I keep hearing opiners talk about the efforts to make so and so "never be able to run for office again."

u/#ummwhat?

Doesn't that point right there to election rigging by rigging the slate of candidates the people choose from?

Oh dear. Maybe I shouldn't bring this can of worms up.

Acts 16:6-10

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+16:6-10

Paul’s Vision of the Man of Macedonia

6 Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 9 During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

16:6 We don't know how the Holy Spirit told Paul that he and his companions should not go into Asia. It may have been through a prophet, a vision, an inner conviction or some other circumstance. To know God's will does not mean that we must hear his voice. He leads in different ways. When seeking God's will, (1) make sure your plan is in harmony with God's Word; (2) ask mature Christians for their advice; (3) check your own motives--are you seeking to do what you want or what you think God wants? --and (4) pray for God to open and close the doors as he desires.

16:7-9 The "Spirit of Jesus" is another name for the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit had closed the door twice for Paul, so Paul must have wondered which geographical direction to take in spreading the gospel. Then, in a vision (16:9), Paul was given definite direction, and he and his companions obediently traveled into Macedonia. The Holy Spirit guides us to the right places, but he also guides us away from the wrong places. As we seek God's will, it is important to know what God wants us to do and where he wants us to go, but it is equally important to know what God does not want us to do and where he does not want us to go.

16:10 The use of the pronoun we indicates that Luke, the author of the gospel of Luke and of this book, joined Paul, Silas, and Timothy on their journey. He was an eyewitness to most of the remaining incidents in this book.

This Scripture got me to thinking this morning about vision. My eyesight is poor, but arguably my vision is still good. You see, it is a matter of focus. These days I find myself focusing on the unseen. I bet you are, too, to a greater degree that you have in the past. If you are like me, you are examining what you have put your faith in and whether itis true and real and trustworthy. Paul was at a point where he was wondering where to go next. It was important that it be directed by God, as avenues that he chose were already prevented by the Holy Spirit. So when Paul's focus was on the vision God gave to him, his next move became clear and they went to Macedonia, where there was need. Instead of being self-led by manipulations, I choose to wait for the Spirit-led vision to become clear. It requires prayer, understanding, and guidance. Plus the courage to take that first step and the next. God gives all those things.

Thank You, Lord, for the gift of Your Holy Spirit of Truth that is present with us today. Help us to recognize Your presence. Then help us see and act in accordance with Your will. Help us discern what is true vision from You and what is false manipulations of arrogant men. Don't let us be deceived, Lord. Instead, shepherd us through to the path You would have us take. You have already told us the task: to love one another as You loved us. Help us understand that task more fully and to take the steps to act upon that love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/cQ8D2Mx7tGg

Have a blessed day.

Acts 16:1-5

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+16:1-5

Timothy Joins Paul and Silas

1 Paul came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was Jewish and a believer but whose father was a Greek. 2 The believers at Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him. 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. 4 As they traveled from town to town, they delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey. 5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

16:1 Timothy is the first second-generation Christian mentioned in the New Testament. His mother, Eunice, and his grandmother, Lois (2 Timothy 1:5), had become believers and had faithfully influenced him for the Lord. Although Timothy's father apparently was not a Christian, the faithfulness of Timothy's mother and grandmother prevailed. Never underestimate the far-reaching consequence of raising one small child to love the Lord.

16:2, 3 Timothy and his mother, Eunice, we're from Lystra. Eunice had probably heard Paul's preaching when he was there during his first missionary journey (14:6-18). Timothy was the son of a Jewish mother and Greek father--to the Jews, a half-breed like a Samaritan. So Paul asked Timothy to be circumcised to remove some of the stigma he may have had with Jewish believers. Timothy was not required to be circumcised (the Jerusalem council had decided that--chapter 15), but he voluntarily did this to overcome any barriers to his witness for Christ. Sometimes we need to go beyond the minimum requirements in order to help our audience receive our testimony.

Isn't it interesting how God draws His own to Himself? One could be in a split family (where the Mom believes and the Dad does not), and God could call their child His own. It might seem a little hypocritical that Paul would be delivering a letter saying circumcision is not required of Gentile believers while circumcising Timothy. But Timothy's Mother was Jewish, so it is not that hard to understand this act. She was, evidently, a great influence on her son. But the calling to Timothy to travel on the Good News mission with Paul and Silas was God at work gathering His next generation of leaders, imho. As throughout history, God"s work will carry on. I read the devotions written by others, and seek the songs written today to share the Good News. There is great evidence. God is still calling His own to serve.

Lord, Thank You for continuing Your work in and through us. As You call, You sanctify us and equip us with Your gifts to do the service You tag us to do. Thank You for these gifts. Help us use them fully for Your glory. Thank You for the courage to step out and commit to serve. Guide us as we learn through experience and threats of hardship. Keep us focused on You and what is true and important. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/-fDKdtZGCJM

Bonus Song: https://youtu.be/yPB9ENSd1Xc

Have a blessed day.

Acts 15:36-41

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+15:36-41

Disagreement Between Paul and Barnabas

36 Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the believers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.” 37 Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, 38 but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. 39 They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, 40 but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the believers to the grace of the Lord. 41 He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

15:36-39 Paul and Barnabas disagreed sharply over Mark. Paul didn't want to take him along because he had left them earlier (13:13). This disagreement caused the two great preachers to form two teams, opening up two missionary endeavors instead of one. God works even through conflicts and disagreements. Later, Mark became vital to Paul's ministry (Colossians 4:10). Christians do not always agree, but problems can be solved by agreeing to disagree and letting God work his will.

15:40 Paul's second missionary journey, this time with Silas as his partner, began approximately three years after his first one ended. The two visited many of the cities covered on Paul's first journey, plus others. This journey laid the groundwork for the church in Greece.

15:40 Silas had been involved in the Jerusalem council and was one of the two men chosen to represent the Jerusalem church by taking the letter and decision back to Antioch (15:22). Paul, from the Antioch church, chose Silas, from the Jerusalem church, and they traveled together to many cities to spread the Good News. This teamwork demonstrated the church's unity after the decision at the Jerusalem council.

Remember how God throughout history does His work His way? When the Jewish people came to the obstacle of the Red sea, did God levitate them over it? Nope. Did God dig a tunnel for them to go under it? Nope. God split the obstacle and led the people right through it as they were. When God's chosen people were unable to keep His laws, did He give up on them? Nope. He sent His only Son, Jesus, to fulfill the Law for all our sins, for all time, for those that believe in Him. Now, here in this Scripture our Almighty triune God is doing His work again His way, through Paul's and Barnabas's split. Remember when Jesus instructed His disciples to go in teams of two to preach and heal (Mark 6:7. https://depree.org/why-did-jesus-send-out-his-disciples-two-by-two/)? Though the reasons for Paul's and Barnabas's disagreement could arguably be their pride or family ties, I believe God worked His greater purpose in it. God completes His work His way! I love the ways God works!

Thank You, Lord, for Your predictably puzzling work. Thank You that You always surprise us with Your work. When we recognize how You take every situation and use it for Your divine purposes, we are in awe of Your sovereignty. Lord, let us keep looking for Your work in us, through us, and around us today. When we see it let us share it! Let us testify to the Truth that You have already won the victory. Then let us humbly just give You thanks for Your steadfast, everlasting ways. Sustain us, Lord, through our times of doubt and hardship with Your courage that You give to us. In gratitude we pray in Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/URuIldVKk9U

Have a blessed day.

