Second, it means to believe in what He did. After his song, a man from the crowd asked him if, on a certain night during the Civil War, he had performed night duty for a certain infantry unit. He said, I am a survivor of the Titanic. Habakkuk Matthew 4:12-16+ 27:29; Matt. 5 And the angel answered and said to the women, "Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. Python was a name of Apollo; and as the Pythian Apollo, the chief seat of his worship was at Delphi, and his oracle there was the most famous in the world, and the last that lost its credit. But I told them that in order to receive it, they would each have to tell me how a person can get to heaven. He had been suddenly awakened out of his sleep, but now he was at one with the servants of God, and with them enjoying an early hallelujah breakfast such a scene as would do credit to a modern Salvation Army "glory feast.". Everything was done to attract the eye, to inspire with awe and wonder. If salvation was by faith alone, what would that faith look like? 7:1; 2 Ki. 44:24; Jer. At Thessalonica a fierce attack was made upon the house in which the travellers lodged. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. KJV Acts 16:20 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, NET Acts 16:20 When they had brought them before the magistrates, they said, "These men are throwing our city into confusion. Instead of cursing men, they blessed God. 8:18; Matt. Hence the praetors yielded to the demands of Paul, being probably but too glad to escape so cheaply from the consequences of a fault so serious. What works must I do? It's the same way with man's spiritual condition. After the captivity, all members of the one new state were "Jews," i.e. When you sense the Spirits call, Second, to cause the prisoners to know that the True God answers prayer. 17:2; 1 Ki. It behooves us all to be on the lookout for what God is doing in those situations where unexpected confusion or unfair treatment ensues. 29:20; Jer. To profess Jesus is not the same as possessing Jesus and of Him possessing us as His own possession! So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name. But besides this, she, as in what is called second sight, or in the alleged visions of the mesmeric trance, beholds and describes, at the time then present, what is transacting elsewhere. Guzik -In not escaping, they showed tremendous discernment. Matthew 44:8; Ezek. 15:13; Jdg. -- Vernon C. Grounds(Our Daily Bread, Copyright RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. He will disturb time and time again. In this day of "gaps," and especially the "credibility gap," I can see why this politician chose that particular slogan. Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. He who desires honor is not worthy of honor. And don't overlookthe useful English dictionary search box, which isasuperb collection of workswhich willenable you to hone your prose and preaching with polish and precision. 15:23; 1 Sam. They are Jews. This will be a public admission that the magistrates were wrong and that Christians pose no threat to Roman law.In theory he could travel anywhere without problems, being everywhere protected by the Roman law. However in this verse hope is used as it is by the secular world conveying the sense of "I hope so". Luke informs us that God took the initiative that led to Lydias salvation. Its obvious Paul was thankful for the opportunity, and he didnt question Gods wisdom. So when he sees that he might be about to lose a lot of what has been entrusted to him, its an automatic leap for him to think of taking his own life. How can we but praise Him? As well see, Arminianism and Calvinism differ in their understanding ofhowthe Holy Spirit goes about that work. The rest is already accomplished, and therefore, there is nothing else left for you. How are we to understand issues of sovereignty, independence, and responsibilityof man in relation to God? 9:1; Est. 5:8; Neh. No man can call Jesus, "Lord," but by the Holy Ghost. He was trembling with fear because God was convicting and drawing him to Christ. You could pull up short and turn back. Here the unemployed waited for suitable work, the sick were healed, and the magistrates judged court cases. It was about A.D. 49 or 50 that Paul is in Philippi. 5:18; Jn. And later Paul used his imprisonment in Rome as an opportunity to encourage the Philippian believers in their faith (Phil. He then quoted Acts 16:31 just before he drowned. Obadiah JOEL COMMENTARY VERSE BY VERSE Bruce Hurt,MD. And he said, there alone in the night with two miles of water under me, I believed and I was saved. According to Augustine a hymn has three characteristics: It must be sung; it must be praise; it must be to God. 3. Acts 16:38The policemen reported these words to the chief magistrates. But the Jews had made great headway to favour (the God-fearers) with increasing hatred also. Why did He allow those to be born who He knew would would not respond? God's power is His dunamiswhich means His inherent ability to accomplish supernaturally that which cannot be accomplished naturally! As discussed below in the NT, agalliao describes an exceeding