the word giver. The New Testament definition of the word giver is: 'the person who gives'. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C14S19 about the phrase giving of thanks.

Please see the note for Luke 7:1 about the word audience. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'present and listening. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 13:16; Acts 15:12; Acts 22:22.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'beckoning. Ac 12:17; 19:33; 21:40 Men. Ac 13:26; 2:22; 3:12 and ye. Ac 13:42-43,46; 10:2,35; 1Ki 8:40; Ps 67:7; 85:9; 135:20; Lu 1:50; 23:40 give. Ac 2:14; 22:1,22; De 32:46-47; Ps 49:1-3; 78:1-2; Mic 3:8-9; Mt 11:15; Re 2:7,11,17,29'.

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C13-S16 (Verse 17) What God did for the Jews.

The God of this people of Israel choose our fathers,
and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt,
and with an high arm brought he them out of it.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. Acts 13:16-22 : Paul gives a summary of the history of the Jews up through king David.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase The God of this people of Israel choose our fathers means: 'God chose the Jews. They did not choose Him'.
The phrase and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt means: 'God raised them up from a race of slaves. They had no special value in this world'.
The phrase and with an high arm brought he them out of it means: 'God used many miracles to display His power when He freed the Jews from slavery'.

These are Paul's opening remarks. All of the Jews would know that he spoke truth. However, by starting with these truths, Paul is reminding then to be humble because anything that they have is strictly due to God's intervention. If God had left their ancestors as slaves, they would not exist or they would be slaves with no hope for a better life for themselves or their children.

Paul, wisely, starts out with a true perspective of us as individuals when compared to God. If we do not have 'an attitude of gratitude' then we will not respond properly to truth from God.

Please see the note for Colossians 2S8 about the word shew. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The Biblical spelling for the word show, which means: to exhibit or present to the view of others'.

Please see the note for Hebrews 1:5 about the word father. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'God or the man who passes his character to the son'.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 10:3-6 about the word exalt. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'to raise high; to elevate. 2. to elevate in power, wealth, rank or dignity; as, to exalt one to a throne, to the chief magistracy, to a bishopric. 3. to elevate with joy or confidence; as, to be exalted with success or victory. We now use elate. 4. to raise with pride; to make undue pretensions to power, rank or estimation; to elevate too high or above others. He that exalteth himself shall be abased. Luke 14. Matt.23. 5. to elevate in estimation and praise; to magnify; to praise; to extol. He is my father's God, and I will exalt him. Ex. 15. 6. to raise, as the voice; to raise in opposition. 2 Kings 19. 7. to elevate in diction or sentiment; to make sublime; as exalted strains. 8. In physics, to elevate; to purify; to subtilize; to refine; as, to exalt the juices or the qualities of bodies'.

Please see the note for Romans C7S24 about the word dwell. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Webster's 1828 dictionary defines dwelling as 'ppr. Inhabiting; residing; sojourning; continuing with fixed attention.
DWELL'ING, n. Habitation; place of residence; abode. Hazor shall be a dwelling for dragons. Jer.49. 1. Continuance; residence; state of life. thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field. Dan.4'. Please also see the note for John 7:39 about the phrase indwelling Holy Spirit.

Please see the notes for 1Timothy 5:9-10 and 1Peter 1:1-LJC about the word strangers. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: '1. this term was applied to any sojourning among the Israelites, who were not descendants of Israel. the law gave injunctions against the oppression of such. Nu 15:14-30. 2. Gentiles are also called 'strangers' from the covenants of promise (Eph 2:12), showing that the covenants made with Israel did in no wise embrace the Gentiles, though God's grace at all times extended to them. 3. those called strangers in 1Pe 1:1 were Jews away from their own land: sojourners of the dispersion. 4. Both the O.T. and the N.T. saints were and are strangers upon earth. David said, "I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were." Ps 39:12. they "confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth." Heb 11:13. the same is true of the saints now. 1Pe 2:11. their citizenship is in Heaven, and this earth is no longer their home or their rest'. The note for 1Peter 1:1-LJC has links to where this word is used in the New Testament along with some discussion about the usage of this word within the Bible. Be careful because some commentators wrongly define this word to be Jews who did not live in Judaea. Please also see the note for 1Peter 4:4 about the word stranger.

Please see the note for Mark 10:30 about the word land the New Testament definition for this word is: 'Earth, or the solid matter which constitutes the fixed part of the surface of the globe, in distinction from the sea or other waters, which constitute the fluid or movable part'.

Please see the note for Hebrews 3:16 about Egypt. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'While Egypt is a physical country on this Earth, it is used for a type of the world (way of thinking, etc) within the Bible'.

Please see the note for Matthew 22:4 about the word arm. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'used to denote power (Ps 10:15; Eze 30:21; Jer 48:25). It is also used of the omnipotence of God (Ex 15:16; Ps 89:13; 98:1; 77:15; Isa 53:1; Joh 12:38; Ac 13:17)'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'God. Ac 7:2-53; Ge 12:1-3; 17:7-8; De 4:37; 7:6-8; 9:5; 14:2; Ne 9:7-8; Ps 105:6-12,42-43; 135:4; Isa 41:8-9; 44:1; Jer 33:24-26; 1Pe 2:9 and exalted. Ac 7:17; Ex 1:7-9; De 10:22; Ps 105:23-24 and with. Ac 7:36; Ex 6-14; 15:1-21; 18:11; De 4:20,34; 7:19; 1Sa 4:8; Ne 9:9-12; Ps 77:13-20; 78:12-13,42-53; 105:26-39; 106:7-11; 114; 135:8-10; 136:10-15; Isa 63:9-14; Jer 32:20-21; Am 2:10; Mic 6:4; 7:15-16'.

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C13-S17 (Verse 18) Paul adds a reminder of their forty years of sin.
And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. This sentence is part of what Paul summarizes of the history of the Jews up through king David.

This is Paul's second sentence and it is added to the first sentence by starting wiThe the word and. First, Paul told then they had nothing to be proud of because God made the Jews everything that they are from a slave people. Now he is adding a reminder of how their ancestors were ungrateful and sinned against God for forty years after refusing to have faith to go into the promised land.

Notice that Paul said that God suffered he their manners in the wilderness. They were ungrateful, unfaithful, disobedient, mumbling and complaining, turning to idols, challenging their God-given authority, wanting to return to the slavery of Egypt (a type of the world), wanting to return to a life of sin and more. And God had to suffer through forty years of those attitudes. Likewise, today, God must suffer with the ongoing sins of His people who have the Bible to help them, which those Jews did not have.

Please see the note for Hebrews 3:17 about the word forty. That note has several notes from other commentators. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This number is symbolically associated with the judgment of God'.

Please see the note for Luke 1:7 about the word year. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'Heb shanah, meaning "repetition" or "revolution" (Ge 1:14; 5:3). Among the ancient Egyptians the year consisted of twelve months of thirty days each, with five days added to make it a complete revolution of the earth round the sun. the Jews reckoned the year in two ways, (1) according to a sacred calendar, in which the year began about the time of the vernal equinox, with the month Abib; and (2) according to a civil calendar, in which the year began about the time of the autumnal equinox, with the month Nisan. the month Tisri is now the beginning of the Jewish year'.

Please see the notes for Romans C8S17 and 1Corinthians C4S13 about the word suffer. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To feel or bear what is painful, disagreeable or distressing, either to the body or mind'. Please also see the note for Romans 9:22 about the word longsuffering. Please also see the note for Mark 8:31-LJC about the phrase suffering of Jesus Christ.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C15S30 about the word manners (plural). Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'n. plu. Deportment; carriage; behaviour; conduct; course of life; in a moral sense. Evil communications corrupt good manners. 1 Cor.15. 1. Ceremonious behaviour; civility; decent and respectful deportment. Shall we, in our applications to the great God, take that to be religion, which the common reason of mankind will not allow to be manners? 2. A bow or courtesy; as, make your manners; a popular use of the word'.

Please see the note for John 3:14 about the word wilderness. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Heb midhbar, denoting not a barren desert but a district or region suitable for pasturing sheep and cattle (Ps 65:12; Isa 42:11; Jer 23:10; Joe 1:19; 2:22); an uncultivated place'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: ' about. Ac 7:36,39-43; Ex 16:2,35; Nu 14:22,33-34; De 9:7,21-24; Ne 9:16-21; Ps 78:17-42; 95:8-11; 106:13-29; Eze 20:10-17; Am 5:25-26; 1Co 10:1-10; Heb 3:7-10,16-19 suffered. "Gr. tropophoreo G5159, perhaps for trophophoreo, bore, or fed them as a nurse beareth or feedeth her child, De 1:31; according to the LXX., and so Chrysostom."'.

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C13-S18 (Verse 19) God gave them the promised land. They did not take it and they did not earn it.

And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan,
he divided their land to them by lot.

Paul next reminds them that God destroyed seven nations in ordwer to give them the promised land.

Please see the notes for Romans C14S22 and 1Corinthians C3S17 about the word destroy. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines as: 'v.t. L. to pile, to build. 1. to demolish; to pull down; to separate the parts of an edifice, the union of which is necessary to constitute the thing; as, to destroy a house or temple; to destroy a fortification. 2. to ruin; to annihilate a thing by demolishing or by burning; as, to destroy a city. 3. to ruin; to bring to naught; to annihilate; as, to destroy a theory or scheme; to destroy a government; to destroy influence. 4. to lay waste; to make desolate. Go up against this land, and destroy it. Is. 36. 5. to kill; to slay; to extirpate; applied to men or other animals. Ye shall destroy all this people. Num. 32. All the wicked will he destroy. Ps. 145. 6. to take away; to cause to cease; to put an end to; as, pain destroys happiness. that the body of sin might be destroyed. Rom 6. 7. to kill; to eat; to devour; to consume. Birds destroy insects. Hawks destroy chickens. 8. In general, to put an end to; to annihilate a thing or the form in which it exists. An army is destroyed by slaughter, capture or dispersion; a forest, by the ax, or by fire; towns, by fire or inundation, etc. 9. In chimistry, to resolve a body into its parts or elements'. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians 10:10 about the word destroyer.

Please see the note for Matthew 15:34 about the word seven. Part of the Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word is: 'Spiritual completeness, generally in good but occasionally in evil. It is the compound of three and four, and the highest single indivisible number'. Please also see the note for Luke 10:1 about the phrase seventy.

Please see the note for Romans C16S20 about the word division. Please also use the link in the sentence outline, above, to see the Word Study on this word. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The mathematical function used to separate things by precise rules in order to get precise results. This is part of The hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world (1Corinthians 2:7)'.

Please see the note for Luke 17:28-29 about the word lot. Easton's Bible Dictionary gives us this definition for the word lot: '(Heb goral, a "pebble"), a small stone used in casting lots (Nu 33:54; Jon 1:7). the lot was always resorted to by the Hebrews with strictest reference to the interposition of God, and as a method of ascertaining the divine will (Pr 16:33), and in serious cases of doubt (Es 3:7). thus the lot was used at the division of the land of Canaan among the serveral tribes (Nu 26:55; 34:13), at the detection of Achan (Jos 7:14,18), the election of Saul to be king (1Sa 10:20-21), the distribution of the priestly offices of the temple service (1Ch 24:3,5,19; Lu 1:9), and over the two goats at the feast of Atonement (Le 16:8). Matthias, who was "numbered with the eleven" (Ac 1:24-26), was chosen by lot'. Please also see the note for Acts 1:26 about the word lots.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'when. Ac 7:45; De 7:1; Jos 24:11; Ne 9:24; Ps 78:55 Chanaan. Ge 12:5; 17:8; Ps 135:11 Canaan. he divided. Nu 26:53-56; Jos 14:1; 18:10; 23:4; Ps 78:55'.

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C13-S19 (Verse 20) God gave them Judges to be between God and the people. They chose when to obey and when to ignore the judge.

And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years,
until Samuel the prophet.

Paul is continuing his history lesson as the start of his message. Although Luke does not mention Paul saying it, this is when the Bible says that every man did that which was right in his own eyes (Judges 21:24).

The word gave is:'the past-tense form of the word give' along with the word given. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:8-11 about this words and the many forms of the word give.

Please see the notes for Matthew 7:1 about the word judge. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To hear and determine, as in causes on trial; to pass sentence'. Please also see the notes for 1Corinthians C4S5 and Ephesians C5S6 about the phrase we are to judge. Please also see the notes for Romans 8:1-LJC; Galatians C5-S6 and Revelation 19:2-LJC about the phrase judged by works. Please also see the notes for Romans C2S2; Philippians 1:9-11 and Psalms 119 about the word judgment. Please also see the note for 2Corinthians 5:10 about the phrase judgment Seat. Please also see the notes for Romans 14:10 and 2Corinthians 5:10 about the phrase judgment Seat of Christ. Please also see the note for Romans 14:8-LJC and 2Thessalonians 1:9-LJC about the phrase judgment without mercy.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'he gave. Jg 2:16; 3:10; Ru 1:1; 1Sa 12:11; 2Sa 7:11; 2Ki 23:22; 1Ch 17:6 until. 1Sa 3:20'.

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C13-S20 (Verse 21) the Jews demanded what was not good for them.

Equivalent Section: the Jews wanted a physical king like other people had.

And afterward they desired a king :

Equivalent Section: God gave them the desires of their heart.

and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis,
a man of the tribe of Benjamin,
by the space of forty years.

in this sentence, Paul mentions their first king. Physically, he was everything that they desired. However, he had neither the attitude nor the character to be a good king. God was trying to teach His people that the character of a person is far more important than their physical attributes. Part of God's lesson is the contrast with king David, whom God raised up next. And, while God's people honored king David, they did not learn the lesson about character versus physical attributes.

The word gave is:'the past-tense form of the word give' along with the word given. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:8-11 about this words and the many forms of the word give.

Please see the notes for Romans C10S1; 2Corinthians 5:2-3 and Galatians 4:9; Philippians 1:23-24 about the word desire. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'An emotion or excitement of the mind, directed to the attainment or possession of an object from which pleasure, sensual, intellectual or spiritual, is expected; a passion excited by the love of an object, or uneasiness at the want of it, and directed to its attainment or possession. Desire is a wish to possess some gratification or source of happiness which is supposed to be obtainable'.

Please see the note for Matthew 24:29 about the word tribe. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'A family, race or series of generations, descending from the same progenitor and kept distinct, as in the case of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from the twelve sons of Jacob'.

Please see the note for Philippians 3:4-6 about the word Benjamin. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'A son of Jacob and the father of one of the tribes of Jews. the contrast between the warlike character of the tribe and the peaceful image of its progenitor comes out in many scattered notices'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'they. 1Sa 8:5-22; 12:12-19 Saul. 1Sa 10:1,21-26; 11:15; 15:1 Cis. 1Sa 9:1-2; 10:21 Kish'.

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C13-S21 (Verse 22) God changed who would be king of Israel.

First Step: God replaced Saul and his family with David.

And when he had removed him,
he raised up unto them David to be their king;.

Second Step: Why.

to whom also he gave testimony,
and said,
I have found David the son of Jesse,
a man after mine own heart,
which shall fulfil all my will.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase And when he had removed him means: 'God removed Saul and his family from being king'.
The phrase he raised up unto them David to be their king means: 'God made David and his family from being king'.
The phrase to whom also he gave testimony, and said means: 'Go0d explained why He made the change'.
The phrase I have found David the son of Jesse means: 'God searched until He wound what He desired'.
The phrase a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will means: 'An obedient man with the type of character that God wanted in a leader of His people'.

Unfortunately, most men that want to be leaders of God's people today do not learn this lesson. Jesus kept teaching people that the attitude of their heart was what was critical to their relationship to God. But the religious and political leaders kept insisting that their man-given positions and recognizations were what was important. And, at least three times, Paul wrote things similar to what Jesus taught because people in the churches that he started were listening to religious leaders who claimed that their man-given positions and recognizations were what was important.

In the prior sentence we read that God gave His people the leader that they desired, who had the physical attributes that they desired. Then, God replaced him with king David, who had the character attributes which God desired. God's people found king David to be a far better king and, yet, they did not learn this lesson about what is truly important. In addition, people might criticize God's people, but people keep making the same foolish mistakes today.

Please see the note for Mark 11:23 about the word remove. Webster's 1828 defines this word as 'Changed in place; carried to a distance; displaced from office; placed far off. 2. a. Remote; separate from others'.

Please see the note for Mark 10:1 about the words arise / arose. The New Testament definition forthe word arose. is: 'The past tense of the verb, to arise'. The New Testament definition forthe word arise / arose. is: 'To ascend, mount up or move to a higher place; as, vapors arise from humid places'. Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C15S32 and John 6:39 about the word raise and see the note for 1Peter C1S2 about the word resurrection. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Bringing dead people back to life as opposed to a belief in reincarnation which says that the same spirit is given a new physical body in this physical reality. This is one of the cardinal facts and doctrines of the Gospel. If Christ be not risen, our faith is vain (1Co 15:14). In addition, there are times when this word is used for something being lifted higher physically, but even then the Bible reference often has a symbolic spiritual meaning in addition to the physical meaning'. Please also see the Prophecies and Prophecy Fulfilled Sections for Bible references to resurrection. Please also see the note for John 20:2-LJC about the phrase risen Jesus is Lord. Please also see the note for 1Peter C1S2 about the word resurrection. Please also see the note for Romans C8S11 about the phrase resurrection of Christ. Please also see the note for Romans C8S11 about the phrase resurrection of Jesus. Please also see the Prophecies and Prophecy Fulfilled Sections for Bible references to resurrection. Please see the Appearances of Jesus Christ After the Resurrection Section within the Time Sequence of Gospel Events Study.

Please see the note for Luke 1:26-27 about the phrase house of David. This phrase refers to king David and all of his descendants including God's Christ. Please also see the note for Verses in the New Testament about the phrase 'son of David.

The word gave is:'the past-tense form of the word give' along with the word given. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:8-11 about this words and the many forms of the word give.

Please see the note for Psalms 119 about the words testimony / testimonies. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' 'statements that are used in a court of law to judge the legality of someone's actions. these require first-hand experience because anything else would be rumor and not legal to present in court'. Please also see the note for Matthew 19:21 about the phrase testimonies of the LORD. Please also see the Message called Testimony of God. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 13:22; Acts 14:3; Acts 22:18.

The word found is the past-tense form of he word find. Please see the note for John 1:41 about the word find. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Literally, to come to; to meet; hence, to discover by the eye; to gain first sight or knowledge of something lost; to recover either by searching for it or by accident'. The important part of this definition is the ongoing effort which is required until the desired object is found. The Bible does not use this word for 'stumbling upon something'. The word found is the past-tense form of the word find.

Please see the note for Acts 1:7 about the word own. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'Belonging to; possessed; peculiar; usually expressing property with emphasis, or in express exclusion of others. It follows my, your, his, their, thy, her. God created man in his own image. Adam begat a son in his own likeness. Let them fall by their own counsel. He washed us from our sins in his own blood. In the phrases, his own nations, his own country, the word own denotes that the person belongs to the nation or country. 2. Own often follows a verb; as, the book is not my own, that is, my own book. 3. It is used as a substitute. That they may dwell in a place of their own. 2Sam. 7. in this use, a noun cannot follow own. 4. "He came to his own, and his own received him not," that is, his own nation or people; own being here used as a substitute, like many other adjectives.
OWN, v.t. from the adjective. 1. to have the legal or rightful title to; to have the exclusive right of possession and use. A free holder in the United states owns his farm. Men often own land or goods which are not in their possession. 2. to have the legal right to, without the exclusive right to use; as, a man owns the land in front of his farm to the middle of the highway. 3. to acknowledge to belong to; to avow or admit that the property belongs to. When you come, find me out and own me for your son. 4. to avow; to confess, as a fault, crime or other act; that is, to acknowledge that one has done the act; as, to own the faults of youth; to own our guilt. the man is charged with theft, but he has not owned it. 5. In general, to acknowledge; to confess; to avow; to admit to be true; not to deny; as, to own our weakness and frailty. Many own the gospel of salvation more from custom than conviction'. Please also see the note for Acts 27:11 about the word owner.

Please see the note for Romans C10S6; 2Corinthians C2S4 and Colossians C2S1 about the word heart. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Our heart controls the same things as our soul only where the soul deals with the long term the heart deals with the short term and we control our heart directly while the soul is the accumulated actions of our heart. Both are the way we think (mind), the way we emotionally respond to circumstances (emotions) and the method we use to make decisions (will)'. Please also see the note for Galatians C6S6 about the phrase Lord looketh on the heart. Please also see the note for Ephesians C4S8 about the phrase wicked heart.

The meaning of the word wilt, does not match what is found in a man-written dictionary. The true Biblical meaning is: 'The will applied at a lifestyle level. That is: a decision of will which does not change throughout the life'. Please also see the note for Philippians 1:15-17 about the word will. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'That faculty of the mind by which we determine either to do or forbear an action; the faculty which is exercised in deciding, among two or more objects, which we shall embrace or pursue'. Please also see the note for Philippians 1:15-17 about the word will. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'That faculty of the mind by which we determine either to do or forbear an action; the faculty which is exercised in deciding, among two or more objects, which we shall embrace or pursue'. Please also see the note for 1Peter 2:15 about the phrase will of God. That note has links to every place in the Bible where we find this phrase along with notes on each reference. In particular, that note explains that the good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God are not three different levels of the will of God but, in fact, are three attributes of the single will of God. As that note explains, there is only one will of God for each circumstance in life but we receive variable rewards or punishment based upon how well we obey the will of God or how much we disobey the will of God. Please also see the Message called The Will of God for the application of these verses in the life of the believer.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'when. 1Sa 12:25; 13:13; 15:11,23,26,28; 16:1; 28:16; 31:6; 2Sa 7:15; 1Ch 10:13; Ho 13:10-11 he raised. 1Sa 16:1,13; 2Sa 2:4; 5:3-5; 7:8; 1Ch 28:4-5; Ps 2:6; 78:70-72; 89:19-37; Jer 33:21,26; Eze 34:23; 37:24-25; Ho 3:5 to whom. Ac 15:8; Heb 11:4-5 I have. Ac 7:46; 1Sa 13:14; 1Ki 15:3,5'.