Acts 15:22-35

https://www.biblestudytools.com/esv/acts/passage/?q=acts+15:22-35

The Council’s Letter to Gentile Believers

22 Then the apostles and elders, with the whole church, decided to choose some of their own men and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They chose Judas (called Barsabbas) and Silas, men who were leaders among the believers. 23 With them they sent the following letter: The apostles and elders, your brothers, To the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia: Greetings. 24 We have heard that some went out from us without our authorization and disturbed you, troubling your minds by what they said. 25 So we all agreed to choose some men and send them to you with our dear friends Barnabas and Paul— 26 men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27 Therefore we are sending Judas and Silas to confirm by word of mouth what we are writing. 28 It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: 29 You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. FAREWELL. 30 So the men were sent off and went down to Antioch, where they gathered the church together and delivered the letter. 31 The people read it and were glad for its encouraging message. 32 Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the believers. 33 After spending some time there, they were sent off by the believers with the blessing of peace to return to those who had sent them. 35 But Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, where they and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

15:22 Apostleship was not a church office but a position and function based on specific gifts. Elders were appointed to lead and manage the church. In this meeting, apostles submitted to the judgment of an elder--James, Jesus' brother.

15:22 Later Silas accompanied Paul on Paul's second missionary journey in place of Barnabas, who visited different cities with John Mark.

15:23-29 This letter answered their questions and brought great joy to the Gentile Christians in Antioch (15:31). Beautifully written, it appeals to the Holy Spirit's guidance and explains what is to be done as though the readers already knew it. It is helpful when believers learn to be careful in not only in what they say, but also how they say it. We may be correct in our content, but we can lose our audience or by our attitude.

15:31 The debate over circumcision could have split the church, but Paul, Barnabas, and the Jews in Antioch made the right decision--they sought counsel from the church leaders and from God's Word. Our differences should be settled the same way, by seeking wise counsel and abiding by the decisions. Don't let disagreements divide you from other believers. Third-party assistance is a sound method for resolving problems and preserving unity.

I keep looking for something deep and hidden as I read these stories in Acts, and I should not. Like, why is the FAREWELL at the end of the letter in all caps? So I go to my printed Bible my Mom gave to me and it has "Farewell." Maybe it is because there is a sensitivity within me this week particularly of abandonment. Jesus comforted His disciples with "I will not leave you as orphans...". Jesus, agonizing in Gethsemane and on the cross, cries out to God, "why has thou forsaken me?" and yet, "Thy will, not mine, be done." But we know the ending of this story, which is my favorite part--Jesus' resurrection and ascension! Sin and death conquered. Power displayed. Promises kept. Joy and peace beyond understanding. The Holy Spirit of Truth sent to be with us and remind us. And Jesus' promised return. So another look at the "Farewell" in context is due. The last sentence of verse 29 says, "You will do well to avoid these things. FAREWELL" Not a mandate, but a closing repetition of instruction regarding food and sins and harmony with others. Be well.

Our heavenly Father, thank You for Your omnipresence. Thank You for sending Your Son and Your Holy Spirit to be with us forever. Thank You for Your Word and Your disciples who even to this day instruct and guide us to live for Your glory. Your will for us is so much better than we could ever imagine on our own. Help us to seek You and choose to live aligned with Your will. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/23rNa6yoIHg

Have a blessed day.

Acts 15:1-21

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+15:1-21

The Council at Jerusalem

1 Certain people came down from Judea to Antioch and were teaching the believers: “Unless you are circumcised, according to the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved.” 2 This brought Paul and Barnabas into sharp dispute and debate with them. So Paul and Barnabas were appointed, along with some other believers, to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about this question. 3 The church sent them on their way, and as they traveled through Phoenicia and Samaria, they told how the Gentiles had been converted. This news made all the believers very glad. 4 When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and elders, to whom they reported everything God had done through them. 5 Then some of the believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up and said, “The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to keep the law of Moses.” 6 The apostles and elders met to consider this question. 7 After much discussion, Peter got up and addressed them: “Brothers, you know that some time ago God made a choice among you that the Gentiles might hear from my lips the message of the gospel and believe. 8 God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. 9 He did not discriminate between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith. 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? 11 No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.” 12 The whole assembly became silent as they listened to Barnabas and Paul telling about the signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them. 13 When they finished, James spoke up. “Brothers,” he said, “listen to me. 14 Simon has described to us how God first intervened to choose a people for his name from the Gentiles. 15 The words of the prophets are in agreement with this, as it is written: 16 “ ‘After this I will return and rebuild David’s fallen tent. Its ruins I will rebuild, and I will restore it, 17 that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, even all the Gentiles who bear my name, says the Lord, who does these things’ — 18 things known from long ago. 19 “It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God. 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. 21 For the law of Moses has been preached in every city from the earliest times and is read in the synagogues on every Sabbath.”

Study Notes: These will be added throughout the day as I am able.

15:1 The real problem for the Jewish Christians was not whether Gentiles could be saved, but whether Gentiles had to adhere to the laws of Moses. The test of following these laws was circumcision. The Jewish Christians were worried because soon there would be more Gentile than Jewish Christians. And they were afraid of weakening moral standards among believers if they did not follow Jewish laws. Paul, Barnabas, and the other church leaders believed that the Old Testament law was very important, but it was not a prerequisite to salvation. The law cannot save; only by grace through faith in Jesus Christ can a person be saved.

15:1ff The delegates to the council at Jerusalem came from the churches in Jerusalem and Antioch. The conversion of Gentiles was raising an urgent question for the early church--do the Gentiles have to adhere to the laws of Moses and other Jewish traditions to be saved? One group of Jewish Christians insisted that following the law, including submitting to the rite of circumcision, was necessary for salvation. The Gentiles, however, did not think they needed to become Jewish first in order to become Christians. So Paul and Barnabas discussed this problem with the leaders of the church. The council upheld the convictions expressed by Paul and Barnabas that following the Jewish laws, including being circumcised, was not essential for salvation.

15:2 The question of whether the Gentile believers should obey the Law of Moses to be saved was an important one. The controversy intensified largely du to the success of the new Gentile churches. The conservatives in the Jerusalem church were led by converted Pharisees (15:5) who preferred a legalistic religion to one based on faith alone. If the conservatives had won, the Gentiles would have been required to be circumcised and converted to Judaism. This would have seriously confined Christianity to simply being another sect within Judaism. There is something of a "Pharisee" in each one of us. We may unwittingly mistake upholding tradition, structure, and legal requirements for obeying God. Make sure the gospel brings freedom and life to those you are trying to reach.

15:2ff It is helpful to see how the churches in Antioch and Jerusalem resolved their conflict: (1) the church in Antioch sent a delegation to help seek a solution; (2) the delegates met with the church leaders to give their reports and set another date to continue the discussion; (3) Paul and Barnabas gave their report; (4) James summarized the reports and drew up the decision; (5) everyone agreed to abide by the decision; (6) the council sent a letter with delegates back to Antioch to report the decision.

This is a wise way to handle conflicts within the church. Problems must be confronted, and all sides of the argument must be given a fair hearing. The discussion should be held in the presence of leaders who are spiritually mature and trustworthy to make wise decisions. Everyone should then abide by the decisions.

15:10 If the law was a yoke that the Jews could not bear, how did having the law help them throughout their history? Paul wrote that the law was a guide that pointed out their sins so they could repent and return to God and right living (see Galatians 3:24, 25). It was, and still is, impossible to obey the law completely.

15:13 This James is Jesus' brother. He became the leader of the church in Jerusalem and wrote the book of James.