joy (independent of dire circumstances) which is initiated and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Paul reminds me, If I still pleased men, I would not be the servant of Christ., Our Daily Bread - "LED" INTO PRISON - In a vision, Paul saw a man of Macedonia who said, "Come over and help us." Scoffd at when I was with my kinsmen dear, All men are drawn equally, making all men equally capable of choosing God.. Moreover whom He predestined, these He alsocalled; whom He called, these He alsojustified; and whom He justified, these He alsoglorified(Rom. Tore off (4048) (perirregnumi from per = about + rhegnumi = to break, tear) means literally to tear from around someone, as tearing off fetters or stripping off one's robe by tearing. Those also who made a trade of the arts of divination, were watchful after individuals who manifested qualities, aptitudes, or even infirmities, which might prove advantageous to them in their business, and sought to gain possession of them by purchase or otherwise. Think about the importance of what Jesus did for you. So are some of the things people say in the moment of extreme testing and hardships. The radius of that candle's light. From the waters lifted me now safe am I. Proverbs (3) a conduct inspired by and consistent with that surrender. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31). It is faith in Christ. Therefore those who were about to examine him immediately let go of him; and the (ROMAN) commander also was afraid when he found out that he was a Roman, and because he had put him in chains. What about the second most important question, "What must I do to be lost?" Calvin is amillennial on passages about Israels long-range future, and premillennialists 12:40; Neh. faith in womankind I should say not! 2 Kings Time permits only a tiny sampling of verses on this huge topic. This was a lynch mob who were ready to kill the missionaries even without a trial. Hence the ancient Greeks and Romans possessed slaves of all professionsnot only men bred to the various mechanic arts, but philosophers, rhetoricians, grammarians, dramatists, physicians. Isaiah 7:14+ Virgin birth of the Messiah. (see note Ruth 2:17), Then the angel of the LORD came and sat under the oak that was in Ophrah, which belonged to Joash the Abiezrite as his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the wine press in order to save it from the Midianites. Happiness depends to a large extent on what happens. BDAG -1. the highest official in a Gr-Rom. It is impossible for a man to learn to "save himself." 11:23; 2 Ma. 4:2; Zeph. Brian Bell -There was some heaven-quake involved in this earthquake, lest how do you explain no one hurt. 30:1; Ezek. NRS Matthew 13:6 But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. Religion without Christ is like a barren tree on which the fruit is merely "tied on"! Acts 16:26and suddenly there came a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyones chains were unfastened. 2:20; Jn. Cults throw around the name Jesus but they clearly refer to "another Jesus." (Jack Andrews Expository Studies Understanding Acts). )(sermon), What prompted this cry for salvation? Robertson -Believe on the Lord Jesus. (Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary). May we all be continually filled, because you can never tell when the enemy will inflict a beating (either physically or with words). Indeed, given the atrocious HTML source code Frontpage created, it is clearwe have been running on God's amazing gracefor quite some time! Is God not sovereign over fertility and conception? 13:2; Ezek. This, which had seemed to him an idle pretence, was now awfully authenticated by their songs in the night; by the earthquake; by the doors marvellously thrown open, as if for their egress; by their neglecting to do that which would have insured his ruin; and by their solicitude to preserve the life of one who had treated them so roughly. Acts 3:13; Acts 4:21; Acts 4:23; Acts 5:40; Acts 13:3; Acts 15:30; Acts 15:33; Acts 16:35; Acts 16:36; Acts 17:9; Acts 19:41; Acts 23:22; Acts 26:32; Acts 28:18; Acts 28:25; Acts 16:36And the jailer reported these words to Paul, saying, The chief magistrates have sent to release you. Only by such exemplary lives can we witness with integrity and, by the Spirit's power, answer the haunting question of that age or any age: What must I do to be saved? With this hint Paul and Silas thought proper to comply; and after they had been to the house of Lydia, and spoken encouragingly to the brethren, they took their departure from Philippi. The Levites, from the sons of the Kohathites and of the sons of the Korahites, stood up to praise the LORD God of Israel, with a very loud voice. . It was an instance of his becoming all things to all men for the salvation of souls, and of his sacrificing his own convictions in matters that were not essential, rather than cause others to offend. The determining difference in who gets saved resides within man, not in God. A T Robertson -Note the sharp contrast between being Jews in verse 20 and being Romans here. Psalms This wasn't achieved, however, by preaching a three-point sermon at him. 3:16; Ezek. Hosanna! 