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C13-S22 (Verse 23-24) God fulfilled His promise to king David.

Equivalent Section: Jesus is identified as God's Saviour.

of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour,
Jesus :.

Equivalent Section: John the Baptist preached His coming first.

When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. in this sentence, Paul tells them that Jesus was the descendent of king David and God's promised Saviour. Also, he told them that John the Baptist first preached repentance to prepare the people for Jesus. in this sentence Paul is reminding these Jews of their history and of promises in scripture before he tells them how Jesus fulfilled this prophecy.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase of this man's seed means: 'Jesus is a physical descendent of king David'.
The phrase hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour means: 'God fulfilled His promise to His people Israel'.
The phrase Jesus fulfills God's promise of a Saviour.
The phrase When John had first preached before his coming means: 'John the Baptist was sent to prepare Israel for their Saviour'. . . .
The phrase The baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel means: 'John preached being identified with true Biblical repentance'.

In the First Equivalent Section of this sentence we are told that God promised a Saviour in the Old Testament and that part of the promises about that Saviour was that He would be of this man's [Davids] seed. In the Second Equivalent Section of this sentence we read that Jesus started fulfilling these prophecies after John had first preached the baptism of repentance. Of course, John the Baptists ministry was also prophesied and many of the prophecies about Christ and about our Saviour that Jesus fulfilled are found in the Gospels. Part of the promises about our Saviour were that He would be a physical man and Romans 5 explains how that our Saviour had to be a physical man in order for God to remain righteous while He provided salvation. Please see the Section called Prophecy Fulfilled in the Doctrinal Study called Significant Gospel Events for links to this prophecy in the Old Testament and to where the New Testament tells us about the fulfillment.) Please also see the Doctrinal Study called Gospel Time Sequences those references.

In addition to those references, Philippians 3:20; 2Timothy 1:10; Titus 1:4; Titus 2:13; Titus 3:6; 2Peter 1:1; 2Peter 1:11; 2Peter 2:20 and 2Peter 3:18 all tell us that Jesus is our Saviour. As has been shown in many notes in this study, Jesus is God in human flesh' and fulfilled the role of Saviour by dying as a man and paying the price to get us out on Hell and into Heaven. As a result, God makes us sons of God (John 1:12-13; Romans 3:26; etc). Christ is our Saviour in that Christ died to pay for our sins after we become sons of God and because He saves his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21) by removing the control of sin which allows the saved to stop their sinning.

Please see the note for Galatians C3-S17 about the word seed. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'n. 1. the substance, animal or vegetable, which nature prepares for the reproduction and conservation of the species. the seeds of plants are a deciduous part, containing the rudiments of a new vegetable. In some cases, the seeds constitute the fruit or valuable part of plants, as in the case of wheat and other esculent grain; sometimes the seeds are inclosed in fruit, as in apples and melons. When applied to animal matter, it has no plural. 2. that from which anything springs; first principle; original; as the seeds of virtue or vice. 3. Principle of production. Praise of great acts he scatters as a seed. Waller. 4. Progeny; offspring; children; descendants; as the seed of Abraham; the seed of David. in this sense, the word is applied to one person, or to any number collectively, and admits of the plural form; but rarely used in the plural. 5. Race; generation; birth. Of mortal seed they were not held. Waller.
SEED, v. i. 1. to grow to maturity, so as to produce seed. Maiz will not seed in a cool climate. 2. to shed the seed.
SEED, v. t. to sow; to sprinkle with seed, which germinates and takes root'.

Please see the note for Philippians 2:1 about the word accord. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Agreeing; harmonizing when two notes are in a music chord, they move together, up or down, to the next note''. Please also see the note for Psalms 119:23 about the phrase according to works.

Please see the notes for Romans C4S15; Galatians C3-S15; 1Timothy 4:8 and Titus 1:2 about the word promise. Webster's 1828 Dictionary defines this word as: 'a declaration, written or verbal, made by one person to another, which binds the person who makes it, either in honor, conscience or law, to do or forbear a certain act specified; a declaration which gives to the person to whom it is made, a right to expect or to claim the performance or forbearance of the act'. Please also see the Section on Promises in the Doctrinal Studies called SignificantGospel Events and Significant New Testament Events.

The doctrinal meaning of the word baptize is 'identification'. John's baptism 'identified people with true repentance'. Baptism of the Holy Ghost 'identified people a changed life due to having God's life in them'. Please see the messages called Basic doctrine of Baptism and Baptism Gets God's Mercy. Also, Acts 19 tells us about people who repented and were baptized with John's baptism, but were not saved. He only prepared the way of the Lord but people still had to accept Jesus as their Lord in an ongoing personal relationship in order to be truly saved. (That is the main lesson of the reference in Acts 19).

Please see the note for Romans C11S32 about the word repentance. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'A turning away from the attitudes and actions of sin and turning towards God and accepting His attitudes and actions about sin'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'this. Ac 2:30; 2Sa 7:12; Ps 89:35-37; 132:11; Isa 7:13; 11:1,10; Jer 23:5-6; 33:15-17; Am 9:11; Mt 1:1; 21:9; 22:42; Lu 1:31-33,69; Joh 7:42; Ro 1:3; Re 22:16 raised. Ac 2:32-36; 3:26; 4:12; 5:30-31; Isa 43:11; 45:21; Zec 9:9; Mt 1:21; Lu 2:10-11; Joh 4:42; Ro 11:26; Tit 1:4; 2:10-14; 3:3-6; 2Pe 1:1,11; 2:20; 3:2,18; 1Jo 4:14; Jude 1:25
General references. Ac 1:22; 10:37; 19:3-4; Mt 3:1-11; Mr 1:2-8; Lu 1:76; 3:2-20; Joh 1:6-8,15-18; 3:25-36; 5:33-36'.

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C13-S23 (Verse 25) Paul reminds them of what John the Baptist said.

And as John fulfilled his course,
he said,
Whom think ye that I am?.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. in this sentence, Paul told them that John the Baptist gave witness that Jesus was their promised Saviour.

Our sentence is being added to the prior by starting with the word and. In the prior sentence, Paul told us the difference between the job that God gave to John the Baptist and Christ. in this sentence, and the next two, Paul reminds them that John clearly told them that he was not God's Christ.

Please see the note for Romans 2:27 about the word fulfill. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'v.t. A tautological compound of full and fill. 1. to accomplish; to perform; to complete; to answer in execution or event what has been foretold or promised; as, to fulfill a prophecy or prediction; to fulfill a promise. 2. to accomplish what was intended; to answer a design by execution. Here nature seems fulfilled in all her ends. 3. to accomplish or perform what was desired; to answer any desire by compliance or gratification. He will fulfill the desire of them that fear him. Ps. 145. 4. to perform what is required; to answer a law by obedience. If ye fulfill the royal law according to the scripture, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself, ye do well. James 2. 5. to complete in time. Fulfill her week. Gen. 29. 6. In general, to accomplish; to complete; to carry into effect'. Please also see the note for Philippians 4:18 about the word full. Please also see the note for Colossians 2:9 about the word fullness.

Please see the note for Luke 1:5 about the word course. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'A set way for someone or something to move from an existing position in order to reach a goal'. God set the career path, and tasks, for John the Baptist before he was conceived. Our sentence tells us that John completed what God gave him to do. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 13:25; Acts 16:11; Acts 20:24; Acts 21:1; Acts 21:7.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 10:3-6 about the word thought. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The past-tense form of the word think'. Please see the note for Philippians 3:4-6 about the word think. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To have the mind occupied on some subject; to have ideas, or to revolve ideas in the mind. --For that I am I know, because I think. these are not matters to be slightly thought on. 2 to conceive; to imagine'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'fulfilled. Ac 13:36; 20:24; Mr 6:16-28; Joh 4:34; 19:28-30; 2Ti 4:7; Re 11:7 whom. Ac 19:4; Mt 3:11; Mr 1:7; Lu 3:15-16; Joh 1:20-23,26-27,29,34,36; 3:27-29; 7:18; 2Co 4:5 General references. exp: Mr 1:7'.

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C13-S24 (Verse 25) I am not he

John the Baptist clearly said that he was not God's Christ. Therefore, God's Christ had to be another man.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'General references. exp: Mr 1:7'.

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C13-S25 (Verse 25) John the Baptist contrasts himself to God's Christ.

But,
behold,
there cometh one after me,
whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.

Our sentence starts with the word but. That means it is continuing the main subject of the prior sentence while providing a contrast of an attribute. Both sentences are talking about God's Christ. The prior sentence said that John the Baptist was not He. This sentence tells the difference in importance between John the Baptist and God's Christ.

Please see the note for Luke 3:16 about the word shoe. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'Shoes are mentioned as early as Ex 3:5, when Moses was told to put off his shoes, for the ground on which he stood was holy, for God was there. Ac 7:33. the same was said to Joshua. Jos 5:15. It showed that as yet there was no welcome for man into the presence of God. A standing had not yet been made for him, whatever goodness and condescension God might show towards him. Under grace a standing is found, the shoes were put on the prodigal, he was welcome and at home. the priests ministered in the temple with bare feet, means being given to keep the feet clean. Cf. also Joh 13:1-17.
In transferring a possession it was customary to deliver a shoe. Ru 4:7-8. Twice is it said, "Over Edom will I cast out my shoe:" signifying that Edom would be subdued and be taken possession of as a menial. Ps 60:8; 108:9. We read that "all they of Edom became David's servants." 2Sa 8:14. forshoes of 'iron and brass,' De 33:25, some translate 'bolts' instead of 'shoes.' But it may be figurative of treading down their enemies, as the Lord is represented having "feet like unto fine brass." Re 1:15.
The shoes of the East were mostly the same as 'sandals' soles fastened to the feet by strings or thongs. John the Baptist declared he was not worthy to unloose the shoes of the Lord. Mr 1:7; Lu 3:16'.

Please see the note for Matthew 4:5 about the word foot. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The end of the leg which people walk on. This word is often used symbolically for how the foot is used'. Please also see the note for Matthew 18:28 about the phrase trodden under foot. Please also see the note for Matthew 18:28 about the phrase trodden under foot. Please also see the note for Hebrews 1:13 about the word footstool. Please also see the note for Luke 1:76 about the word feet. The word feet is: 'The end of the leg which people walk on. This word is often used symbolically for how the foot is used'.

Please see the note for Acts 5:41 about the word worthy. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'a. G. 1. Deserving; such as merits; having worth or excellence; equivalent; with of, before the thing deserved. She has married a man worthy of her. Thou art worthy of the sway. I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies--Genesis 32. 2. Possessing worth or excellence of qualities; virtuous; estimable; as a worthy citizen; a worthy magistrate. Happier thou mayst be, worthier canst not be. This worthy mind should worthy things embrace. 3. Suitable; having qualities suited to; either in a good or bad sense; equal in value; as flowers worthy of paradise. 4. Suitable to anything bad. The merciless Macdonald, worthy to be a rebel. 5. Deserving of ill; as things worthy of stripes. Luke 12.
WORTHY, n. A man of eminent worth; a man distinguished for useful and estimable qualities; a man of valor; a word much used in the plural; as the worthies of the church; political worthies; military worthies'. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C11S31 about the words worth / worthily.

Please see the note for Mark 11:4 about the word loose. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'to free from restraint or confinement; to set at liberty'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'General references. exp: Mr 1:7'.

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C13-S26 (Verse 26) Paul starts his main message based upon the prior history.

Men and brethren,
children of the stock of Abraham,
and whosoever among you feareth God,
to you is the word of this salvation sent.

in this sentence, Paul is starting his call by addressing everyone in the audience by some personal identifying application. The word men identified at least one third of the audience. The word brethren probably identified most of the audience in the synagogue and reminded them that he was from the same people. And, the phrase of: children of the stock of Abraham probably did the sameans reminded them of the character of Abraham, which they were also supposed to have. And, we read throughout the Gospels that the Jews considered themselves to be children of the stock of Abraham and that their relationship with God, and their hope of salvation, were based upon that relationship. Then Paul included whosoever among you feareth God to be sure to include everyone because there would not be visitors to the synagogue unless they feared God.

After having addressed everyone in a personal way, Paul tells them" to you is the word of this salvation sent. That is the hole and reason why everyone was at the synagogue. And, in the next sentence Paul tells them why he is in their city and synagogue instead of addressing people in the Temple of Jerusalem.

Please see the note for Hebrews 2:16 about Abraham. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Abtaham is is called the father of the faithful'. Please also see the note for Galatians C3S9 about the phrase children of Abraham. The New Testament definition is: 'The Jews claimed to be children of Abraham but Jesus said that the true children of Abraham would have his faith'. Please also see the notes for Romans 4 and James 2:21-LJC about the phrase Abraham's faith.

Please see the note for Philippians 1:19-20 for links to every place in that epistle where we find the word salvation along with definitions from three different dictionaries and links from other commentators. The New Testament definition is: 'to exclude. When used spiritually, it means to exclude from the damned by having God's life in you. When used physically, it means to exclude from what is endangering physical life'. As we see in the Bible and in this book, our continuing spiritual growth, and our sanctification is part of true Biblical salvation. Please see the note for Main Menu item for Salvation about the word save. Please also see the notes for 2Thessalonians 2:13-LJC and Hebrews 12:2-LJC about the phrase salvation through sanctification. Please also see the note for John 8:30 about the phrase non-saving belief Please also see verses in the New Testament. Summary on the name / role of Saviour. Please also see the note for James 1:21 about the phrase save your soul.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'children. Ac 13:15,17,46; 3:26; 2Ch 20:7; Ps 105:6; 147:19-20; Isa 41:8; 48:1; 51:1-2; Mt 3:9; 10:6; Lu 24:47 and whosoever. Ac 13:16,43; 10:35 to you. Ac 16:17; 28:28; Isa 46:13; Lu 1:69,77; Ro 1:16; 2Co 5:19-21; Eph 1:13; Col 1:5'.

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C13-S27 (Verse 27) Why Paul is not preaching at Jerusalem.

For they that dwell at Jerusalem,
and their rulers,
because they knew him not,
nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day,
they have fulfilled them in condemning him.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. in this sentence, Paul tells them that the religious rulers in Jerusalem did not recognize their promised Saviour and they did not know the scriptures. Therefore, the had Jesus crucified.

Our sentence starts with the word For and tells us why the prior sentence is true. The prior sentence told us that Paul said; to you is the word of this salvation sent. Now he is telling them why he is not addressing people in the Temple of Jerusalem. First, Paul says that they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day. The reason why this was true is because they believed what their religious traditions told them without verifying those traditions against what The word of God actually said. And, unfortunately, the same is still true today for most people who call themselves 'Christian', or any other religious identifier.

The phrase they have fulfilled them in condemning him means: 'The religious rulers and people in Jerusalem have fulfilled prophecy which warned that God's people would make God's Christ suffer and die'. Please also see the Prophecies and Prophecy Fulfilled Sections for Bible references to this truth.

Please see the note for Romans C1S10 about the word because. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'provides a cause where the cause and effect are both in the past'. Please also see the note for Romans C8S38 about the phrase dying because of the truth.

Please see the notes for Romans C10S25; 1Corinthians C1S11; 2Corinthians C1S5; Galatians C3-S9; Colossians C1S3 and know in 1John about the word know. The word knew is the past-tense form of the word know. The New Testament definition is: 'A clear and certain perception of that which exists, or of truth and fact; and the perception of the connection and agreement, or disagreement between various truths and acts. Within the Biblical usage is the knowledge that comes only from personal intimate experience'. Please see the notes for 2Peter 1:2-LJC; 2Peter 2:20-LJC and Philippians 1:9-11 about the word knowledge. Please see the note for Romans 6:3 about the phrase Know ye not. Please see the note for 1Corinthians C16S17 about the word acknowledge. Please also see the note for Romans C11S4 about the word foreknow.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C14S11 about the word voice. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The sense of the verb is to throw, to drive out sound; and voice is that which is driven out. Sound or audible noise uttered by the mouth, either of human beings or of other animals'. Please also see the note for Luke 3:21-22 about the phrase voice from heaven Please also see the note for Revelation 20:9 about the phrase fire from heaven.

Please see the note for Romans C8S1 about the word condemn. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The judicial act of declaring one guilty, and dooming him to punishment'. Please also see the note for Romans C9S28 about the phrase condemnation of fools.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'because. Ac 3:17; Lu 22:34; Joh 8:28; 15:21; 16:3; Ro 11:8-10,25; 1Co 2:8; 2Co 3:14; 4:4; 1Ti 1:13 exp: Ps 119:139. nor. Mt 22:29; Lu 24:25-27,44-45 which. Ac 13:14-15; 15:21 exp: 1Pe 1:10. They have. Ac 26:22-23; 28:23; Ge 50:20; Mt 26:54-56; Lu 24:20,24; Joh 19:28-30,36-37 General references. exp: Mt 11:13; Lu 9:22; 24:20'.

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C13-S28 (Verse 28) the religious leaders wanted Jesus murdered even though He was innocent.

And though they found no cause of death in him,
yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain.

Here Paul explains what the religious leaders did. Luke does not report Paul explaining why they did so, but i personally believe that Paul did and it just was not reported.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians C2S5 about the word cause. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Basically, the source of a result. It can also be an action in court, or any legal process whereby someone demands his supposed right'. Please also see the note for Romans C1S10 about the word because. Please also see the note for John 15:25 about the phrase without cause. In John 15:25; we read that the prophecy was fulfilled about Jesus that: They hated me without a cause. Please also see the note for Romans C8S38 about the phrase dying because of the truth.

Please see the notes for Romans C6S4; 2Corinthians 2:15; Philippians 1:19-20 and Colossians C1S4 about the words dead / death / die. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Physical death is separation of soul and spirit from body and the second death is eternal separation from God'. Please also see the notes for Revelation 2:11; Revelation 20:6; Revelation 20:14 and Revelation 21:8 about the phrase death, second.

Please see the note for John 18:29 about Pilate. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The representative of all Gentiles in the trial and crucifixion of the Son of God'.

Please see the note for Luke 9:22 about the word slain. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'pp. of slay; so written for slayen. Killed'. Please also see the note for Luke 11:49-51 about the word slay.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'General references. Ac 3:13-14; Mt 27:19,22-25; Mr 15:13-15; Lu 23:4-5,14-16,21-25; Joh 18:38; 19:4,12-16 exp: Lu 9:22; 24:20'.

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C13-S29 (Verse 29) Jesus was buried..

And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him,
they took him down from the tree,
and laid him in a sepulchre.

The prior sentence, this sentence and the next sentence provide the basic points of the Gospel. Please also see the Prophecies Section for Bible references to the 'Suffering and Death of Jesus' and the 'Resurrection from the Dead'. That is what Paul is talking about when he said: when they had fulfilled all that was written of him.

Our sentence starts with the word and, which adds it to the prior sentence and continues the context. Here, Paul is telling them that the Jewish religious leaders fulfilled prophecy so that they would know that what he told them was true.

Please see the note for Romans 4:23-25 about the word written. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'a retained record which can be used for judgment in a court of law'. Please also see the notes for Romans C15S13; 2Corinthians 1:13-14; Galatians C3-S12; John 20:31-LJC about the word write Please also see the notes for Luke 6:3-4; the Study called Prove; Ephesians C1S3 and Romans C3S15 about the phrase it is written.

Please see the note for Mark 11:13 about the word tree. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'n. 1. the general name of the largest of the vegetable kind, consisting of a firm woody stem springing from woody roots, and spreading above into branches which terminate in leaves. A tree differs from a shrub principally in size, many species of trees growing to the eighth of fifty or sixty feet, and some species to seventy or eighty, and a few, particularly the pine, to a much greater eighth. Trees are of various kinds; as nuciferous, or nut-bearing trees; bacciferous, or berry-bearing; coniferous, or cone-bearing, etc. Some are forest-trees, and useful for timber or fuel; others are fruit trees, and cultivated in gardens and orchards; others are used chiefly for shade and ornament. 2. Something resembling a tree, consisting of a stem or stalk and branches; as a genealogical tree. 3. In ship-building, pieces of timber are called chess-trees, cross-trees, roof-trees, tressel-trees, etc. 4. In Scripture, a cross. --Jesus, whom they slew and hanged on a tree. Act.10'. Please also see the note for Romans C11S28 about the phrase olive / olive tree.

Please see the note for John 19:41 about the word sepulchre. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'first mentioned as purchased by Abraham for Sarah from Ephron the Hittite (Ge 23:20). this was the "cave of the field of Machpelah," where also Abraham and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah were burried (79:29-32). In Ac 7:16 it is said that Jacob was "laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem." It has been proposed, as a mode of reconciling the apparent discrepancy between this verse and Ge 23:20, to read Ac 7:16 thus: "And they [i.e., our fathers] were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor [The son] of Sychem." in this way the purchase made by Abraham is not to be confounded with the purchase made by Jacob subsequently in the same district. of this purchase by Abraham there is no direct record in the Old Testament'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'when. Ac 13:27; 2:23; 4:28; Lu 18:31-33; 24:44; Joh 19:28,30,36-37 they took. Mt 27:57-60; Mr 15:45-46; Lu 23:53; Joh 19:38-42; 1Co 15:4 General references. exp: Lu 9:22; 24:20'.

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C13-S30 (Verse 30-31) God raised Jesus from the dead.

Equivalent Section: What God did.

But God raised him from the dead:

Equivalent Section: the witnesses to what God did.

And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem,
who are his witnesses unto the people.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. in this sentence, Paul tells us that God raised Jesus from the dead and, through Jesus, promised The sure mercies of David and incorruptible life.

Please see the Prophecies Section for Bible references to the 'Resurrection from the Dead'. Those are the Bible references to what Paul says in this sentence.

Our sentence starts with the word but, which means it is continuing the main subject from the prior sentence while changing direction. Where the prior sentence told about the death of Jesus Christ, this sentence tells us about His resurrection. There can not be a resurrection unless there is first a death.

That is what our First Equivalent Section tells us. And, it also says that God raised him from the dead because only God has that power and the listening Jews knew that truth.