15:14 Simon is another name for Peter.

15:20, 21 James judgment was that Gentile believers did not have to be circumcised, but they should stay away from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality (a common part of idol worship), and from eating meat of strangled animals and from consuming blood (reflecting the Biblical teaching that the life is in the blood--Leviticus 17:14). If Gentile Christians would abstain from these practices, they would please God and get along better with their Jewish brothers and sisters in Christ. Of course, there were other actions inappropriate for believers, but the Jews were especially concerned about these four. This compromise helped the church grow unhindered by the cultural differences of Jews and Gentiles. When we share our message across cultural and economic boundaries, we must be sure that the requirements for faith we set up are God's, not people's.

Things get mixed up if left solely to councils of men, imho. Unless man first goes to God, they may be blinded by their own ambitions and limitations in their decision making. Fortunately, these guys in Jerusalem did put God first, although they did choose to send a letter with some restrictions in verse 20. For me, I have been praying that God purifies my heart, and He has been day by day. He is still working on it, and quite frankly, these trials and events during the past several years absolutely contain His work on my heart and probably many others' hearts too. There is a purifying effect from baptism by the fire of the Holy Spirit of Truth.

Holy Father, thank You that we can seek Your kingdom here on earth and find ourselves given the Holy Spirit of Truth from You when we hear the Good News of Your Son and believe. Help us to continue searching and proclaiming the truth. Your wisdom and strength and courage allow us to make wise decisions about how we live with others--particularly others of Your own. When we pray to You, don't let us get distracted. Keep us attuned to You so that our focus is reverent and our prayers sincere. Help us consider deeply with Your guidance when we try to control the acts and thoughts of others. May we recognize that You are in control. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/STX2NYuhvfM

Bonus Song: https://youtu.be/0IvXA0yRDwY

Have a blessed day.

Acts 14:21-28

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+14:21-28

The Return to Antioch in Syria

21 They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, 22 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. 23 Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. 24 After going through Pisidia, they came into Pamphylia, 25 and when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia. 26 From Attalia they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. 27 On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. 28 And they stayed there a long time with the disciples.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

14:21, 22 Paul and Barnabas returned to visit the believers in all the cities where they had recently been threatened and physically attacked. These men knew the dangers they faced, yet they believed that they had a responsibility to encourage the new believers. No matter how inconvenient or uncomfortable the task may seem, we must always support new believers who need our help and encouragement. It was not convenient or comfortable for Jesus to go to the cross for us!

14:23 Part of the reason that Paul and Barnabas risked their lives to return to these citizens to organize the churches' leadership. They were not just following up on a loosely knit group. They were helping the believers get organized with spiritual leaders who could help them grow. Churches grow under Spirit-led leaders, both lay persons and pastors. Pray for your church leaders and support them; and if God puts his finger on you, humbly accept the responsibility of a leadership role in your church.

14:28 Paul probably wrote his letter to the Galatians while he was staying in Antioch (A.D. 48 or 49) after completing his first missionary journey. There are several theories as to what part of Galatia Paul was addressing, but most agree that Iconium, Lystra, and Serve were part of that region for whom the letter is intended. Galatians was probably written before the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15), because in the letter the question of whether Gentile believers should be required to follow Jewish law was not yet resolved. The Council met to solve that problem.

Paul and Barnabas persisted in their mission even under threats of death and suffering. They were compelled to tell the Good News to all people. They had been confronted by the living TRUTH--"The Way, The Truth, and The Life". They heard and believed His message of true freedom. They considered all the evidence and the impact on their lives, both physical and spiritual. They were strengthened in their faith, in their numbers and individually. And the world changed through God's work through them. When Jesus said "It is finished," He meant it. Our salvation is assured. Awaken to the truly Good News and share it!

Thank You, Jesus, for Your Work on the cross and through Your disciples. Strengthen us in the truth of Your message so we can also share the Good News effectively to others. Lord, if it be Your will, awaken those who would try to control us so they can understand the real truth. Help us to attain true freedom, Lord. As we encounter the obstacles and fight the battles before us, remind us where our strength and abilities come from. Remind us to recognize Your Holy Spirit of Truth that you sent to us. Help us to recognize Your presence with us always. Keep us connected to You in prayer. Thank You, Lord, for inviting us to live in truth. In Your precious name, Jesus, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/xOgAmQvOUM0

Have a blessed day.

Acts 14:8-20

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+14:8-20

In Lystra and Derbe

8 In Lystra there sat a man who was lame. He had been that way from birth and had never walked. 9 He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed 10 and called out, “Stand up on your feet!” At that, the man jumped up and began to walk. 11 When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. 13 The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them. 14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: 15 “Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them. 16 In the past, he let all nations go their own way. 17 Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” 18 Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them. 19 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. 20 But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

14:11 "The Lycaonian language" refers to their local dialect.

14:11, 12 Zeus and Hermes (also known as Jupiter and Mercury) were two populates gods in the Roman world. People from Lystra claimed that these God's had once visited their city. According to legend, no one offered them hospitality except an old couple, so Zeus and Hermes killed the rest of the people and rewarded the old couple. When the citizens of Lystra saw the miracles of Paul and Barnabas, they assumed that the God's were revisiting them. Remembering the story of what had happened to the previous citizens, they immediately honored Paul and Barnabas and showered them with gifts.

14:15-18 Responding to the people of Lystra, Paul and Barnabas reminded them that God never leaves himself "without testimony." Rain and crops, for example, are evidence of His goodness. Later Paul wrote that this evidence in nature leaves people without an excuse for unbelief (Romans 1:20). When in doubt about God, look around and you will see abundant evidence that he is at work in our world.

14:18, 19 Only days after the people of Lystra had thought that Paul and Barnabas were gods and wanted to offer sacrifices to them, they stoned Paul and left him for dead. That's human nature. Jesus understood how fickle crowds can be (John 2:24, 25). When many people approve of us, we feel good, but that should never cloud our thinking or affect our decisions. We should not live to please the crowd--especially in our spiritual lives. Be like Jesus. Know the nature of the crowd and don't put your trust in it. Put your trust in God alone.

14:18-20 Paul and Barnabas were persistent in their preaching of the Good News, considering the costs to themselves to be nothing in comparison with obedience to Christ. They had just narrowly escaped being stoned in Iconium (14:1-7), but Jews from Antioch and Iconium tracked Paul down, stoned him, and left him for dead. But Paul got up and went back into the city to preach the Good News. That's true commitment! Being a disciple of Christ calls for total commitment. As Christians, we no longer belong to ourselves but to our Lord, for whom we are called to suffer.

Some thoughts about relevance to today for this scripture: (1) We tend to interpret the news we hear, or even our own healing, from our own place of experiential "truth." But really it is Christs' healing power. (2) Sacrificing to wrong idols still abounds in our world. Christ made the final and supreme sacrifice. And, I guess maybe (3) Enemies plot to kill us, looking for ways to silence a message of truth and freedom that will not be silenced. And, (4) You cannot keep a man down if God has not finished working through him. God through the disciples revived Paul after he had been stoned, and they persisted in their mission. We should too.

Thank You, Lord, for Your sustaining power. Lord, You know about the many plots and plans of men. You know the great efforts underway to overcome Your believers. You remind us that You suffered too, but overcame death. Remind us again that everlasting life in truth and freedom is worth enduring all the final battles. Remind us that with Your help, and with the help of other believers we can stand, we can carry on. These triumphs add to our "experiential truth", Lord. They do make our faith in You stronger and we praise Your name for that. Thank You for the gift of perseverance. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/xBYs3wmhUVc

Have a blessed day.