39:1; Ps. Calvinism - only some drawn, those who are drawn are irresistibly drawn: guaranteed to come to faith. 107:14; Ps116:16 = "You have loosed my bonds"; Prov. Non-citizens had no civil rights, and were subject to the whims of both the multitude and the magistrates. 17:4; 2 Ki. (cpRo 12:1-note,Ro 12:2-note) Beloved, don't misunderstand. Also 1 Cor 9:22-23 - "To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak; I have become all things to all men, that I may by all means save some. Song of Solomon 8:16; Est. How long did it take for you to be baptized after you were born again? Illustration -One Easter morning a Pastor in Chicago was preaching and he dramatically called out, And the last enemy to be conquered is death! Just at that time a huge slab of ice came loose and fell from the steeple and crashed into the roof of the church, shaking the whole building. In your own witness for Christ, will you be daring? (Acts 18:2). Their shepherd is there! From Corinth Timothy crossed over to Troas, where, along with other brethren, he awaited the arrival of St. Paul, who had been making the longer circuit through Macedonia. We do not know what he was doing during St. Pauls two years imprisonment at Csarea; but he joined him during the first imprisonment at Rome, for the Epistles to the Philippians, the Colossians, and Philemon are written in the names of Paul and Timothy. Micah 15:14; Jdg. That is the answer to all of mankind's deepest need and most profound question. These were convenient in size To claim Roman citizenship falsely was punishable by death. "Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well-doing, as unto a faithful Creator" (1 Pet. After the Babylonian captivity, the name Jews was extended to all the descendants of Israel who retained the Jewish religion, whether they belonged to the two or the ten tribes and whether or not they returned to Judah as no doubt some of them did. 24:20; Ezek. But when Paul either saw him silhouetted in the light of the door, or heard him draw his sword, he said, Stop, do not kill yourself. 1 Corinthians Peace as a state of concord and harmony is the opposite of war. 7:12. 1 Timothy There was a law forbidding Roman citizens to practice any foreign religion that had not been sanctioned by the state, although this law was rarely enforced. Additional nuances include to protect, keep alive, preserve life, deliver, heal, be made whole. This would suit me if I were dying, and it is all that I need while I am living. The unsaved people of the world are watching Christians, and when they see Christians shaken by circumstances, they conclude that after all there is very little to Christianity. But it is also about much more than that. Matthew 25:43 I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.' Help! . Like shrouds they appear to me, dabbled in blood! Larkin writes "But it is belief in the Lord Jesus that brings salvation. 1:12). At the very least, if you don't have the Christian music turned on, it is time to turn it on and do a little "holy karaoke" to Jesus! 32:8; Jer. Precept Austin. And as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed(Acts13:48). 6:6; Neh. ", ESV Acts 16:21 They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice. To believe in Christ is to abandon to Christ as our only hope of salvation. Believe(4100)(pisteuo)means to consider something to be true and therefore worthy of ones trust. They knew these two prisoners were different and had something that gave them victory in the midst of trials. ", And the prisoners were listening to them- Listening is the verb epakroanomai used only here and is in the imperfect tense-- over and over they were listening much like Lydia was listening (different verb) to Paul in Acts 16:14-note. In a city where you cant speak the language? 10:30; Lk. Reprinted by permission. More than two hundred years after his death, Eusebius tells us that he is related to have held the office of overseer of the diocese of Ephesus; and five centuries later Nicephorus tells us that he was beaten to death by the Ephesian mob for protesting against the licentiousness of their worship of Artemis. Judges To believe in the Lord Jesus means to commit your life to the one whom you believe is your Savior and your God, trusting that he has forgiven your sins and will receive you in glory. 5:15; Jn. This was not personal revenge but a desire to give protection and respect for the church. For you see that the cry of the Philippian jailor is Sirs, what must I do to be saved? The issues run much deeper. (sermon). 13:11; Est. When That enthrones Him in the will; Jesus. All the world is either Jew or Gentile even as all the world is either a non-believer or a believer in the Jewish Messiah. 