Now, there were only three people raised from the dead in the Old Testament. These Jews should have known about those, but some might not have. However, there would have been enough Jews who knew the truth to answer any questions from others. In addition, Jesus raised three people from the dead. Further, there were several Old Testament saints raised fr5om the dead who went into Jerusalem when Jesus rose. Then, and after Jesus returned to Heaven, Peter raised Tabaitha (Acts 9:40). However, with these Jews living in another country, they many or may not have heard about those resurrections. And, even if they heard, they may have believed that what they heard were rumors. However, regardless of what they might have heard or known, resurrection from the dead was a well known doctrine to the Jews.

Regardless of what people knew or believed, Paul continued, in our Second Equivalent Section, with the statement that there were many witnesses who saw Him many days. Therefore, any who doubted could go to Jerusalem and verify things for themselves.

Please see the note for John 1:43 about the word Galilee. The New Testament definition is: 'The most northerly of the three provinces of Palestine, namely, Galilee, Samaria, Judaea (Joh 4:3- 4; Lu 17:11; Ac 9:31). Galilee's Gentile character caused the southern Jews of purer blood to despise it (Joh 1:46; 7:52). There He first publicly preached, in Nazareth synagogue. From it came His apostles (Ac 1:11; 2:7); foretold in De 33:18- 19,23. Galilee's debasement made its people feel their need of the Savior, a feeling unknown to the self right.'. (The note at the link has more information about this place.)

Please see the note for Hebrews 11:4 about the word witness. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'someone who is qualified to testify in court and is available to do so if the court requests'. In addition, we have the definition, as it applies to the Bible, of: 'Basically, if the Bible literally says something in at least two places, that is a law that will be enforced by the court of God and is something that all must accept and obey'. Please also see the notes for John 8:17; 2Corinthians 13:1 and Colossians C3S13 about the phrase witnesses, two or the. Please also see the note for John 5:1 about the phrase witnesses given by Jesus to show that He is God.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'General references. Ac 2:24,32; 3:13,15,26; 4:10; 5:30-31; 10:40; 17:31; Mt 28:6; Joh 2:19; 10:17; Heb 13:20 exp: Ac 13:37; 26:8.
he was. Ac 1:3,11; 10:41; Mt 28:16; Mr 16:12-14; Lu 24:36-42; Joh 20:19-29; 21:1-14; 1Co 15:5-7 who. Ac 1:8,22; 2:32; 3:15; 5:32; 10:39; Lu 24:48; Joh 15:27; Heb 2:3-4 General references. exp: Lu 24:48; Ac 10:40; 26:8'.

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C13-S31 (Verse 32-33) Paul declares the fulfillment of prophecy.

First Step: God proved that He kept His prophecy and provides salvation and resurrection.

And we declare unto you glad tidings,
how that the promise which was made unto the fathers,
God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children,
in that he hath raised up Jesus again;.

Second Step: God the Father kept His promise to God the Son.

as it is also written in the second psalm,
Thou art my Son,
This day have I begotten thee.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase and we declare unto you glad tidings means: 'Paul and his team were declaring fulfillment of prophecy'.
The phrase how that the promise which was made unto the fathers means: 'God made these promises unto the fathers for their descendants'.
The phrase God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children means: 'God fulfilled His promises in their day'.
The phrase in that he hath raised up Jesus again means: 'This is the proof of fulfillment of prophecy. Therefore, other prophecies, from God, are also reliable'.
The phrase as it is also written in the second psalm means: 'Here is the prophecy which Paul references'.
The phrase Thou art my Son means: 'This is why God raised Jesus from the dead. This was not based upon a religious promise but was based upon a personal relationship whereby Jesus had the same character as God (because He was a Son). Likewise, we must also have a personal relationship with God whereby we receive the same character as God if we want to receive this promise'.
The phrase This day have I begotten thee means: 'God the Father not only had Jesus physically birthed but He also gave Him His character'.

Lots of people doubt The word of God and prophecies because of very believable liars working for devils. in this sentence, and the prior sentence, Paul is giving assurance of the reliability of prophecy no matter how long it takes for God to fulfill His prophecies. God works to His own timetable and not ours. We are required to have true Biblical faith regardless of any circumstance which works against true Biblical faith.

This sentence has two Steps where the First Step tells us that when God raised up Jesus again and that God fulfilled the promise which was made unto the fathers. The Second Step, which is based upon that truth, says that the resurrection of Jesus from the dead proves that he is God's begotten Son.

in this sentence, We see Paul setting the example for proper Biblical preaching as he tells his audience where the Bible verifies his claims. Notice that in this sentence Paul says his claims are based upon The promise which was made unto the fathers. He then quotes Psalms 2. (This same truth is also referenced in Hebrews 1:5 and Hebrews 5:5.) As we have seen several places where Old Testament verses are quoted, preachers in the early church (and reportedly all Jewish teachers) only quoted one or two verses and expected their audience to understand that they included all of the truth that is in the chapter that the verses come from. Thus, while Paul only quotes section of Psalms 2:7; he includes the truth of the whole Psalm.

Notice that Psalms 2:1-3 start declaring that the lost leaders of this world cast off the bands and cords (controls) that God puts on. The end of the Psalms warns us to Serve the LORD with fear and not be like those foolish lost leaders of this world. Then when we return to Paul's message, we see that in Acts 13:40-42 Paul warns them Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets. Thus we see Paul preach truths which are based upon sections of Psalms 2 which he did not quote but which he assumed that his audience knew without his quoting the entire Psalm.

The next several sentences give us further quotes of scripture by Paul. The main thing that we see within these quotes is Paul tells us that Jesus provided forgiveness of sins (Acts 13:38) and all that believe are justified from all things (Acts 13:39). in this message, we see Paul using the Bible to prove that the man Jesus is more than a man and, in fact, is 'God in human flesh' because He fulfilled the prophecy which proves that he is my Son, this day have I begotten thee.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians 1:11 about the word declare. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'to make clear'.

Please see the note for Hebrews 1:9 about these words. The New Testament definition for glad is: 'pleased; affected with pleasure or moderate joy; moderately happy'. The New Testament definition for the word gladness is: 'a moderate degree of joy and exhilaration; pleasure of mind; cheerfulness'. The New Testament definition for the word gladly is: 'With pleasure; joyfully; cheerfully'.

Please see the note for Luke 1:19 about the word tidings. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'n. plu. News; advice; information; intelligence; account of what has taken place, and was not before known. I shall make my master glad with these tidings. Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. Luke 2'.

Please see the note for Hebrews 1:5 about the word father. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'God or the man who passes his character to the son'.

Please see the note for Hebrews 1:5 about the word begotten. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Procreated; generated' forThe natural generation of mankind, as in Matt. 1, for the, spiritual generation of the Christian'. Please also see the note for Holy Ghost about the phrase only begotten son. Please also see the note for Hebrews 1:5-LJC about the word firstbegotten.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'we. Ac 13:38; Isa 40:9; 41:27; 52:7; 61:1; Lu 1:19; 2:10; Ro 10:15 how. Ac 3:19; 26:6; Ge 3:15; 12:3; 22:18; 26:4; 49:10; De 18:15; Isa 7:14; 9:6-7; 11:1; Jer 23:5; Eze 34:23; Da 9:24-26; Mic 5:2; Hag 2:7; Zec 6:12; 9:9; 13:1,7; Mal 3:1; 4:2; Lu 1:54-55,68-73; Ro 4:13; Ga 3:16-18 General references. exp: Ps 89:4; Jer 33:14.
Thou art. Ps 2:7; Heb 1:5-6; 5:5 General references. exp: Ps 89:4; Jer 33:14'.

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C13-S32 (Verse 34) God's promise of The sure mercies of David.

And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead,
now no more to return to corruption,
he said on this wise,
I will give you the sure mercies of David.

In our sentence, Paul says that he [God] raised him [Jesus Christ] up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption Paul is referring to a truth that he developed more fully in Romans 6:9. When he says I will give you the sure mercies of David he is quoting Isaiah 55:3 which makes it clear that our everlasting covenant (salvation) [Isaiah 55:3 ] is based upon receiving the person (I have given him for a for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people [Isaiah 55:4 ]) Who provides The sure mercies of David. We are told that the mercies of David are sure in 2Samuel 7:14-16; 2Samuel 23:5; Psalms 89:2-4; Psalms 89:19-37; Jeremiah 33:15-17; Jeremiah 33:26; Ezekiel 34:23-24; Ezekiel 37:24-25; Hosea 3:5; Amos 9:11; and Zechariah 12:8.

Please also see the Prophecies Section for Bible references to the 'Resurrection from the Dead' and other promises related to resurrection.

In the Bible, death is not just a one-time event, as most people believe, but is an ongoing process of corruption (2Corinthians 2:16). Since we are promised everlasting life and can die no more our new bodies will be incorruptible (Romans 1:22-23). Therefore, all saved will no more to return to corruption.

Please see the note for Romans 1:1 about the word concern. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Pertaining to; regarding; having relation to'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians 9:25 for links to every verse in 1Corinthians which uses a form of the word corrupt, along with the definition from Webster's 1828 and links to where this word is also found in other Bible books. While the reader should look at all of the verses within the Bible which use this word, in order to truly understand the long-term effects, we can say that the main application of this word, from the Webster's 1828 definition, is: 'To change from a sound to a putrid or putrescent state; to separate the component parts of a body, as by a natural process, which accompanied by a fetid smell'. In addition, to this word, we also need to consider the opposite words. The word uncorruptible is defines as: 'that cannot be corrupted. But incorruptible is the word now used'. The word incorruptible is defined as: 'a. 1. that cannot corrupt or decay; not admitting of corruption. thus gold, glass, mercury, etc., are incorruptible. Spirits are supposed to be incorruptible. Our bodies shall be changed into incorruptible and immortal substances. 2. that cannot be bribed; inflexibly just and upright'. Please also see the note for John 19:39 about the phrase no corruption. Please also see the note for Romans 1:22-23 about the word uncorruptible. Please also see the note for Romans 1:22-23 about the word incorruptible.

Please also see the notes for Romans C16S23 and 1Corinthians C1S12 about the word wise. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'he right use or exercise of knowledge; the choice of laudable ends, and of the best means to accomplish them'. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C1S12 about the word wisdom. Part of the definition, from Webster's 1828 dictionary defines, for this word is: 'The right use or exercise of knowledge; the choice of laudable ends, and of the best means to accomplish them. this is wisdom in act, effect, or practice. If wisdom is to be considered as a faculty of the mind, it is the faculty of discerning or judging what is most just, proper and useful, and if it is to be considered as an acquirement, it is the knowledge and use of what is best, most just, most proper, most conducive to prosperity or happiness. Wisdom in the first sense, or practical wisdom, is nearly synonymous with discretion'. . The New Testament definition, from the Bible, for this word is: 'The right application of knowledge from The word of God as revealed by God's Holy Spirit'. Please also see the note for Luke 2:49 about the words wist / wit.

Please see the notes for Romans C12S1 and Colossians C3S8 about the word mercy. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'not getting the punishment that you deserve'. Please also see the notes for Romans 14:8-LJC and 2Thessalonians 1:9-LJC about the phrase judgment without mercy.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'now. Ro 6:9 I will. Isa 55:3 the sure. 2Sa 7:14-16; 23:5; Ps 89:2-4,19-37; Jer 33:15-17,26; Eze 34:23-24; 37:24-25; Ho 3:5; Am 9:11; Zec 12:8 exp: Isa 55:3. mercies. "Gr. ta hosios G3743, holy, or just, things; which word the LXX., both in the place of Isa 55:3, and in many others, use for that which is in the Heb. mercies." General references. exp: Ps 89:4; Jer 30:9'.

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C13-S33 (Verse 35) Quote of Psalms 16:10.

Wherefore he saith also in another psalm,
Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

In our sentence, Paul quotes Psalms 16:10 which Peter also quoted in Acts Acts 2:27-31. in this sentence, we read Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption and in the next sentence Paul tells us For David...fell on sleep...and saw corruption which associates death with corruption. As has been noted elsewhere in this study, the Bible often uses death for the entire process of corruption and that Adam didn't just die spiritually when he sinned but he also died physically as his sin started the physical corruption which resulted in his physical death. in this case, however, Paul is referring to the corruption which occurs after death such as what caused the sisters to say that Lazarus stinketh (John 11; John 12:11).

Paul is adding another scriptural reference to tell his audience the everlastingresults of true Biblical resurrection. Paul will let them know that they can only personally have ythese results through an ongoing personal relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ.

Please see the note for Romans intro about the word wherefore. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'what follows the wherefore is a future result that is based upon what came before the wherefore and seen wherever you look'.

Please also see the note for 1John 2:20 about the phrase Holy One. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'our Saviour'. Lazarus was in the ground four days and his body did become corrupted. Please see the notes for Romans C7S16; 1Corinthians C3S17; Philippians 1:3-7 and Colossians C1S6 about the word holy. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'pure in heart, temper or dispositions; free from sin and sinful affections. Applied to the Supreme Being, holy signifies perfectly pure, immaculate and complete in moral character; and man is more or less holy, as his heart is more or less sanctified, or purified from evil dispositions. We call a man holy, when his heart is conformed in some degree to the image of God, and his life is regulated by the divine precepts. Hence, holy is used as nearly synonymous with good, pious, Godly'. Please see the Word Study on Spirit for links to every place in the Bible where we find the phrase Holy Spirit. Please see the Word Study on Holy Ghost for links to every place in the Bible where we find the phrase Holy Ghost. Please see the note for Matthew 4:5 about the phrase holy city. Please also see the note for John 7:39 about the phrase Holy Spirit, indwelling. Please see the Minor Titles of the Son of God in the Significant Gospel Events Study for the title of Holy One.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'in. Ac 2:27-31; Ps 16:10 to see. Ac 13:36-37; Ps 49:9; 89:48; Lu 2:26; Joh 3:36; 8:51; Heb 11:5 General references. exp: Ps 89:4'.

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C13-S34 (Verse 36-37) the comparison of the testimonies of king David and Jesus Christ.

Equivalent Section: the testimony of king David.

For David,
after he had served his own generation by the will of God,
fell on sleep,
and was laid unto his fathers,
and saw corruption:.

Equivalent Section: the testimony of Jesus Christ.

But he,
whom God raised again,
saw no corruption.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. in this sentence, Paul says that the king David could not be God's Christ because he died and saw corruption. However, Jesus saw no corruption. (He was only in the grave three days and three nights and corruption starts on the fourth day.)

Our sentence tells us that Paul contrasts what God did for David and what God did for Jesus in regards to death and corruption (Genesis 3:19; 2Samuel 7:12; 1Kings 2:10; 1Chronicles 17:11; Job 17:14; Job 19:26; 21:26; Psalms 49:9; Psalms 49:14; John 11:39; Acts 2:29; 1Corinthians 15:42-44; 1Corinthians 15:53-54).

In our sentence, the Second Equivalent Section starts with the word but which follows a colon and means: 'It is the polar opposite of the First Equivalent Section'. And, we see this truth when we compare the details of the two Equivalent Sections. In the First Equivalent Section, King David served his own generation by the will of God. He did what God wanted Him to do. However, in the Second Equivalent Section, Jesus Christ served God His whole life. In addition, in the First Equivalent Section, our sentence tells us that king David saw corruption while in the Second Equivalent Section, we read that Jesus Christ saw no corruption. Further, in the First Equivalent Section, king David fell on sleep (death), and was laid unto his fathers and is still in the grave. However, in the Second Equivalent Section, Jesus Christ was whom God raised again.

It should be obvious to the reader, just like it was obvious to those Jews, that Paul was saying that Jesus Christ received things from God the Father that even king David did not receive. As a result, Jesus Christ was greater than king David.

Please see the notes for Romans C16S21 and 2Timothy C1-S2 about the word serve. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To work for; to bestow the labor of body and mind in the employment of another'.Please also see the note for Philippians 2:17 about the word service. Please also see the notes for Romans C14S4; 1Corinthians C7S27 and Ephesians C6S4 about the word servant. The New Testament definition is: 'To command another to help or to cry for help, hence to pray (Ge 4:26)'.

Please see the note for Colossians C1S6 about the word generation. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The average lifespan of man. Since the lifespan of man changed throughout history, the length of years also changed from 900 years to 20 years'.

Please see the note for Mark 4:26-27 about the word sleep. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'v.i. pret. and pp. slept. 1. to take rest by a suspension of the voluntary exercise of the powers of the body and mind. the proper time to sleep in during the darkness of night. 2. to rest; to be unemployed; to be inactive or motionless; as, the sword sleeps in its sheath. 3. to rest; to lie or be still; not to be noticed or agitated. the question sleeps for the present. 4. to live thoughtlessly. We sleep over our happiness. 5. to be dead; to rest in the grave for a time. I thess. 4. 6. to be careless, inattentive or unconcerned; not be vigilant'. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C11S34 about the phrase sleep is physically dead but spiritually alive.

Please see the note for Hebrews 1:5 about the word father. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'God or the man who passes his character to the son'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'served, etc. or, in his own age served the will of God. Ac 13:22; 1Ch 11:2; 13:2-4; 15:12-16,25-29; 18:14; 22-29; Ps 78:71-72 fell. Ac 7:60; 2Sa 7:12; 1Ki 2:10; 1Co 15:6,18; 1Th 4:13 and was. Ac 2:29; 1Ch 17:11; 2Ch 9:31; 12:16; 21:1; 26:23 and saw. Ge 3:19; Job 17:14; 19:26-27; 21:26; Ps 49:9,14; Joh 11:39; 1Co 15:42-44,53-54 General references. exp: Ps 89:4; Zec 1:5.
General references. Ac 13:30; 2:24 exp: Ps 89:4'.

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C13-S35 (Verse 38-39) Paul's altar call.

Equivalent Section: .

Be it known unto you,
men and brethren,
that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:.

Equivalent Section: .

And by him all that believe are justified from all things,
from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. in this sentence, Paul says that the Law of Moses could not give forgiveness of sin but that forgiveness of sins, and justification, only came through believing on Jesus.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase Be it known unto you means: 'Paul wants them to be clear in what he is telling them'.
The phrase men and brethren means: 'He is speaking to everyone who is there. That includes all Jews and all non-Jews'.
The phrase that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins means: ' is available through the resurrected Jesus Christ'.
The phrase And by him all that believe are justified from all things means: 'In addition, justification from all things is available through true belief in Jesus Christ'.
The phrase from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses means: 'The Mosaic Law could never provide justification'.

Our sentence tells us that Paul tells us that forgiveness of sins is through the physical man named Jesus and that ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. Again, this truth is expanded upon in Romans and Galatians and other places in the New Testament.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 2:7 about the word forgive. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To pardon; to remit, as an offense or debt; to overlook an offense, and treat the offender as not guilty. There is doctrinal error taught about this word. We are to forgive trespasses and not required to forgive felonies. In addition, God does not forgive the person who refuses to truly repent nor does He require us to forgive such a person'. The word forgiven is: 'The past-tense form of the word forgive'.

Please see the note for Romans C7S26 about the word sin. The New Testament definition is: 'a violation of God's law' (1John 3:4). Please see the notes for Sin in 1John; Romans C2S4; 1Corinthians 8:11-LJC and Galatians C3-S26 about the phrase sin unto death. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C6S16 about the phrase kingdom of God rejected by lifestyle sins. Please also see the note for Matthew 9:10 about the word sinners.

Please see the notes for Romans C7S16; Galatians 2:16-LJC and 2Peter 2:9-LJC about the word just. The New Testament definition is: 'Regular; orderly; due; suitable; exactly proportioned; proper; upright; honest; having principles of rectitude; or conforming exactly to the laws, and to principles of rectitude in social conduct; equitable in the distribution of justice'. Please also see the note for Ephesians C1S2 about the phrase just shall live by faith. Please also see the note for Romans C11S6 about the phrase just shall live by his faith. Please also see the note for Romans C3S29 about the phrase justification by faith. Please also see the note for Romans 3:20 about the word justify. Please see the Minor Titles of the Son of God in the Significant Gospel Events Study for the title of Just. Please also see the note for 2Peter 2:9-LJC about the word unjust.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'it. Ac 2:14; 4:10; 28:28; Eze 36:32; Da 3:18 that. Ac 2:38; 5:31; 10:43; Ps 32:1; 130:4,7; Jer 31:34; Da 9:24; Mic 7:18-20; Zec 13:1; Lu 24:47; Joh 1:29; 2Co 5:18-21; Eph 1:7; 4:32; Col 1:14; Heb 8:6,12-13; 9:9-14,22; 10:4-18; 1Jo 2:1-2,12 exp: Ga 2:16. General references. exp: Joh 20:23; Ro 3:28; Heb 8:12.
by. Isa 53:11; Hab 2:4; Lu 18:14; Joh 5:24; Ro 3:24-30; 4:5-8,24; 5:1,9; 8:1,3,30-34; 10:10; 1Co 6:11; Ga 2:16; 3:8 from which. Job 9:20; 25:4; Ps 143:2; Jer 31:32; Lu 10:25,28; Joh 1:17; Ro 3:19; 4:15; 5:20; 7:9-11; 8:3; 9:31; 10:4; Ga 2:16,19; 3:10-12,21-25; 5:3; Php 3:6-9; Heb 7:19; 9:9-10; 10:4,11 General references. exp: Joh 20:23; Ro 3:28; Heb 8:12'.

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C13-S36 (Verse 40-41) the warning against ignoring the invitation.

Equivalent Section: Beware of warning from scripture.

First Step: the warnings come from the prophets.

Beware therefore,
lest that come upon you,
which is spoken of in the prophets;.

Second Step: Specific scriptures referenced.

Behold,
ye despisers,
and wonder,
and perish:.

Equivalent Section: Other scripture referenced.

for I work a work in your days,
a work which ye shall in no wise believe,
though a man declare it unto you.