Acts 14:1-7

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+14:1-7

In Iconium

1 At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed. 2 But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up the other Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. 3 So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders. 4 The people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews, others with the apostles. 5 There was a plot afoot among both Gentiles and Jews, together with their leaders, to mistreat them and stone them. 6 But they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding country, 7 where they continued to preach the gospel.

Study Notes. These will be added as I am able.

14:3, 4 We may wish we could perform a miraculous act that would convince everyone once and for all that Jesus is the Lord. But we see here that even if we could perform a miracle, it wouldn't convince everyone. God gave these men power to do great wonders as confirmation of the message of grace, but people were still divided. Don't spend your time and energy wishing for miracles. Sow your seeds of Good News on the best ground you can find in the best way you can, and leave the convincing to the Holy Spirit.

14:6 Iconium (14:1), Lystra, and Derbe were three cities Paul visited in the southern part of the region of Galatia. Paul probably wrote a letter to these churches--the letter to the Galatians--because many Jewish Christians were claiming that non-Jewish Christians couldn't be saved unless they followed Jewish laws and customs. Paul's letter refuted this and brought the believers back to a right understanding of faith in Jesus (see Galatians 3:3-5). Paul may have written his letter soon after leaving the region (see note on 14:28).

Mind control. That is what I think about when I read these stories of Paul and Barnabas's experiences. The early believers had to decide whether to believe what Paul and Barnabas were telling and showing them about the power of Christ or not. Similar to today in a way. Are we going to think for ourselves or are we going to be stirred up to reject the Truth, to keep on blindly going along with the ways the leaders would have us go. And, which leaders are legitimately true? And what does evidence show? The message from Paul and Barnabas was clear and compelling. It still is today--everlasting and immutable--just like Truth. "Think for yourself. Be yourself." Choose wisely.

Our heavenly father, today I pray for those who would stone the messengers. These people have entrenched themselves in the mire of their own making. Help them consider their situation with clearer vision. Help them choose to repent, according to Your will. As this happens, Lord, help us all to see and accept the Truth of Your power so that the divisiveness among us stops. Let us not reject Truth, but embrace it and You. Be gentle in Your mercy to us, Lord, as we awaken. Help us heal from our bad decisions. Help us grow in Your grace each day. In the mighty name of Your Son Jesus, who took it all for us, bearing even our sins today, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/_0LAeoipMfA

Bonus Song: https://youtu.be/cqicUCaa6ag

Have a blessed day.

Acts 13:13-52

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+13:13-52

In Pisidian Antioch

13 From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem. 14 From Perga they went on to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue and sat down. 15 After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the leaders of the synagogue sent word to them, saying, “Brothers, if you have a word of exhortation for the people, please speak.” 16 Standing up, Paul motioned with his hand and said: “Fellow Israelites and you Gentiles who worship God, listen to me! 17 The God of the people of Israel chose our ancestors; he made the people prosper during their stay in Egypt; with mighty power he led them out of that country; 18 for about forty years he endured their conduct in the wilderness; 19 and he overthrew seven nations in Canaan, giving their land to his people as their inheritance. 20 All this took about 450 years. “After this, God gave them judges until the time of Samuel the prophet. 21 Then the people asked for a king, and he gave them Saul son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled forty years. 22 After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’ 23 “From this man’s descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised. 24 Before the coming of Jesus, John preached repentance and baptism to all the people of Israel. 25 As John was completing his work, he said: ‘Who do you suppose I am? I am not the one you are looking for. But there is one coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’ 26 “Fellow children of Abraham and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent. 27 The people of Jerusalem and their rulers did not recognize Jesus, yet in condemning him they fulfilled the words of the prophets that are read every Sabbath. 28 Though they found no proper ground for a death sentence, they asked Pilate to have him executed. 29 When they had carried out all that was written about him, they took him down from the cross and laid him in a tomb. 30 But God raised him from the dead, 31 and for many days he was seen by those who had traveled with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to our people. 32 “We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors 33 he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm: “ ‘You are my son; today I have become your father.’ 34 God raised him from the dead so that he will never be subject to decay. As God has said, “ ‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’ 35 So it is also stated elsewhere: “ ‘You will not let your holy one see decay.’ 36 “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed. 37 But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay. 38 “Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. 39 Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses. 40 Take care that what the prophets have said does not happen to you: 41 “ ‘Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish, for I am going to do something in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you.’ ” 42 As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people invited them to speak further about these things on the next Sabbath. 43 When the congregation was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who talked with them and urged them to continue in the grace of God. 44 On the next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. 45 When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy. They began to contradict what Paul was saying and heaped abuse on him. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. 47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us: 'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’ 48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed. 49 The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. 50 But the Jewish leaders incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. 51 So they shook the dust off their feet as a warning to them and went to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

Study Notes: These will be added throughout the day as I am able.

13:13 No reason was given why John Mark left Paul and Barnabas. Some suggestions are: (1) he was homesick; (2) he resented the change in leadership from Barnabas (his cousin) to Paul; (3) he became ill (an illness that may have affected all of them--see Galatians 4:13); (4) he was unable to withstand the rigors and dangers of the missionary journey; (5) he may have planned to go only that far but had not communicated this to Paul and Barnabas. Paul implicitly accused John Mark of lacking courage and commitment, refusing to take him along on another journey (see 15:37, 38). It is clear from Paul's later letters, however, that he grew to respect Mark (Colossians 4:10), and that he needed Mark in his work (2 Timothy 4:11).

13:14 This is Pisidian Antioch, not the Antioch of Syria where there was already a flourishing church (11:26). This Antioch, in the region of Pisidia, was a hub of good roads and trade, with a large Jewish population.

13:14 When they went to a new city to witness for Christ, Paul and Barnabas went first to the synagogue. The Jews who were there believed in God and diligently studied the Scriptures. Tragically, however, many could not accept Jesus as the promised Messiah because they had the wrong idea of what kind of Messiah he would be. He was not, as they desired, a military king who would overthrow Rome's control, but a servant king who would defeat sin in people's hearts. (Only later , when Christ returns, will he judge the nation's of the world.) Paul and Barnabas did not separate themselves from the synagogues but tried to show clearly that the very Scriptures the Jews studied pointed to Jesus.

13:14, 15 What happened in a synagogue service? First the Sherma was recited (this is Deuteronomy 6:4, which Jews repeated several times daily). Certain prayers were spoken; then there was a reading from the law (the books of Genesis through Deuteronomy), a reading from the prophets intending to illustrate the law, and a sermon. The synagogue leader decided who was to lead the service and give the sermon. A different person was chosen to lead each week. Since it was customary for the synagogue leader to invite visiting rabbis to speak, Paul and Barnabas usually had an open door when they first went to a synagogue. But as soon as they spoke about Jesus as the Messiah, the door would slam shut. They were usually not invited back by the religious leaders, and sometimes they were thrown out of town!

13:16ff Paul's message to the Jews in the synagogue in Antioch began with an emphasis on God's covenant with Israel. This was a point of agreement, because all Jews were proud to be God's chosen people. Then Paul went on to explain how the gospel fulfilled the covenant. Some Jews found this message hard to swallow.

13:23-31 Paul began where his listeners were and then introduced them to Christ. Because Paul was speaking to devout Jews, he began with the covenant, Abraham, David, and other familiar themes. Later, when speaking to the Greek philosophers in Athens (17:22-32), he would begin by talking about what he observed in their city. In both cases, however, he centered the sermon around Christ and emphasized the resurrection. When you share the Good News, begin where your audience is--then tell them about Christ.