12:11; Jn. But it was not, as might be expected, to take Paul and Silas again before the praetors for further examination, but with an order for their immediate release. Maybe you are struggling with some particular sin and are having difficulty sensing any deliverance or victory. Acts 16:35 Now when day came, the chief magistrates sent their policemen, saying, "Release those men." The nightingale sings at night because thats what God designed it to do. People who consult spiritist mediums and psychics are often brought into contact with intelligences that haunt the unseen world, but they are evil intelligences. Vincent -Lit., praying, they sang hymns. Amen." Are those so-called "good works" of yours just "tied on," or are they the genuine fruit of a new life? But Paul, perceiving the poor mans intention, called loudly, Do thyself no harm, for we are all here! Zephaniah 16:35; Ezek. 6. This is a clear example of mob violence. 6:4; Jn. They were above them." 3 John 19:12; Jn. Change one letter, then I see 248 made it a crime to inflict blows on a Roman citizen. Further there is no evidence that the building itself was demolished. 13:3; Jer. We know that during Jesus ministry, demons shouted similar things: What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? -"Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" But when Timothy came even nowi.e. If you are you should seek to be baptized as a public testimony to the goodness and grace of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to save your soul! MacArthur makes an interesting observation on dragged them into the marketplace -That was an interesting turn of events for Paul, who before his conversion had made a career of "dragging off men and women" to "put them in prison" (Acts 8:3+). The Holy Spirit in the Calvinist perspective. You have to commit your life to it. "Am I simply to believe in Christ?" SPIRIT STIMULATEDJOY, Paul later described a similar response in the new converts at Thessalonica writing that, You also became imitators of us (Paul, Silas, Timothy - 1 Th 1:1)and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit, (1 Th 1:6+), When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; and the eunuch no longer saw him, but went on his way rejoicing. Some uses of phulake simply mean "a watch" as in watching over (Mt 14:25, Lk 2:8) The last use of Phulake describes Satan's holding tank before he is released, fully defeated and cast into the lake of fire (Rev 20:7-note). The police were no help; in fact, they often broke up outdoor meetings and accused Booths followers of being the cause of all the trouble Beatings were not uncommon: in 1889, at least 669 Salvation Army members were assaultedsome were killed and many were maimed. Lydia was converted through a quiet conversation with Paul at a Jewish prayer meeting, while the jailer's conversion was dramatic. Matthew It is this that the early Christians refused to do and for which they were themselves thrown to the wild lions or crucified. The Second Epistle was written from Rome when the aged Apostle was imprisoned for the second and last time. That depended upon circumstances. Their analysis of saving faith has stood the test of time. As you recall your own salvation, what type of chains fell off your life? 12:1; Ezek. Yet afterwards the chorus admits: Whereas a psalm is the story of man's deliverance or a commemoration of mercies received, a hymn is a magnificat, a declaration of how great someone or something is (Lu 1:46-55, 67-79; Acts 4:24; 16:25). who now feared they themselves might be punished! Lk. Will kill me! Emperor worship had in store grave peril for both Jews and Christians. I do not suppose that Paul and Silas were particularly happy about being in prison. To accept as true, genuine, or real. 4:14; Est. Spirit of Remembrance, come, And then just sit back andwatch the Spirit set you free from the "prison" of frustration, etc, over the traffic jam, as He transforms your spiritual sight(2 Cor 5:7) from horizontally focused to vertically focused (of course keep your literal sight on the car in front of you)! You and your whole household - Luke is not advocating salvation by proxy. There is no listing of Resources by Chapter if aVerse by Verse commentary has not been written. It was also used of a staff for a walking stick as would be used by a traveler or by an old man ( better described as a cane.) 15:26; Lk. They spoke the Word of the Lord - This is why the jailer's household was saved. To free him from this crippling disadvantage, St. Paul subjected him to a rite which he himself knew to be obsolete. God proclaimed Him, both Lord and Christ. 2. But when did it happen? Vincent on stocks -Lit., the timber. God can turn obstacles into opportunities. At times they will tell the truth, at other times they will lie. 21:9; Rev. If Paul had departed secretly, it might have been reported that he had broken from prison, which would have tainted his reputation, and have been injurious to his apostolic authority there and elsewhere. Hence it is on record that the simple expression, I am a Roman citizen (civis Romanus sum), often sufficed in even the most distant and barbarous countries, to repress all violence against the persons who were able to use it; for Rome had made it widely known how well she was able, and how fully she was disposed to resent any injury offered to her citizens. Are tarot cards evil? Philemon At midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. John The Bible never says that you will know you are saved by something you recall in the past. Luke records a similar fate