Acts 13:14-41 tells us the first sermon from Paul which is reported in the Bible. It was given to Jews in their synagogue on the Sabbath day. in this sentence, Paul tells us that Paul references scripture and warned the Jews of God's promised judgment and that they would not believe even when the Gospel was preached to them.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets means: 'The warnings come from the prophets'.
The phrase behold, ye despisers references Proverbs 1:24-32; Proverbs 5:12; Isaiah 5:24 and Isaiah 28:14-22.
The phase and wonder, and perish references Deuteronomy 28:28 and Isaiah 66:15.
The phrase for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you. references Isaiah 29:14 and Habakkuk 1:5.

As seen in this sentence, the way that scripture was quoted, in that day, is not the same as we do today. Often only part of scripture was referenced, or was reported as being referenced, and the audience was expected to know their scripture well enough to know the entire reference. And, we have seen this same type of reference to Old Testament scripture done elsewhere in the New Testament.

Please see the note for Colossians 2:67 about the word beware. It has the full definition from Webster's 1828 and links to every place in the New Testament where this word is used. The New Testament definition is: 'Literally, to restrain or guard one's self from. Hence, to regard with caution'.

Please see the note for Romans intro about the word therefore. The New Testament definition is: 'what follows the therefore is a future result that is based upon what came before the therefore and result is only seen there'.

Please see the note for Romans C2S4 about the word despise. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'to contemn; to scorn; to disdain; to have the lowest opinion of. Fools despise wisdom and instruction. Prov. 1. Else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Matt. 6. 2. to abhor'.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 12:12 about the word wonder. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'that emotion which is excited by novelty, or the presentation to the sight or mind, of something new, unusual, strange, great, extraordinary, or not well understood; something that arrests the attention by its novelty, grandeur or inexplicableness. Wonder expresses less than astonishment, and much less than amazement. It differs from admiration, in not being necessarily accompanied with love, esteem or approbation, nor directed to persons. But wonder sometimes is nearly allied to astonishment, and the exact extent of the meaning of such words can hardly be graduated. they were filled with wonder and amazement. Acts 3. Wonder is the effect of novelty upon ignorance. 2. Cause of wonder; that which excites surprise; a strange thing; a prodigy. to try things oft, and never to give over, doth wonders. I am as a wonder to many. Psalm 71. 3. anything mentioned with surprise. Babylon, the wonder of all tongues. Wonders of the world. the seven wonders of the world were the Egyptian pyramids, the Mausoleum erected by Artemisia, the temple of Diana at Ephesus, the walls and hanging gardens of Babylon, the colossus at Rhodes, the statue of Jupiter Olympius, and the Pharos or watch-tower of Alexandria. 4. A miracle. Exodus 3'. Please also see the note for Matthew 7:22 about the word wonderful. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'a. Adapted to excite wonder or admiration; exciting surprise; strange; astonishing. Job 42'. Please see the Minor Titles of the Son of God Section, of the Significant Gospel Events Study, for links to this nameans other titles for Jesus.

Please see the notes for 2Corinthians 2:15-16 and 2Corinthians 4:16 about the word perish. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Webster's 1828 dictionary defines perish as: '1. to die; to lose life in any manner; applied to animals. Men perish by disease or decay, by the sword, by drowning, by hunger or famine, etc. 2. to die; to wither and decay; applied to plants. 3. to waste away; as, a leg or an arm has perished. 4. to be in a state of decay or passing away. Duration, and time which is part of it, is the idea we have of perishing distance. 5. to be destroyed; to come to nothing. Perish the lore that deadens young desire. 6. to fail entirely or to be extirpated. 2 Kings.9. 7. to be burst or ruined; as, the bottles shall perish. Luke 5. 8. to be wasted or rendered useless. Jer.9. 9. to be injured or tormented. 1 Cor.8. 10. to be lost eternally; to be sentenced to endless misery. 2 Pet.2'. the New Testament definition is: 'literally, to depart wholly'. The Bible uses this word for people who not only 'departed' the physical realm in death but who also suffered the second death.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians 1:11 about the word declare. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'to make clear'

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'Beware. Mal 3:2; 4:1; Mt 3:9-12; Heb 2:3; 3:12; 12:25 exp: Mt 7:15. which. Isa 29:14; Hab 1:5 General references. exp: Mr 12:11.
ye despisers. Pr 1:24-32; 5:12; Isa 5:24; 28:14-22; Lu 16:14; 23:35; Heb 10:28-30 for. Ac 13:47; 3:23; 6:14; 22:21; Isa 65:15; Da 9:26-27; Mt 8:10-11; 21:41-44; 22:7-10; 23:34-38; Lu 19:42-44; 21:20-26; Ro 11:7-14; Eph 3:3-8; Col 1:26-27; 1Th 2:16; 1Pe 4:17 General references. exp: De 28:28; Mt 24:39; Mr 12:11'.

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C13-S37 (Verse 42) the Gentiles sought to hear the truth of the Gospel..

And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue,
The Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.

at this point, it is not clear how the Jews reacted to the message. However, it is clear that the Gentiles had a positive reaction. And, later in the chapter, we read that he Jews...were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. However, they only reacted when they saw the size of the crowd that Paul and Barnabas drew. So, they used doctrine as an excuse for rioting and driving Paul and Barnabas out of the city. However, their true motivation was not doctrine but was envy.

Please see the note for Romans C15S13 about the word Gentile. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'In the scriptures, a non-Jew'. Please see the note for Luke 2:32 for links to where the word of God prophesies that God would bring the Gospel to the Gentiles Please also see the Word Study on Gospel about the gospel to the Gentiles.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 12:8 about the word besought. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The past-tense form of the word beseech'. Please also see the note for Romans C12S1 about the word beseech. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To entreat; to supplicate; to implore; to ask or pray with urgency'. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 13:42; Acts 16:15; Acts 16:39; Acts 21:12; Acts 25:2; Acts 27:33.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'The Gentiles. Ac 10:33; 28:28; Eze 3:6; Mt 11:21; 19:30 the next sabbath. Gr. in the week between, or, in the sabbath between. Ac 13:44 General references. exp: Joh 4:30'.

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C13-S38 (Verse 43) the people who believed followed the disciples.

Equivalent Section: they followed after the service.

Now when the congregation was broken up,
many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas:.

Equivalent Section: they were encouraged to continue in their new faith.

who,
speaking to them,
persuaded them to continue in the grace of God .

In addition to the Gentiles wanting to hear more, the newly saved also wanted to hear more. That is one of the best signs that someone truly did get saved.

We find forms of the word congregation occurring 367 times in 334 verses of the Bible, but only in this sentence within the New Testament. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'The term is constantly applied in the O.T. to the community of Israel, and also to the actual assembling together of the people according to the unity of the congregation. Every descendant of the twelve tribes formed a part of that community. those of other nations were received into the congregation on becoming PROSELYTES, q.v. the Ammonite and the Moabite were forbidden ever to come into the congregation of Jehovah, and there were a few other restrictions. De 23:1-4. forvarious offences an Israelite was cut off from the congregation. Ex 12:19; Nu 9:13, etc'.

Please see the note for Matthew 5:19 about the words break / brake / broke. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' to part or divide by force and violence, as a solid substance; to rend apart; as, to break a band; to break a thread or a cable'. Please also see the note for Luke 12:39 about the word broken. Please also see the note for Romans C11S21 about the phrase broken off.

Please see the note for James 1:26 about the words religious / religion. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'This is applied in scripture to 1. the Jews' religion, in which Paul was very strict. Ac 26:5. 2. Practical Christianity. Jas 1:26-27. 3. the character of the proselytes as 'religious' or 'worshipping.' Ac 13:43'. Please also see the note for Hebrews 19:29-LJC about the phrase religious part of Mosaic Law. Please also see the note for Hebrews 10:28-29 about the phrase New Testament replaces only the religious part of the Mosaic Law.

Please see the note for Matthew 23:15 about the word proselyte. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The name given to any from among the nations who embraced Judaism'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C4S16 about the word follow. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To go after or behind; to walk, ride or move behind, but in the same direction. Soldiers will usually follow a brave officer'. Please also see the note for Romans C14S25 about the phrase follow after. Please also see the note for Mark 2:14 about the phrase follow me. Please also see the Message called Follow Me As I Follow Christ for the application of these verses in the life of the believer. Please see the note for Matthew 3:11 about the phrase come after me. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'follow me to do things the same way as I do'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C9S8 about Barnabas. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This man was a peace maker'.

Please see the note for Romans C8S40 about the word persuade. Webster's 1828 Dictionary defines for this word as: 'influence by argument, advice, intreaty or expostulation; to draw or incline the will to a determination by presenting motives to the mind. I should be glad, if I could persuade him to write such another critick on anything of mine. Almost thou persuadest me to be a christian. Acts.26. 2. to convince by argument, or reasons offered; or to convince by reasons suggested by reflection or deliberation, or by evidence presented in any manner to the mind. Beloved, we are persuaded better things of you. Heb.6. 3. to inculcate by argument or expostulation. Little used. 4. to treat by persuasion. Not in use'. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 13:43; Acts 14:19; Acts 18:4; Acts 18:13; Acts 19:8; Acts 19:26; Acts 21:14; Acts 26:26; Acts 26:28; Acts 28:23.

Please see the note for Philippians 1:25-26 about the word continue. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'keep doinf what they were doing before. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'keep doing what they were doing before'. The dictionary does not make the distinction between the words continue and continueth. Webster's 1828 actually gives the Biblical definition of continueth for the word continue. In the Bible, the word continue is used for when the action stopped at some point and uses the word continueth for when the action does not stop in this life'. Please also see the note for James 1:25 about the word continueth. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians 7:5 about the word incontinent.

Please see the note for Romans C4S5 about theword grace. The word grace is usually presented as 'God's riches at Christ Expense'. However, that obviously does not fit in James 1:11. So while that is the main application within the Bible, the true definition is: 'that which makes the source look good'. We are given God's grace for the expressed purpose of making God look good. In addition, the New Testament definition of the word gracious is: 'Favorable; kind; friendly; as,the envoy met with a gracious reception'. Please see the note for Galatians C5S4 about the phrase fallen from grace. Please see the note for Galatians C6S18 about the phrase grace through Christ. Please see the note for 11:5 about the phrase election of grace.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'and religious. Ac 2:10; 6:5 followed. Ac 17:34; 19:9 persuaded. Ac 11:23; 14:22; 19:8; 28:23; Joh 8:31-32; 15:5-10; 2Co 5:11; 6:1; Ga 5:1; Php 3:16; 4:1; Col 1:23,28; 1Th 3:3-5; Heb 6:11-12; 12:15; 2Pe 3:14,17-18; 1Jo 2:28; 2Jo 1:9 exp: Ac 18:4. The grace. Ac 14:3; Ro 3:24; 5:2,21; 11:6; Ga 5:4; Eph 2:8; Tit 2:11; Heb 13:9; 1Pe 5:12 General references. exp: Nu 29:25; Lu 12:52'.

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C13-S39 (Verse 44) the response of the Gentiles to the chance to hear the Gospel
And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God .

Acts 13:42 tells us that the Gentiles asked Paul and Barnabas to preach to them the next Sabbath.

Our sentence starts with the word and, which adds it to the prior sentences. In Acts 13:42; we read: The Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath. There was no objection from the Jews, at that time and this sentence tells us the result. Our next sentence starts with the word But, which means it is continuing the subject of this sentence while changing who, and how, they reacted. That is, the disciples were happy. However, at the same time, The Jews...were filled with envy. Their envy was the true reason why they threw a riot and ran Paul and Barnabas out of the city. It was not doctrine, like they claimed. And, we see the importance of considering context in order to avoid being deceived.

in this sentence, we read a reaction which is rarely seen today. However, the start of our chapter told us that the entire church prayed and fasted before sending the team out. That also is rarely seen today. If we want the spiritual results, we must be wiling to pay the spiritual price.

Please see the note for Mark 11:19 about the word city. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'An area where many people live together and have a local government rule over them'. Please also see the note for Romans C13S12 about the phrase city of refuge. Please also see the note for Matthew 4:5 about the phrase holy city.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'came. Ge 49:10; Ps 110:3; Isa 11:10; 60:8 General references. exp: Mr 1:33; Lu 12:52'.

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C13-S40 (Verse 45) the first reaction by the religious Jews.

But when the Jews saw the multitudes,
they were filled with envy,
and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul,
contradicting and blaspheming.

This sentence tells us that the Jews reacted sinfully instead of recognizing the work of God in how many Gentiles came out to hear the Gospel. As we read in the rest of this chapter, and throughout the rest of the book of Acts, the religious Jews kept trying to fight what God did spiritually through His people with a physical attack. The spiritual can not be fought with physical means.

Our sentence starts with the word But, which means it is continuing the subject of the prior sentence while changing who, and how, they reacted. That is, in the prior sentence, we read that the disciples were happy. However, at the same time, our current sentence tells us that The Jews...were filled with envy. Their envy was the true reason why they threw a riot and ran Paul and Barnabas out of the city. It was not doctrine, like they claimed. And, we see the importance of considering context in order to avoid being deceived.

Notice that they had one motivation for fighting against Paul and Barnabas (envy) but claimed a different motivation (contradicting and blaspheming). As is typical of devil-motivated religious people, they lied.

Please see the note for John 6:2 about the word multitude. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'The state of being many; a great number. 2. A number collectively; the sum of many. 3. A great number, indefinitely. It is a fault in a multitude of preachers, that they utterly neglect method in their harangues. 4. A crowd or throng; the populace; applied to the populace when assembled in great numbers, and to the mass of men without reference to an assemblage. He the vast hissing multitude admires. the multitude have always been credulous, and the few artful'.

Please see the notes for Romans C13S16 and Galatians C5S20 about the word envy. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' to feel uneasiness, mortification or discontent, at the sight of superior excellence, reputation or happiness enjoyed by another; to repine at another's prosperity; to fret or grieve one's self at the real or supposed superiority of another, and to hate him on that account'.

Please see the note for Hebrews 12:3 about the word contradiction. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'An assertion of the contrary to what has been said or affirmed; denial; contrary declaration. 2. Opposition, whether by words, reproaches or attempts to defeat. Consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself. Hebrews 12. 3. Direct opposition or repugnancy; inconsistency with itself; incongruity or contrariety of things, words, thoughts or propositions. these theorems involve a contradiction. If we perceive truth, we thereby perceive whatever is false in contradiction to it'. Please also see the note for Gallatians 5:17 about the word contrary. The New Testament definition is: 'Opposite; adverse; moving against or in an opposite direction'. Please also see the note for Gallatians 2:6-9 about the word contrariwise.

Please see the notes for Mark 2:6-7 about the word blasphemy. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Speaking evil of God'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'they. Ac 5:17 (margin) Ac 17:5; Ge 37:11; Nu 11:29; Ec 4:4; Isa 26:11; Mt 27:18; Lu 15:25-30; Ro 1:29; 1Co 3:3; Ga 5:21; Jas 3:14-16; 4:5 exp: Ac 18:6. spake. Ac 6:9-10; 18:6; 19:9; Mt 23:13; 1Pe 4:4; Jude 1:10 General references. exp: Mr 8:13; Lu 12:52; Joh 12:11; Ac 14:2'.

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C13-S41 (Verse 46) the reaction of Paul to blasphemy by the Jews.

Equivalent Section: they explained their past behavior.

Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold,
and said,
It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you:.

Equivalent Section: they explained their planned future behavior.

but seeing ye put it from you,
and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life,
lo,
we turn to the Gentiles.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold means: 'They were not intimidated by the religious Jews'.
The phrase and said means: 'They spake God's judgment upon their behaviour'.
The phrase It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you means: 'God required His Gospel to be preached to His people, the Jews, first'.
The phrase but seeing ye put it from you means: 'They pushed the truth from God away in order to cling to their doctrinal error'.
The phrase and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life means: 'They rejected true Biblical salvation and condemned themselves, and their followers, to Hell'.
The phrase lo means: 'Pay close attention to the judgment which your behaviour caused'.
The phrase we turn to the Gentiles means: 'Paul and Barnabas continued to preach to the Jews but did not limit their preaching to Jews. They also preached to Gentiles'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C9S8 about Barnabas. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This man was a peace maker'.

Please see the note for Luke 2:40 about the word waxed. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'to increase in size; to grow; to become larger; as the waxing and the waning moon. 2. to pass from one state to another; to become; as, to wax strong; to wax warm or cold; to wax feeble; to wax hot; to wax old; to wax worse and worse'.

Please see the note for Romans C15S13 about the word bold. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Daring; courageous; brave; intrepid; fearless; applied to men or other animals. Requiring courage in the execution'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians 12:22 about the word necessary. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'a. 1. that must be; that cannot be otherwise; indispensably requisite. It is necessary that every effect should have a cause. 2. Indispensable; requisite; essential; that cannot be otherwise without preventing the purpose intended. Air is necessary to support animal life; food is necessary to nourish the body; holiness is a necessary qualification for happiness; health is necessary to the enjoyment of pleasure; subjection to law is necessary to the safety of persons and property. 3. Unavoidable; as a necessary inference or consequence from facts or arguments. 4. Acting from necessity or compulsion; opposed to free. Whether man is a necessary or a free agent is a question much discussed'. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 13:46; Acts 15:28; Acts 28:10.

Please see the note for Luke 16:9 about the word everlasting. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Having a beginning but no end. While many equate everlasting to eternal, that is wrong because eternal has no beginning'.

Please see the notes for 2Corinthians 2:15; Philippians 1:19-20; Life in 1John about the word life. The New Testament definition is: 'Life is that by which a created being enjoys the place in which the Creator has set it'. Please also see the note for Life in 1John about the phrase eternal life. Please also see the notes for Hebrews 1:8-LJC; Philippians 1:27-LJC about the phrase life everlasting. Please note that eternal life is different from everlasting life in that while eternal life is 'Without beginning or end of existence', everlasting life 'has a beginning but is without end of existence'. Please see the note for John 5:24 about the phrase everlasting life. Please also see the note for Life in 1John about the phrase eternal life. Please also see the note for Romans C10S15 about the phrase belief changes life. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C6S16 about the phrase kingdom of God rejected by lifestyle sins. Please also see the note for Matthew 9:10 about the word sinners. Please also see the notes for Romans C14S11; Galatians C2-S14 and Philippians 1:21 about the word live. Please also see the note for Colossians C3S4 about the phrase Christ lives through us. Please also see the note for Ephesians C1S2 about the phrase just shall live by faith. Please also see the note for Romans C11S6 about the phrase just shall live by his faith. Please also see the note for Romans C9S28 about the phrase live / walk by faith.

Please see the note for Luke 18:28 about the word lo. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'exclaim. Look; see; behold; observe. this word is used to excite particular attention in a hearer to some object of sight, or subject of discourse. Lo, here is Christ. Matt 24. Lo, we turn to the Gentiles. Acts 13'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'waxed. Ac 4:13,29-31; Pr 28:1; Ro 10:20; Eph 6:19-20; Php 1:14; Heb 11:34 It was. Ac 13:26; 3:26; 18:5; 26:20; Mt 10:6; Lu 24:47; Joh 4:22; Ro 1:16; 2:10; 9:4-5 seeing. Ac 7:51; Ex 32:9-10; De 32:21; Isa 49:5-8; Mt 10:13-15; 21:43; 22:6-10; Lu 14:16-24; Joh 1:11; Ro 10:19-21; 11:11-13 turn. Ac 18:6; 28:28; Isa 55:5 General references. exp: Jon 4:1; Mr 8:13; 10:31; Lu 12:52; 14:24'.

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C13-S42 (Verse 47) the Lord gave a personal command to take the Gospel to the Gentiles..

For so hath the Lord commanded us,
saying,
I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles,
that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.

We see a principal here that we should heed. When God gives us a job and we won't do it, we don't stop God's work from being done. God will go around us and give the job to someone else. God then blesses them and judges us. The Jews were to take God's world to the world. They kept it to themselves and thought it made them better than others. God set the Jews aside and went to the Gentiles. This is explained in Romans 3; Romans 11; Romans 15 and other places in the New Testament. See those verses and associated notes for more details on this doctrine.

Notice that our sentence says For so hath the Lord commanded us. He did this more than once and with more than just Paul and Barnabas. But the important thing is that these Jews thought that they could replace a personal command from The Lord with their own religious doctrine. Obviously, they were wrong. Yet, incredibly, most so-called 'Christian religions' still try to do the same today.

Back in Acts 10 God had Peter open the gospel to the Gentiles. Before that, in Acts 9:15 God said that Paul was a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles. That is what Paul is referring to in this verse when he says The Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles when referring to himself. But the Church of Antioch, and Barnabas, were also given commands to do the job. In addition, we also read the command in Isaiah 42:6 and Isaiah 49:6. (They are commands from God to Christ, which He passes onto all of His saved people.)

As servants of Christ, Paul and Barnabas are fulfilling the commandment given to Christ from God. Further, the fact that God would bring the gospel to the Gentiles was prophesied in Isaiah 11:10; Isaiah 42:1; Isaiah 42:6; Isaiah 49:6; Isaiah 49:22; Isaiah 60:3; Isaiah 66:19; Jeremiah 16:9; Malachi 1:11; Matthew 12:18; Matthew 12:21; Luke 2:32. However, the Jews didn't understand these prophecies just like it was prophesied in the verse that Paul quoted in Acts 13:41 (I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you). Paul was the man who declared it unto you [The Jews] and they did not believe it, as prophesied and as we see happen in this verse, even though it was the Lord who did work a work in your [that] days.

Next, We see that The Lord commanded them, and us, to be a light, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth. Lots of people believe, and preach, a wrong definition for darkness. The Bible actually says that anything which opposes the light of God shining from our life to accomplish the purpose stated in this sentence is darkness. Demas was part of Paul's missionary team. Yet, 2Timothy 4:10 says: For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto thessalonica. Thus, saved people stopping doing the work of God, because they love this present world, have turned their life to darkness even while they have the light of God in them. That type of saved person is what the Bible truly means by outer darkness. And, that was the type of life which we see these Jews living even as they claimed to be children of God and to preach His doctrine.

