Acts 20

(24) However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete te task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
We often feel unfulfilled if life isn't going towards our standards such as a lack of social life or financial security. A specific idol of mine prevents me from having the single minded heart for God that is needed to exalt his glory. This idol would definitely be recognition from others. I loved being known as the city kid who smokes durries and evangelises as it gave me a unique identity. I would banter and have theological discussions and debates in the most surprising places whether it be rooftops or Meriton penthouse parties. However, the most difficult decision of recent memory was cutting of those people who would stunt my growth. I don't vibe well with Cheil nearly as much as my hedonistic crowd. Because of this I often isolate myself from life group because either I feel unimportant or I feel regretful for the sacrifices that were clearly necessary to grow with God. However, the pain that I feel now is infinitely unimportant compared to the road God guides me in. It's up to me whether I submit and step my pride aside or I can continue the way I am now and make all those sacrifices for waste.

Acts 19

(6) When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied

(27) There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited; and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty.”
Many of the pagan practices in Ephasus was to indulge in sexual activities and satisfying desires that were popular to the society. Pauls increasingly growing ministry disapproved of these habits and therefore threatened the financial security of those who profited of this lifestyle.


(p.s i have really no idea what to write for this chapter because i'm not that familiar with the subject of speaking in tongues and whether it can be justifiable in our present age). maybe this is something we can talk about on friday )

Acts 18

(10)  For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.
Christian can feel alone in our daily struggle to exalt God with an abundance of obstacles. Usually however, God provides fellow brothers and sisters in our community who'm we can turn to for spiritual or financial support. 

(27-28) When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers and sisters encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.
Before Apollos discovered salvation he was already known to be a scholar, orator, and debater. If we have an urge to serve Christ while have specific gifts that we aren't utilising for his glory, we should stop hesitating. Apollos major strength was his human reasoning so he convinced many in Greece. Quite often i'm guilty of being sloppy and prideful, knowing that I have sample opportunity to proclaim Jesus salvation to unbelievers.

Acts 17

(6) But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: "These men who have caused troubled all over the world have now come here."
Jason was one of the many heroes who didn't receive major recognition for his contribution to the early church. Often some of us are discouraged when we feel un-effective in the body of Christ. These emotions often come across my way when I feel no recognition or encouragement from fellow believers especially after making major decision to cut of people who'm I were close to. However, God is the only one who's approval I should seek, for lives could potentially be affect by my actions.

(11) Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
Consumer Christianity has given has made us adjusted to believing what we want to hear. This is why it is tremendously important to study to verify or disapprove certain theology, It wasn't until last year I acknowledged my limited understanding and stopped viewing God according to my own moralistic values. If a preacher or teacher gives us doctrine that contradicts what is spoken in the scriptures, we shouldn't view this as Biblical and rebuke them.

(32) When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, "We want to hear you again on this subject".
What the Old Testament proves over and over again is us humans love prioritising popular opinion rather than what God commands of us. Therefore we shouldn't be surprised if we don't receive a positive response from our audience. Only few will believe and only fewer will submit and be saved. Even if a few respond to the gospel, it's worth our sacrifice.   

Acts 16

(3) Paul wanted to take him along on the journey, so he circumcised him because of the Jews who lived in that area, for they all knew that his father was a greek.
Sometimes we need to go beyond what is usually expected of a Christian in order to create opportunities for a group or culture to to accept or listen to us.

(15) When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. "If you consider me a believer in the Lord." she said, "come and stay at my house." And she persuades us
We should never forget to be hospitable to fellow believers and generally people. People can often leave spiritually or emotionally heightened when we apply Christlike qualities to our actions.

(24-25) When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.
Despite their unfair treatment, they praised God publicly. They understood that their suffering had a purpose and was honoured to suffer for Christ. No matter the circumstance, we should praise God to set an example to others and ourselves.

Acts 15

(10) Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear?
Paul was talking about how traditions and The 10 commandments was intended to point out our sins so we could repent and return to God. However, our sinful nature prevents us from completely obeying the law and therefore human deeds alone can't bring us to Christ.

(20) Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood.
When we share the gospel across different cultures, we must be sure that the requirements for faith we set up are God's not peoples.

Acts 14

(18-19) Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing them. Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead.
Public opinion can change in months, days or even hours. This is human nature. What the gospel preaches is often what offends us thus we should not live to please the crowd especially in regard to our spiritual lives. 

(21-22) They had preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God," they said.
We must always support new believers who need our help and encouragement especially if their newfound faith is creating social or financial inconvenience.

Acts 13

(2-3) While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which i have called them." So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
To be set apart means to be dedicated for a special purpose. Not all of us are called to have extraordinary lives but we should dedicate our money, time and efforts for God's work. Giving financial aid to missionaries etc.