to the guards who had "allowed" Peter to go free from jail, And when Herod had searched for him and had not found him, he examined the guards and ordered that they be led away to execution (these words are added by the translators but the context justifies this interpretation). By the time that he wrote the Jews had definitely rejected the gospel offered to them by the apostles at home and abroad (1 Thessalonians 2:14-16); so they are no longer regarded as the covenant people, the kingdom of God having passed from them to the Gentiles (Acts 13:45-46) The destruction of Jerusalem and the temple formally effected the transference, forever since the Jew professes a religion enjoining what God's providence makes it impossible for him to fulfil, namely, the observance of the great feasts and the sacrificial system in the temple at Jerusalem. 44:15; Ezek. Oh, what joy the sight affords!". 4:39; Lk. He could have developed a bitter, vengeful spirit. (Note "+" Sign Links to Commentary) Description of the Prophecy: New Testament Fulfillment: Isaiah 6:1-5+ Isaiah saw the glory of God. KJV Acts 21:6 And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again. However, another Scotsman who survived the disaster later told how Harper, clinging to a piece of debris, called out to his fellow countryman, Are ye saved, mon? WebOver 3000 pages of the entire OT/NT. These all rend the heavens with praises to Christ, the worthy Lamb. Acts 16:25 Powerful Influence And again I say rejoice in the Lord. Used of the land of Judea (Jn 3:22), Fausset Bible Dictionary -At first one belonging to the kingdom of Judah, as distinguished from northern Israel (2 Kings 16:6). (Rom. Greater Men and Women of the Bible 17:1; Ezek. 8:11). Their glorious tasks in silence perfecting; In other words, he is not saying the jailer's salvation automatically included everyone in his house and that they had no need to respond to the Gospel. Trusting as the moments fly, 3:3; Mic. What are the biblical principles for solid decision-making? (Ro 12:19+). Some suggest that Luke was not arrested as he was a Gentile and similarlyTimothy was half Gentile." THOUGHT - Why did not Paul use this defense to keep from being beaten and imprisoned? Explanation - The following list includes not only commentaries but other Christian works by well known evangelical writers.Most of the resources below are newer works Humne (sing)is an old verb from humnos(cf. In this respect the friendship between St. Paul and Timothy reminds us of that between St. Peter and St. John. 9:22-24). 27:37; Matt. 38:19; Jer. We don't see him again until Acts 20:5+where Luke records "theywere waiting for US at Troas.". Matthew 25:36 naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.' When we acknowledge Gods great mercies, we are able to offer Him praiseeven in pain. As a Roman citizen this was unlawful, but the duumvirs looked on Paul and Silas as vagabond and seditious Jews and acted with the highhandedness characteristic of the fussy provincial authorities (Knowling). Dear downcast believer, please remember that the Word of God teaches that prayer and praise are powerful weapons (Read and be encouraged by the illustration of this principle in 2 Chr 20:1-22). John Stott quips that "Instead of cursing men, they blessed God.". Again, it is probable that Timothy was an eye-witness of St. Pauls stoning in that city. (3) References or Resources associated with Verse Commentaries -On the old site, verse commentaries usually had a Reference Table above the commentary notes which provided links to sermons, commentaries or illustrations related to the verse(See picture of old reference table). Brave youth, avenger of his fathers death! Rich the trophies Jesus brings: Frequently we hear the expression: "Is it possible that nothing but simple faith can save us?" Key Verses (Ex 6:6; Ex 19:56). It is used of a non-hostile "seizing" of Paul in Acts 9:27 and Acts 17:19. Likewise, all will be given life who put their faith in Christ (Rom. They did not blame God for allowing these things to happen to them. This may explain why they apprehended only Paul and Silas, since Luke was a Gentile and Timothy half-Gentile. 13:20; 1 Ki. Peace(1515)(eirenefrom verbeiro= to join or bind together that which has been separated) literally pictures the binding or joining together again of that which had been separated or divided and thus setting at one again, a meaning convey by the common expression of one having it all together. Some time after St. Pauls release the two were together in Ephesus; and when the Apostle went on into Macedonia he left his companion behind him to warn and exhort certain holders of erroneous doctrine to desist from teaching it. 19:8; Jer. Nehemiah 37:15; Jer. 2:1; 2 Ma. (Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary). Suicide to pagan Romans was considered a duty and a virtue under certain circumstances. Nahum He and Silas were singing Gods praises in a difficult situation and afterwards they saw the conversion of the jailer and his family. What Is the Will of God and How Do We Know It? 8:47; Lk. The conversion of the greater number of these persons took place while I was a missionary abroad." Romans 3:21-28. It was a very dark moment in the experience of the jailor when he drew out his sword intending to commit suicide; but it was immediately followed by the brightest experience he ever had. He was called Judas which means a confessor of Jehovah, but was far from deserving the glorious name. Mark Desmos 18x in 18v -bond(1), bonds(3), chains(3), impediment(1), imprisonment(10). Christians worth their salt Click on a book of the Bible (e.g., Philippians) and under "Collections" select "PhilippiansCommentaries"to retrieve a compilation of numerous sermons and commentaries on that book of the Bible. (Sermon). If they would have reacted like many of us today, Paul would probably have complained, "Well, isn't this just fine: led by God into prison! 