Please see the note for Romans 7:8 about the word commandment. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'a mandate; an order or injunction given by authority; charge'. Please note that a commandment is not always written down and often comes through the human person that God has placed in authority over us. Please see the note for Psalms 119:4 for the use of the word commandment within this Psalm and considerations from several other places within the Bible. Please see the note for Romans C7S11 about the word commandment. Please see the Doctrinal Study on the use Ten Commandments for links to where they are dealt with in the word of God. Please use This link to see the 'Ten (10) Commandments' and references to them in the New Testament. Please also see the note for 1John 5:2 about the phrase keep his commandments.

Please see the notes for Romans C13S15; 2Corinthians 4:3-4 and Ephesians C5S6 about the word light. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The spiritual gift from God that overcomes spiritual darkness from sin and Satan. Spiritual light allows us to see and understand things from God's view. Spiritual light allows us to see how to walk, work and live in this world in a Godly way'. Please also see the notes for John 1:9; Romans 13:12; John 8:12 and John 11:9-LJC about the phrase Jesus is our light. Please also see the notes for Light and Darkness in 1John; Romans C13S15 and Hebrews 12:18-24 about the phrase light and darkness. Please also see the note for John 9:5 about the phrase light of the world. Please also see the note for Luke 17:24 about the word lightning. Please also see the note for Hebrews 6:4 about the word enlightened.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 11:15 about the word end. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'in Heb 13:7, is the rendering of the unusual Greek word ekbasin, meaning "outcome", i.e., death. It occurs only elsewhere in 1Co 10:13, where it is rendered "escape."'.

Please see the notes for 2Corinthians 5:1 and Philippians 2:9-11 about the word earth. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'All of this physical world including the influence it has on us. At times, the application o0f this word, will focus on only part of the whole'. Please also see the note for Luke 21:10-11 about the word earthquake. Please also see the note for 2Corinthians 4:7 about the word earthen. Please also see the note for 2Corinthians 5:1 about the word earthly. Please also see the note for Revelation 10:11-LJC about the phrase kings of the earth.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'so. Ac 1:8; 9:15; 22:21; 26:17-18; Mt 28:19; Mr 16:15; Lu 24:47 I have. Ac 26:23; Isa 42:1,6; 49:6; 60:3; Lu 2:32 that thou. Ac 15:14-16; Ps 22:27-29; 67:2-7; 72:7-8; 96:1-2; 98:2-3; 117; Isa 2:1-3; 24:13-16; 42:9-12; 45:22; 52:10; 59:19-20; Jer 16:19; Ho 1:10; Am 9:12; Mic 4:2-3; 5:7; Zep 3:9-10; Zec 2:11; 8:20-23; Mal 1:11 General references. exp: Ge 1:17; Mt 22:9; Mr 10:31; Ac 15:15'.

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C13-S43 (Verse 48) the reaction of the Gentiles to the prior sentence.

Equivalent Section: their reaction in this physical reality.

And when the Gentiles heard this,
they were glad,
and glorified the word of the Lord :.

Equivalent Section: their spiritual reaction.

and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.

Please use the link in the sentence outline, above, to access the note for this sentence in the Lord Jesus Christ Study. As explained there, we see lost people come to hear The word of God but only those who accept it as The [word/doctrine] of the Lord get saved. In addition, our next sentence tells us And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region. Then the sentence after that tells us how the Jews, whom claimed to believe The word of God, fought against The word of the Lord. Thus, we see that the true fight then, and the true fight still today, is over authority. The religious person insists that everyone must submit to the authority of their religion, including God. At the same time, the truly saved are to tell everyone to submit to the authority of The Lord through an ongoing personal relationship with Him.

Please see the note for Romans C15S14 about the word glory. There is a lot of information about this word in that note. The New Testament for this word is: 'Brightness, splendor, luster'. The New Testament for the word glorified is: 'past-tense form of the word glory'. The New Testament for the word glorifying is: 'applying the word glory in an ongoing manner'. The New Testament for the word Glorious is: 'Illustrious; of exalted excellence and splendor; resplendent in majesty and divine attributes; applied to God'. Please also see the note for Matthew 17:1 about the phrase Jesus Christ return in glory. Please also see the Minor Titles of the Son of God to see the title of: hope of glory. All true Biblical hope is based in Him. Think about what was revealed in the 'Mount of transfiguration'.

Please see the notes for Romans C7S14; Romans C13S3 and 1Corinthians C7S20 about the words ordain / ordinance. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'pp. Appointed; instituted; established; invested with ministerial or pastoral functions; settled'.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 4:17-18 about the word eternal. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' '. Please also see the note for Life in 1John about the phrase eternal life. Please also see 'Titles for Jesus', in the Significant Gospel Events Study; along with links to where the Bible uses those titles. This title is eternal life.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'they. Ac 13:42; 2:41; 8:8; 15:31; Lu 2:10-11; Ro 15:9-12 glorified. Ps 138:2; 2Th 3:1 and as. Ac 2:47; Joh 10:16,26-27; 11:52; Ro 8:30; 11:7; Eph 1:19; 2:5-10; 2Th 2:13-14 ordained. Ac 15:2; 20:13; 22:10; 28:23; Mt 28:16; Lu 7:8; Ro 13:1; 1Co 16:15 (Gr) General references. exp: Mr 10:31; Ac 8:8; 28:24'.

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C13-S44 (Verse 49) And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region

As explained in the note above, this sentence is added to the prior by starting with the word and. Then ournext sentence is also added in by starting with the word but. Therefore, contextual requirements are critical to proper interpretation and understanding. As noted there, we see that the true fight then, and the true fight still today, is over authority. The religious person insists that everyone must submit to the authority of their religion, including God. At the same time, the truly saved are to tell everyone to submit to the authority of The Lord through an ongoing personal relationship with Him.

Please see the note for Mark 1:45 about the word publish. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'to discover or make known to mankind or to people in general what before was private or unknown; to divulge, as a private transaction; to promulgate or proclaim, as a law or edict. We publish a secret, by telling it to people without reserve. Laws are published by printing or by proclamation. Christ and his apostles published the glad tidings of salvation. th' unwearied sun, from day to day, Does his Creator's power display; And publishes to every land the work of an Almighty hand. 2. to send a book into the world; or to sell or offer for sale a book, map or print. 3. to utter; to put off or into circulation; as, to publish a forged or counterfeit paper. 4. to make known by posting, or by reading in a church; as, to publish banns of matrimony. We say also, the persons intending marriage are published; that is, their intention of marriage is published'.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 10:14-16 about the word region. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines region as: 'A tract of land or space of indefinite extent, usually a tract of considerable extent. It is sometimes nearly synonymous with country; as all the region of Argob. Deut. 3. He had dominion over all the region on this side the river. 1Kings 4. So we speak of the airy region, the etherial regions, the upper regions, the lower regions. 2. the inhabitants of a region or district of country. Matt. 3. 3. A part of the body; as the region of the heart or liver. 4. Place; rank'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'was. Ac 6:7; 9:42; 12:24; 19:10,26; Php 1:13-14 General references. exp: Ac 28:24'.

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C13-S45 (Verse 50) how the lost religious Jews fought against the authority of The Lord

But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women,
and the chief men of the city,
and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas,
and expelled them out of their coasts.

Acts 13:50-52 tells us the results of their turning to the Gentiles.

Our sentence starts with the word but, which means it is continuing the subject of the prior sentence while changing directions. As noted for the prior two sentences, we see that the true fight then, and the true fight still today, is over authority. The religious person insists that everyone must submit to the authority of their religion, including God. At the same time, the truly saved are to tell everyone to submit to the authority of The Lord through an ongoing personal relationship with Him.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women means: 'They went to people who wanted greater authority and offered to help them achieve their goals'.
The phrase and the chief men of the city means: 'They also promised political and financial support to these men'. Even at that time, the Jews were considered to be the bankers of the world.
The phrase and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas means: 'They sought to cause people to turn violent against Paul and Barnabas'.
The phrase and expelled them out of their coasts means: 'The Jews drove them out of the entire region'.

You wound think that this was enough. However, as we read in the next chapter, these devil-motivated religious Jews pursued them from city to city until they believed that they had murdered Paul. That is not what the God of the Bible tells His people to do regardless of what these Jews claimed. Likewise, today, the religious person who spews a doctrine of hatred while claiming to represent the God of the Bible is a lying minister of Satan.

Please see the note for 2Peter 1:13 about the word stir. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'to move; to change place in any manner. My foot I had never yet in five days been able to stir. 2. to agitate; to bring into debate. Stir on the questions of jurisdiction. 3. to incite to action; to instigate; to prompt. An Ate stirring him to blood and strife. 4. to excite; to raise; to put into motion. And for her sake some mutiny will stir.
To stir up, 1. to incite; to animate; to instigate by inflaming passions; as, to stir up a nation to rebellion. the words of Judas were good and able to stir them up to valor. 2 Maccabees. 2. to excite; to put into action; to begin; as, to stir up a mutiny or insurrection; to stir up strife. 3. to quicken; to enliven; to make more lively or vigorous; as, to stir up the mind. 4. to disturb; as, to stir up the sediment of liquor''.

Please see the note for Luke 2:25 about the word devout. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'Yielding a solemn and reverential attention to God in religious exercises, particularly in prayer. We must be constant and devout in the worship of God. 2. Pious; devoted to religion; religious. Simeon was a just man and devout. Luke 2. Devout men carried Stephen to his burial. Acts 8. 3. Expressing devotion or piety; as, with eyes devout. 4. Sincere; solemn; earnest; as, you have my devout wishes for your safety'.

Please see the note for Romans C12S8 about the word honour. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To revere; to respect; to treat with deference and submission, and perform relative duties to. Honor thy father and thy mother. Ex.201. 2. to reverence; to manifest the highest veneration for, in words and actions; to entertain the most exalted thoughts of; to worship; to adore'. Please also see the note for Romans C12S8 about the word dishonour.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 11:5 about the word chief. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Highest in office or rank; principal; as a chief priest; the chief butler'.

Please see the note for Galatians C1-S11 about the word persecute. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'n a general sense, to pursue in a manner to injure, vex or afflict; to harass with unjust punishment or penalties for supposed offenses; to inflict pain from hatred or malignity. 2. Appropriately, to afflict, harass, or destroy for adherence to a particular creed or system of religious principles, or to a mode of worship. thus, Nero persecuted the Christians by crucifying some, burning others, and condemning others to be worried by dogs. See Acts.22. 3. to harass with solicitations or importunity'. Please also see the note for Romans C8S37 about the word persecution.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C9S8 about Barnabas. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This man was a peace maker'.

We find forms of the word expell in: Joshua 13:13; Joshua 23:5; Judges 1:20; Judges 11:7; 2Samuel 14:14; Acts 13:50. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'ppr. Driven out or away; forced to leave; banished; exiled; excluded'.

Please see the note for Mark 5:17 about the word coast. The King James Bible Companion defines this word as: 'Border; region/country; land by water. Ex 10:14'. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Ac 13:50; Acts 19:1; Acts 26:20; Acts 27:2.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'The Jews. Ac 13:45; 6:12; 14:2,19; 17:13; 21:27; 1Ki 21:25 exp: Ac 9:23; 18:12. devout. Ac 13:43; 2:5; Ro 10:2 exp: Ac 10:2. honourable. 1Co 1:26-29; Jas 2:5-6 exp: Ge 34:19; Ac 17:12. and raised. Ac 8:1; Mt 10:23; 2Ti 3:11 and expelled. Ac 16:37-39; Isa 66:5; Am 7:12; Mr 5:17 General references. exp: Ac 14:2; 28:24'.

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C13-S46 (Verse 51) Paul and Barnabus moved on.

But they shook off the dust of their feet against them,
and came unto Iconium.

Acts 13:50-52 tells us the results of their turning to the Gentiles.

Paul and Barnabas did what Jesus commanded to symbolically remove anything of those Jews an other people from themselves. Symbolically, they were turning those people over the God for judgment. And, having done that, they went unto the next city. They did not let the devil motivated people turn them bitter because that would have given the spiritual victory to the devils.

The word shook is a past-tense form of the word shake. Please see the note for Luke 6:47-48 about the word shake. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'to cause to move with quick vibrations; to move rapidly one way and the other; to agitate; as, the wind shakes a tree; an earthquake shakes the hills or the earth. I shook my lap, and said, so God shake out every man from his house- Neh. 5. He shook the sacred honors of his head. Dryden. -As a fig casteth her untimely fruit, when it is shaken of a mighty wind. Rev. 6. 2. to make to totter or tremble. the rapid wheels shake the heav'n's basis. Milton. 3. to cause to shiver; as, an ague shakes the whole frame. 4. to throw down by a violent motion. Macbeth is ripe for shaking. Shak. But see shake off, which is generally used. 5. to throw away; to drive off. 'Tis our first intent to shake all cares and business from our age. See Shake off. Shak. 6. to move from firmness; to weaken the stability of; to endanger; to threaten to overthrow. Nothing should shake our belief in the being and perfections of God, and in our own accountableness. 7. to cause to waver or doubt; to impair the resolution of; to depress the courage of. that ye be not soon shaken in mind. 2 thess. 2. 8. to trill; as, to shake a note in music'.

Please see the note for Luke 9:5 about the word dust. Fausset's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'To "shake off dust from one's feet against a city or person" implied a solemn refusal to take anything away, even the very dust of their ground, but to leave it to witness against them (Mr 6:11); shaking off all connection with them, and all responsibility for their guilt and consequent punishment for rejecting the gospel'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'they. Ac 18:6; Mt 10:14; Mr 6:11; Lu 9:5 Iconium. Ac 14:1,19,21; 16:2'.

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C13-S47 (Verse 52) the reaction of the disciples to persecution.

And the disciples were filled with joy,
and with the Holy Ghost .

Acts 13:50-52 tells us the results of their turning to the Gentiles.

Here we see the right response to persecution. They turned those people over to God to deal with and went to the next city rejoicing because they had been used by God to defeat the intentions of devils.

Please see the note for John 1:35-36 about the word disciple. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'a scholar, sometimes applied to the followers of John the Baptist (Mt 9:14), and of the Pharisees (Mt 22:16), but principally to the followers of Christ. A disciple of Christ is one who (1) believes his doctrine, (2) rests on his sacrifice, (3) imbibes his spirit, and (4) imitates his example (Mt 10:24; Lu 14:26-27,33; Joh 6:69)'. Please also see the note for John 6:67 about the phrase twelve disciples / apostles.

Please also see the notes for John 1:4 lists 16 attributes of joy; John 15:11; Romans C14S23 and 1John C1S2 about the word joy. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'a spiritually based sense that we will be blessed by God for enduring current circumstances in a way that brings God glory'. Please see the notes for Romans C12S8; Galatians C4-S24 and Philippians 4:4-LJC about the word rejoice. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To experience joy and gladness in a high degree; to be exhilarated with lively and pleasurable sensations; to exult'. Please also see the note for 1Timothy 6:17-19 about the word enjoy.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'were. Ac 2:46; 5:41; Mt 5:12; Lu 6:22-23; Joh 16:22-23; Ro 5:3; 14:17; 15:13; 2Co 8:2; 1Th 1:6; Jas 1:2; 1Pe 1:6-8; 4:13 with the. Ac 2:4; 4:31; Ga 5:22; Eph 5:18-20 General references. exp: Ac 8:8'.

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Chapter theme is: The end of Paul's first mission trip.

Acts Chapter 14

Chapter theme is: Finishing the First Missionary Trip to Gentiles.

links to sentences in this chapter:

C14-S1 (Verse 1), C14-S2 (Verse 2), C14-S3 (Verse 3), C14-S4 (Verse 4), C14-S5 (Verse 5-7), C14-S6 (Verse 8-10), C14-S7 (Verse 10), C14-S8 (Verse 11), C14-S9 (Verse 12), C14-S10 (Verse 13), C14-S11 (Verse 14-15), C14-S12 (Verse 15-16), C14-S13 (Verse 17), C14-S14 (Verse 18), C14-S15 (Verse 19), C14-S16 (Verse 20), C14-S17 (Verse 21-22), C14-S18 (Verse 23), C14-S19 (Verse 24), C14-S20 (Verse 25-26), C14-S21 (Verse 27), C14-S22 (Verse 28)'.

14:1-7 tell us that Paul's mission team went to Iconium after they were expelled out of the coasts of Antioch in Pisidia, as reported in the prior chapter. There they preached the Gospel and a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them, they were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe.

14:8-18 tell us that Paul healed a man who was impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb. The citizens thought that The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. They wanted to make sacrifice to Paul and Barnabas, but they restrained the people and preached the Gospel.

14:19 says: And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. Think about how few people would continue to be a missionary after an experience like that.

14: says: Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. Paul must have still been in great pain from all of the bruises caused by stones. Yet, he continued on to the next place to preach at.

14:20-26 tell us about the return trip, to Antioch, of Paul and Barnabas.

14:27-28 tell us about Paul and Barnabas reporting the results of their mission trip to the sending church.

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C14-S1 (Verse 1) they preach in Iconium..

And it came to pass in Iconium,
that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews,
and so spake,
that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase And it came to pass in Iconium means: 'Where Paul and Barnabas were at'.
The phrase that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews means: 'Where Paul and Barnabas went to preach'.
The phrase and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed means: 'The results of their preaching'.

Please pay attention to the definition of Greek, below. Many people wrongly claim that this word identifies Greek speaking Jews. However, our current sentence definitely divides Jews from Greeks. Thus, we have Jews and Gentiles hearing the message together and people from both groups end up being saved.

Please see the note for Colossians 3:9-11 about the word Greek. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'Found only in the New Testament, where a distinction is observed between "Greek" and "Grecian" (q.v.). the former is (1) a Greek by race (Ac 16:1-3; 18:17; Ro 1:14), or (2) a Gentile as opposed to a Jew (Ro 2:9-10). the latter, meaning properly "one who speaks Greek," is a foreign Jew opposed to a home Jew who dwelt in Palestine'. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 14:1; Acts 16:1; Acts 16:3; Acts 17:4; Acts 17:12; Acts 18:4; Acts 18:17; Acts 19:10; Acts 19:17; Acts 20:21; Acts 21:28; Acts 21:37.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'in. Ac 13:51 went. Ac 9:20; 13:46; 17:1-2,17; 18:4; 19:8 that a. Ac 14:21; 11:21; 13:43,46; 17:4; 18:8 Greeks. Ac 14:2; 16:1; 17:12; 18:4; 19:10,17; 20:21; 21:28; Mr 7:26; Joh 7:35 (margin) Joh 12:20; Ro 1:16; 10:12; 1Co 1:22-24; Ga 2:3; 3:28; Col 3:11 General references. exp: Lu 12:52'.

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C14-S2 (Verse 2) the unbelieving Jews started trouble again.

But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles,
and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.

We need to realize that people in different cultures react differently to different circumstances. And, in general, people raised in one of the Middle-East cultures are more likely to react violently than people from just about any other culture. That is what we see reported in this sentence and the next couple of sentences.

Please see the notes for Romans C11-S37; Romans C12-S2 and 2Corinthians C1S9 about the word mind. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The thinking process and conclusion of that process'. Please also see the notes for Romans 11:20; 1Timothy 6:17 and 2Timothy 3:4 about the woed highminded. Please also see the note for Romans 15:5-6 about the word likeminded. Please also see the note for Philippians 2:5-8 about the phrase mind Jesus. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians 2:16 about the phrase mind of Christ. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 14:2; Acts 17:11; Acts 20:13; Acts 20:19; Acts 27:39; Acts 28:6.

Please see the note for Romans 7:19 about the word evil. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Both the source and consequence of things which people consider to be really really bad. the source and / or result can be natural or spiritual or any combination thereof. However, even what seems to be a natural source can actually be caused by a devil, especially when the recipient is a child of God. In all cases the result is deliberately intended and caused, which is what separates evil from the accidental'. Please also see the note for 1Peter 4:15 about the word evildoer. Please also see the notes for Ephesians C4S15 and 1Peter 2:1 about the phrase evil speaking. Please also see the note for Philippians 3:2 about the phrase evil workers. Please also see the note for Hebrews 4:12 about the phrase evil heart. Please also see the note for Hebrews 4:12 about the phrase evil heart.

Please use the link in the sentence outline, above, for the definition of the word affect. Please also see the note for Galatians C4-S15 about the difference between affect and effect. Please also see the note for Galatians C5-S22 for links to every verse in the Bible which uses the word affection. The New Testament definition forthe word affect is: 'Cause a change'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'General references. Ac 14:19; 13:45,50; 17:5,13; 18:12; 21:27-30; Mr 15:10-11; 1Th 2:15-16 exp: Lu 12:52; Ac 8:4'.

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C14-S3 (Verse 3) the Lord worked through Paul and Barnabus to fight against lies from devils.

Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord,
which gave testimony unto the word of his grace,
and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

Our sentence uses the word therefore to tells us that what this sentence is a direct result of the actions seen in prior sentences. The note for this sentence, in the Lord Jesus Christ Study, explains the difference between preachers speaking The word of God and The word of the Lord. We read about devils using unbelieving Jews to cause persecution against God's missionaries, in the prior sentence. And, the result is that The Lord granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands, as reported in this sentence. (Please see the section on Miracles in the New Testament Significant Events Study.) People want to receive miracles, and even be used by God to do miracles, but they are not willing to suffer the persecution which Paul and Barnabus received which included Paul being stoned and believed to be dead (Acts 14:19).

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord means: 'They spoke with the authority of The Lord'.
The phrase which gave testimony unto the word of his grace means: 'They told about His grace'.
The phrase and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands means: 'They did miracles to prove His grace'. Please see the section on Miracles in the New Testament Significant Events Study.

The word abode is the past-tense form of the word abide. Please see the note for 1Corinthians C7S9 about the word abide. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'to be; to continue; to be; to dwell, rest, continue, stand firm, or be stationary for anytime indefinitely'.

The word gave is:'the past-tense form of the word give' along with the word given. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:8-11 about this words and the many forms of the word give.