13:38, 39 This is the Good News of the gospel: that forgiveness of sins and freedom from guilt are available through Christ to all people--including you. Have you received this forgiveness? Are you refreshed by it each day?

13:42-45 The Jewish leaders undoubtedly brought theological arguments against Paul and Barnabas, but Luke tells us that the real reason for their hostility was that "they were filled with jealousy." When we see others succeeding where we haven't, or receiving the affirmation we crave, it is hard to rejoice with them. Jealousy is our natural reaction. But how tragic it is when our own jealous feelings make us try to stop God's work. If a work is God's work, rejoice in it--no matter who is doing it!

13:46 Why was it necessary for the gospel to go first to the Jews? God planned that through the Jewish nation all the world would come to know God (Genesis 12:3). Paul, a Jew himself, loved his people (Romans 9:1-5) and wanted to give them every opportunity to join him in proclaiming God's salvation. Unfortunately, many Jews did not recognize Jesus as Messiah, and they did not understand that God was offering salvation to anyone, Jew or Gentile, who comes to him through faith in Christ.

13:47 God had planned for Israel to be this light (Isaiah 49:6). Through Israel came Jesus, the light of the nation's (Luke 2:32). This light would spread out and enlighten the Gentiles.

13:50 Instead of protecting the truth, the Jewish leaders stirred up opposition and ran Paul and Barnabas out of town. When confronted by a disturbing truth, people often turn away and refuse to listen. When God's Spirit points out needed changes in our lives, we must listen to him. Otherwise we may be pushing the truth so far away that it no longer affects us.

13:51 Often Jews would shake the dust off their feet when leaving a Gentile town, on the way back to their own land. This symbolized cleansing themselves from the contamination of those that did not worship God. For Paul and Barnabas to do this to Jews demonstrated that Jews who reject the gospel are not truly part of Israel and are no better than pagans.

The last Study Note can be found in the comments.

13:51

The good news was spread by word of mouth, face to face, in person. Boldly, without fear. I love it. Paul and Barnabas were not Anons. They didn't use an electronic front to share their message like we do today. "Yeah but social media allows us to spread it around the world in an instant! And what is out on the internet lingers!" Believe it or not, I believe God works through all of it. His message will reach those "who were appointed for eternal life" (as verse 48 says.) Still, there is no substitute for the personal relationship with God and the sweet joy of the fellowship with other believers in person.

Our heavenly Father, thank You for reaching us in whatever ways You can (which is all ways) so that we can hear and share the Good News of salvation You gave through Your Son. Thank You for presenting opportunities to share this joy in person, and for all those you reach. Father, we don't know who You have appointed for eternal life. So, guide us to be sensitive to Your Holy Spirit, so that every one of Yours may be reached. Let us be a support to them as You do Your work through us. Help us be kind. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/1bj-rlGcj8M

Have a blessed day.

Acts 13:4-12

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+13:4-12

On Cyprus

4 The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus. 5 When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper. 6 They traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos. There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, 7 who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God. 8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith. 9 Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said, 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? 11 Now the hand of the Lord is against you. You are going to be blind for a time, not even able to see the light of the sun.” Immediately mist and darkness came over him, and he groped about, seeking someone to lead him by the hand. 12 When the proconsul saw what had happened, he believed, for he was amazed at the teaching about the Lord.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

13:4 Located in the Mediterranean Sea, the island of Cyprus, with a large Jewish population, was Barnabas's home. Their first stop was in familiar territory.

13:6, 7 A proconsul was a high Roman official. Here he functioned as the governor of the island. Such leaders often kept private sorcerers. Bar-Jesus realized that if Sergius Paulus believed in Jesus, he would soon be out of a job.

13:9, 10 Here is where Saul is first called Paul.

13:10 The Holy Spirit led Paul to confront Bar-Jesus with his sin. There is a time to be nice and a time to confront. Ask God to show you the difference and to give you the courage to do what's right.

We should be wary of false prophets and other deceivers. How can we know that what we are being told about Christ is true? As for me, I love to go to the gospel of John and seek out what Jesus taught in it. Then, I compare and contrast what I read or hear from a deceiver to the nature and words of Christ. They had better be in perfect alignment, because one that is led by the Holy Spirit to speak about Christ will not contradict Christ. So, beware of those who would use the Word of God for other purposes than to bring people to belief in Christ.

Heavenly Father, thank You that You already know Your own and those who are false. Thank You that You work Your sovereign plan through all situations. Lord, it is confusing here on earth with all the deceptions and coverups going on. Help us to discern what is true and important to know and do. Let us spend our time doing those things that bring glory to You. Give us energy, Lord, from Your abundant supply. And thank You for the provisions You send to care for Your own. Continue Your work in and through us. Your will be done. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/1OLGUW1VHLY

Bonus Song: https://youtu.be/fDf9-zc6ukc

Have a blessed day.

Acts 13:1-3

https://www.biblestudytools.com/esv/acts/passage/?q=acts+13:1-3

Barnabas and Saul Sent Off

1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. 2 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.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

Study Notes: These will be added in just a bit.

13:1 What variety there is in the church! The common thread among these five men was their deep faith in Christ. We must never exclude anyone whom Christ has called to follow him.

13:2, 3 The church set apart Barnabas and Saul to the work God had for them. To set apart means to dedicate for a special purpose. We too should dedicate our pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers for their tasks. We can also dedicate ourselves to use our time, money, and talents for God's work. Ask God what he wants you to set apart for him.

13:2, 3 This was the beginning of Paul's first missionary journey. The church was involved in sending Paul and Barnabas, but it was God's plan. Why did Paul and Barnabas go where they did? (1) The Holy Spirit led them. (2) They followed the communication routes of the Roman Empire--this made travel easier. (3) They visited key population and cultural centers to reach as many people as possible. (4) They went to cities with synagogues, speaking first to the Jews in hopes they would see Jesus as the Messiah and help spread the Good News to everyone.

It must be cool to know that you were annointed by God to do the work you are doing. Paul (Saul) and Barnabas fasted and prayed before beginning their mission. They received strength and motivation from God and from their brothers in Christ that laid their hands upon them. And they would need that support. Imagine if we could get such support each day before setting out on our tasks. We can. I guess that is why #21 on my list of 21 things is "First go to God."

Thank You Father of my Savior for the strength and motivation to face this day. Thank You for the opportunity to worship You with other believers today. Bless those who prepare the lessons we will hear and read in Bible study, in sermons, in prayers, and in songs. Keep those leaders in Your care. Then help us further as we go through this day to keep honoring You in our conduct and activities with loved ones at home or wherever we may be. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/wzJ-PyMVIcU

Bonus Song: https://youtu.be/LcHwyEF1TqE

Have a blessed day.

Acts 12:19-25

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+12:19-25

Herod’s Death

19 Then Herod went from Judea to Caesarea and stayed there. 20 He had been quarreling with the people of Tyre and Sidon; they now joined together and sought an audience with him. After securing the support of Blastus, a trusted personal servant of the king, they asked for peace, because they depended on the king’s country for their food supply. 21 On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. 22 They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.” 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. 24 But the word of God continued to spread and flourish. 25 When Barnabas and Saul had finished their mission, they returned from Jerusalem, taking with them John, also called Mark.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

12:19 Under Roman law, guards who allowed a prisoner to escape were subject to the same punishment the prisoner was to receive. Thus these 16 guards were sentenced to death.