(10) You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord?
When necessary we have to be brutal with the gospel. Confronting a fellow believer or neighbour can sometimes be the most loving thing to do.

Acts 12

(12) When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying.
God calls us to not rely on our rely ability when life goes good or bad but to always submit to call on God.

(23) Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord  struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.
Pride is a serious sin. Pride is us being satisfied in ourselves and achievements rather than giving God the glory. Thou shall have no other God's before me (Deuteronomy 5:6)

Acts 11

(8) I replied, 'Surely not, Lord! Nothing impure of unclean has ever entered my mouth.'
More often than necessary, many who claim themselves as Christians are inclined to accept only sections of God's word that appeals to our personal agendas while neglecting teaching that might be offensive. 

(18) When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, "So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life."
The Jewish church had set God as their highest authority so when they discovered the Holy Spirit being given to the gentiles, they had stepped their prejudices aside and submitted to God's will. Although this would remain and issue for some members, we can trust that the gospel can change us drastically. 

Acts 10

(2) He and his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly.
Although Cornelius was a God fearing man he still wasn't saved because he didn't know the gospel however God provides to those who seek him.

(15-16) The voice spoke to him a second time, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to heaven.
For centuries the Jewish community viewed the gentiles as unclean so it's understandable that certain prejudices was inbred in Peter's mentality. It took a three part heavenly vision to convince Peter of his wrongful biases. Our mind is of human limited nature so we shouldn't debate with God's sovereign understanding and decision. 

(45) The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles.
This was a defining moment in the Churches history, because of this event we have no basis to view ourselves as morally or spiritually superior to others. 

Acts 9

(15-16) But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."
Consumer Christianity teaches that God will give you relief in life. Jesus tells you to pick up your cross and follow him. Ananias was well aware of Paul's profession and was fearful of what would happen to him and his fellow believers, however he acknowledged God as his highest authority and obeyed regardless.

(21) All those who heard him were astonished and asked, "Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among hose who call on this name? And hasn't he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?"
For me personally, I feel as is God's glory is exalted when we see someone turn their life around for Jesus when we thought it was impossible for them. From ex-gangsters to former playboys, they are possibly the greatest example of God's worth, leaving their materialistic possessions for submit to Christ.

Acts 8

(4) Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.
We often fall into despair if something as severe as religious persecution becomes a reality for us. However, these believers didn't allow their disadvantages to affect their relationship with God and their effectiveness for his cause. God used this array of persecution to force his children to move out and preach among the nations.

(20-21) Peter answered: "May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part of share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God."
This could be a sign of Consumer Christianity. People who want a relationship with God in return for something whether it be to gain connections, or a better career, a wife etc. We aren't given supernatural abilities or spiritual gifts to provide ourselves with material comfort. God gives us these things to exalt his glory, not to enhance our own.

Acts 7

(59 - 60) While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit". Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them". When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Stephen was the first to give up his life for his faith. He had exalted God's glory most when he proved that his materialistic comforts and social position were infinitely worthless compared to knowing God

Acts 6

(3-4) Brothers and sister, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."
It's vital that we set the gospel as our highest authority, so when we assign people to high church position, we should not prioritise human accomplishments but whether one has humility for God or not.

Acts 5

(3) Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land?"
God wants his children to imitate him however dishonesty, greed and covetousness prevents church growth. It's helpful if we open up to fellow christian brothers and sisters before our sin starts affecting our decisions especially if it's severe as this.

(11) Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.
God hates sin. He always has and always will. Unfortunately many churchgoers undervalue God's holiness and find ways to justify their sin. It's important to become aware of our undeserving nature and submit to God, God helping us to hate sin.

(41) The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.
It is natural for humans to crave a comfortable lifestyle however we should be grateful that God considers us worthy to suffer for him.
Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me" - Mathew 16:24

Acts 4

(3) They seized Peter and John and, because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day.
They understood that the salvation of peoples if not one man was so important that they were willing to risk their materialistic comforts. 
If your courage to witness for God has weakened, pray that your boldness may increase. Remember Jesus promise, "Whoever acknowledges me before others, i will also acknowledge before my Father in Heaven" - Mathew 10:32 

(12) Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. 
As Christians, we are to be open minded on many issues, but not on how we are saved from sin. Neither saints nor good deeds can save us from our sinful nature.

(24-30) 
True Christians will understand that praying for the courage and perseverance to continually praise God through trials and tribulations is more important than asking for a peaceful troublesome-free lifestyle. 

Acts 3

(5-6) So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said, "Silver or gold i do not have, but what i do have i give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk"
We humans are naturally inclined to pray for something that'll give us some sort of relief to give us comfort. However God sometimes will answer us in a way that isn't always one that we want but what is infinitely more important. 