11:55; Jn. The tables are definitely turned! 3:10; Est. And lo! I have sent unto you, so he writes to the Corinthians, Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, who shall put you in remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, even as I teach everywhere in every church. And in a later passage in the same Epistle he earnestly calls upon the Corinthians to respect Timothys timidity, and to set him forward again on his journey in peace. Mark While there are only 10 reviews, it is notable that both gave Garland's commentary a 5 star rating! How thankful we should be then that "the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10). In 2 Macc. As Paul and Silas were both Hebrews, there can be little doubt that they sang some of the Psalms of David in their native tongue; and Hebrew singing never fails to attract the marked attention of those unused to it, and unacquainted with the language, as was assuredly the case with the other persons in this heathen prison. What is the Christian view of circumcision? Xulo, from xu, to scrape or plane, is used for a piece of wood whether a cross or gibbet (Acts 5:30; 10:39; 13:29; Gal. Paul never specifically called the keeper of the prison to repent because he was already repenting. Therefore it behooves us to understand the truth concerning Jesus asLordand not allow ourselves to become side tracked in debate over so-called "Lordship salvation". They were not likely to regard this serious loss, the loss of their gains, with complacency. 11:25). Aphno is used 3x in the NT and 6x in the Septuagint. NOT DEGREE - The thoughts and motives of mankind are not always depraved to an extreme degree. 18:25; Matt. 2 Timothy 1:1-7 (Acts 15:32), Jack Andrews -Thank God for those who long to come together with the brethren! The friendship between these two men, so unequal in years and so different in powers, is one of the most suggestive episodes in the early history of the gospel. And if it be asked what use there was in urging this claim afterwards, when their liberation was already secured without it, it may be answered that there is every reason why a man who has been wrongfully treated should claim his liberation as a right, and refuse to receive it as a pardon or a favor. 18:18; 2 Chr. 40:46; Ezek. When troubles engulf us, we plead with God for relief from suffering, for healing of disease, for comfort, for strength, and for the supply of our needs. How sad to think of this nice-looking young woman, wholly given over to the control of a deceitful, wicked spirit. 20:2; Ezek. Although no mention is made of them, it seems certain that Eunice and Timothy were converted and baptized during this first visit, and it is interesting to put together the evidence for this point. 1:3; Ezek. GREAT ANNOYANCE LEADS TO NET Note -All his family. His hope was that the voters in his district would think of him as a man they could believe, one who would make good on every promise he gave. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing and give thanks for all things (see notes 1 Th5:16; 17; 18), Paul alludes to these hindrances to sharing the gospel in his letter to the Thessalonians writing that, after we had already suffered and been mistreated in Philippi, as you know, we had the boldness in our God to speak to you the gospel of God amid much opposition. With those rods they brutally beat the men, a punishment Paul endured three times (2 Cor. If you haven't accepted Christ's free gift of forgiveness, pray to Him and ask Him to save you. 2 Chronicles In writing to the church at Corinth, Paul told the believers he wanted to visit and spend some time with them, but that he needed to stay in Ephesus because of an opportunity for ministry: I will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost. It is in such cases, rather than where the friends are equal in age, that each can be the real complement of the other. c. (3) (Acts 16:34a) Fellowship/Hospitality with the Saints And he brought them into his house and set food before them, Food and fellowship always linked closely together Bock: Now that they are no longer in prison, God has brought about a different kind of connection between them. Ay, dight her rich in miseries like me! In fact the chief magistrates wanted them to leave so the magistrates could then experience "peace! By Dave Branon Strong influences may also come from people outside the family. Many people say they believe in Christ but are not saved. 