12:19 The Jews considered Jerusalem their capital, but the Romans made Caesarea their headquarters in Palestine. That is where Herod Agrippa I lived.

12:20 These coastal cities, Tyre and Sidon, were free and self-governing but economically dependent upon Judea (see the map in the introduction to Acts for their location). We don't know why Herod had quarreled with them, but now representatives from those cities were trying to appease him through his personal servant.

12:23 Herod died a horrible death accompanied by intense pain; he was literally eaten alive from the inside out by worms. To be eaten by worms was considered to be one of the most disgraceful ways to die. Pride is a serious sin, and in this case, God chose to punish it immediately. God does not immediately punish all sin, but he will bring all to judgment (Hebrews 9:27). Accept Christ's offer of forgiveness today. No one can afford to wait.

12:25 John Mark was Barnabas's cousin (Colossians 4:10). His mother, Mary, often opened her home to the apostles (12:12), so John Mark would have been exposed to most of the great men and teachings of the early church. Later, John Mark joined Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey, but for unknown reasons, he left them in the middle of the trip. John Mark was criticized by Paul for abandoning the mission (15:37-39), but he wrote the gospel of Mark and was later acclaimed by Paul as a vital help in the growth of the early church (2 Timothy 4:11).

It would be easy to shrug off this Bible Read as just a pointer to be used to validate the historical truth of Scriptures. But there is a message I keep reading in it--Humility. God made man. Men are not gods. Men die. Men are imperfect. So, when a great man draws a big crowd and gives a great speech (like what may happen tonight), don't worship the man. Give thanks to God for His work through that man and for His care and protection over that man.

Glorious Creator of All, we give You praise for men and women of character who choose to lead people wisely recognizing Your sovereignty. Bless their leadership with truth and goodness. Help us people, too, make wise choices regarding our actions and our leaders. Thank you for Your provisions of food and energy and care that sustain us in difficult times (and in good times). Help us recognize the needs of others to offer assistance in times of need. Your presence blesses us as givers and receivers. In Jesus name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/R84PqRdZ7_Y

Bonus Song: https://youtu.be/Ndb7kein1Es

Have a blessed day.

Eventually.
Event-u-all-y. Event u all. Event y'all.

The other phrase crossing my mind lately is "in the meantime". Hmmm.

Mean time?

See something, say something.

No fear. Not fearmongering.

God is with us. He is omnipresent.

Acts 12:1-18

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+12:1-18

Peter’s Miraculous Escape From Prison

1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. 3 When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread. 4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover. 5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. 6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. 8 Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. 11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.” 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. 13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14 When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!” 15 “You’re out of your mind,” they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “It must be his angel.” 16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17 Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. “Tell James and the other brothers and sisters about this,” he said, and then he left for another place. 18 In the morning, there was no small commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

12:1 This King Herod was Herod Agrippa I, the son of Aristobulus and grandson of Herod the Great. His sister was Herodias, who was responsible for the death of John the Baptist (see Mark 6:17-28). Herod Agrippa I was partly Jewish. The Romans had appointed him to rule over most of Palestine, including the territories of Galilee, Perea, Judea, and Samaria. He persecuted the Christians in order to please the Jewish leaders who opposed them, hoping that would solidify his position. Agrippa I died suddenly in A.D. 44 (see 12:20-23). His death was also recorded by the historian Josephus.

12:2 James and John were two of the original 12 disciples who followed Jesus. They had asked Jesus for special recognition in his kingdom (Mark 10:35-40). Jesus said that to be a part of his kingdom would mean suffering with Jesus (drink from the same cup--Mark 10:38, 39). James and John did indeed suffer --Herod executed James, and later John was exiled (see Revelation 1:9).

12:2-11 Why did God allow James to die and yet miraculously save Peter? Life is full of difficult questions like this. Why is one child physically disabled and another child athletically gifted? Why do people die seemingly before realizing their potential? These are questions we cannot possibly answer in this life because we do not see what God sees. He has chosen to allow evil in this world for a time. But we can trust God's leading because he has promised to destroy all evil eventually. In the meantime, we know that God will help us use our suffering to strengthen us and glorify him. For more on this question, see the notes on Job 1:1ff; 2:10; 3:23-26.

12:3 Peter was arrested during the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the week-long festival following Passover. This was a strategic move, since more Jews were in the city than usual, and Herod could impress the most people.

12:5 Herod's plan undoubtedly was to execute Peter, but the believers were praying for Peter's safety. The earnest prayer of the church significantly affected the outcome of these events. Prayer changes things, so pray often and with confidence.

12:7 God sent an angel to rescue Peter. Angels are God's messengers. They are divinely created beings with supernatural powers, and they sometimes take on human appearance in order to talk to people. Angels should not be worshiped, because they are not divine. They are God's servants, just as we are.

12:12 John Mark wrote the gospel of Mark. His mother's house was large enough to accommodate a meeting of many believers. An upstairs room in this house may have been the location of Jesus' last supper with his disciples (Luke 22:8ff).

12:13-15 The prayers of the group of believers were answered, even as they prayed. But when the answer arrived at the door, they didn't believe it. We should be people of faith who believe that God answers the prayers of those who seek his will. When you pray, believe you'll get an answer. And when the answer comes, don't be surprised: be thankful!

12:17 This James was Jesus' brother, who became a leader in the Jerusalem church (15:13; Galatians 1:19). The James who was killed (12:2) was John's brother and one of the original 12 disciples.

It is futile to go against God. The arrogance of man to think that their ways are better than God's just blows my mind sometimes. That arrogance really demonstrates their ignorance of God, imho. Those arrogant ones dare not try to understand God because in that moment they would be devastatingly humbled by His sovereinty. Oh, it is so much better to seek the understanding earnestly and honestly, recognizing the truth that God created man. God created everything! Rant over. Peter was freed because of his relationship with God. The truth is that we can be also. We should humble ourselves and seek to understand God. The sooner the better.

Our mighty and sovereign Father, thank You for the way You work to give us true freedom. If miracles are required, You provide them. If patience is needed, You provide it. If it is recognition that the path to freedom is real, You wake us up and lead the way. Thank You, Lord, that there is no escaping Your power and love for us. Help us seek to learn and understand You more each day. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/GB1aiM-yLqg

Have a blessed day.

Acts 11:19-30

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+11:19-30

The Church in Antioch

19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. 20 Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. 22 News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. 24 He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord. 25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. 27 During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.) 29 The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea. 30 This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

11:19-21 When the church accepted Peter's testimony that the gospel was also for Gentiles, Christianity exploded in the Gentile areas, and large numbers became believers. The seeds of this missionary work had been sown after Stephen's death when many believing Jews were persecuted and scattered, settling in faraway cities and spreading the gospel.

11:20, 21 it was in Antioch that Christianity was launched on its worldwide mission and where Christianity was aggressively preached to the Gentiles (non-Jews who did not worship God). Philip had preached in Samaria, but the Samaritans were part Jewish (8:5); Peter preached to Cornelius, but he already worshiped God (10:2). Believers who were scattered after the outbreak of persecution in Jerusalem spread the gospel to other Jews in the lands they fled to (11:19). At this time, the believers began actively sharing the Good News with Gentiles.