(11-16) 
We can identify who's a false prophet by who's credit they focus on, their glorious human accomplishments or God's impact on them. For Peter we know his faith was genuine because he gave God all the credit. When we do something of favourable deed whether great or small, we should always find the opportunity to publicly acknowledge God as the sole provider of our gifts. We should pray to have courage like Peter to speak up

Acts 2

(4) All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
This shows that God's power can achieve what defies human logic or reasoning. He'll use these newfound gifts to speak among the nations.

(38-39) Peter replied, "Repent and be baptised, every one of you, in the name of jesus christ for the forgiveness of your sins. and you will receive the gift of the holy spirit. the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off-for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Believing in Jesus and acknowledging his sacrifice isn't enough to save us. To not just accept him as our saviour but also as our Lord is what's essential. We have to sacrifice our pagan practices and ideologies to know God on a personal level. This would be difficult for a lot of us as our current culture encourages individuality and to worship ourselves, being our own boss. 

(47) Praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
A healthy church will attract potential believers. More often than we should, we gather into our own individual clicks or tolerate sins that makes us feel comfortable or safe. No one would probably have interest in God if his followers don't imitate him. While it is God and not human efforts that provide salvation, we have a responsibility to be used by God.

Acts 1

(6-7) Then they gathered around and asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth

The Jews had a grand image of the Messiah as a powerful figure who would conquer Israel adversaries thus freeing the nation. When we call upon God, we don't always receive an answer that'll be immediate or satisfying. Jesus would provide them with something far more valuable than political/social freedom.

(8) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

The Holy Spirit provides courage, boldness, confidence, insight, ability, and authority. God would use these gifts to preach the good news across the nations starting from Jerusalem.

2 Corinthians 13

(2) I already gave you a warning when i was with you the second time. I now repeat it while absent; On my return i will not spare those who sinned earlier or any of the others.

Paul wanted the corinthian to be imitators of Christ, and more than once had they acted in ungodly manner. There's only so much we can do for someone stumbling in their faith. Paul might have had to resort to extreme disciplinary action which could even be excommunication.

(10) This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when i come i may not have to be harsh in my use of authority - the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not tearing you down.

After multiple disappointments, Paul was personally hurt probably because of the emotional drainage that occurs when you invest prayer for someone.

2 Corinthians 12

(9-10) But he said to me, “My grace is efficient for you, for my power if made perfect in weakness.” Therefore i will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why for Christs sake, i delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships in persecutions in difficulties. For when i am weak, then i am strong.

Paul lived through some sort of sickness/disability throughout his missionary life, we do not know what it is but we know it was a hindrance. In this way, he was continually encouraged to rely on God rather than medicinal remedies, it consistently reminded him of humility. These struggles developed into perseverance to push on God’s gospel when life seems to go against us.

(21) I am afraid that when i come again my God will humble me before you, and i will be grieved over many who have sinned earlier and have not repented of the impurity, sexual sin and debauchery in which they have indulged.

With Corinth being infamous for pagan lifestyle, Paul had a fear that the church might have dishonest with him and tolerated cultural practises. We are to be imitators of Christ, setting an example to the rest of society.

2 Corinthians 11

(3-4) But i am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the Spirit you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough

If we believe that the Biblical writings were inspired by the holy spirit then we must set it as our highest authority. We must have a desperate alert for accurate doctrine. False doctrine is attractive because it suits our human morals and limited understanding. This can give us a false perception of who God is and what he demands of us. Because we don't submit our understanding to God, we now have people who over empathise on the prosperity gospel while other churches have even accepted same sex marriage as a sacred union.

(14-15) And no wonder, for satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. their end will be what their actions deserve.

Since the early church there have always been corrupt or misguided preachers. Having a proper understanding of the gospel is desperately important because so we can recognise these people.

(23-29)  

Anyone who studies the gospel accurately are aware that there is no such thing as a lukewarm/comfortable christian, there'll always be struggle. Paul is aware of this more than most people and gives himself the credentials his adversaries could not.

2 Corinthians 10

(4) the weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world, we do not wage war contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.

The advantage we have over the world is that because we aren’t necessarily the most powerful or intelligent community we choose to rely solely on God as our source motivation for everything.

(12) We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.

Many church goers suffer pride issues that they aren’t even aware off, this is usually because they are better at imitating church culture than others. We can compare ourselves to others and boost up our ego to assure salvation but when we measure up our standards to God, we realise our true worth. Romans 3:10-12 speaks true to us, none of us are worthy of God’s sympathy, we are all dirt.