Please see the note for Mark 10:37 about the word grant. The New Testament definition of this word is: 'To admit as true what is not proved; to allow; to yield; to concede. We take that for granted which is supposed to be true. We take that for granted which is supposed to be true'

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 12:12 about the word sign. The American Tract Society Dictionary defines this word as: 'A token, pledge, or proof, Ge 9:12-13; 17:11; Ex 3:12; Isa 8:18. Also a supernatural portent, Lu 21:11; and a miracle, regarded as a token of the divine agency, Ex 4:7-9; Mr 8:11. the "signs of Heaven" were the movements and aspects of the Heavenly bodies, from which heathen astrologers pretended to obtain revelations, Isa 44:25; Jer 10:2'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'therefore. Ac 18:9-11; 19:10; 1Co 16:8-9 speaking. Ac 13:46; Eph 6:18-20; 1Th 2:2 which. Ac 2:22; 5:32; Mr 16:20; Heb 2:4 the word. Ac 20:24,32; Ro 1:16 granted. Ac 4:29-30; 5:12-14; 19:11-12 General references. exp: Lu 12:52; Ac 8:4; 19:11'.

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C14-S4 (Verse 4) the people of the city were divided into two groups.

Equivalent Section: Everyone was divided.

But the multitude of the city was divided :

Equivalent Section: these were the two groups that were divided into.

and part held with the Jews,
and part with the apostles .

Everyone chose one side or the other side. No one refused to choose. When we die, we will go to one place or another, Heaven or Hell. It will depend entirely on if we chose Jesus as our personal Lord or not. There will be no fence-sitting.

The word held is the past-tense form of the word hold. Webster's 1828 Dictionary defines this word as: 'v.t. pret.held; pp. held. Holden is obsolete in elegant writing. Gr. to hold or restrain; Heb. to hold or contain'. Please see the note for Colossians 2:18-19 about the word hold. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Stopping; confining; restraining; keeping; retaining; adhering; maintaining, etc'. Please also see the note for Luke 24:15 about the word holden. Please see the note for Luke 24:15 about the word holden.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'The multitude. Mic 7:6; Mt 10:34-36; Lu 2:34; 11:21-23; 12:51-53; Joh 7:43 part. Ac 28:24 apostles. Ac 14:14; 13:2; 1Co 9:5 General references. exp: Lu 12:52; Joh 7:43; 10:19; Ac 8:4; 28:24'.

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C14-S5 (Verse 5-7) the end results.

Equivalent Section: the devil's people tried to murder Paul and Barnabas.

And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles,
and also of the Jews with their rulers,
to use them despitefully,
and to stone them,
They were ware of it,
and fled unto Lystra and Derbe,
cities of Lycaonia,
and unto the region that lieth round about:.

Equivalent Section: the Lord warned them and they escaped.

And there they preached the gospel .

We find forms of the word assault only in: Esther 8:11; Acts 14:5; Acts 17:5. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'n. L. assulto, of ad and salto, to leap, formed on salio, or its root. See Assail. We have the same root in insult and result. 1. An attack or violent onset, whether by an individual, a company, or an army. An assault by private persons may be made with or without weapons. As assault by an army is a violent hostile attack; and when made upon a fort or fortified place is called a storm, as opposed to sap or siege. 2. An attack by hostile words or measures; as, an assault upon the prerogatives of a prince, or upon a constitution of government. 3. In Law, an unlawful setting upon one's person; an attempt or offer to beat another, without touching his person; as by lifting the fist or a cane, in a threatening manner. If the blow aimed takes effect, it is a battery.
ASSAULT', v.t. 1. to attack or fall upon by violence, or with a hostile intention; as, to assault a man, a house or town. 2. to invade or fall on with force; as, the cry of war assaults our ears. 3. to attack by words, arguments or unfriendly measures, with a view to shake, impair or overthrow; as, to assault a character, the laws or the administration'.

Please see the note for Romans C1S16 about the word despiteful. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Full of spite; malicious; malignant; as a despiteful enemy. Hater of God, despiteful, proud, boasters'. Please also see the note for Hebrews 10:28-29 about the word despite.

Please see the note for 1Peter 2:4-5 about the word stone. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'he same composition as a rock or a pebble but with a size between them'. Please also see the note for Luke 17:28-29 about the word brimstone. Please also see the note for Ephesians 2:20 about the phrase corner stone. Please also see the note for Luke 17:2 about the word millstone. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C3S13 about the phrase precious stones.

Please see the note for Luke 11:44 about the word aware. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Watchful; vigilant; guarded; but more strictly in modern usage, apprised; expecting an event from information, or probability; as, the general was aware of the enemy's designs'. Please also see the note for Colossians 2S5 about the word beware the New Testament definition for this word is: 'Literally, to restrain or guard one's self from. Hence, to regard with caution; to restrain one's self from anything that may be dangerous, injurious or improper; to avoid; to take care; followed by of before the thing that is to be avoided'.

Please see the note for Luke 8:34 about the words flee / fled. The New Testament definition, of the word fled, is: 'The past- tense form of flee'. The New Testament definition, of the word flee, is: 'To run with rapidity, as from danger; to attempt to escape; to hasten from danger or expected evil. Also, To avoid; to keep at a distance from such as "Flee fornication"'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'when. Ac 4:25-29; 17:5; Ps 2:1-3; 83:5; 2Ti 3:11 despitefully. Mt 5:44; Lu 6:28 General references. exp: Ac 8:4.
were. Ac 9:24; 17:13-14; 23:12-22; 2Ki 6:8-12 and fled. Mt 10:23 Lystra. Ac 14:20-21; 16:1-2; 2Ti 3:11 Lycaonia. Ac 14:11 General references. exp: Ac 8:4.
General references. Ac 14:21; 8:4; 11:19; 17:2; 1Th 2:2; 2Ti 4:2'.

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C14-S6 (Verse 8-10) the miracle at Lystra.

Equivalent Section: the circumstances.

And there sat a certain man at Lystra,
impotent in his feet,
being a cripple from his mother's womb,
who never had walked:.

Equivalent Section: the man's reaction to hearing Paul.

The same heard Paul speak:

Equivalent Section: Paul reacted to the man.

who stedfastly beholding him,
and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,
Said with a loud voice,
Stand upright on thy feet.

In Matthew 9:1-8; Mark 2:1-12 and Luke 5:17-26 we read about Jesus healing a man who could not walk because he was sick of the palsy. In Acts 3:1-10; Peter and John heal a man crippled from his mother's womb. Thus, we see similar miracles done earlier.

Our First Equivalent Section tells us the obvious circumstances of this miracle. The hidden circumstances include the reactions by the people in the city. Paul and Barnabas had no idea about their reaction.

So, when Paul saw this man he though it was no big deal. However, when you are going to different mission fields, you are dealing with different cultures. We see that in the following sentences which tell us how the people of this city reacted like it was a big deal.

Our Second Equivalent Section tells us that the man heard Paul speak. He was not limited by his culture's conventions. If he could get a miracle of healing, he wanted it. Please see the section on Miracles in the New Testament Significant Events Study, for links to this and other miracles found in the word of God.

Our third Equivalent Section tells us that Paul realized that he was being watched. We all have had experiences of realizing someone is looking at us when there was no indication before. But, in this instance, Paul was stedfastly beholding him. Paul was trying to understand why this man was so intent on looking at Paul when he realized that he had faith to be healed. Therefore, as a minister of God, Paul delivered the message of God which resulted in him being healed (Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet). If the man did not have true faith then he would not have4 obeyed the command. The face that he obeyed, and the fact that he received the miracle, are proof that we need true Biblical faith in order to receive a miracle from God.

Please see the note for John 5:3 about the word impotent. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'Weak; feeble; wanting strength or power; unable by nature, or disabled by disease or accident to perform any act. I know thou wast not slow to hear, Nor impotent to save. 2. Wanting the power of propagation, as males. 3. Wanting the power of restraint; not having the command over; as impotent of tongue.
IM'POTENT, n. One who is feeble, infirm, or languishing under disease'.

Please see the note for Mark 1:30 about the word mother. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'The law commanded that honour was to be paid to a mother as well as to a father. In nearly all cases the mothers of the kings of Israel are mentioned as well as the fathers. the wise woman who appealed to Joab as 'a mother in Israel,' was at once listened to. 2Sa 20:19. A mother has naturally great influence over her children, whether for good or evil, as Jochebed the mother of Moses, and Jezebel the mother of Athaliah. the children of the virtuous woman arise and call her blessed. Pr 31:28. Timothy had a faithful mother and grandmother. 2Ti 1:5. there are also 'mothers' in the church, who have the Lord's interests at heart in the welfare of the saints, as Paul called the mother of Rufus his own mother also. Ro 16:13'.

Please see the note for Luke 1:15 about the word womb. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Webster's 1828 defines this word as: '1. the uterus or matrix of a female; that part where the young of an animal is conceived and nourished till its birth. 2. the place where anything is produced. the womb of earth the genial seed receives. 3. Any large or deep cavity. Womb of the morning, in Scripture, the clouds, which distill dew; supposed to be emblematic of the church bringing forth multitudes to Christ. Psalm 110'.

Please see the note for Romans C8S1 and Ephesians C4S1 about the word walk. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Small repeated steps. This word is used symbolically for the everyday activities of life'. Please also see the note for Romans C9S28 about the phrase live / walk by faith.

Please see the note for John 4:19 about the word perceive. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'come to understand'. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'to have knowledge or receive impressions of external objects through the medium or instrumentality of the senses or bodily organs; as, to perceive light or color; to perceive the cold or ice or the taste of honey. 2. to know; to understand; to observe. Till we ourselves see it with our own eyes, and perceive it by our own understanding, we are in the dark. 3. to be affected by; to receive impressions from. the upper regions of the air perceive the collection of the matter of tempests before the air below'.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C12S29 about the word heal. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'v.t. L. celo; Heb. to be whole or entire, all. 1. to cure of a disease or wound and restore to soundness, or to that state of body in which the natural functions are regularly performed; as, to heal the sick. Speak, and my servant shall be healed. Matt.8. 2. to cure; to remove or subdue; as, to heal a disease. 3. to cause to cicatrize; as, to heal a sore or wound. 4. to restore to soundness; as, to heal a wounded limb. 5. to restore purity to; to remove feculence or foreign matter. thus, saith the Lord, I have healed these waters. 2 Kings.2. 6. to remove, as differences or dissension; to reconcile, as parties at variance; as, to heal a breach or difference. 7. In Scripture, to forgive; to cure moral disease and restore soundness. I will heal their backsliding. Hos.14. 8. to purify from corruptions, redress grievances and restore to prosperity. Jer.14. 9. to cover, as a roof with tiles, slate, lead, etc.
HEAL, v.i. to grow sound; to return to a sound state; as, the limb heals, or the wound heals; sometimes with up or over; it will heal up or over'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: '8-12. the district of Lycaonia, into which the apostles had fled, was an interior district of Asia Minor, lying north of the Taurus Mountains, but of very indefinite boundaries. the exact situation of the two towns, Lystra and Derbe, is not now known. With the character of the people, however, which is the important consideration in a narrative like this, we are made sufficiently acquainted by the narrative itself. It was one of those retired districts, remote from the great marts of trade and the routes of travel, where the people retained their primitive habits, spoke their primitive dialect, and knew little of either the civilization of the Greeks, or the religion of the Jews. this rude state of society will account for some of the peculiarities of the following narrative. Finding no Jewish synagogues, to afford them an assembly of devout hearers, the missionaries took advantage of such other opportunities as offered, to get the ears of the people. Having succeeded in collecting a crowd in Lystra, they met with the following incident: (8) A certain man in Lystra was sitting, impotent in his feet, a cripple from his birth, who had never walked. (OCA 173-174)
(9) the same was listening to Paul speaking, who, looking intently upon him, and seeing that he had faith to be healed
(10) and said with a loud voice, Stand upright on your feet; {e} and he leaped and walked about. {e} On the faith to be healed. Cmt. on Ac 3:16.(OCA 174)'.

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C14-S7 (Verse 10) And he leaped and walked

Our sentence starts with the word and which adds it ti the prior sentence. In the prior sentence Paul told him to do what was physically impossible. Our current sentence says that he obey3ed in spite of it being physically impossible. That provews that God uverrode the laws of the physical reality and did the impossible because of his faith. Also, plerase notice that he did not just physically leap. but he also walked. This shows tha the change was permanent.

Please see the note for Luke 1:41-42 about the word leap. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'to spring or rise from the ground with both feet, as man, or with all the feet, as other animals; to jump; to vault; as, a man leaps over a fence, or leaps upon a horse. A man leapeth better with weights in his hands than without. 2. to spring or move suddenly; as, to leap from a horse. 3. to rush with violence. And the man in whom the evil spirit was, leaped on them and overcame them - Acts 19. 4. to spring; to bound; to skip; as, to leap for joy. 5. to fly; to start. Job. 41. He parted frowning from me, as if ruin leaped from his eyes. Our common people retain the Saxon aspirate of this word in the phrase, to clip it, to run fast. LEAP, v.t. 1. to pass over by leaping; to spring or bound from one side to the other; as, to leap a wall, a gate or a gulf; to leap a stream. But the phrase is elliptical, and over is understood. 2. to compress; as the male of certain beasts.
LEAP, n. 1. A jump; a spring; a bound; act of leaping. 2. Space passed by leaping. 3. A sudden transition of passing. 4. the space that may be passed at a bound. 'Tis the convenient leap I mean to try. 5. Embrace of animals. 6. Hazard, or effect of leaping'.

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C14-S8 (Verse 11) the people reacted to a wrong assumption.

And when the people saw what Paul had done,
they lifted up their voices,
saying in the speech of Lycaonia,
The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase And when the people saw what Paul had done means: 'The people reacted to what they saw in the physical reality and assumed that the spiritual power was his without first verifying'.
The phrase they lifted up their voices means: 'The people who made the wrong assumption started hollering their wrong assumption to everyone'.
The phrase saying in the speech of Lycaonia means: 'Since they were using their local language, neither Paul nor Barnabas understood what they said'.
The phrase The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men means: 'This is the error which they claimed'.

What we have here is run-away gossip. This is how just about every doctrinal error gets established. The devil gets his gossip to start to spread doctrinal error where the true man of God can't hear or can't understand. That is why they were speaking in the speech of Lycaonia, And, after the devil has lots of people believing error, the true man of God has a difficult time correcting it. And, this is especially true when people see the physical evidence, but can't understand the true spiritual difference, and they have accepted a wrong spiritual explanation. Pride makes it hard for people to admit that they have been deceived. And, this is true even today.

in this instance, the people did not understand the difference between God's Holy Ghost working through Paul and a devil taking a literal physical body in order to be worshipped. As we read in this account, we can tell the difference by how the person reacts to the worship

Please see the note for Matthew 12:11 about the word lift. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To raise; to elevate; as, to lift the foot or the hand; to lift the head'.

The word speechless means: 'not able to make a speech, not able to say anything'. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 3:12-14 about the word speech. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'The faculty of uttering articulate sounds or words, as in human beings; the faculty of expressing thoughts by words or articulate sounds. Speech was given to man by his Creator for the noblest purposes. 2. Language; words as expressing ideas. the acts of God to human ears cannot without process of speech be told. 3. A particular language, as distinct form others. Ps. 19. 4. that which is spoken; words uttered in connection and expressing thoughts. You smile at my speech. 5. Talk; mention; common saying. the duke did of me demand, what was the speech among the londoners concerning the French journey. 6. formal discourse in public; oration; harangue. the member has made his first speech in the legislature. 7. Any declaration of thoughts. I, with leave of speech implor'd, repli'd. SPEECH, v.i. to make a speech; to harangue. Little used'.

Please see the note for Acts 7:40 about the word gods (lower-case). The New Testament definition for this word is: 'devils who claim to be the most powerful being that exists and who want worship'.

Please see the note for Philippians 2:5-8 about the word likeness. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Webster's 1828 dictionary defines likeness as: 'n. 1. Resemblance in form; similitude. the picture is a good likeness of the original. 2. Resemblance; form; external appearance. Guard against an enemy in the likeness of a friend. 3. One that resembles another; a copy; a counterpart. I took you for your likeness, Chloe. 4. An image, picture or statue, resembling a person or thing. Ex. 20'. Please also see the note for Romans 15:5-6 about the word likeminded Please also see the note for Philippians 2:5-8 about the word likeness Please also see the note for Matthew 7:24-25 liken about the word liken.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: ''.

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C14-S9 (Verse 12) the false gods that the people called Paul and Barnabas.

First Step: the first wrong name.

And they called Barnabas,
Jupiter;.

Second Step: the second wrong name.

and Paul,
Mercurius,
because he was the chief speaker.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C9S8 about Barnabas. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This man was a peace maker'.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 11:5 about the word chief. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Highest in office or rank; principal; as a chief priest; the chief butler'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'Jupiter. Ac 19:35 General references. exp: Ac 12:22'.

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C14-S10 (Verse 13) the local religious priest responded.

Then the priest of Jupiter,
which was before their city,
brought oxen and garlands unto the gates,
and would have done sacrifice with the people.

Our sentence starts with the word Then, which means: 'after the uproar of the people found in the proper sentences'. Since they were having a religious frenzy about his so-called god, he felt responsible to respond properly. If he failed to do so, he would have lost respect for himself, his god and his religion.

The word garlands is only used in this sentence within the Bible. It means that the sacrifice animal and the priest were both decorated with strings of flowers and other things to indicate that they regarded this sacrifice to be the 'highest level of sacrifice to their god'.

Please see the note for Hebrews 4:14 about the word priest. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'One who represents men before God'. Please also see the note for Mark 14:63 about the phrase high priest.

Please see the note for Luke 13:23-24 about the word gate. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'A large door which gives entrance into a walled city, a castle, a temple, palace or other large edifice. It differs from door chiefly in being larger. In addition, it was where important transactions were conducted and is used, symbolically, for where we go for eternity'. Please also see the note for Matthew 16:18 about the phrase gates of Hell.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C10S16 about the word sacrifice. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To offer to God in homage or worship, by killing and consuming, as victims on an altar; to immolate, either as an atonement for sin, or to procure favor, or to express thankfulness; as, to sacrifice an ox or a lamb. 2Sam. 6'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'and would. Ac 10:25; Da 2:46 General references. exp: Ac 12:22'.

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C14-S11 (Verse 14-15) How Paul and Barnabas reacted when they finally understood what was going on.

Which when the apostles,
Barnabas and Paul,
heard of,
they rent their clothes,
and ran in among the people,
crying out,
And saying,
Sirs,
why do ye these things?.

Here we read the reaction of Paul and Barnabas. They were very upset and demonstrated it by crying out and by rendering their clothes and by running in among the people so that everyone understood how upset they were. And, since these people thought they were gods and since gods sometimes reacted in ways which were not understood, they stopped what they were doing loud enough to understand what the problem was. After all, they wanted to honor their gods, not offend them.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C9S8 about Barnabas. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This man was a peace maker'.

Please see the note for Matthew 26:65 about the words rend / rent. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'pp. of rend. Torn asunder; split or burst by violence; torn'.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 5:2-3 about the word clothed. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'Covered with garments; dressed; invested; furnished with clothing'.

The word ran is the past-tense form of the word run. Please see the note for 1Peter 4:4 about the word run. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To move or pass in almost any manner, as on the feet or on wheels. Men and other animals run on their feet; carriages run on wheels, and wheels run on their axle-trees'.

Please see the note for Mark 1:3 about the word cry. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Loud notorious exclamation as a crying sin or warning'. The word cried is the past-tense form of the word cry.

Please see the note for Matthew 21:30 about the word sir. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'In Ge 43:20 the word is adon, often translated 'Lord.' In the Acts (except in Ac 16:30), 'man,' and is used as a term of respect. In all other places in the N.T. the word is commonly translated 'Lord': in these cases the context determines how it should be rendered'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'The apostles. Ac 14:4; 1Co 9:5-6 they. 2Ki 5:7; 18:37; 19:1-2; Ezr 9:3-5; Jer 36:24; Mt 26:65 General references. exp: Ge 37:34.
Sirs. Ac 7:26; 16:30; 27:10,21,25 why. Ac 10:26; Re 19:19; 22:9 exp: 1Sa 2:23'.

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C14-S12 (Verse 15-16) Summary of the message from Paul and Barnabas.

Equivalent Section: What they are currently like.

We also are men of like passions with you,
and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God,
which made heaven,
and earth,
and the sea,
and all things that are therein:.

Equivalent Section: What they used to be like.

Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase We also are men of like passions with you means: 'They were not so-called gods. They had the same desires, wishes, physical feelings and other things as were common to all physical men'.
The phrase and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God means: 'The things they were doing had a good outward appearance but no real spiritual substance (vanities). They needed to replace what they were doing with true worship of The living God, which had true spiritual value'.
The phrase which made heaven means: 'The living God made heaven. Therefore, He is greater than any so-called god who claimed to live in heaven'.
The phrase and earth means: 'The living God made The earth. Therefore, He is greater than any so-called god who claimed to live in The earth'.
The phrase and the sea means: 'The living God made The sea. Therefore, He is greater than any so-called god who claimed to live in The sea'. Between these three places, Paul has covered every place of any so-called god. Therefore, he has declared The living God to be greater than any other so-called god.
The phrase and all things that are therein means: 'The living God made all things that are therein. Therefore, He is greater than any so-called god who claimed to done some great deed to prove that he was a god'.
The phrase Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways means: 'The living God allowed people to do this in the past. Their wrong actions made Him suffer. But, as our next sentence says, The living God left Himself witnesses who were given the job of telling people Who The living God was and how to worship Him'.

It should be obvious that there is a lot more in this sentence that is apparent upon a glance. And, if the reader seriously considers what is here, they should understand why I say that what is reported is only a summary of what was actually said. Admit it. It would be pretty ridicules to expect just a couple of sentences to stop a town's planned festival. Yet, as we read on, we see that Paul and Barnabas accomplished that. No, not only did they say and do more that is reported but they definitely had the power of God working through them. And, this incident is not a recognized miracle but all true people of God know when God is working through them to do what is physically impossible.