11:22 With the exception of Jerusalem, Antioch of Syria played a more important role in the early church than any other city. After Rome and Alexandria, Antioch was the largest city in the Roman world. In Antioch, the first Gentile church was founded, and there the believers were first called Christians (11:26). Paul used the city as his home base during his missionary journeys. Antioch was the center of worship for several pagan cults that promoted much sexual immorality and other forms of evil common to pagan religions. It was also a vital commercial center--the gateway to the eastern world. Antioch was a key city to both Rome and the early church.

11:22-26 Barnabas gives us a wonderful example of how to help new Christians. He demonstrated strong faith; he ministered joyfully with kindness and encouragement; he taught new believers further lessons about God (see 9:26-30). Remember Barnabas when you see new believers, and think of ways to help them grow in their faith.

11:25 Saul had been sent to his home in Tarsus for protection after his conversion caused an uproar among the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem (9:26-30). He stayed there for several years before Barnabas brought him to help the church at Antioch.

11:26 The young church at Antioch was a curious mixture of Jews (who spoke Greek or Aramaic) and Gentiles. It is significant that this is the first place where the believers were called Christians (or "Christ-ones"), because all that they had in common was Christ --not race, culture, or even language. Christ can cross all boundaries and unify all people.

11:26 Barnabas and Saul stayed at Antioch for a full year, teaching the new believers. They could have left for other cities, but they saw the importance of follow-through and training. Have you helped someone believe in God? Spend time teaching and encouraging that person. Are you a new believer? Remember, you are just beginning your Christian life. Your faith needs to grow and mature through consistent Bible study and teaching.

11:27, 28 Prophets were found not only in the Old Testament, but also in the early church. Their role was to present God's will to the people and to instruct them in God's Word. Sometimes, like Agabus, they also had the gift of predicting the future.

11:28, 29 There were serious food shortages during the reign of the Roman emperor Claudius (A.D. 41-54) because of a drought that had extended across much of the Roman empire for many years. It is significant that the church in Antioch assisted the church in Jerusalem. The daughter church had grown enough to be able to help the established church.

11:29 The people of Antioch were motivated to give generously because they cared about the needs of others. This is the "cheerful" giving that the Bible commends (2 Corinthians 9:7). Reluctant giving reflects a lack of concern for people. Focus your concern on the needy, and you will be motivated to give.

There is comfort when one is suffering from illness or famine or persecution to know that someone still loves you. It was clear that early Christians took Jesus' command to love one another seriously. Yes, they prayed for each other and they did more than that. They sought each others' company and gathered provisions for Christians in need. I think this is how God works to establish his kingdom on earth. He fills his people's hearts with love such that it overflows and must be shared. Then they seek ways to express His generosity. In short, God provides.

Thank You, Father, for Your provisions. Thank You for making in us a heart filled with generous love. Thank You for allowing us to give freely, unencumbered by regulations about when and where and what. Help us to recognize needs within our own church family and within our Christian family all around the world. Then let Your generous provisions overflow through us as, with You, we meet those needs. Thank You for Your divine protection over all who are working to do Your will. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/lOtMqixroVw

Bonus Song: https://youtu.be/bDaI725AkoI

Have a blessed day.

Acts 11:1-18

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+11:1-18

Peter Explains His Actions

1 The apostles and the believers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. 2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him 3 and said, “You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them.” 4 Starting from the beginning, Peter told them the whole story: 5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision. I saw something like a large sheet being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to where I was. 6 I looked into it and saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, reptiles and birds. 7 Then I heard a voice telling me, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’ 8 “I replied, ‘Surely not, Lord! Nothing impure or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ 9 “The voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’ 10 This happened three times, and then it was all pulled up to heaven again. 11 “Right then three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea stopped at the house where I was staying. 12 The Spirit told me to have no hesitation about going with them. These six brothers also went with me, and we entered the man’s house. 13 He told us how he had seen an angel appear in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. 14 He will bring you a message through which you and all your household will be saved.’ 15 “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning. 16 Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?” 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.”

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

11:1 A Gentile was anyone who was not a Jew; the Jewish believers are sometimes referred to as "the circumcised believers" (11:2). Most Jewish believers thought that God offered salvation only to the Jews because God had given his law to them (Exodus 19; 20). A group in Jerusalem believed that Gentiles could be saved, but only if they followed all the Jewish laws and traditions--in essence if they became Jews. Both were mistaken. God chose the Jews and taught them his laws so they could bring the message of salvation to all people (see Genesis 12:3; Psalm 22:27; Isaiah 42:4; 49:6; 56:3-7; 60:1-3; Jeremiah 16:19-21; Zechariah 2:11; Malachi 1:11; Romans 15:9-12).

11:2-18 When Peter brought the news of Cornelius's conversion back to Jerusalem, the believers were shocked that Peter had eaten with Gentiles. After they heard the whole story, however, they praised God (11:18). Their reactions teach us how to handle disagreements with other Christians. Before judging the behavior of fellow believers, it is important to hear them out. The Holy Spirit may have something important to teach us through them.

11:8 God had promised throughout Scripture that he would reach the nation's. This began with his general promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:3; 18:18) and became very specific in Malachi's statement: "My name will be great among the nations, from the rising to the setting of the sun" (Malachi 1:11). But this was an extremely difficult truth for Jews, even Jewish believers, to accept. The Jewish believers understood how certain prophecies were fulfilled in Christ, but they overlooked other Old Testament teachings. Too often we are inclined to accept only the parts of God's Word that appeal to us and support our own agendas, ignoring the teachings we don't like. We must accept all of God's Word as absolute truth.

11:12ff Peter's defense for eating with Gentiles was a simple restatement of what happened. He brought six witnesses with him to back him up, and then he quoted Jesus' promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit (11:16). These Gentiles lives had been changed, and that was all the evidence Peter and the other believers needed. Changed lives are an equally powerful evidence today.

11:16 Jesus had also demonstrated clearly that he and his message were for all people. He preached in Samaria (John 4:1-42); in the region of the Gerasenes, populated by Greeks (Mark 5:1-20); and he even reached out to the Romans (Luke 7:1-10). The apostles shouldn't have been surprised that they were called to do the same.

11:18 The intellectual questions ended and the theological discussion stopped with the report that God had given the Holy Spirit to the Gentiles. This was a turning point for the early church. They had to accept those whom God had chosen, even if they were Gentiles. But joy over the conversion of Gentiles was not unanimous. This continued to be a struggle for some Jewish Christians throughout the first century.

There have been many times when I have thought that it is futile to go against God. Verse 17 is like an affirmation to me of God's sovereignty. And it also shows the graciousness of God: He gives His gifts to whom He gives them. The gift of the Holy Spirit of truth (John 14) is most special and powerful. It is bestowed upon true believers to help them live every day, every moment that its presence is recognized. It helps me remember to love one another and to treat others with respect and care. It is what will help me repeat what I said to my hard-of-hearing spouse for the umpteenth time without anger. I like verse 18, too, particularly this part: "So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life."

Heavenly Father, we praise You today for Your gifts. You gave us Your Son to save us. You sent the Holy Spirit He promised to be with even us today. You created everything to be used for ultimate good and You have a hand in enabling us to choose the righteous path. These gifts that You freely give enable us to live more freely. If only we understood the depth and breadth of them. Father, help us grow in our understanding. Yes, I see. Through Your Holy Spirit of truth, You are. Through Your gifts of patience, strength, and perseverance, You are. Through Your gifts of divine appointments, You are. We praise You and humbly thank you. In Jesus name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/uzm_z-gVOBk

Have a blessed day.