4:7; Est. Calvinism rejects the circular choosing slight of hand of Arminianism which prepends an additional link prior to foreknowledge wheremen choose GodWho, knowing their upcoming choice in advance, backs up in time tocall and choose themin advance of their choosing Him. And it came out that very hour. The keeper had doubtless heardeven the Pythoness had proclaimed it from day to day in the streetsthat his captives had claimed to be divinely commissioned to declare to men the way of salvation unto eternal life. PAUL APPLE Daniel 1-3 Commentary. 8:1; Zech. The praises of our God should be continually upon our lips. 21:22; 2 Chr. "He knoweth the way that I take!" Men with selfish motives had spread lies about their work and had demanded their arrest. We should also believe what He said, for He predicted that He would die and rise again the third day and He did! God dwells within her, though she be a slave. Philippians Do not allow difficult events to cancel the joy of knowing you are a child of God. They were beaten severely! Each person was equally saved, but none of the three had exactly the same circumstances. Man is able to resist Gods will, the drawing of the Holy Spirit, to remain in darkness. The word "hymn" nowhere occurs in the writings of the apostolic fathers because it was used as a praise to heathen deities and thus the early Christians instinctively shrank from it. "Hebrew" on the other hand expressed their language and nationality, in contrast to "Hellenists," i.e. But his eternal life was in grave danger and his eyes were opened to see his desperate situation! 8:29; 2 Ki. 8:5; Est. 19:42; Jn. These people did not mean to deny the gospel, but only to enrich it; they would rid it of its barrenness, and, in a non-apostolic sense, adorn the doctrine of God their Saviour. And this is my solace and comfort, 37:6; Jer. And it came out at that very moment- Notice there was no ritual, simply a command to depart! They turned the whole situation into a praise and prayer service. He will not forsake thee! A noble tribute from a brave soldier to the courage of the soul! Proclaiming(2605) (kataggellofromkata= an intensifier, down +aggelos= messenger andaggello= to declare, report) literally means to "declare down". 1:6; Mal. 8:8; Jos. The term suggests that those making the request stand in a position of familiarity with those being treated. 39:5; Isa. Numerous Hebrew word studies and corresponding Greek words in the Septuagint (Lxx). 3:3; Dan. An instrument of torture having five holes, four for the wrists and ankles and one for the neck. Calvinism - based on Gods sovereign will, some are passed over. Have you ever been stuck in an airport? There's within my heart a melody (1 Cor 6:20+,2 Cor 5:20+,Ro 13:11+,2 Cor 7:1+,1Jn 2:28+). 19:31; Jn. How about jumping into the water and crying out, "Just look at me, brother! 8:18; Zech. Matt. 5:1). With such a mother! with 497 on commentary replaces in the series J. J. Mullers 1955 work which also has Philemon. We must look at the meaning of believe in and then the meaning of the Lord Jesus. Praise God that He takes the pressure off, so to speak. (Acts2:39). This appeal to race prejudice would be especially pertinent then because of the recent decree of Claudius expelling Jews from Rome (18:2). Acts 16:24and he, having received such a command, threw them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. (2 Cor 2:15-16). NET Acts 16:19 But when her owners saw their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the authorities. He declared that he and his friend had been illegally treated. Spurgeon - They dragged them into the Forum, the place where the courts usually sat, and brought them before the magistrates, saying -what? 14 The second woe is past; behold, the third woe is coming quickly. On his return from Thessalonica Timothy found St. Paul at Corinth. In the seat of power enthrone Him, Spurgeon -For the law was that, if a jailer lost a prisoner, he was to suffer whatever penalty the prisoner would have suffered. The jailer immediately recognized that such a miracle had occurred, and that these men were, indeed, as the evil spirit in the damsel had proclaimed, "servants of the Most High God" (Acts 16:16) who could show him "the way of salvation" (Acts 16:16). Jesus said, He who believes in Me has everlasting life (Jn. Further, a Roman citizen was always entitled to a trial before punishment was administered. He had gone to Macedonia because of a God-directed vision (vv.9-10). At this place was the famous tripod, seated on which over an opening to a cavern below, the priestess became inspired, and delivered responses and prophecies. A believer was once asked, Do you feel that your sins are forgiven? No, was the reply, I do not always feel that they are forgiven, but I know they are, because God says so in His Word!. Robertson says that in James 4:1 "polemos (old word, Matthew 24:6) pictures the chronic state or campaign (I.E., A STATE OF WAR), while mach (also old word, 2 Cor. 1 Peter 1:3 With my rifle aimed at your head, I was about to shoot you when you looked toward heaven and began to sing. Plg means blow or stroke of calamity, especially in reference to war. 11:6; 1 Chr. 13:2; Jer. A hand is stretched outand another too! 10:12; 1 Co. 1:22; 1 Co. 1:23; 1 Co. 1:24; 1 Co. 9:20; 1 Co. 10:32; 1 Co. 12:13; 2 Co. 11:24; Gal. 1:8; 1 Thess. 