Please see the note for Acts 1:3 about the word passion. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'impression or effect of an external agent upon a body; that which is suffered or received. A body at rest affords us no idea of any active power to move, and when set in motion, it is rather a passion than an action in it. 2. Susceptibility of impressions from external agents. The differences of moldable and not moldable, etc., and many other passions of matter, are plebeian notions. Little used. 3. Suffering; emphatically, the last suffering of the Savior. Towhom also he showed himself alive after his passion, by many infallible proofs. Acts 1. 4. the feeling of the mind, or the sensible effect of impression; excitement, perturbation or agitation of mind; as desire, fear, hope,joy, grief,love, hatred. the eloquence of the orator is employed to move the passions. 5. Violent agitation or excitement of mind, particularly such as is occasioned by an offense, injury or insult; hence, violent anger. 6. Zeal; ardor; vehement desire. When statesmen are ruled by faction and interest, they can have no passion for the glory of their country. 7. Love. He owned his passion for Amestris. 8. Eager desire; as a violent passion for fine clothes'.

We find forms of the words vanity / vanities occurring 98 times in 89 verses of the Bible and, in the New Testament, in: Acts 14:15; Romans 8:20; Ephesians 4:17; 2Peter 2:18. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'n. L. vanitas, from vanus, vain. 1. Emptiness; want of substance to satisfy desire; uncertainty; inanity. Vanity of vanities, said the preacher; all is vanity. Eccles. 1. 2. Fruitless desire or endeavor. Vanity possesseth many who are desirous to know the certainty of things to come. 3. Trifling labor that produces no good. 4. Emptiness; untruth Here I may well show the vanity of what is reported in the story of Walsingham. 5. Empty pleasure; vain pursuit; idle show; unsubstantial enjoyment. Sin with vanity had fill'd the works of men. Think not when woman's transient breath is fled, that all her vanities at once are dead; succeeding vanities she still regards. 6. Ostentation; arrogance. 7. Inflation of mind upon slight grounds; empty pride, inspired by an overweening conceit of one's personal attainments or decorations. Fops cannot be cured of their vanity. Vanity is the food of fools. No man sympathizes with the sorrows of vanity'. I am in the Philippines where people are buried in cement boxes above ground, usually stacked fourhigh in a grave yard. And, I tell the people: 'Imagine someone having their box separated from everyone else and covered in gold and juels. Inside of the box is still dead man's bones. God's word teaches that it's not the box that is important but what is inside'.

Thompson Chain Topics provides links for the words vanity / vanities as: '(of the Wicked): De 32:21; 1Ki 16:13; Ps 31:6; Jer 2:5; 10:8; 16:19; Jon 2:8; Ac 14:15. See Folly. See Fools. Emptiness of the Worldly Life (Ps 39:11; 62:9): Ps 39:11; 62:9; Ec 1:2; 2:1; 4:16; 11:10; Eph 4:17. Vanity of Idols: Jer 10:5,15; 50:38; 51:17; Da 5:23; Hab 2:18; Ac 17:29; 1Co 10:19. '.

Nave's Topical Bible provides links for the words vanity / vanities as: 'A consequence of the fall: Ro 8:20: Every man has: Ps 39:11: Every state of man is: Ps 62:9: Man, at his best estate, is: Ps 39:5: Man is similar to: Ps 144:4: the thoughts of man are: Ps 94:11: the days of man are: Job 7:16; Ec 6:12: Childhood and youth are: Ec 11:10: the beauty of man is: Ps 39:11; Pr 31:30: the help of man is: Ps 60:11; La 4:17: Man's own righteousness is: Isa 57:12: Worldly wisdom is: Ec 2:15,21; 1Co 3:20: Worldly pleasure is: Ec 2:1: Worldy anxiety is: Ps 39:6; 127:2: Worldly labor is: Ec 2:11; 4:4: Worldly enjoyment is: Ec 2:3,10-11: Worldly possessions are: Ec 2:4-11: Treasures of wickedness are: Pr 10:2: Heaping up riches is: Ec 2:26; 4:8: Love of riches is: Ec 5:10: Unblessed riches are: Ec 6:2: Riches gotten by falsehood are: Pr 21:6: All earthly things are: Ec 1:2: Foolish questions are: 1Ti 1:6-7; 6:20; 2Ti 2:14,16; Tit 3:9: the conduct of the ungodly is: 1Pe 1:18: the religion of hypocrites is: Jas 1:26: the worship of the wicked is: Isa 1:13; Mt 6:7: Lying words are: Jer 7:8: False teaching is but: Jer 23:32: Mere external religion is: 1Ti 4:8; Heb 13:9: Almsgiving without love is: 1Co 13:3: Faith without works is: Jas 2:14: Idolatry is: 2Ki 17:15; Ps 31:6; Isa 44:9-10; Jer 10:8; 18:15: Wealth gotten by, diminishes: Pr 13:11: Saints hate the thoughts of: Ps 119:113: Pray to be kept from: Ps 119:37; Pr 30:8: Avoid: Ps 24:4: Avoid those given to: Ps 26:4: Evil people Especially characterized by: Job 11:11. Though full of, affect to be wise: Job 11:12. Love: Ps 4:2. Imagine: Ps 2:1; Ac 4:25; Ro 1:21. Devise: Ps 36:4. Speak: Ps 10:7; 12:2; 41:6. Regard God's service as: Job 21:15; Mal 3:14. Allure others through the words of: 2Pe 2:18. Live by: Jer 2:5. Live in: Ps 39:6; Eph 4:17. Inherit: Jer 16:19. Reap: Pr 22:8; Jer 12:13. Judicially given up to: Ps 78:33; Isa 57:13. Fools follow those given to: Pr 12:11. Following those given to, leads to poverty: Pr 28:19. All should know and acknowledge: De 4:35'.

Torrey's Topical Textbook provides links for the words vanity / vanities as: 'A consequence of the fall: Ro 8:20. Every man is: Ps 39:11. Every state of man is: Ps 62:9. Man at his best estate is: Ps 39:5. Man is like to: Ps 144:4. The thoughts of man are: Ps 94:11. The days of man are: Job 7:16; Ec 6:12. Childhood and youth are: Ec 11:10. The beauty of man is: Ps 39:11; Pr 31:30. The help of man is: Ps 60:11; La 4:17. Man's own righteousness is: Isa 57:12. Worldly wisdom is: Ec 2:15,21; 1Co 3:20. Worldly pleasure is: Ec 2:1. Worldly anxiety is: Ps 39:6; 127:2. Worldly labor is: Ec 2:11; 4:4. Worldly enjoyment is: Ec 2:3,10-11. Worldly possessions are: Ec 2:4-11. Treasures of wickedness are: Pr 10:2. Heaping up riches is: Ec 2:26; 4:8. Love of riches is: Ec 5:10. Unblessed riches are: Ec 6:2. Riches gotten by falsehood are: Pr 21:6. All earthly things are: Ec 1:2. Foolish questions, etc. are: 1Ti 1:6; 6:20; 2Ti 2:14,16. The conduct of the ungodly is: 1Pe 1:18. The religion of hypocrites is: Jas 1:26. The worship of the wicked is: Isa 1:13; Mt 6:7. Lying words are: Jer 7:8. False teaching is but: Jer 23:32. Mere external religion is: 1Ti 4:8; Heb 13:9. Almsgiving without charity is: 1Co 13:3. Faith without works is: Jas 2:14. Idolatry is: 2Ki 17:15; Ps 31:6; Isa 44:9-10. Wealth gotten by, diminishes: Pr 13:11. SAINTS: Hate the thoughts of: Ps 119:113. Pray to be kept from: Ps 119:37; Pr 30:8. Avoid: Ps 24:4. Avoid those given to: Ps 26:4. The WICKED: Especially characterized by: Job 11:11. Though full of, affect to be wise: Job 11:12. Love: Ps 4:2. Imagine: Ps 2:1; Ac 4:25; Ro 1:21. Devise: Ps 36:4 (See marg.). Speak: Ps 10:7; 12:2; 41:6. Count God's service as: Job 21:15; Mal 3:14. Allure others by words of: 2Pe 2:18. Walk after: Jer 2:5. Walk in: Ps 39:6; Eph 4:17. Inherit: Jer 16:19. Reap: Pr 22:8; Jer 12:13. Judicially given up to: Ps 78:33; Isa 57:13. Fools follow those given to: Pr 12:11. Following those given to, leads to poverty: Pr 28:19. They who trust in, rewarded with: Job 15:31'.

Please see the note for Philippians 2:9-11 about the word heaven. Easton's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: '(1.) Definitions. the phrase "heaven and earth" is used to indicate the whole universe (Ge 1:1; Jer 23:24; Ac 17:24). According to the Jewish notion there were three heavens, (a) the firmament, as "fowls of the heaven" (Ge 2:19; 7:3,23; Ps 8:8, etc.), "The eagles of heaven" (La 4:19), etc. (b) the starry heavens (De 17:3; Jer 8:2; Mt 24:29). (c) "The heaven of heavens," or "The third heaven" (De 10:14; 1Ki 8:27; Ps 115:16; 148:4; 2Co 12:2). (2.) Meaning of words in the original, (a) the usual Hebrew word for "heavens" is shamayim, a plural form meaning "heights," "elevations" (Ge 1:1; 2:1). (b) the Hebrew word marom is also used (Ps 68:18; 93:4; 102:19, etc.) as equivalent to shamayim, "high places," "heights." (c) Heb galgal, literally a "wheel," is rendered "heaven" in Ps 77:18 (R.V., "whirlwind"). (d) Heb shahak, rendered "sky" (De 33:26; Job 37:18; Ps 18:11), plural "clouds" (Job 35:5; 36:28; Ps 68:34, marg. "heavens"), means probably the firmament. (e) Heb rakia is closely connected with (d), and is rendered "firmamentum" in the Vulgate, whence our "firmament" (Ge 1:6; De 33:26, etc.), regarded as a solid expanse. (3.) Metaphorical meaning of term. Isa 14:13-14; "doors of heaven" (Ps 78:23); heaven "shut" (1Ki 8:35); "opened" (Eze 1:1). (See 1Ch 21:16.) (4.) Spiritual meaning. the place of the everlasting blessedness of the righteous; the abode of departed spirits. (a) Christ calls it his "Father's house" (Joh 14:2). (b) It is called "paradise" (Lu 23:43; 2Co 12:4; Re 2:7). (c) "The heavenly Jerusalem" (Ga 4:1; 6:18; Heb 12:22; Re 3:12). (d) the "kingdom of heaven" (Mt 25:1; Jas 2:5). (e) the "eternal kingdom" (2Pe 1:11). (f) the "eternal inheritance" (1Pe 1:4; Heb 9:15). (g) the "better country" (Heb 11:14,16). (h) the blessed are said to "sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob," and to be "in Abraham's bosom" (Lu 16:22; Mt 8:11); to "reign with Christ" (2Ti 2:12). In heaven the blessedness of the righteous consists in the possession of "life everlasting," "an eternal weight of glory" (2Co 4:17), an exemption from all sufferings for ever, a deliverance from all evils (2Co 5:1-2) and from the society of the wicked (2Ti 4:18), bliss without termination, the "fulness of joy" for ever (Lu 20:36; 2Co 4:16,18; 1Pe 1:4; 5:10; 1Jo 3:2). the believer's heaven is not only a state of everlasting blessedness, but also a "place", a place "prepared" for them (Joh 14:2)'. Please also see the notes for Hebrews 12:2-LJC and Laying up Treasure in heaven about the phrase treasure in heaven. Please also see the note for 1Peter 1:2-LJC about the phrase heaven, things in. Please also see the note for Matthew 3:2 about the phrase kingdom of heaven.

Please see the note for John 6:16-17 about the word sea. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'A large bason, cistern or laver which Solomon made in the temple, so large as to contain more than six thousand gallons. this was called the brazen sea, and used to hold water for the priests to wash themselves. 1 Kings 7. 2 Chron. 4 2. A large body of water, nearly inclosed by land, as the Baltic or the Mediterranean; as the sea of Azof. Seas are properly branches of the ocean, and upon the same level. Large bodies of water inland, and situated above the level of the ocean, are lakes. the appellation of sea, given to the Caspian lake, is an exception, and not very correct. So the lake of Galilee is called a sea, from the Greek. 3. the ocean; as, to go to sea. the fleet is at sea, or on the high seas. 4. A wave; a billow; a surge. the vessel shipped a sea. 5. the swell of the ocean in a tempest, or the direction of the waves; as, we head the sea. 6. Proverbially, a large quantity of liquor; as a sea of blood. 7. A rough or agitated place or element. In a troubled sea of passion tost. Milton'. Please also see the note for Hebrews 11:29 about the phrase Red Sea. Please also see the note for John 21:1 about the phrase sea of Tiberias.

Please see the note for Romans 1:5 about the word nation. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'A body of people inhabiting the same country, or united under the same sovereign or government; as the English nation; the French nation. It often happens that many nations are subject to one government; in which case, the word nation usually denotes a body of people speaking the same language, or a body that has formerly been under a distinct government, but has been conquered, or incorporated with a larger nation. thus, the empire of Russia comprehends many nations, as did formerly the Roman and Persian empires. Nation, as its etymology imports, originally denoted a family or race of men descended from a common progenitor, like tribe, but by emigration, conquest and intermixture of men of different families, this distinction is in most countries lost'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'We also. Ac 3:12-13; 12:22-23; Ge 41:16; Da 2:28-30; Joh 7:18 of like. Jas 5:17; Re 19:10 and preach. Ac 17:16-18,29-30; 26:17-20 from. De 32:21; 1Sa 12:21; 1Ki 16:13,26; Ps 31:6; Isa 44:9-10,19-20; 45:20; 46:7; Jer 8:19; 10:3-5,8,14-15; 14:22; Am 2:4; Jon 2:8; Ro 1:21-23; 1Co 8:4; Eph 4:17 the living. De 5:26; Jos 3:10; 1Sa 17:26,36; 2Ki 19:4,16; Jer 10:10; Da 6:26; Joh 5:26; 1Th 1:9; 1Ti 3:15; Heb 3:12 exp: Mt 16:16; Heb 9:14. which. Ac 4:24; 17:24-28; Ge 1:1; Ps 33:6; 124:8; 146:5-6; Pr 8:23-31; Isa 45:18; Jer 10:11; 32:17; Zec 12:1; Ro 1:20; Re 14:7 exp: Jon 1:9. General references. exp: Ac 7:50.
suffered. Ac 17:30; Ps 81:12; 147:20; Ho 4:17; Ro 1:21-25,28; Eph 2:12; 1Pe 4:3'.

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C14-S13 (Verse 17) God always had a witness here.

Nevertheless he left not himself without witness,
in that he did good,
and gave us rain from heaven,
and fruitful seasons,
filling our hearts with food and gladness.

This is another sentence where it is easy to miss the depth of doctrine which is presented. What most people appear shocked to hear is that there are fifteen different Gospel in the Bible. Only one of them is false and all of the rest deliver the same message but present it different ways. A simple example is if Paul's message in Acts 13. is compared to Peter's message in Acts 2; we can see considerable differences even though both were preached to Jews. And the majority of the differences were due to the audiences and not to the preachers. And, when a preacher gets to an audience which has never heard of the Bible nor of the God of the Bible, the Gospel must still be presented but without scriptural references. That is where the preacher needs to use the Gospel of God, which is the witness mentioned in this sentence. That is, the things of nature which witness that there must be a God and what He is like is what is preached as the basis of the Gospel.

Most people can understand what Paul says here must have trouble understanding how these show that there must be a God and what He is like. Please see the Gospel of God for a better understanding.

Please see the notes for 1Corinthians 11:11 and Philippians 1:23-24 about the word Nevertheless. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'adv. Not the less; notwithstanding; that is, in opposition to anything, or without regarding it. It rained, nevertheless, we proceeded on our journey; we did not the less proceed on our journey; we proceeded in opposition to the rain, without regarding it, or without being prevented'. In other words: 'No matter what anyone claims, God always at all time had someone here representing His true message'.

Please see the note for Romans C7S16 about the word good. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'In the Bible, only what comes from God is called good. Therefore, the Biblical definition of good does not match what men think it should be'. 'Original Sin' was eating from the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 3). Since then men have thought they could define good, but their definitions have been wrong and have been sin (Matthew 7:23; Luke 13:27). Therefore, the Biblical definition of good does not match what men think it should be. Please also see the note for Romans C11S26 about the word goodness. Please also see the note for Mark 14:14 about the word goodman. Please also see the note for Mark 2:28-LJC about the phrase Good Friday.

The word gave is:'the past-tense form of the word give' along with the word given. Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:8-11 about this words and the many forms of the word give.

Please see the note for Matthew 5:44-45 about the word rain. Fausset's Bible Dictionary defines this word as: 'violent rain" or generically "The early and latter rain" (Jer 5:24; Joe 2:23). Yoreh, "The early rain of autumn"; malkosh, "The latter rain of spring" (Pr 16:15; Job 29:23; Jer 3:3; Ho 6:3; Zec 10:1). Rebibim, from rab "many," from the multitude of drops; "showers" (De 32:2). Zerem, "violent rain," "hailstorm" (Job 24:8). Sagrir only in Pr 27:15. As compared with Egypt, Palestine was a land of rain (De 11:10-11), but for six months no rain falls so that "rain in harvest" and "thunder" were marvelous phenomena, and out of time and place (Pr 26:1; 1Sa 12:16-18). the early rain begins gradually, the latter end of October or beginning of November. Generally from the W. or S.W. (Lu 12:54); the wind then changes to the N. or E. At no period in the winter, from the end of October to the end of March, does rain entirely cease. In January and February snow falls, but lies only a short time.
"The early rain" means the first autumnal showers which prepare the arid soil for the seed; "The latter rain" the later spring showers, especially in March, which bring forward the crop toward harvest (Jas 5:7; Pr 16:15). Showers fall occasionally in April and May. God claims as His peculiar prerogative the sending or withholding of rain, which He made dependent on the obedience or disobedience of Israel (Le 26:3-5,19; De 11:13-15; 28:23-24; Jer 3:3; 5:24; 14:22). "The latter rain in the first (month)" in Joe 2:23 means in the month when first it is needed; or else, as Vulgate and Septuagint, "as at the first" (compare Isa 1:26; Ho 2:15; Mal 3:4); or in Nisan or Abib, the Passover month, the first, namely, the end of March and beginning of April. the departure of winter was marked by the cessation of rain (Song 2:11-13). Rain is the beautiful image of the Spirit's refreshing influences in Messiah's kingdom (Ho 6:3; 2Sa 23:4; Ps 72:6)'.

Please see the notes for 1Corinthians C9S10 about the word fruit. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The word is used symbolically for effect or consequence. It is new life or the offspring of any type of life'. Please also see the note for Romans C8S21 about the word firstfruits. Please also see the note for James 3:18 about the phrase fruit of righteousness. In Matthew 12:34-37 and Luke 6:44-45; Jesus tells us how our fruit will be used to judge us.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 9:8-11 about the word food. The New Testament definition is: 'In a general sense, whatever is eaten by animals for nourishment, and whatever supplies nutriment to plants'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'he left. Ac 17:27-28; Ps 19:1-4; Ro 1:19-20 in that. Ps 36:5-7; 52:1; 104:24-28; 145:9,15-16; Lu 6:35 and gave. Le 26:4; De 11:14; 28:12; 1Ki 18:1; Job 5:10; 37:6; 38:26-28; Ps 65:9-13; 68:9-10; 147:7-8; Isa 5:6; Jer 5:24; 14:22; Mt 5:45; Jas 5:17-18 filling. De 8:12-14; Ne 9:25; Isa 22:13; 1Ti 6:17 General references. exp: Isa 40:21; Jas 5:18'.

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C14-S14 (Verse 18) Paul and Barnabas barely stopped the people from a wrong worship of them.

And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people,
that they had not done sacrifice unto them.

The entire town had showed up for a town-wide party, but it was to honor what they believed were gods...in the likeness of men. However, their so-called gods were denying that they were gods and insisting that the party not happen. OK. So if you accept that they are not gods, then you just lost your reason to party. But, if you keep insisting that they are gods, then how can you refuse their demands? Either way, most people did not care if they were gods or not, but would have been upset at the loss of a town-wide party.

Please see the note for 1Peter 4:18 about the word scarcely. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'adv. 1. Hardly; scantly. We scarcely think our miseries our foes. 2. Hardly; with difficulty. Slowly he sails, and scarcely stems the tides'.

We find forms of the word restrain only in: Genesis 8:2; Genesis 11:6; Genesis 16:2; Exodus 36:6; 1Samuel 3:13; Job 15:4; Job 15:8; Psalms 76:10; Isaiah 63:15; Ezekiel 31:15; Acts 14:18. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'to hold back; to check; to hold from action, proceeding or advancing, either by physical or moral force, or by an interposing obstacle. thus we restrain a horse by a bridle; we restrain cattle from wandering by fences; we restrain water by dams and dikes; we restrain men from crimes and trespasses by laws; we restrain young people, when we can, by arguments or counsel; we restrain men and their passions; we restrain the elements; we attempt to restrain vice, but not always with success. 2. to repress; to keep in awe; as, to restrain offenders. 3. to suppress; to hinder or repress; as, to restrain excess. 4. to abridge; to hinder from unlimited enjoyment; as, to restrain one of his pleasure or of his liberty. 5. to limit; to confine. Not only a metaphysical or natural, but a moral universality is also to be restrained by a part of the predicate. 6. to withhold; to forbear. Thou restrainest prayer before God. Job 15'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'scarce. Ge 11:6; 19:9; Ex 32:21-23; Jer 44:16-17; Joh 6:15'.

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C14-S15 (Verse 19) The devils try again to murder Paul.

And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium,
who persuaded the people,
and,
having stoned Paul,
drew him out of the city,
supposing he had been dead.

Our sentence starts with the word and, which adds this sentence to the prior report. Paul and Barnabas left their prior place to avoid lost Jews who were getting people mad at them and to try and kill them. They came to this city and Paul did a miracle of healing to open the door for presenting the Gospel. Instead, devils got the priest of a false god to try and turn what God did into an excuse for people to worship false gods and doctrinal error. As a result, Paul and Barnabas scarcely restrained the people. And, while they were trying to turn the people to God's truth, the devils made another attack using another means. (As we read this book we need to be aware of the spiritual battle which is truly motivating these incidents.) So, our sentence is adding the report of this sentence to what came before because this is a separate incident but, at the spiritual level, it is just the next act by devils in this ongoing spiritual war of devils against God. They failed in their prior efforts, so now they will try, again, to murder God's ministers.