Acts 10:23-48

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+10:23-48

Peter at Cornelius’s House

23 The next day Peter started out with them, and some of the believers from Joppa went along. 24 The following day he arrived in Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence. 26 But Peter made him get up. “Stand up,” he said, “I am only a man myself.” 27 While talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people. 28 He said to them: “You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with or visit a Gentile. But God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean. 29 So when I was sent for, I came without raising any objection. May I ask why you sent for me?” 30 Cornelius answered: “Three days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. 32 Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the home of Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea.’ 33 So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us.” 34 Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism 35 but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. 36 You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. 37 You know what has happened throughout the province of Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached— 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him. 39 “We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a cross, 40 but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen. 41 He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. 43 All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 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. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.

Study Notes: These will be added as I am able.

10:26 This act of worship could have caused Peter to become arrogant. After all, a Roman centurion was bowing before him. Instead, Peter pointed Cornelius to Christ. We too should remember our mortality whenever we are flattered or honored, and use the opportunity to give glory to God.

10:34-35 Perhaps the greatest barrier to the spread of the gospel in the first century was the Jewish-Gentile conflict. Most of the early believers were Jewish, and to them it was scandalous even to think about associating with Gentiles. But God told Peter to take the gospel to a Roman, and Peter obeyed despite his background and personal feelings. (Later Peter struggled with this again --see Galatians 2:11-14). God was making it clear that the Good News of Christ is for everyone! We should not allow any barrier --language, culture, prejudice, geography, economic level, or educational level--to keep us from telling others about Christ.

10:35 In every nation there are hearts restless for God, ready to receive the gospel --but someone must take it to them. Seeking God is not enough --people must find him. How then shall seekers find God without someone to point the way? Is God asking you to show someone the way to him? (See Romans 10:14, 15.)

10:37-43 Peter's brief and powerful sermon contains a concise statement of the gospel: Jesus' perfect life of servanthood; his death on the cross; his resurrection, personally witnessed and experienced by Peter; Jesus' fulfillment of the Scriptures; and the necessity of personal faith in him. A sermon or witness for Christ does not need to be long to be effective. It should be Spirit-led and should center on Christ, the way and the truth and the life.

10:43 Two examples of prophets testifying about Jesus and his forgiveness of sins are Isaiah 52:13--53:12 and Ezekiel 36:25, 26.

10:45 Cornelius and Peter were very different people. Cornelius was wealthy, a Gentile, and a military man. Peter was a Jewish fisherman turned preacher. But God's plan included both of them. I'm Cornelius' house that day, a new chapter in Christian history was written as a Jewish Christian leader and a Gentile Christian convert each discovered something significant about God at work in the other person. Cornelius needed Peter and his gospel to know the way to salvation. Peter needed Cornelius and his salvation experience to know that Gentiles were included in God's plan. You and another believer may also need each other to understand how God works!

10:45 "The circumcised believers" could be translated, "the Jewish believers" (see also 11:2).

10:47, 48 In this case,the people were baptized after they received the Holy Spirit, publicly declaring their allegiance to Christ and identification with the Christian community.

10:48 Cornelius wanted Peter to stay with him for several days. He was a new believer and realized his need for teaching and fellowship. Are you as eager to learn more about Christ? Recognize your need to be with more mature Christians, and strive to learn from them.

God works through us. Sometimes it is done silently for only those involved. And sometimes it is documented in writing to be read by generations of people. I praise God for those documented instances. The written testimonies, verified by many witnesses, help us discern the truth. It strengthens our faith. My pastor urges us to "Be ready." Like Peter, we are to be ready to share the Good News when God presents the opportunities. He prepares us for His work if we are attuned to Him. He prepares those who are ready to hear the Good News. Then by grace He presents the opportunities. We should be more observant of those opportunities and act upon them to glorify God.

Our heavenly Father, thank You for the Bible and the ability to read it often. Thank you for those publishers and study note writers and ministers who continue to share Your Word all over this world ready to read and hear. Lord, do your work in our hearts and in our minds to bring out acceptance of the truth with kindness and understanding. Bring us Your peace that is not of this world. Then help us to share that Peace with others. Remove our fears, Lord, and replace them with Your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/5YZICS72fvk

Bonus Song: https://youtu.be/WvFMyEhbEm0. (Thanks, tweety51A.)

Have a blessed day.

Acts 10:9-22

https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+10:9-22

Peter’s Vision

9 About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10 He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11 He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. 12 It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles and birds. 13 Then a voice told him, “Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.” 14 “Surely not, Lord!” Peter replied. “I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.” 15 The voice spoke to him a second time, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.” 16 This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to heaven. 17 While Peter was wondering about the meaning of the vision, the men sent by Cornelius found out where Simon’s house was and stopped at the gate. 18 They called out, asking if Simon who was known as Peter was staying there. 19 While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Simon, three men are looking for you. 20 So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them.” 21 Peter went down and said to the men, “I’m the one you’re looking for. Why have you come?” 22 The men replied, “We have come from Cornelius the centurion. He is a righteous and God-fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people. A holy angel told him to ask you to come to his house so that he could hear what you have to say.” Then Peter invited the men into the house to be his guests.

Study Note;

10:12 According to Jewish law, certain foods were forbidden to eat (Leviticus 11). The food laws made it difficult for Jews to eat with Gentiles without risk of defilement. In fact, the Gentiles themselves were often seen as "unclean." Peter's vision meant that he should not look upon the Gentiles as inferior people whom God would not redeem. Before having the vision, Peter would have thought that a Roman Gentile officer could not accept Christ. Afterward he understood that it was his responsibility to go with the messengers into a Gentile home and tell Cornelius the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Peter denied Jesus three times (Luke 22:54-62) just as Jesus predicted (John 13:37-38). The rooster crowed three times .(Mark 14:68) Jesus asked Peter three times if Peter loved him, and Peter confirms three times (John 21:17). The sheet in this vision is presented three times, and three men appear at Peter's house. What is with this repetition of threes? Someone humbly suggested "consideration, testing, and sharpening." OK. Look at how this question about the threes distracted me from the message of this passage. Excessive connect-the-dot-itis. Backing up, the point is, God prepares for his message to be heard. And, not only heard, but understood. And not only heard qnd understood, but heeded (acted upon). If it takes repetition, God mercifully repeats, and each time the fullness of meaning in his message grows. (So what does the number 3 mean in the Bible? "The number 3 biblically represents divine wholeness, completeness and perfection.")

Our heavenly Father, thank You for the gifts You give. Thank You for setting our expectations for Your return and giving us hope daily. Thank you for merciful repetition as we struggle to understand and accept Your free gifts. We are distrustful, Lord, and skeptical about freedom. Help us work through this. Help us fight the forces and tendencies that would enslave us, so that we can live freely in Truth. Thank You that You gave us The Way. In Jesus' holy name, Amen.

A Song: https://youtu.be/hSnzYnOe6kI

Have a blessed day.

Avatar. Donald J. Trump

@realDonaldTrump

· 6m JUST REPORTED THAT THE MOST IMPORTANT WITNESS TO GO BEFORE THE NEW YORK CITY GRAND JURY, A HIGHLY RESPECTED LAWYER WHO ONCE REPRESENTED CONVICTED FELON, JAILBIRD, AND SERIAL FAKE STORYTELLER AND LIAR, MICHAEL COHEN, WILL BE DOING SO TOMORROW AFTERNOON. THE INFORMATION HE WILL PRESENT WILL SUPPOSEDLY BE CONCLUSIVE AND IRREFUTABLE! WITCH HUNT!!!

https://truthsocial.com/users/realDonaldTrump/statuses/110051893237764471