2. An entire household was saved because Paul and Silas were faithful and obedient in the heat of battle. If she wants me to be drowned in the ocean, I think of Jonah. Paul must have been a Spirit filled man to manifest such persistent patience! Because of Adam and Eves disobedience, all of mankind is trapped in sin (Gen. 2:17; 3:6,19; Rom. No Roman magistrate would pass on abstract theological questions (18:15), but only if a breach of the peace was made ( [ektarassousin hmn tn polin]) or the formation of secret sects and organizations. trust in Jesus as your Savior is the most important decision you can make in life. And many a bad name had I for thy sake; Here it refers to a forum or a market place where things were exposed for sale and where assemblies and public trials were held (See similar use in Mk 7:4; Acts 16:19; 17:17), Kistemaker points out that the agora (see Wikipedia) served "as the social center of the city. Somehow, in this fallen state, men and women are able to do what Adam and Even did not: obey God and respond in faith. 18:4; Rev. Acts 16:31 Fantastic Offers He saw divine acts that made him afraid; he recognized divine principles, which showed him the depravity of his own life and character; and a voice within told him that he was undone, unless a way of salvation were found. Assured that the Lord Himself had thus called him to preach the Gospel in that area, he and Silas and evidently Dr. Luke set out at once for their new "mission field." (The conflict between money and ministry appears often in Acts: Acts5:1-11; 8:18-24; 19:23ff; 20:33-34)" (Wiersbe - Bible Exposition Commentary Be Daring Acts 13-28). 1:10; Isa. no; there would have been no wrong in that, so they must invent a charge. Click this tab and you will see a list of hundreds of sermons and commentaries on each book of the Bible. What kept them from breaking? The answer is the simple sounding Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved (Acts 16:31). Luke 23:25 And he released the man they were asking for who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, but he delivered Jesus to their will. For not only was he associated with the Apostle during a longer period than any of his other companions, but he was evidently regarded with an altogether peculiar affection and esteem. 1:1; Zeph. The gardener by this simple illustration wanted to point out to his employer the difference between real Christianity and pious sham. While working with third- and fourth-graders at our churchs Vacation Bible School, I decided to give all 25 of the children a gift on the last day. 18:40; Acts 4:15; Acts 5:34; Acts 8:38; Acts 12:19; Acts 16:22; Acts 21:33; Acts 21:34; Acts 22:24; Acts 22:30; Acts 23:3; Acts 23:10; Acts 23:35; Acts 25:6; Acts 25:17; Acts 25:21; Acts 25:23; Acts 27:43. Philemon 4:12; Ezr. His lovingkindness is everlasting, Tell me, how may I be saved and die with the assurance that all is well? If the applicant began to beat around the bush and talk about the true church and ordinances and so on, the good Bishop would say, That wont do. They were applying biblical truth to their situation. Only Paul and Silas are mentioned by name, but Timothy is with them, as we find a little later; and a passage in the Epistle to the Philippians, written years after, reveals Timothys presence at Philippi on this first occasion: I hope to send Timothy shortly unto you Ye know the proof of him, that, as a child serveth a father, so he served with me in furtherance of the gospel., At Philippi St. Paul and Silas were imprisoned. Plg can also indicate the losses of an army (1 Samuel 4:17 [LXX 1 Kings 4:17]) or the affliction of Job (2:13). 23:32; 1 Chr. When we walk with the Lord, we can have a song even in the midst of trouble. Anxiety? "He called for a light" that might guide his feet into the inner prison of the suffering saints, but when he cried, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" Zechariah The frequency of desma in the Pauline letters (eight times) shows the apostles imprisonment for the gospel (Philippians 1:13; Philemon 13) which affected his self-understanding in relation to Christ. A Picture of Joyful Fellowship (Acts 16:32-34). A Matter Of Faith Luke 22:33 But he said to Him, "Lord, with You I am ready to go both to prison and to death!" They were in a strange city far away from home. 16:1; Ezek. And its the same hymn you sang tonight! It might have done no good in this hubbub and no opportunity was allowed for defence of any kind. (See this nuance in Acts 16:16, 19; Acts 19:24). This is a terrible sin. Those of us, who are saved, should delight in speaking of Him as Lord. (Mt 1:21). 20:45; Ezek. He may have heard the testimony of the slave girl but shrugged it off. This does not mean the understanding has to be at a theologically profound level. Do we long to worship our Lord together and serve our Lord together? 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