Notice that devils have Jews, who perched doctrinal error, coming from two different cities where Paul and Barnabas had been before. They were not happy with just running them out of town. Nothing short of murder would satisfy them. And, that should be a pretty basic clue. The true Creator of the universe created life. Anyone who claims to represent Him, while demanding death, for religious reasons, is a liar. Yes, God gave government capital punishment to protect society from a cancerous person. However, God also denied capital punishment to the individual and to religious or other groups in society who are not the true government. These liars proved that they representing devils when they demanded death for someone who did not fall in line with their perverted doctrine.

Our sentence tells us that these devil-motivated Jews thought they had killed Paul, and the preaching of the Gospel, so they stopped pursuing Paul and Barnabas. Notice that God restored Paul and they went onto Derbe. Then they returned home by returning through cities which they had started churches, including the cities which the murderous Jews came from. However, they did not go out soul-winning in those cities but Confirmed the souls of the disciples. And, when they returned home they gave the sending church a full report of the mission effort and that ends our chapter.

Usually, Bible references to Antioch speak of 'The place of the first missionary church and the church which sen out Paul as a missionary'. However, this Antioch refers to another city.

Please see the note for Matthew 15:7-8 about the words draw / drawn / drew. The word drawn and drew. are past-tense forms of the word draw. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To pull along; to haul; to cause to move forward by force applied in advance of the thing moved or at the fore-end, as by a rope or chain. It differs from drag only in this, that drag is more generally applied to things moved along the ground by sliding, or moved with greater toil or difficulty, and draw is applied to all bodies moved by force in advance, whatever may be the degree of force. Draw is the more general or generic term, and drag, more specific'.

Please see the note for Luke 24:37 about the word suppose. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Webster's 1828 defines this word as: '1. to lay down or state as a proposition or fact that may exist or be true, though not known or believed to be true or to exist; or to imagine or admit to exist, for the sake of argument or illustration. Let us suppose the earth to be the center of the system, what would be the consequence? When we have as great assurance that a thing is, as we could possibly, supposing it were, we ought not to doubt of its existence. 2. to imagine; to believe; to receive as true. Let not my lord suppose that they have slain all young men, the king's sons; for Ammon only is dead. 2 Sam.13. 3. to imagine; to think. I suppose, If our proposals once again were heard-- 4. to require to exist or be true. the existence of things supposes the existence of a cause of the things. One falsehood supposes another, and renders all you say suspected. 5. to put one thing by fraud in the place of another. Not in use'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'there. Ac 13:45,50-51; 17:13 persuaded. Mt 27:20-25; Mr 15:11-14 having. Ac 7:58; 9:16; 22:20; 2Co 11:25; 2Ti 3:11 drew. Jer 22:19; Heb 13:12-13 supposing. 1Co 15:31; 2Co 4:10-12; 11:23 General references. exp: Ac 14:2'.

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C14-S16 (Verse 20) What happened after the Jews left Paul as dead.

Equivalent Section: What happened that day.

Howbeit,
as the disciples stood round about him,
he rose up,
and came into the city:.

Equivalent Section: What happened the next day.

and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

14:20 says: Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. Paul must have still been in great pain from all of the bruises caused by stones. Yet, he continued on to the next place to preach at.

The phrases in our sentence can be explained as:

The phrase Howbeit means: 'how, be, and it. Be it as it may; nevertheless; notwithstanding; yet; but; however'. The Jews left him as dead and the other disciples also thought he was dead but God raised him back up.
The phrase as the disciples stood round about him means: 'They thought he was dead and were not sure what to do'.
The phrase he rose up means: 'We are not told if he actually died and God revived him or if he only appeared to be dead. Either way, it took the power of God for him to rise up without human help'. Please also see New Testament Significant Events Study for links to other miracles reported in the New Testament.
The phrase and came into the city means: 'Apparently, he walked in on his own. This, and the next phrase, are physically impossible without a miraculous healing from God'.
The phrase and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe means: 'They left to cause the devil-motivated Jews to think they had won and cause them to also leave so the new church did not have to contend with them'.

As we see here, sometimes a missionary has to trust God to protect the work while he leaves to draw away devil-motivated men who want to destroy the work of God.

Please see the note for Matthew 17:21 about the word Howbeit. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: 'adv. how, be, and it. Be it as it may; nevertheless; notwithstanding; yet; but; however'.

The word rose. is the past-tense form of the word rise. Please see the note for Colossians C2-S7 about the word rise. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' to move to pass upward in any manner; to ascend; as, a fog rises from a river or from low ground; a fish rises in water; fowls rise in the air; clouds rise from the horizon towards the meridian; a balloon rises above the clouds'. Please also see the note for Mark 10:1 about the words arise / arose. Please also see the note for John 20:2-LJC about the phrase risen Jesus is Lord.

Please see the note for 1Corinthians C9S8 about Barnabas. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This man was a peace maker'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'as. Ac 20:9-12; 2Co 1:9-10; 6:9; Re 11:7-12 came. Ac 12:17; 16:40; 20:1 Derbe. Ac 14:6; 16:1 exp: Ac 20:4'.

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C14-S17 (Verse 21-22) they returned homeans preached at every established church along the way.

And when they had preached the gospel to that city,
and had taught many,
they returned again to Lystra,
and to Iconium,
and Antioch,
Confirming the souls of the disciples,
and exhorting them to continue in the faith,
and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God .

14:21-26 tell us about the return trip, to Antioch, of Paul and Barnabas.

Our sentence is, basically, the end of the first missionary trip by Paul and Barnabas. They had been driven out of almost every city where they preached by unbelieving religious Jews. Those Jews had also started riots in more than one city and chased them from city to city. Finally, in the second last city where they preached, they had Paul stoned to death and his body left on the city trash heap outside of the city. Yet, throughout it all, Paul did several miracles as witness that they spoke for the true God. (Please see New Testament Significant Events Study for links to the reports of these miracles.) And, the mission team established churches in several cities.

First notice that our sentence says that they had preached the gospel to that city and had taught many. Too many people ignore the word and, when it appears in the word of God. If you throw away either side of an addition Math problem, you change the answer. The same is true for the word of God. They preached and they taught. There is an erroneous doctrine from devils which claims: 'All preaching is teaching and all teaching is preaching'. The end result is what was in the Jerusalem Church just before God had the Temple torn down, so that saved Jews could not keep Jewish religious, traditions, and had all of the Jews preaching doctrinal error either killed or scattered. In Acts 21:20; we read: And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law. This was just before those same Jews threw a riot to have Paul arrested and sent to Rome where he was beheaded just before God had the Temple and that church destroyed. Several places in the New Testament we read about preachers from that group going to churches, which Paul had started, and trying to convert people to their doctrinal error. In Acts 11:26; we read: a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. TEACHING is required to change saved people into true Biblical Christians. Preaching, without teaching, produces people who are very zealous for doctrinal error.

Next, our sentence says that Paul and Barnabas were Confirming the souls of the disciples as they visited churches on their way home. They could not Confirm the soul unless there was a change in the soul ('way of thinking, way of making decisions of their will and way of responding emotionally to problems in life') of the disciple. And, the saved person could not be a true disciple unless they had a disciplined personal relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, which is maintained by God's Holy Spirit, and, at least, includes starting every day with personal prayer, worship and Bible study. Saved people who are not true disciples do not get those God-caused changes and many of them end up doubting their own personal salvation.

Continuing on, we see that they were also exhorting them to continue in the faith. Many people preach faith, but it is not necessarily The faith. The most important part of faith is: 'What is your faith in?'. Lots of people believe that their faith is in our Lord Jesus Christ. But, when they find out that their religion preaches something which goes against what the word of God truly says, then the doctrine which they truly submit to proves what their faith truly is in.

A simple example is the many large ministries which existed in America until to building pastor died. Then the ministry collapsed in size if not closing down. So, was the faith of the people truly in our Lord Jesus Christ or was it in that preacher?.

Next, we read that they were exhorting them to continue in the faith. They were 'lifting the people up spiritually' so that they would continue. It's not how we start only but what we do in our ongoing personal relationship is just as important if not more so. This is how God's people mature spiritually. The things learned only through experience are what give is spiritual maturity and everlasting rewards. In addition, Paul and Barnabas would not be there. They didn't want these churches collapsing like we saw in England and America. They needed to continue in The faith, which was their own ongoing personal relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ and was not dependent upon a given preacher preaching or leading the church.

Next, we need to realize that saved people want to enter into the kingdom of God for the blessings. However, as preached here, in order to do so they must continue in the faith and be willing to suffer much tribulation.

John Mark was with them at the start of their mission trip. He went home early because he was not willing to suffer much tribulation, in spite of being saved. He did not see the miracles nor did God use him to do miracles. He did not get credit, in Heaven, for helping to start those first missionary churches. He was saved and had the opportunity, but did not enter into the kingdom of God and receive the blessings. Thus, we have examples of saved people who did enter into the kingdom of God and receive the blessings. And, we also have an example of a saved person who did not because he was not willing to suffer much tribulation.

We need to realize that tribulation is not a one-time event. And, it is very scary before we experience it and no fun while experiencing it. One of the reasons God allows His people to experience tribulation is that it is the best way for God to humble us. We naturally become proud and God has to keep knocking down out. In addition, as I have explained to Bible School students several times, unless God puts us in a situation where it is obvious that we can not get ourselves out of it, and leaves us in that situation until everyone knows we can not get ourselves out, nor can other men get us out of it, then God will not get the glory if He gives us a miracle. God does miracles in and through His people's lives so that they can use that miracle to give glory to God and to point people to God for fulfilling their needs. Lots of people want miracles, and other results, but are not willing to pay the cost.

Finally, we must realize that kingdom of God and the kingdom of Heaven are two totally different phrases and have totally different doctrinal meanings. The kingdom of Heaven is defined as: 'everything that belongs to Heaven including the 1,00 years reign of Christ when the laws of Heaven will be enforced on this Earth'. Saved people will not experience that until after they die. However, The kingdom of God is defined as: 'God's character in you'. And, honest people must admit that there are people who claim to be saved, but do not display the God-caused changed life. There are saved people who refuse to accept much tribulation and therefore, even though they are saved, they do not enter into the kingdom of God. There are also others who are not willing to fulfill other requirements such as maintaining an ongoing personal relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. So, even though many people claim to be saved, they do not have all of the available blessings and blame God for that failure when it is actually the result of their own refusal to fulfill God's requirements to receive the blessings.

Please see the note for 2Timothy 3:11 about Antioch. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The place of the first missionary church and the church which sen out Paul as a missionary'.

Please see the note for Galatians C3-S16 about the word confirm. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'That which gives new strength or assurance; additional evidence; proof; convincing testimony'. Forms of this word are used, in this book, in: Acts 14:22; Acts 15:32; Acts 15:41.

Please see the notes for Romans C13S1 and Psalms 119:20 about the word soul. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The long-term result of the short-term actions of our heart in deciding how we will think, how we will act emotionally to circumstances of life and how we will decide the issues of life'. Please also see the note for James 1:21 about the phrase save your soul.

Please see the note for Philippians 1:25-26 about the word continue. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'keep doinf what they were doing before. The dictionary does not make the distinction between the words continue and continueth. Webster's 1828 actually gives the Biblical definition of continueth for the word continue. In the Bible, the word continue is used for when the action stope at some point and uses the word continueth for when the action does not stop in this life'. Please also see the note for James 1:25 about the word continueth. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians 7:5 about the word incontinent.

Please see the notes for Romans C5S2 and Romans C8S37 about the word tribulation. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines this word as: 'n. L. tribulo, to thrash, to beat. Severe affliction; distresses of life; vexations. In Scripture, it often denotes the troubles and distresses which proceed from persecution'. In addition, the note in Romans explains every place where this word is used in the word of God.

Please see the note for Romans C13S8 about the phrase must needs. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'This choice is not optional'.

Please see the note for John 10:9 about the word enter. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'to leave one place and go into another place'.

The kingdom of Heaven is the kingdom that 'belongs to' Heaven and is applied to beings, and things, which reside in Heaven. The kingdom of God is 'God's character in us' because a king puts his chartacter on his kingdom and the kingdom of God is given in this life. In addition, we know that every kingdom has a king. Please see verses on king in the New Testament and the Summary on king. Please also see the note for Revelation 10:11-LJC about the phrase kings of the earth. Please also see the note for John 18:33-LJC about the phrase King of the Jews. Please also see the note for Revelation 14:14-LJC about the phrase King of kings. Please also see the note for John 18:33-LJC about the phrase King of the Jews. Please see the notes1Corinthians C4S20; 1Corinthians C15S46; Galatians C5S20 and the Doctrinal Study for about the phrase The kingdom of God. The New Testament definition is: 'God's character in us'. Please also see the note for 1Corinthians C6S16 about the phrase kingdom of God rejected by lifestyle sins. Please also see the note for Matthew 9:10 about the word sinners. Please also see the notes for Ephesians 5:5; 2Timohy 4:1 and 2Peter 1:11 for about the phrase kingdom of Christ.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'taught many. Gr. made many disciples. Mt 28:19 (Gr) Lystra. Ac 14:1,6,8,19; 13:14,51; 15:36; 16:2; 2Ti 3:11 General references. exp: Ac 14:7.
Confirming. Ac 15:32,41; 18:23; Isa 35:3; 1Co 1:8; 1Th 3:2-4,13; 1Pe 5:10 exhorting. Ac 11:23; 13:43; Joh 8:31-32; 15:4-6,9-10; Col 1:23; Jude 1:3,20-21 we. Mt 10:21-22,38; 16:24; Lu 22:28-29; 24:26; Joh 12:25-26; 16:1-2,33; Ro 8:17; 1Th 3:4; 2Ti 1:8; 2:11-12; 3:12; 1Pe 4:12-16; Re 2:10; 7:14 enter. Mt 19:24; Mr 9:47; 10:24-25; Joh 3:5; 2Pe 1:11 exp: Mt 18:3; 19:23. General references. exp: Ge 49:23'.

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C14-S18 (Verse 23) What Paul and Barnabas did in every church as they returned home.

And when they had ordained them elders in every church,
and had prayed with fasting,
they commended them to the Lord,
on whom they believed.

14:21-26 tell us about the return trip, to Antioch, of Paul and Barnabas.

Our sentence tells us what they did at every church. Please use the link, in the sentence outline above, to see the note in the Lord Jesus Christ Study. Devil motivated preachers claim that the doctrinal meaning of Jesus is the same as Lord. As a result, there are people who are sure that they are saved, but end up in Hell, because they relied on 'saying a prayer to Jesus' instead of, from their heart, doing what The word of God means by call upon the name of the Lord. There are people who are led into doctrinal error because they do not understand the difference between The word of God and The word of the Lord. In our sentence, we are told that Paul and Barnabas commended them to the Lord. That is: they asked The Lord to protect then and use them to build His kingdom on Earth.

Next, notice that Paul and Barnabas commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed. This was not some other 'lord' like what is often preached today and that we are warned to beware of. If their 'lord' does not match the character of the true Lord, as identified in the Bible, then their 'lord' is not the true Lord of the Bible. In particular, the just prior sentence told us that the true Lord of the Bible requires His people to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. Anything disagreeing with that is not from the true Lord of the Bible.

Next, we are told that they had ordained them elders in every church. There is a lot of doctrinal error taught about elders including that they are not ordained. However, I will not deal with those doctrinal errors in this note.

Please see the note for 1Timothy 5:1 about the word elder. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'An older saved person within the church who has Godly wisdom and is accepted as a leader in the church even if he has no formal position within the church'.

Please see the notes for Romans C16S1; 2Corinthians 3:1 about the word commend. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'To represent as worthy of notice, regard, or kindness; to speak in favor of; to recommend'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'they had. Ac 1:22; Mr 3:14; 1Ti 5:22; 2Ti 2:2; Tit 1:5 exp: Ac 13:3. elders. Ac 11:30; 15:4,6,23; 20:17; 1Ti 5:1,17-19; Jas 5:14; 1Pe 5:1; 2Jo 1:1; 3Jo 1:1 and had. Ac 13:1-3 they commended. Ac 14:26; 20:32; Lu 23:46; 1Th 3:12-13; 2Th 2:16-17; 2Ti 1:12; 1Pe 5:10'.

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C14-S19 (Verse 24) the cities they passed through as they returned home.

And after they had passed throughout Pisidia,
they came to Pamphylia.

14:21-26 tell us about the return trip, to Antioch, of Paul and Barnabas.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'Cir. A.M. 4052. A.D. 48. Pisidia. Pisidia was a province of Asia Minor, situated between Phrygia on the north and west, Lycaonia on the east, and Pamphylia on the south. Ac 13:13-14; 15:38'.

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C14-S20 (Verse 25-26) the last city preached in before they reached home.

Equivalent Section: the last place preached at.

And when they had preached the word in Perga,
they went down into Attalia:.

Equivalent Section: they completed their mission trip.

And thence sailed to Antioch,
from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.

14:21-26 tell us about the return trip, to Antioch, of Paul and Barnabas.

This was the city that John Mark left the from at the start of their missions trip. Here we read that they fulfilled the work that they had been given the grace of God to do. Lots of people want God's grace but don't was to fulfill the purpose why God gives them that grace.

Please see the note for Luke 8:23 about the word sail. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'pp. Passed in ships or other water craft'.

Please see the note for 2Timothy 3:11 about Antioch. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'The place of the first missionary church and the church which sen out Paul as a missionary'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'Perga. Perga was a considerable city of Pamphylia, towards the sea coast, and near the Caystrus, famous for the temple of Diana. exp: Ac 13:13. Attalia. Attalia, now Antalia, or Satalie, was a maritime city of Pamphylia, the chief residence of the prefect. Ac 14:25
to Antioch. Ac 11:19,26; 13:1; 15:22,30; Ga 2:11 recommended. Ac 14:23; 13:1-3; 15:40; 20:32; 2Co 1:12; 3Jo 1:6-8 the work. Ro 15:19; Col 1:25,28; 4:17; 2Ti 4:2,5-8 exp: Ac 13:2'.

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C14-S21 (Verse 27) they reported to the sending church.

And when they were come,
and had gathered the church together,
they rehearsed all that God had done with them,
and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.

14:27-28 tell us about Paul and Barnabas reporting the results of their mission trip to the sending church.

Our sentence starts with the word and which means it is added to what came before it. In fact, this chapter and the prior chapter both told us about the first missionary trip. Our sentence is adding that a report to the sending church completes the trip. Without the report, the missionaries have not completed their job.

Notice that the report centers on all that God had done with them, not with what they had done or what they had experienced. In addition, they reported how God had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. Again, the secondary emphasis was on what others received from God. And, a third consideration, was that God had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. Not only were The Gentiles saved, but the doctrine that God only saved Jews was proven to be wrong.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 8:13-15 about the word gather. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Collected; assembled; contracted; plaited; drawn by inference'. The New Testament definition for this word is: 'Collected; assembled; contracted; plaited; drawn by inference'. The New Testament definition for the word gathered is: 'The past-tense of the word gather'. The New Testament definition for the word gathereth is: 'A life-style of gathering'. The New Testament definition for the word gathering is: 'Ongoing action of gather'. Please also see the parable of the 'Parable of the Wheat and Tares' (Matthew 13:24-30), which uses this word.

Please see the note for Acts 11:4 about the word rehearse. Webster's 1828 defines this word as: '.t. rehers.' 1. to recite; to repeat the words of a passage or composition; to repeat the words of another. When the words were heard which David spoke, they rehearsed them before Saul. 1Sam. 17. 2. to narrate or recount events or transactions. There shall they rehearse the righteous acts of the Lord. Judges 5. Acts 11. 3. to recite or repeat in private for experiment and improvement, before a public representation; as, to rehearse a tragedy'.

Please see the note for John 18:20 about the words open / openly. The New Testament definition for this word is: ' Unclosed; not shut; as, the gate is open; an open door or window; an open book; open eyes'.

Please see the note for 2Corinthians 2:12-13 about the word door. The Morrish Bible Dictionary defines this word is: 'Besides the common use of the door as the means of entrance into a house, and of enclosing those within when shut, it is used in scripture symbolically for the way of entrance into blessing. the Lord said, "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved." Salvation is only by Him. He also said that as the true Shepherd He entered into the sheepfold by the door, that is, though Son of God, He entered as obedient by God's appointed means, being circumcised, presented in the temple, and baptized. Joh 10:1-9. God opened 'The door of faith' to the Gentiles by Paul and Barnabas. Ac 14:27. Opportunities for service are called opened doors. 1Co 16:9; 2Co 2:12; Col 4:3; Re 3:8. When the church is represented as in a Laodicean state the Lord is outside knocking for admission at the door of the assembly, so that the individual may hear, with a promise of blessing to those who open to Him. Re 3:20. Doors in the East are usually made of wood; but in the deserted cities of Bashan doors are found cut out of stone, with a projection top and bottom which served as pivots on which the door turned'.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'and had. Ac 15:4-6; 21:20-22; 1Co 5:4; 11:18; 14:23 they rehearsed. Ac 15:4,12; 21:19; Ro 15:18; 1Co 3:5-9; 15:10 opened. Ac 11:18; Joh 9:10; 1Co 16:9; 2Co 2:12; Col 4:3; Re 3:7-8 General references. exp: Ac 11:4'.

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C14-S22 (Verse 28) And there they abode long time with the disciples

14:27-28 tell us about Paul and Barnabas reporting the results of their mission trip to the sending church.

They stayed homeans rested before going back to work for the Lord.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge provides Bible references for this sentence as: 'General references. Ac 11:26; 15:35'.

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Acts Chapter 13

Chapter theme is: the Start of the First Missionary Trip to Gentiles.

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Chapter theme is: The end of Paul's first mission trip.

Acts Chapter 14

Chapter theme is: Finishing the First Missionary Trip to Gentiles.

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