2 Corinthians 9

(7-8) Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give not reluctantly or under compulsion for loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

We should seek God above all things especially money. If we give them away out of habit or obligation then we are no better than the pharisees, our faith is not genuine. Our hedonistic society implies that we indulge ourselves in our materialistic ambitions and if we adapt that mentality, we’ll never be able to give fully submit not just our money but also our minds. God provides all our necessities, we shouldn’t desire more to the point of stumbling our faith.

(13) Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.

Unbelievers will take interest in our beliefs once they see how separate we are from the rest of the world. How we joyfully self deny to glorify God and serve others, God wants his followers to present this attitude to the nations always.

2 Corinthians 8

(2-3) In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own.

Church culture usually encourages to give 10% of our income to the church, the bare minimum. For many including myself, this can sometimes seem bothersome and do it out of obligation rather than genuine concern for church finances or missions. However these poverty stricken community sacrificed their materialistic comforts because they were more concerned with making God’s glory known to others. This is the type of attitude we need when offering tithes.

(12) For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.

Although we might want to contribute to the church, we should be doing in a responsible manner in which we can donate while maintaining our basic needs met. We shouldn’t cripple our families.

2 Corinthians 7

2 Corinthians 7

(1) Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God
The city of Corinth was at the heart of Greek culture. To the average corinthian, participating in pagan and sexual indulgences was considered the a normal everyday practice. It is incredibly difficult for anyone young in their faith to grow in an environment that encourages you to compromise your beliefs. Paul was suggesting that they should cut off their bad habits in the hope that they should develop in their commitments.

(2) Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.
Paul wanted the Corinthians to become vulnerable to him and each other, to not close isolate themselves from their hearts. We need to show respect to our leaders and show hospitality to others especially those who might need fellowship.

(10-11) Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. see what this godly sorrow has produced in you what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. at every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.
It seems that the closer we become with God, the more we seem to understand our worthlessness and decadent nature. We feel sorrow because although we know we are saved, we are aware that we in no way deserving of salvation and won't earn it by any good dead. This type of sorrow makes makes us want to serve God more out of gratitude.

2 Corinthians 6

(2) For he says, "In the time of my favour i heard you and in the day of salvation i helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God's favour, now is the day of salvation.
God salvation is meant for all people who accept him, and yet often many people put off God as a lesser priority because of their career, family commitments etc.

(8-9) Through Glory and dishonour, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed.
As God's children, we dont allow despair to overcome us when suffering seems unbearable because we are aware of the purposes in it. We can rejoice in our misfortunes and increase perseverance proving to the world that we value Jesus more than we do about materialistic comforts.

2 Corinthians 5

(1 - 11)

The resurrection of the body in the next life was considered abnormal to Greek culture. They saw that once death comes over, the body is left behind while the soul exists eternally. The Bible teaches that we'll be given new bodies that far exceed our current ones. 

(17) Therefore , if anyone is in Christ the new creation has come. The old is gone, the new is here!

When we accept Christ we are spiritually brand new people, we have salvation. This gives us a new way of looking at people, our decisions and the world. 

(20) we are therefore Christ's ambassadors as though God were making his appeal through us. we implore you on Christ's behalf. Be reconciled with God.

As ambassadors of Christ we must not take our responsibility lightly, as the eternal fate of others could depend on how we act or think.

2 Corinthians 4

(4) Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways, we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyones conscience in the sight of God. 

As Christians we believe we should be representatives of truth and correct theology. From The Crusades to Westboro Baptist Church, history has given us countless examples of humans twisting God's word whether it be for political gain or prejudice. Paul condemns these practises as it can give people a false perception of what we think or expect from God.

(7) but we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.

We should remove our prideful mentality and acknowledge that our gifts and accomplishments don't come from our own human efforts but because God allowed us so.

(17) For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

Even if we were to be branded as a criminal or be persecuted, we understand the risking our material comforts are infinitely unimportant compared to proclaiming God's glory.

2 Corinthians 3

2 Corinthians 3

(3) you show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the spirit of the living God, not on Tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
This reminds us that we are not saved because of an amazing sermon a pastor wrote whether it be Francis Chan or Billy Graham. No human effort can save someones fate. Although they could be a vessel through which we can learn more about Christ, salvation ultimately comes from God.

(6) He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant - not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
The 10 commandments was a guidebook to show how we could obey God but it didn't save us, Jesus is the fulfilment of the law which makes us right with God if we choose to accept him as our lord.

2 Corinthians 2

Corinthians 2.
As a church it is our responsibility to strive towards purity and holiness and therefore should rebuke the sins of fellow christians if we notice that they aren't confronting it. However we should only roast in the intention of bringing them closer to christ, if we push them too far in our anger they could potentially be overwhelmed by sorrow and turn their back on not just the church but christ as well.
Paul proclaims his belief of Christians as ones who don't pursue God for profit but rather as ones who speak genuinely whether others accept it or not.